top of page
Travel Center Hub.png

Portland Travel Guide: Coastal Beauty, Seafood & Historic Charm

A picturesque coastal city known for its historic lighthouses, fresh seafood, and vibrant arts scene.

🛬 How to Get to Portland

✈️ By Flight:
Portland International Jetport (PWM) – The primary airport, just 10 minutes from downtown Portland.
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) – A major airport about 2 hours away, with bus and train connections to Portland.
Transport Options from PWM:
Shuttle & Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and taxis are readily available.
Car Rentals: Available at the airport for those planning to explore beyond Portland.

🚗 By Car:
From Boston: 2-hour drive via I-95 N.
From New York City: 5-hour drive via I-95 N.

🚆 By Train & Bus:
Amtrak Downeaster: A scenic rail route connecting Portland to Boston.
Greyhound & Concord Coach Lines: Bus services with routes to Portland from major cities.

🚍 How to Get Around Portland
Metro Bus System: Affordable public transit around the city and nearby towns.
Rental Cars & Rideshares: Uber, Lyft, and taxis available for flexible transportation.
Ferry Services: Casco Bay Lines offers scenic ferry rides to nearby islands.
Biking & Walking: Portland is highly walkable, with many bike-friendly paths.

🏨 Where to Stay in Portland

Luxury (5-Star Hotels):
The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection – A stylish, boutique hotel in a historic newspaper building.
Inn by the Sea – A beachfront luxury retreat just outside of Portland.

Mid-Range (4-Star Hotels):
Portland Harbor Hotel – A charming stay in the Old Port district.
AC Hotel by Marriott Portland Downtown/Waterfront – Modern accommodations near the harbor.

Budget-Friendly (3-Star & Local Stays):
Hampton Inn Portland Downtown – Waterfront – Affordable with a great location.
Local Inns & B&Bs: Cozy accommodations with New England charm.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Portland

Casual & Local Favorites:
Eventide Oyster Co. – Famous for its brown butter lobster rolls and fresh oysters.
Becky’s Diner – A classic Maine diner serving hearty breakfasts and seafood.

Fine Dining & Special Experiences:
Fore Street – A farm-to-table favorite with an open kitchen.
Scales – An upscale seafood restaurant with stunning waterfront views.

Diverse Dining Options:
Central Provisions – Creative small plates with international influences.
Duckfat – Known for its Belgian-style fries cooked in duck fat.

🎭 Things to Do in Portland

🏛️ Historic Landmarks & Museums:
Victoria Mansion: A beautifully preserved 19th-century home.
Wadsworth-Longfellow House: The historic home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

🌊 Outdoor & Scenic Attractions:
Portland Head Light: One of Maine’s most famous lighthouses, offering breathtaking ocean views.
Eastern Promenade: A scenic waterfront park ideal for biking and walking.

🎶 Arts, Entertainment & Shopping:
Portland Museum of Art: Features works by Winslow Homer and other New England artists.
Old Port District: A lively area with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and bars.

🦁 Zoos & Aquariums:
Maine Wildlife Park: A sanctuary featuring rescued moose, black bears, and lynx.
Gulf of Maine Research Institute: While not a traditional aquarium, this institute offers interactive marine exhibits.

bottom of page