Travelers to the state of Maine often look for fun and adventure while staying with friends or even at the local area hotels. There are many exciting places within the city of Portland, Maine that provide fun for the whole family. It really depends on what tickles your fancy, and, of course, your budget. Here are some things to do in Portland, Maine that might interest you:
The 4 Best Things to Do in Portland, Maine:
Explore Casco Bay
Casco Bay is ranked the second favorite attraction in Portland, Maine. It is a water lovers paradise with nice sandy beaches and lots of recreation.
It is also a photographers paradise with lighthouses and various watercraft, from tankers to lobster boats. Make plans to spend the whole day here and enjoy the wildlife as well.
There are 5 sandy beaches near Portland and many of them are open until sunset.
For lighthouses, there are 2: Portland Head Light and Portland Breakwater Lighthouse. The Portland Head Light has a museum and giftshop that is open to the public; Portland Breakwater Lighthouse, however, is not open to the public. The grounds surrounding the lighthouses are open to all and makes for great pictures.
Shop at Portland Farmers’ Market
Another place that is well-known is the Portland Farmers’ Market. At this year-round market you can purchase locally-grown, fresh produce. From vegetables to honey to meat to kimchi to flowers, this market has it all.
Everything sold at the Portland Farmers’ Market is exclusively “Made in Maine” and by shopping here you not only get amazing produce, you also help to support the local community.
During the summer months, the market is held at Deering Oaks Park from 7AM – 12PM on Saturdays and at Momument Square from 7AM – 2PM on Wednesdays.
During the winter, the Saturday location moves indoors to the Maine Irish Heritage Center from 9AM – 1PM. Wednesdays remain the same time and place.
Visit the Portland Museum of Art
The Portland Museum of Art is the oldest and largest museum of art in all of Maine. It houses over 300 years worth of precious art.
The Portland Museum of Art features a constantly changing exhibit area meaning there’s always something new to see. They also show classical and foreign art movies as well as host lectures and talks by revered artists.
The museum is closed on Mondays, but offers extended hours on Fridays (normally 10 AM – 5PM, but 10AM – 9PM on Fridays). It is open all but 3 days a year. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and students and $6 for youths. Its address: 7 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101.
Walk the Portland Freedom Trail
This self-guided, walking tour will take you through 16 different marked sites around the Portland peninsula. Each site recognizes some important moment or person who was instrumental in the Underground Railroad and the abolition of slavery.
Spread throughout the city, this walking tour will give both the historical significance and a taste of the current culture of Portland.
The Portland Freedom Trail is free. It begins near the Casco Bay Ferry Terminal and can be done any time of the year.
These are just four places in which you can find things to do in Portland, Maine. Plan to make some time to visit them as each one is unique in itself. Here, you and your family will enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, wildlife, recreation, arts & crafts, or the serenity. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy your day!
What are some of your favorite things to do in Portland, Maine?
I want to visit Maine! Looks like a relaxing place full of mystery (blame Stephen King lol)
Micamyx|Senyorita recently posted..Batanes Solo Trip: South Batan Tricycle Tour
Haha there’s a reason he sets a lot of his books in Maine