PICNIC AT THE PROM
Portland's Eastern Promenade offers a gorgeous, grassy 180° vista of Casco Bay. Bring a picnic (or hit up one of the food trucks) and enjoy the view from the hill or the beach.
Things to do • Eat + Drink • Adventure • Sights + Sounds
This neighborhood bistro near the inn turns out French and Spanish comfort cuisine like no other. From the same brilliant couple behind Piccolo, the food is simply outstanding. Make sure you order something off the daily specials menu, and, whatever you do, save room for dessert – they're legendary.
58 Pine Street Address for Chaval
Ridiculously authentic Italian like nonna used to make. Classic Caesar salad (a dollar from every purchase goes to fight childhood hunger) and spot-on bolognese.
767 Congress Street Address for Roma Cafe
Wayside Tavern is a warm and convivial space that invites guests to nestle in, relish good food, and renew their spirits. It’s a space that celebrates the natural gifts that Maine has to offer, from local seafood and meat to specialty cheeses, all complemented by an exciting wine list.
747 Congress Street Address for Wayside Tavern
No wifi, zero laptops, and not a single newspaper to leaf through. There are no distractions from the one true goal: to roast and brew the perfect cup and serve the best baked goods on the planet. The buxom breakfast biscuits will make you skip lunch, and the pastries and pies are all equally wonderful.
742 Congress Street for Tandem Bakery
Insider Tips
Truly one of the best bakeries in the Northeast. Bar none.
Known as the first matcha bar in Portland, this is a staple for matcha lovers! Enjoy different variations of this iconic green tea like strawberry, black sesame, and even a matcha au lait latte.
654 Congress Street Address for Matchamood
Food & drink inspired by Baja California
Cantina: a bar or wine shop, especially in a Spanish-speaking country.
Fonda: Arabic in origin, the word is defined by the dictionary as “a tavern, inn or small restaurant.” But like the European concepts bistro and trattoria, the definition here in Mexico has become blurred, or better said, broadened to refer to any corner spot or casual neighborhood restaurant to grab a bite.
46 Pine St, Portland, ME 04102, United States Address for Cantina Calafia
Miyake is an acclaimed Japanese restaurant in downtown Portland known for its intimate setting and highly refined, chef-driven cuisine. Tucked along Fore Street, it offers an elevated omakase-style experience that highlights precision, seasonality, and premium ingredients. The atmosphere is minimal and focused, allowing the craftsmanship of each dish to take center stage, making it one of Portland’s most sought-after dining destinations.
468 Fore Street, Portland, ME 04101 Address for Miyake
A modern speakeasy in Portland’s West End, Bramhall is tucked beneath Congress Street in a candlelit, brick-and-stone space. Stop in for creative cocktails, an extensive selection of bourbon, scotch, and rum, plus comforting pub fare and late-night bites.
769 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102, United States Address for Bramhall
Explore the scenic islands scattered throughout Casco Bay, just off the coast of Portland. From biking and walking to kayaking, beaches, and relaxed island dining, each island offers its own unique slice of Maine’s coastal charm.
Cruise through Casco Bay at dusk aboard a fully narrated sightseeing tour, taking in Portland’s historic lighthouses, islands, forts, and waterfront views. The 1-hour-45-minute cruise departs from Long Wharf in Portland and offers a scenic way to experience the bay as the sun sets.
170 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101 Address for Portland Discovery Land & Sea Tours
Explore Portland’s craft beverage scene on a guided tour featuring local breweries, distilleries, wineries, and other craft producers. Tours include tastings, transportation on bus itineraries, and insights into Maine’s brewing and beverage culture.
Portland Beer Hub 320 Fore Street, Portland, ME 04101 Address for Maine Brews Cruise
A unique plant shop and DIY terrarium experience in Portland, where you can browse houseplants, enjoy a drink or snack, and create your own miniature garden. Walk-ins are welcome, with staff available to guide you through the terrarium-building process.
98 Cross St N, Suite A, Portland, ME 04101 Address for Terrarium
A Portland-based live music and events resource highlighting concerts, local artists, and the city’s independent music scene. It’s a useful starting point for discovering what’s happening across Portland’s vibrant music community.
Portland, ME Address for PORTLAND NOISE
A Portland jewelry studio specializing in handcrafted jewelry and permanent jewelry experiences. Choose from a rotating selection of chains and metals, then personalize your piece with charms or natural stones for a unique keepsake.
50 Cove St, Portland, ME 04101. Address for Ladyfine Jewelry
This downtown yoga studio offers creatively sequenced Vinyasa, high-energy Pilates, restful Restorative & Yin experiences, and more ways to embrace mindful movement.
98 Cross St N Ste C, Portland, ME 04101 Address for Portland Yoga Collective
Meet our friendly neighborhood herbalist! Botanically Curious is an educational herbal apothecary and drink cafe with thoughtfully formulated tinctures, teas, and botanical remedies.
419 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101 Address for Botanically Curious
Portland's Eastern Promenade offers a gorgeous, grassy 180° vista of Casco Bay. Bring a picnic (or hit up one of the food trucks) and enjoy the view from the hill or the beach.
Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth is the #1 most photographed lighthouse in the US—and just a spectacular place to visit. Get in on the action!
Wander Portland's Arts District and quaint historic Old Port and pop into the incredible galleries, shops, restaurants, breweries, and more.
If you're planning a visit to Portland there's a 99% chance it's for the food / brewery / music scene. We love to provide suggestions, but our friends at Portland Food Map have a great interactive map and loads of recommendations and reviews.