20 Fun Things To Do In Portland, Maine

• Website: https://www.portlandmuseum.org/
• Address: 7 Congress Square
• Admission Fee: Adults: $25, Seniors (65+): $20, Students (with ID): $20, 21 and under: Free

The Portland Museum of Art stands among the exciting activities in Portland because it presents an extensive collection of fine art that encompasses multiple historical periods and artistic styles.

Since its founding in 1882, the museum has maintained a collection of more than 18,000 art pieces, which showcases European masterpieces besides American colonial art, contemporary art, and decorative artworks.

Also, the museum displays a collection featuring the works of Winslow Homer together with Pablo Picasso and Claude Monet.

• Website: https://portlandlandmarks.org/portland-observatory/
• Address: 138 Congress Street
• Admission Fee: Adults: $10, Children (6-16): 5, Under 6: Free

Portland Observatory stands as the sole existing maritime signal tower of its kind throughout the United States. Captain Lemuel Moody constructed the Observatory using his funds to provide ships with communication services for Portland Harbor.

This tall seven-story wooden building, reaching 86 feet high, gives a clear view of the nearby waters, which makes it easier to spot ships coming in early. Over the years, it has been safely preserved and now operates as a museum.

• Website: https://www.portlandheadlight.com/
• Address: 1000 Shore Road,Cape Elizabeth
• Admission Fee: Adults: $2, Children (6-18): $1, Children (under 6): Free 

Portland Head Light is the oldest lighthouse and one of the most iconic in the United States.

Sitting on a rocky coast in Fort Williams Park, it gives you amazing sights of the Atlantic Ocean and the cliffs around it.

You can explore the museum, walk along scenic trails, and enjoy the beautiful landscape that makes Portland Head Light one of the things to see and do in Portland, Maine.

• Website: https://victoriamansion.org/
• Address: 109 Danforth Street
• Admission Fee: Adults: $18, Students (with ID): $10, Children (6-17): $5, Under 6: Free

Victoria Mansion, also called Morse-Libby House, is one of the most beautiful pieces of American residential architecture to have been constructed before the Civil War.

The mansion is furnished with original furniture, stucco decoration, carving, heating, windows, gas fixtures, a bell signaling system, wall-to-wall carpet, and other intriguing features such as a 25-foot-long stained glass skylight.

This Mansion is open to the public and serves as a museum that exhibits the way of life of such a household.

• Website: https://www.milb.com/portland
• Address: 271 Park Avenue
• Admission Fee: Ticket prices vary depending on the game and seating.

You can add Hadlock Field to your list of things to do in Portland, Maine. These smaller baseball stadiums are primarily home to the Portland Sea Dogs but also the Portland High School Bulldogs and the Deering High School Rams baseball teams.

With breathtaking views and a family-friendly atmosphere, Hadlock Field provides a great backdrop to enjoy America's indulgence.

The stadium also has special touches like the "Main Monster," a miniature replica of Boston's famous Fenway Park Green Monster.

• Website: https://www.kitetails.org/
• Address: 250 Thompson's Point Road
• Admission Fee: $18 per person

Founded by the Junior of Portland in 1970, it features a wide variety of interactive exhibits and activities for children and families.

At this place, they set the stage for every child to imagine and learn through play. The core values ​​of this museum and theater are belonging, playfulness, community, curiosity, and trust.

All of these values ​​create a dynamic environment where children can discover new interests, develop skills, and enjoy their quality time.

• Website: https://www.cascobaylines.com/
• Address: 56 Commercial Street
• Admission Fee: Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the destination.

The Casco Bay Lines Ferry Terminal, also known as the Casco Bay Island Transit District, is one of the popular attractions of Portland.

It is a publicly owned transportation company serving residents of the Casco Bay Islands in Maine that provides year-round passenger, freight, postal, and vehicle ferry service.

You should definitely visit here if you have got some spare time!

• Website: https://www.mainegardens.org/
• Address: 132 Botanical Gardens Drive
• Admission Fee: Adults: $24, Children (3-17): $12, Under 3: Free

The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden is a spectacular 295-acre public garden established in 2007.

There are themed gardens, including the Rose and Perennial Garden, the Lerner Garden of the Five Senses, the Bibby and Harold Alfond Children's Park, and miles of walking trails that wind through forests and scenic water features including which people can explore.

• Website: https://www.portlandfarmersmarket.org/
• Address: Various locations and times. Check the website for the most up-to-date information.
• Admission Fee: Free

The Portland Farmers' Market is a vibrant and bustling hub of local culture. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, artisan foods, and homemade products from more than 200 vendors. 

The year-round open market showcases fruits and vegetables from different seasons, together with dairy from local farms, sustainably obtained meats and numerous baked goods and prepared foods.

• Website: https://www.tatehouse.org/
• Address: 1267 Westbrook Street
• Admission Fee: Adults: $12, Seniors (65+): $10, Children (6-12): $6, Under 6: Free

The Tate House Museum in Portland, Maine, is a beautifully preserved Georgian colonial home built in 1755. It offers insight into the life of Captain George Tate, a British Royal Navy admiral, and his family

Beyond that, you can look for original architectural features, period furniture, and objects that reflect 18th-century lifestyle, as well as those of the museum’s well-kept in-house gardens.

Portland's Eastern Promenade extends from the city's waterfront as one of its most attractive promenades. The 2.1-mile trail is an excellent space for walking, running and biking which blends paved and gravel surfaces.

The scenic charm and historic sites along with landscaped green spaces at the destination attract locals and tourists who visit throughout the trial.

The trail is part of the larger Eastern Resort, with areas that host picnics, playgrounds, and playgrounds that include recreational opportunities in a beautiful coastal setting.

• Website: https://www.portlandmaine.gov/1169/Deering-Oaks
• Address: Deering Avenue
• Admission Fee: Free

This public space boasts a baseball diamond, tennis courts, a playground, and a pond. It combines natural scenery with spots for sports and play.

You'll also find the park west of downtown Portland. Deering Avenue marks its western edge, Forest Avenue is its eastern boundary, Park Avenue runs along the south, and Interstate 295 borders the north.

When winter rolls around, a popular ice rink pops up, making the park a hit all year long.

• Address: Fort Preble, South Portland
• Admission Fee: Free

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse has a diverse history and fascinating features. The lighthouse was built in 1897 on a granite wave extending into Portland Harbor to guide ships toward the active harbor.

This lighthouse stands out against the ocean because of its white and red colored stripes. Here, you can admire the harbor landscape and coastal beach views in addition to the site features.

The architectural beauty and bustling storefronts of Commercial Street represent the authentic Bavarian feeling that defines the town.

Shoppers and diners can discover diverse retail stores and pleasant dining spots when wandering the streets.

Moreover, you can stroll Commercial Street, where you will find artisan boutiques combined with specialty food spots and souvenir shops that overlook breathtaking mountain scenery.

• Website: https://www.fortgorges.org/
• Address: Located on an island in Casco Bay
• Admission Fee: Free

Construction of the fortress began in 1858 and ended in 1864 to block naval attacks against the harbor, though it never needed to be used for its intended purpose.

The structure of the castle includes solid granite walls and moats, giving it a castle-like charm.

Today, it is a popular destination for visitors interested in history and architecture, offering panoramic views of the seafront and a glimpse into the past with a well-preserved building and surrounding natural beauty.

Back Cove Trail is a 3.6-mile multi-use trail in Portland. It loops around Back Cove, which offers stunning views of the water, the city skyline, and distant mountains. It is one of the oldest trails in the city.

Known for its flat, accessible terrain, it offers access for all skill levels. Along the way, you'll find places to stay and enjoy the beauty of nature, watch the local wildlife, and even visit historic landmarks.

The location makes it an excellent spot for relaxation and stretching while also being perfect for leisurely walks through the urban area.

• Website: http://cryptozoologymuseum.com/
• Address: 4 Thompson's Point Road 106
• Admission Fee: Adults: $10, Children (12 and under): $5.

The International Museum of Cryptozoology provides visitors a perfect encounter for those fascinated by enigmatic creatures alongside mythical creatures. The museum showcases diverse cryptozoology content through its art displays, together with photographs and displays.

The museum displays different interesting exhibits consisting of cryptic footprint photographs, artistic masterpieces, and simulated recovered wild creature replicas.

• Website: https://www.porttix.com/venues/merrill-auditorium
• Address: 20 Myrtle Street
• Admission Fee: Entry prices differ per performance at the venue.

The original Portland City Hall became Merrill Auditorium, which present a seating capacity of 1,908.

The hall was built in 1912 and underwent extensive renovations in 1997. It features a large pipe organ, Herman Kotzschmar Memorial Music, donated by Cyrus Curtis and built by the Austin Organ Company.

This venue displays multiple types of shows starting from concerts and stage productions together with community group functions.

East End Beach is a charming urban escape that's perfect for a relaxed day by the water. Located on the eastern side of Portland’s peninsula, this sandy stretch offers beautiful views of Casco Bay and the city skyline.

You can also enjoy sunbathing alongside picnicking and swimming when temperatures are warmer at this location. This informal beach environment provides children with a playground and attracts both locals and tourists who want to relax.

Hikers and exercisers can find trails and parks located close to the area for their enjoyment.

• Website: https://www.mainejewishmuseum.org/
• Address: 267 Congress Street
• Admission Fee: Adults: $10, Seniors and Students: $8

If you’re in Portland, Maine, and looking for something interesting and culturally rich, the Maine Jewish Museum is a wonderful stop.

The museum offers a fascinating insight into Maine’s Jewish heritage and history, with a variety of exhibits ranging from historic artifacts to contemporary art.

It's a unique spot that combines education with a touch of local flavor, which makes it a standout experience for those interested in history and culture.