Portland
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Logistics
Getting There
Portland is found on the east coast of the state of Maine. The city has a population of about 70,000 people but often can feel busier due to the tourism bringing visitors to the city. The city has a small airport with some flights or one can fly to Boston with a bigger airport and more options, and then drive about 2.5 hours to reach Portland.
Getting Around
The town of Portland is not too large so can explore a lot on foot. However, in order to see different areas, it’s likely you’ll need to use ride sharing services or a car to help see different neighborhoods. There’s metered street parking and parking lots throughout the city for those who travel by car.
Accommodations
Where you stay depends a bit on what you are looking to enjoy. The Old Port area is the downtown area, with lots of restaurants and shops, best for those who want to be centrally located. For those looking to enjoy the breweries, stay in Munjoy Hill for proximity to a lot of fun breweries. If you’re looking for a quieter area, but still within walking distance to the downtown area, try the West End.
Things to do and see
Breweries
The city of Portland has lots of breweries and is recognized as one of the best cities for beer. There are breweries throughout the city, but many are concentrated in East End. There’s so many different ones to try, but below are a few favorites
Old Port
Wander the Old Port area, hitting Exchange Street and Commercial Street if you want to do some shopping. This area is nice to walk around and is close to the water as well.
Portland Head Light
Found on Cape Elizabeth is the famous Maine lighthouse. There’s a museum you can visit to learn more about the lighthouse and the Fort Williams Park you can explore.
Beach Day
The heart of Nashville’s music scene, Broadway Street is lined with bars where all have live music.
Food and Drinks
The Holy Donut
Breakfast
Portland
Famous donuts in Portland that are made from potatoes!
Tandem Coffee and Bakery
Brunch
Portland
Great coffee shop
The Standard Baking Co
Bakery
Portland
Delicious bread and bakery items
Forage Market
Cafe
Portland
Great coffee shop and breakfast sandwiches spot
Belleville (BLVL)
Cafe
Portland
Good spot for takeaway pastries and coffee
Nom Cafe
Brunch
Portland
Small brunch restaurant in downtown Portland
The Shop
Snack
Portland
Oyster lovers, stop in here!
Pai Men Miyake
Dinner
Portland
Absolutely delicious Asian restaurant
Central Provisions
Dinner
Portland
Changing menu with wide variety of options, found in downtown Portland
Portland Mash TUN
Drinks
Portland
Great spot for an afternoon or evening beer
Maps
Drinks
Portland
Late night bar with Maps on the walls and ceiling
Duckfat
Lunch
Portland
Restaurant with a small menu; you cannot miss these tasty fries!
A&C
Lunch
Portland
Serving burgers, sandwiches, salads and milkshakes (boozy for those who want them!)
Other Notes
Duration
A weekend trip to Portland gives you time to start to explore this city. It’s a foodie’s heaven, so for those who love trying restaurants, you will definitely be intrigued to come back. New England also has incredible hiking, which Portland can provide a nice home base for to allow you to enjoy the outdoors.
Time of year
Portland is a great place to visit in the summer and autumn months. New England generally is a gorgeous area when the leaves are changing, making it especially appealing in October, but one cannot go wrong in the summer sunshine up here either.