What’s New in the Portland, Maine Region

What’s New in the Portland, Maine Region

New Eats and Adventures in Portland, Maine

Places to stay, play, and enjoy all across Greater Portland

New year means new bites, brews, activities, and adventures in Greater Portland, Maine. Discover what’s in store this year across our area towns and beyond. Want to experience all the new things to do first hand? You’re going to have to visit and sea for yourself…

In the meantime, keep checking back as we add the latest and greatest developments in Greater Portland, Maine.

Luna Rooftop Bar, Photo Credits: Greg Premru

Photo Credits (Top to Bottom, Left to Right): Luna Rooftop Bar at the Canopy, Photo Credits: Greg Premru | New Kitchen at Rising Tide, Photo Credit: Serena Folding | Aloft Hotel Pool Table Photo Credit: Capshore Photography | Holy Donut New Location on Commercial, Photo Credit: Capshore Photography


New Events

Some of these events already occurred in 2023, but stay tuned for next year’s dates!

Portland 207 Day

Portland Downtown and Portland Buy Local inaugurated February 7 as 207 Day for the City of Portland in 2021. Head downtown next year to see the second year in action. A city wide scavenger hunt to explore and interact with many businesses by scanning QR codes, snapping photos, and more! Check out the event below to learn more.

Portland Arts District, Photo Credits: Serena Folding

Portland 207 Day

February 7, 2024

Photo Credit: Serena Folding Photography

Carnaval ME

Carnaval ME is back and better than ever! Taking place in Portland’s Old Port at the new location thanks to friends at DiMillo’s on the Water on Commercial Street! This fun outdoor winter event will feature live music on the Carnaval ME outdoor snow stage, a heated igloo, family-friendly activities, Bites & Brews, and a whole lot more!

Carnaval ME, Photo provided by: Shamrock Signature

Carnaval ME

2024 DATES TBD

Photo Credit: Shamrock Signature

Portland Wine Week

Although Portland Wine Week is an annual celebration, this year features new events, classes, sails and of course, tastings!

Portland Wine Week, Photo Credit: Capshore Photography

Portland Wine Week

2024 Dates TBD

Photo Credit: Capshore Photography


New Attractions

Explore new walking tours, cruises, and experiences all across Greater Portland, Maine. You’ll find new ways to explore the region from cobblestone streets to the Casco bay islands and beyond.

Portland by the Foot

Experience unforgettable storytelling—rich with heart, humor, and humanity—on a walking tour with Maine’s top-rated guide!

X-Golf Portland

Maine’s Premier sports lounge and virtual golf experience. Come play on the world’s most advanced and accurate golf simulator!

Terrarium

Urban garden center and hub for DIY terrarium creations, also serving house made soups, local craft beer, wine, coffee and tea.

What else is new? These fan-favorite tours have rebranded and added new + exciting features to their offerings.

SeaPortland

Leave ordinary at the dock and experience the beauty of Casco Bay like never before with individually tailored private charters aboard vintage Maine vessels!

Maine Brews Cruise

All-inclusive tours providing guests a behind-the-scenes look at Maine’s breweries, distilleries, wineries, and more.

Maine Day Ventures

Highly interactive tours that will educate and entertain you all along the way. Foodie tours, history tours, and more!

New Food + Drink

The food scene in Greater Portland is always growing! From world-class cuisine, to wineries, to food trucks, there is something for everyone. Make sure to check out these new spots next time you’re in town.

Twelve

New Portland restaurant with a classic waterfront dining room, housed in a restored historic maritime building.

The Holy Donut- Commercial St

Use real Maine Potato in all our donuts. We believe donuts can be wholesome and made with healthy ingredients.

Luna Rooftop Bar

Savor artisan cocktails, modern shareable plates, and small bites with a birds-eye view of the working waterfront.

Salt Yard Café & Bar

Industrial-chic all-day café and restaurant with a menu that evolves as the day unfolds, located at the Canopy Portland Waterfront hotel.

New Hotels

Portland has some exciting new places to stay, right downtown in front of all the action. These new hotels are just steps away from restaurants, shops, and of course, the waterfront!

The Docent's Collection

Unlike traditional hotels, The Docent’s Collection provides temporary lodging that feels like a luxury residence. Welcome to your Urban Home.

Cambria Portland Downtown – Old Port

Enjoy a comfortable stay in our brand new, modern hotel in the historic district of our charming coastal town.

Aloft Portland Downtown Waterfront ME

An urban, sophisticated hotel sitting on Portland’s working waterfront.

Canopy Portland Waterfront

Canopy Portland Waterfront is situated along Portland’s working waterfront and features guestrooms & suites with waterfront views.

New Art + Entertainment

Portland has always been known for its phenomenal art scene, and this year will be no exception. All around the city, you’ll see remarkable public artwork, including the Art Barricades and Banners from Creative Portland, designed by local artists. In addition, Portland has been crowned the winner of the Best Bus Stop in the USA, thanks to Ebenezer Akakpo, artist of Hope and Friendship!

First Friday Art Walk is back! Every first Friday of the month, explore Portland’s Art District with a free self-guided tour of local galleries, museums, and much more.

First Friday Art Walk, Photo Credit: Corey Templeton Photography

First Friday Art Walk

First Friday of Every Month

Photo Credit: Corey Templeton Photography


Stay in the Know

Two Lights Lighthouse, Photo Credits: Serena Folding

For more tips, tricks, and things to do in Greater Portland, Maine follow us on @visitportland or request a Visitor’s Guide below. Or check out our Events Calendar for an upcoming list of things to do.