10 Affordable Things to Do in Portland With the Whole Family
family vacation guide to an affordable stay in Portland, Maine
10 fun, accessible, and budget-conscious things to do on the east coast
Think: lighthouses at golden hour, ice cream along cobblestone streets, ferry rides to storybook islands, and museums that spark joy in everyone from tweens to grandparents.
Welcome to Portland, Maine—a small seaside city with an outsized sense of charm. With its walkable layout, welcoming neighborhoods, and wide range of budget-friendly things to do, Portland serves up something for everyone—and makes it surprisingly easy to enjoy it all without overspending.
Here, time slows just enough. The salt air sharpens your appetite, the art-lined streets invite wandering, and the days stretch long with possibility. Whether you’re chasing tidepools with little ones or sharing lobster rolls by the bay, Portland offers that rare mix of warmth, wonder, and accessibility—ideal for families seeking both adventure and ease.
Perfect for a long weekend or a laid-back summer vacation, this New England gem is filled with affordable, all-ages activities that feel spontaneous, effortless, and refreshingly unhurried. From mural-spotting downtown to sandy beach days just minutes away, every member of the family finds their own kind of magic.
Ready to map out your escape? These 10 can’t-miss experiences will help you plan a trip that’s big on joy—and light on logistics (and cost).
1. lighthouse picnic at fort williams park
This is Portland at its most postcard-perfect. Located in Cape Elizabeth, just a short drive from downtown, Fort Williams Park offers sweeping Atlantic views, a historic cliffside fort, wildflower-dotted trails, and Maine’s most iconic lighthouse: Portland Head Light.
Cost: The park is free to enter, with all-day complimentary parking or some lots for a small fee. Pack a blanket, bring a kite, and give yourself a few hours to explore. You’ll find tidepools, flower gardens, and even an old battery bunker to wander through. For families looking for affordable outdoor fun in Portland, Maine, this is a can’t-miss destination that delights across generations. START HERE.
2. Hop the Ferry to A cASCO bAY Island
A ferry ride across Casco Bay feels like a vacation within a vacation—and there is an Island for every day of the year at what some locals call the Calendar Islands. It is the perfect spot for a low-key, high-reward family cruise or day trip.
Cost: The ride itself is short and scenic, with roundtrip fares under $9 for adults and under $5 for children and seniors. For the views alone, it’s worth every cent. Once on the island, explore by foot or rent bikes to cruise along quiet, ocean-hugging roads. Visit the quirky Umbrella Cover Museum or search for sea glass along the rocky shore. It’s casual, car-free, and endlessly charming. Bring snacks and swimsuits, or grab lunch at a family-friendly café. For a budget-conscious family outing near Portland, this one’s tough to top. This is a can’t-miss destination that delights across generations. START HERE.
3. find Food Trucks, Sunsets & Waterfront Vibes
Portland’s food truck scene is as dynamic as its coastline—and one of the best ways to turn an ordinary meal into a mini family adventure. From lobster rolls and Thai noodles to wood-fired pizzas, burgers, tacos, and gourmet grilled cheese, the variety is unmatched. You’ll find food trucks parked at local breweries, along the lawn at Thompson’s Point during Summer Sunsets, or lining the Eastern Promenade on summer evenings.
For families, it’s one of the most affordable and flexible dining options in Portland. Meals typically range from $8 to $15, making it easy to mix and match dishes without overspending. It’s the ultimate culinary sampler: kids can try mac and cheese bites or waffles while parents share bao buns or falafel. Everyone gets what they want, and no one has to commit to a formal sit-down dinner. Plus, you’ll be eating local—many trucks highlight Maine-grown ingredients and small-batch sauces. START HERE.
4. Immersive Museums for Curious Minds of All Ages
Portland offers more than outdoor beauty—it’s also a hub of creativity and curiosity, with museums that engage the whole family. For little ones, the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine is a three-level wonderland featuring hands-on exhibits that bring Maine’s coastal culture to life.
Older kids and adults will find inspiration at the Portland Museum of Art. With its light-filled galleries, bold contemporary collections, and classic New England charm, Teens get in free (so do kids under 21), and adults can enjoy free Friday evenings during the First Friday Art Walk, when the city’s creative community spills into the streets. START HERE.
5.Sweet Treats + Street Murals
You don’t even need to step inside a gallery to experience Portland’s creative pulse—just take a stroll through the city’s Arts District, where vibrant murals wrap buildings, bronze sculptures peek out from our Squares, and hand-painted bus shelters and electrical boxes invites discovery on every corner. Congress Street and the surrounding blocks are a living canvas, and families can turn this free outdoor art walk into an interactive scavenger hunt with the free Creative Portland App.
Pair your stroll with a stop at Gorgeous Gelato, known for silky-smooth Italian classics in flavors like pistachio, dark chocolate, and wild Maine blueberry. If you’re heading toward the beach, Willard Scoops is a must for local ice cream made with local ingredients and a variety of toppings. Refuel and caffeinate with an espresso or cold brew from Coffee By Design, expertly-roasted local coffee served-up in a the Bayside neighborhood with local art around every corner. START HERE.
6 Sand, Sun & Sea Glass: Portland’s Best Beaches for Families
One of Portland’s greatest gifts? A shoreline that’s as accessible as it is beautiful. In just minutes, you can trade cobblestone streets for soft sand and salty breezes, with a range of beaches perfect for families of all sizes and ages. With ice cream in hand finish the day at Willard Beach, a small, gentle cove in South Portland. Equipped with public restrooms, a snack shack, and stunning views of Spring Point Ledge Light.
For longer strolls and wider shores, head to Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth, where you’ll find dunes, trails, and shady picnic spots. Higgins Beach offers boogie-board-ready waves and tidal discoveries, while Ferry Beach and Scarborough Beach bring a bit more surf and space to explore. Many of these spots are free or low-cost, with parking passes available for the day. Bring kites, a beach read, or a bucket for collecting sea glass. START HERE.
7. Farmer’s Markets, parks, and Local Flavor
Greater Portland is full of accessible trail systems and wildlife-rich preserves. Nearby towns like Falmouth, Freeport, and Scarborough offer flat, well-marked trails perfect for all ages. For a rewarding view with minimal effort, drive just 30 minutes to Bradbury Mountain State Park, where a short hike leads to sweeping vistas of the Maine countryside. Whether you stay close to the city or head into the trees, these easy outdoor adventures offer a peaceful (and free) way to connect with nature—no gear or entry fees required.
For a refreshing outdoor escape that’s fun and completely free, head to Deering Oaks Park—a beloved downtown green space where families can explore shaded walking paths, spot ducks and turtles by the pond, and relax beneath towering oaks. It’s also home to the Portland Farmers’ Market in spring through fall, making it a lively hub of local flavor and community energy on market days. START HERE.
8. One-of-a-Kind Finds: Shops With Maine-Made Charm
Most shops in Portland highlight the work of local artisans and designers, with handmade goods available at affordable and accessible price points. From small-batch skincare and woodcut prints to nautical jewelry and felted wool creatures, these pieces reflect the creativity and culture of the region. It’s the perfect way to support Maine makers while discovering a little treasure with a story behind it.
Portland’s local shops offer a thoughtful blend of craftsmanship, creativity, and coastal charm. At spots like Danforth Pewter, you’ll find hand-cast jewelry, keepsake ornaments, and nautical accents—all crafted in New England using traditional methods. These timeless pieces reflect the region’s heritage and make for meaningful gifts or souvenirs. Throughout the city, cozy boutiques showcase Maine-based designers and artisans, with price points that make it easy to bring Maine home with you. START HERE.
9. Craft Brew Tastings + happy hour deals
At Portland’s celebrated craft beverage scene nearly every brewery, winery, and distillery offers-up small pours and tasting flights, making it easy (and affordable) to sip your way through the city’s finest. Whether you’re into hazy IPAs, crisp kombuchas, botanical gins, or blueberry wines, there’s a taproom or tasting room ready to welcome you with a low-commitment pour and plenty of character.
Many tasting rooms are kid-friendly, with outdoor seating, games, and food trucks on site—so no need to book a sitter. Don’t miss out on weekday happy hour deals, making it easy to enjoy local flavors without spending much. It’s a relaxed, low-cost way to unwind—and a perfect toast to your Portland adventure. START HERE.
10. Affordable Places to Stay in Portland
And you’ll need a place to call home at the end of each memory-filled day. Portland has a range of affordable accommodations that don’t skimp on charm or convenience. Budget-savvy travelers can look to trusted national brands or one-of-a-kind boutique stays.
For families, extended-stay suites with kitchens offer added value and comfort, especially for longer visits or picky eaters. Booking ahead—especially in summer—can help you score the best deals, and many places include free parking, breakfast, or discounts at nearby restaurants. START HERE.
Why Portland, Maine Is the Perfect Family Getaway
Portland proves you don’t need a big budget to make big memories. From skipping stones and savoring food truck fare to watching sunsets over Casco Bay, this coastal city offers charm, creativity, and connection for every age. With thoughtful planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll craft a trip that’s rich in experience—and surprisingly easy on the wallet. START PLANNING.