Q: What services are available at the Portland, Maine Information Center?
A: The Information Center in Portland, Maine offers local brochures, city, regional, and state maps, public restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and personalized guidance from friendly experts. It’s your go-to stop for everything from restaurant recs to ferry schedules.
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Q: What is the scenic train that runs right outside the Ocean Gateway Information Center?
A: That’s the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, a scenic heritage train that departs just steps from the Ocean Gateway Information Center. It runs along the Eastern Promenade with beautiful views of Casco Bay and operates on the hour during the operating season (typically spring through fall). The ride lasts about 40 minutes and features vintage railcars and a taste of Portland’s rail history. It’s a favorite for families, history buffs, and anyone who loves a good view.
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Q: What is Portland, Maine known for?
A: We know Maine as the land of lighthouses and lobsters and while Portland serves-up plenty, as the largest city in the Pine Tree state, it dives deep into its urban charm. Portland, Maine is known for its historic waterfront, culinary scene, and access to Casco Bay’s islands and lighthouses. The city blends coastal charm with vibrant culture with award-winning restaurants, local breweries, art galleries, and preserved 19th-century architecture in neighborhoods like the Old Port. Portland is also a gateway to outdoor adventures across southern Maine. Start here.
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What are some top tourist attractions in Maine?
A: Popular tourist attractions across Maine include Portland Head Light, the Old Port in Portland, Boothbay Harbor, Freeport’s L.L.Bean flagship store, and scenic drives along U.S. Route 1. Outside of Greater Portland include must-see stops along the coast from Old Orchard Beach to Acadia National Park. While in the region, visitors enjoy lighthouse and historic downtown tours, lobster boat excursions, hikes in the state’s expansive forests and coastal preserves, beach days surfing and stand-up paddleboarding, and find unique indoor adventure only found in Maine. Here you can go from the middle of nature to the middle of the action in a matter of minutes. Start here.
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Q: Is there a visitor’s guide to Portland, Maine?
A: Yes, Portland offers a free digital Visitor’s Guide featuring information on lodging, restaurants, attractions, seasonal events, and maps of the region. You can request a physical copy be mailed or get instant access to the insider travel planner from Visit Portland to help plan your trip. Use the My Trip Plan online to bookmark things to do for later. Start here.
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Q: When is the best time to visit Portland, Maine?
A: The best time to visit Portland, Maine is any time of year. Each season brings its own flavor to this coastal city. Spring offers a refreshing quiet before the summer buzz, with blooming parks and the first tastes of seasonal menus. Summer is the perfect time for island hopping, cruising Casco Bay, and dining outdoors. Fall follows with crisp air, vibrant foliage, and a cozy vibe—ideal for scenic drives and coastal walks. And winter? It’s Portland’s coziest secret, with twinkling lights, snowy charm, and a food scene that stays warm and vibrant all season long. Whenever you visit, Portland is ready to welcome you. Start here.
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Q: What are the best day trips from Portland, Maine?
A: Top day trips from Portland include visiting area towns like Freeport and Westbrook for shopping. South Portland and Scarborough are great spots to soak in seaside, beachy charm. Cape Elizabeth has green spaces like Fort Williams Park and Portland Head Light. Cumberland and Yarmouth are classic New England staples for fall fairs and festivals. And choose outdoor havens like Pownal, Gorham, and Falmouth to explore outdoor excursions. You can take a ferry to the Casco Bay Islands for a car-free island adventure just minutes from downtown. Start here.
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Q: If I arrive by cruise ship, where do I dock in Portland, Maine?
A: Most cruise ships dock right at Ocean Gateway, where you’ll go through customs and can access the Portland Information Center immediately upon arrival. It’s a convenient, walkable entry point into downtown. Some larger vessels may dock a bit further down the waterfront at the Portland Ocean Terminal, where a small welcome shed is set up with maps, brochures, and local guides available when ships are in port. Both locations are right along Commercial Street and within easy reach of shops, restaurants, and attractions.