What We Do
Driving Tourism + Our Economy
Ever wonder where all Greater Portland’s visitors come from? Or why the region consistently ranks among various destination lists? It’s not just the organic appeal of stunning landscapes and scenic rocky coasts. Our dedicated marketing efforts play a crucial role in putting our region on the map.
OUR VISION
Greater Portland is Maine’s vibrant core – where beauty, grit, and a welcoming community invite everyone to visit, from everywhere, all year, over and over.
OUR MISSION
Visit Portland enriches Greater Portland’s economy through tourism marketing and promotion, elevating community businesses, and a commitment to an inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable future for all.
What's Happening
Here’s what we’ve been working on—from innovative marketing projects and real-time destination data to hands-on opportunities that make a difference. Whether it’s participating in regional campaigns, joining local collaborations, or rolling up your sleeves for efforts like our recent community clean-up day, there are more ways than ever to get involved and show your support for the Greater Portland region.
What We Do
We do what most people this just happens! Visit Portland ensures that our destination is at the top of mind through innovative marketing programs that reach potential visitors and influence millions to visit Maine annually.
Our Place in the Community
Visit Portland serves as a facilitator for tourism and local business growth in Greater Portland, Maine. We collaborate with organizations such as the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce, Portland Downtown, and Creative Portland, as well as statewide organizations, to deliver positive experiences for visitors and growth opportunities for our local business community. Through these partnerships, we ensure a vibrant and thriving environment for those who visit and live in the region.
Local Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) FAQS
Q: WHAT IS A CVB?
A: A CVB (Convention and Visitors Bureau) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting a destination and attracting visitors—ranging from leisure travelers (domestic and international) and travel media to conventions, conferences, weddings, sporting events, cruise visitation, and more. Visit Portland serves as the CVB for the Greater Portland and Casco Bay region. As Maine’s only official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), our mission is to market the region and drive tourism of all kinds.
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Q: HOW IS VISIT PORTLAND DIFFERENT FROM A CHAMBER OF COMMERCE?
A: Chamber of Commerce strengthens the local economy by attracting and supporting local businesses. Visit Portland strengthens the local economy by attracting visitors through tourism, conventions, meetings, and events to the region and the state.
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Q: WHAT DOES A DMO DO FOR A POTENTIAL VISITOR OR EVENT PLANNER?
A: For visitors, a Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) serves as a key to the city—a balanced resource and official point of contact for convention and event planners, tour operators, and travelers. Visit Portland’s staff supports planners with meeting and event preparation while also encouraging business travelers and leisure visitors to explore the region’s historic, cultural, and recreational offerings. As a one-stop shop for tourism, the organization saves visitors time and provides a full range of information about the destination.
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Q: WHY IS TOURISM + GROUP MARKETING IMPORTANT TO THE COMMUNITY?
A: Travel and tourism strengthen communities by creating jobs, generating tax dollars that support public services and infrastructure, and attracting restaurants, shops, festivals, cultural institutions, and sporting venues that serve both residents and visitors.
As one of America’s largest industries, tourism delivers:
$704 billion in direct travel spending by domestic and international visitors
$1.2 trillion in total tourism-related economic output (direct, indirect, and induced)
$113 billion in tax revenue for local, state, and federal governments
7.4 million direct travel-generated jobs
$186 billion in travel-generated payroll
10.1 million American workers employed directly or indirectly by travel
Travel and tourism are powerful economic engines, and Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) are key to driving that impact. As Maine’s only DMO, Visit Portland is the state’s sole organization dedicated to promoting meetings, conferences/conventions, and destination weddings.
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Q: HOW DOES VISIT PORTLAND UTILIZE PARTNER DUES?
A: Partner dues allow Visit Portland to facilitate a professional marketing plan which reaches multiple target markets promoting Maine with a focus on the Greater Portland region. Partners of Visit Portland receive extensive benefits which include print publications, destination website listings, brochure distribution, sales leads/referrals, networking opportunities, and much more.
For more information about partnership opportunities and benefits, contact us: partners@visitportland.com
Travel Segments
Through a sophisticated marketing and public relations strategy, we effectively inform millions of visitors, meeting and event planners, couples, media, and tour operators about our destination year-round. Ultimately, Visit Portland attracts these travelers to our region, generating billions of dollars for the local economy.
Our Team
Meet Our Team! We’re proud to showcase the dedicated professionals who make our organization truly exceptional. Each team member represents unique facets and skills that enrich our collective efforts. From group marketing and digital media to supporting local businesses and fostering partnerships, they bring expertise and passion to every aspect of our work. Get to know the faces that drive our success and discover how their diverse talents contribute to our vibrant community.
Extend Your Marketing Reach
Learn more about the benefits of partnering with Visit Portland by contacting our Partnership team