things to do
Experience Greater Portland, Maine
In Portland, the sea has a way of shaping the day. One minute you’re wandering art galleries and oyster bars downtown. The next, you’re crossing Casco Bay by ferry, walking a rocky shoreline, or finding your way through a small harbor town. This is the kind of place that rewards curiosity. So, let’s start exploring things to do when you’re in Greater Portland, Maine.
Top attractions
Portland is best known for lighthouses and lobsters. But, there’s even more to explore in the region’s outdoors – all converging to create the unmistakable coastal character that will keep you coming back for more.
Indoor & outdoor adventures
coastline outside. culture inside.
Greater Portland offers opportunities for fun-filled days every season, from high-octane to low-key, indoor to outdoor, land or sea. This metropolitan city of the sea is a cultural mecca and wildlife wonderland, bursting with world-class art and culture, maritime history, and more.
Spectator Sports
From Portland Sea Dogs baseball and Hearts of Pine soccer to hockey, college athletics, and waterfront races, Greater Portland brings big energy to game day all year long.
upcoming events
find out what’s happening near you
There’s always something to do near you in Greater Portland, Maine. See what’s happening now and year-round so you don’t miss out.
THINGS TO DO
Explore curated local experiences across Greater Portland, from historic lighthouses and island ferry rides to award-winning dining and craft breweries. Filter by category, location, or features to easily tailor your coastal itinerary. Discover the authentic rhythm of Maine’s working waterfront at your own pace.
minibar
Pineland Farms
Portland By The Foot
Portland By The Foot
Portland Discovery Land & Sea Tours
Portland Explorer
Portland Schooner Co.
Portland Sea Dogs
Quack N’ Cruise
Quarryside at Rock Row
Sea Love Freeport
Seashore Trolley Museum
SeaWeed Co. – Bayside Botanicals
Sebago Lake Cruises
Spring Point Ledge Light Trust
Summer Feet Cycling Adventures
The Ecology School at River Bend Farm
The Escape Room
The Vermont Flannel Co.
Toad&Co
FREQUENTLY ASKED
dive into greater portland, maine
Planning a trip to Greater Portland, Maine? Whether you’re drawn by the vibrant arts scene, fresh coastal cuisine, or iconic lighthouses, Greater Portland offers something for every kind of traveler. This FAQ covers everything from top attractions and hidden gems to day trips, dining, and seasonal tips—so you can make the most of your time in Maine’s cultural and culinary capital.
What towns are around Portland, Maine?
The towns surrounding Portland that make for ideal day trips include Cape Elizabeth, Cumberland, Falmouth, Freeport, Gorham, North Yarmouth, Pownal, Scarborough, South Portland, Westbrook, and Yarmouth. Check out our area towns. …
What islands can you visit from Portland, Maine?
Portland is nestled on Casco Bay making island hopping easy and accessible. From Portland, you can reach several islands in Casco Bay, including Peaks Island, Great Diamond Island, Little Diamond Island, Long Island, Chebeague Island, and Cliff Island. These are accessible by ferry via Casco Bay Lines and offer beaches, hiking, kayaking, and small island communities to explore. Some have golf cart rentals and other outdoor activities. Not all islands are equipped with public restrooms and other amenites, so please research your island getaway before the day. You can explore even more island time by checking out smaller islands by water taxi. …
What are some good rainy-day activities in Portland, Maine?
On a rainy day in Greater Portland you can explore museums + historic sites, go on a guided tour, hop around to local breweries, wineries, distilleries, catch a live performance at one of our music venues, or visit one of the city’s many cozy bookstores and cafés while out window shopping. Indoor attractions often feature family-friendly elements, offering engaging experiences, for the whole fam, regardless of the weather. …
What are the best indoor activities in Maine for adults?
For adults looking for indoor things to do in Maine, especially near Portland, options include wine tastings, spa visits, art galleries, live music venues, cooking classes, and exploring local history museums. Many visitors also enjoy indoor food tours, brewery crawls, and workshops offered by Maine makers and artisans. Catch some indoor adventure no matter the weather! …
Where are the best beaches near Portland, Maine?
Top beaches near Portland, Maine include Willard Beach in South Portland, Higgins Beach and Scarborough Beach in Scarborough, Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth, and Old Orchard Beach in Old Orchard. These beaches are known for their clean sand, swimmable water, and scenic views, just a short drive from downtown Portland. There is so much sandy beach and rocky shore to cover. Downtown Portland even has its own rocky beach on the Eastern Promenade called East End Beach. …
Where can I find hiking, biking, and walking trails or outdoor adventures near Portland, Maine?
Greater Portland is filled with scenic outdoor adventure for all skill levels. For hiking and walking, try Fore River Sanctuary, Back Cove Trail, or Mackworth Island (10 minutes away in Falmouth). For biking, the Eastern Promenade Trail and Greenbelt Walkway in South Portland are local favorites. Or hop on a guided tour through Downtown Portland and Area Lighthouses. Want more adventure? Head to Bradbury Mountain State Park in nearby Pownal for elevated views and great trails, or kayak the Presumpscot River or Casco Bay for a coastal twist. Many trails are dog-friendly and offer seasonal beauty year-round. …
What local sports games can I catch in Portland, Maine?
Portland has a thriving local sports scene! Catch a Portland Sea Dogs baseball game at Hadlock Field—an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Love basketball? The Maine Celtics, part of the NBA G League, bring high-energy games to the Portland Expo. Hockey fans can head to Cross Insurance Arena to see the Maine Mariners hit the ice. And for soccer enthusiasts, don’t miss the all-new Hearts of Pine team—Portland’s own pro soccer club bringing exciting matches and hometown pride to the pitch. Whether it’s spring, summer, or winter, there’s always a hometown team to cheer on.
Maximize Budget
Special Deals & packages
You can always say yes to doing more when you’re in Portland with these special offers throughout Greater Portland.