Plan Your Trip
Maximize Your Maine Vacation
Plotting out vacation plans? Or are you still in #inspirationmode? Either way—we got you covered! Whether you’re plotting out the details for a family get together, event, or wedding weekend, you can save, store, and send all the activities you want using our “My Trip Plan.”
Utilize our website’s resources to get the most out of your Maine vacation!
Soak Up More Summer in Portland, Maine (For Less)
Summer in Portland, Maine, is a New England coastal daydream: sea breezes, salty Working Waterfront, lobster every way, and golden-hour lighthouses. But, you don’t need a luxury budget to enjoy it all. With a little local insight, you can have the best summer ever—more memories, more flavor, more fun—for less.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Greater Portland
What is the best time of year to visit Portland, Maine?
Greater Portland is lively and vibrant in all seasons. Depending on what you’re looking for you can narrow down what time of year you’d like to visit. Spring starts in March when we watch the cherry blossoms and blooms come to life. The summer months of June, July, and August are the warmest and great for getting outdoors and exploring our water activities. September and October you can watch the colors of the leaves change and experience all things fall fairs + harvests. Greater Portland comes alive with annual events, art + culture, and festive shopping over the holiday season from November into the New Year. For those looking to enjoy winter sports and snow activities, ski resorts open in early November and go through April. And our region stays open year-round with restaurants, shops, and most activities all ready and awaiting your arrival. Start here.
How many nights should I spend in Portland, Maine?
While our thriving downtown seaport of Portland, Maine is easily walkable and only 3+ miles from end to end, you’re still going to want to spend a few days getting to see all Greater Portland (and beyond) has to offer. From sandy beaches to landmark lighthouses, there is plenty to see + do to keep you and your whole party busy. We recommend at least 2-3 nights visiting Portland, Maine, and our charming area towns. If you want to see even more of the Pine Tree state from the Maine Beaches to Downeast & Acadia–you’ll need a few more days to explore places like Bangor (2 hours from Portland) or Bar Harbor (3 hours from Portland). Start here.
What is the best way to visit Maine?
Situated adjacent to Interstate 95, Greater Portland is convenient to get to for travelers coming from any direction. Only two hours from Boston and four from New York City. Fly into the Portland International Jetport with direct flights to most major destinations across the globe. At the Portland Transportation Center you’ll find the Amtrak Downeaster (runs from Boston to Brunswick) or Concord Coach Lines. You can also hop in the car and take a road trip. Portland, Maine is a walkable city. We recommend venturing to our area towns while you’re here, so it is recommended to use public transportation with the Metro or have a car to visit our neighboring towns. Start here.
Is Maine expensive to visit?
Maine can be a very affordable place to visit. There are plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors, local landmarks, art + culture, and the historic coastal charm without breaking the bank. One of the best things about visiting Greater Portland is you can customize your experience to your taste and your wallet. Start here.
What to do on a trip to Portland, Maine?
There are many must see + do Maine attractions that should not be missed when you visit the region. From our sandy shores to our rocky shores, there is so much to see and do. Take a tour to visit the most photographed lighthouse in the United States, Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth. You don’t want to miss the Working Waterfront and the hustle and bustle of an active fishing port. The Old Port is home to stores, restaurants, craft beer + wine, schooners, trolley tours, and more. Taste-test a famous Maine Lobster Dinner or Lobster Roll and visit our nearby coastal towns and beaches. Start here.
Is Portland, Maine worth visiting?
YES! There is so much to do in the Portland region from world-class dining to nationally-touring headlining acts to outdoor adventure. Maine is perfect for solo travel, couples getaways, and family-friendly vacations. Start here.
What is Portland, Maine best known for?
Portland, Maine is renowned for its picturesque blend of lobsters and lighthouses, nestled along a rugged coastline dotted with sandy beaches. This region boasts a vibrant history rooted in fishing, agriculture, and distinctive architecture. Visitors can explore an active waterfront and a bustling wharf, catch a ferry to the scenic Casco Bay islands, or marvel at iconic lighthouses like Portland Head Light, Bug Light, and Spring Point Ledge Light House. Start here.
What is the best part of Maine to go to?
Maine offers a wealth of diverse experiences, from serene beaches of its picturesque coastline to the bustling energy of vibrant cities, like Portland, to the rugged beauty of the northern wilderness. Whether you’re drawn to the peaceful shores, the cultural richness of urban settings, or the adventurous appeal of the outdoors, Maine provides an array of opportunities to explore and enjoy. Start here.
My Trip Plan
Explore our craft beverage boom, visit must-see landmarks, tour lighthouses, taste local lobster, and become a part of the fabric of our coastal community…at least for a little while. Use “My Trip Plan” to plot out your points of interest, send to family and friends, and save activities for later. There’s even a map feature, so you can see how close and convenient it is to get around Greater Portland.
Events Calendar
There’s always something exciting to do in Greater Portland from daily tours + cruises to fall fests and summer wine sails. Get in on our charming annual events or the brand-new showstoppers being added every month. We are talking late-night entertainment, outdoor adventure, and all the holiday festivities you can imagine celebrating.
Packages + Deals
Browse through the special packages and deals offered by participating businesses. Find special deals on tours and attractions to maximize your visit. Enhance your shopping experience and find that perfect gift or souvenir. Don’t forget to enjoy the food scene. Find discounts and happy hour specials.
Getting Around
Get your road snacks and playlist ready—situated adjacent to Interstate 95, Greater Portland is convenient to get to for travelers coming from any direction. Arrive by plane, train, bus, or car—only two hours from Boston and four from New York City, Portland and it’s surrounding areas are positioned perfectly along Maine’s southern coast and jutting into Casco Bay.
on the blog
Resources
Visitor's Guide
Receive information to assist you in planning your Maine vacation. Listings include where to stay, where to eat, what to do, maps, and much more… it’s everything you need.
