Things to do in  Portland

Dating back to the 18th century, the Portland Head Light watches over the rocky coastline of Maine as the state’s oldest lighthouse. Its picturesque location also makes it the most photographed lighthouse in the United States. And the surrounding Fort Williams Park is a popular beach and hiking destination.

Casco Bay is a scenic stretch of coastal waters off Portland, Maine, known for its mosaic of islands, historic lighthouses, and seafaring heritage. From the waterfront in Portland, you can explore charming offshore communities, enjoy scenic cruises or ferry rides, and experience classic New England seascapes. Wildlife watching is a highlight here, with seals, seabirds, and whales when in season.

With granite walls that appear to rise straight up from the surface of Portland Harbor, this abandoned military fort was built on a small island during the Civil War. Only accessible by boat, today it’s a reminder of Maine's military past and a curiosity for passing harbor cruises or intrepid kayakers.

Stretching for several miles along Portland’s East End, this scenic trail connects the city’s cobblestoned Old Port with Fort Allen Park, East End Beach, and beyond. Along the way, sweeping views of Casco Bay and its islands provide a picturesque backdrop for joggers, cyclists, and picnickers enjoying this easy-to-access greenway.

Hundreds of big-name brands and shopping malls flank Route 1 in Kittery, a major shopping destination that draws bargain-seekers from around the region. One major stop is Kittery Premium Outlets, a mall with more than 60 stores from Anne Taylor to Zumiez. Discounts abound, and sales discount goods between 25 and 65 percent.

Considered one of the finest examples of the Italian Villa architectural style in the country, the Victoria Mansion—also known as the Morse-Libby House—is one of the grandest historic homes in Portland, Maine, as well as the entire region. Completed more than 160 years ago, the manor is distinctive for its brownstone exterior and richly decorated (and beautifully preserved) interiors.

Dating back to 1755, Portland, Maine's Tate House Museum is the only existing example of pre-revolutionary architecture open to the public. In its heyday, it was the residence of Captain George Tate, a senior mast agent in the British Royal Navy, though it's now a museum, complete with period furnishings, an herb garden, and a gift shop.

Based in Portland, Maine, Rising Tide Brewing Company opened its doors in 2010, starting with just one barrel. Today, the popular, family-owned brewery runs a tab of 4,500 barrels, distributed across Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Theirs is technically a brewpub, offering plenty of elevated comfort-food dishes to complement those sudsy ales.

New England Distilling, known for its rye whiskey, bourbon, gin, and rum, was founded in 2012, but the owner’s family has roots in the business going as far back as the 1850s, having produced spirits under different labels until the 1950s. The Portland-based distillery pays homage to this history by using a combination of traditional equipment and modern gear, and offers tours and tastings.