Things To Do
Eventide Oyster Co.
This is the trendiest seafood place in Portland. We went there to celebrate our engagement after Erik proposed to Fabi at his parents' home in Blue Hill. The oysters are always our favorite. And the crab rolls... yum
Blyth & Burrows
If you're into the cocktail bar scene, this is one of our favorites, and which was introduced to us by our friends Zack and Lila (thank you guys!). Blyth and Burrows is a nautical-themed, three-bar-in-one concept, with an ever-changing cocktail menu. On the first floor, you'll find a main bar and seating area; the second level is all about oysters (and more libations); and in the basement there's the speakeasy-style Broken Dram, which guests access through a secret entrance.
Rising Tide Brewing Company
Beer is to Portland what lobster is to Maine. If you visit Portland without sampling some brew, you're missing out. Portland is considered to be one of America's best beer cities thanks to its large crop of local brewers as well as its role in the microbrew movement. Though 17 microbreweries may not sound like much for a city with a population of a little more than 66,000, it is plenty for both residents and visiting beer enthusiasts.
Bissell Brothers Brewing Company
Another one of the good breweries in the area, Bissell Brothers offers a cool vibe with colorful murals splashed on the walls, steel tanks in the back and ample, two-level taproom seating. Expect lines out the door during releases of their hard-to-find, limited edition I.P.A.s, which attract fans from across the Northeast.
Old Port
The Old Port is without a doubt the beating heart of Portland, and where the Hotel and after party are located. This downtown neighborhood is considered the city's center and bustles with things to do left and right, all the while gracefully maintaining its historical facade. The area is lined with cobblestone streets and 19th-century warehouses, and with the wharf just steps away on Commercial Street, the city's heydays as a world-renowned port town are easily felt.
Eastern Promenade Trail
Portland's waterfront is at its most picturesque at the Eastern Promenade. Beloved by locals, the Eastern Promenade is a 68-acre waterfront park located on a stretch of land separating Back Cove from the Fore River. The park offers trails, beaches and plenty of grassy areas to simply kick back and unwind. To make the most of your visit, take a stroll along the 2-mile-long Eastern Promenade Trail, which starts in the heart of the Old Port.
Cape Elizabeth
Cape Elizabeth is a nice day trip option for those in search of rolling hills and beaches. The town is located about 9 miles south of Portland and is best known for its lighthouses.
Portland Museum of Art
With a collection of more than 18,000 pieces, Portland houses and showcases some pretty big names in its art museum, including icons such as Andy Warhol, Claude Monet and Georgia O'Keeffe, to name a few. Along with some of the greats, the museum also features an extensive collection of American, European and contemporary works, as well as pieces from Maine artists.
Street & Co.
This intimate bistro is known for its wide selection of perfectly-cooked seafood dishes--from its small tasting plates to gigantic portions served in a pan, nothing disappoints.
Cellardoor Winery at The Point
From pinot gris to pinot noir, a variety of varietals are poured at this tasting room, which opened in May 2016. Wines from the Lincolnville winery up the coast can be sampled by the glass or in tasting flights paired with cheese, crackers and charcuterie.
Stroudwater Distillery
This intimate, small-batch distillery produces vodka, gin, bourbon and rye, and also has a tasting room with two bars, one pouring sampler flights and the other mixing cocktails made with the house spirits.
Js Oyster
This divey seafood haunt is a Portland classic, located on a pier on the City's main drag (Commerce Street) and a favorite among tourists and locals. J's has been serving unfussy classics since 1977. Belly up to their gigantic u-shaped wooden bar in the middle of the day and order their famous bucket of steamed clams, accompanied by a beer (or two).