Curator’s statement
Portland holds a special place in my heart! The food scene is off the charts – I can't get enough of it. And don't even get me started on the craft beer; it's like a playground for beer lovers. My husband and I got married there, and let me tell you, it was the coolest place to tie the knot! Since then, our friends have also fallen in love with this small "city" and now we make it an annual trip. It's always a blast!
The Fora Difference
Book with Ashlee to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Portland
Unlock perks by contacting Ashlee to book your trip.
Things to do in Portland
Bayside Bowling: A perfect hangout for the group (kid-friendly) with yummy bites and a fun time!
Arcadia: An arcade bar with good drinks & good tunes.
Shopping in Old Port
Seabags Store: Totes made of old sails, so cool!
Maine Souvenir Shop: Locally made items that are perfect for gifting or for yourself.
Portland Museum of Art: Free admission on Fridays from 4pm to 8pm.
Portland Head Lighthouse: A great photo op and one of the best Lobster Roll food trucks parked nearby called Bite into Maine!
Portland Children’s Museum: Perfect place to take the little ones!
Freeport: Shops, food and beer in this nearby town. If you’re an outlet shopper, this is for you!
LL Bean Store: Flagship store located in Freeport. Take a photo by the giant boot. The store is open 24/7.
Places to eat & drink in Portland
Highroller Lobster: Lobster served so many ways, in a grilled cheese, lobster bisque, atop a burger and so much more.
Becky’s Diner: Their Maine blueberry pancakes are a must! This place is quite popular and doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared to do some waiting during the weekend morning rush.
Fore Street: Specially curated daily menu with fresh, local ingredients made in a wood-fired oven or grill. The open kitchen is smack dab in the middle of the restaurant!
Crispy Gai: A cozy restaurant serving up Southeast Asian dishes including crispy wings & crab fried rice you’ll dream about.
Blyth & Burrows: A fun cocktail bar serving up their own bottled cocktails.
Papi: Puerto Rican bar and restaurant serving up excellent cocktails & even better service!
Allagash: I’m sure you’ve seen this Belgian-inspired beer on tap at a bar or 2. Definitely worth checking out their brewery when in the area; Bite Into Maine lobster rolls are also served here - YUM!
Austin Street: Local brewery serving up great beers. The neighborhood is home to some other local breweries. Make it a beer crawl.
Speckled Ax: A great local coffee shop with a few locations in Portland.
Hi-Fi Donuts: Whether you simply want a delicious donut or want to spice things up and get your BEC on a donut, you can’t go wrong at Hi-Fi!
Need to know
Portland is a wonderful destination that can accommodate groups of all sizes. Don't limit yourself to only traveling here during the warmer months. Most of our trips have taken place in early November, and they've been absolutely amazing! The foliage on the drive up from New York City is breathtaking, and there's so much to see, eat and drink once you arrive.
Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.
Travel Advisor
Ashlee Ruiz
Get in touch with Ashlee
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Ashlee within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Alanna Zappariello’s guide, 4 Day Trip to Portland, ME.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Portland.