Portland, Maine

Maine's largest city and culinary capital

Overview

Portland is Maine's largest city and cultural heart, known for its vibrant arts scene, award-winning restaurants, and historic waterfront. The Old Port district features cobblestone streets lined with 19th-century brick buildings housing boutiques, galleries, and eateries.

Key Facts

Population 68,408

Region Greater Portland

County Cumberland

Founded 1786

Nearest City Boston (2 hours)

Town Office Visit official website

What Portland Is Known For

Portland Local Highlights

Old Port District

A historic waterfront district with cobblestone streets, brick warehouses, and vibrant nightlife.

Culinary Scene

Nationally recognized as a top food city, known for farm-to-table dining and fresh seafood.

Portland Head Light

The most photographed lighthouse in America, located in nearby Fort Williams Park.

Craft Breweries

Portland has one of the highest concentrations of breweries per capita in the country.

Casco Bay Islands

A working waterfront connecting the city to scenic island communities via ferry.

Things to Do

Stroll the Old Port

Shop, eat, and walk the working waterfront in this historic district.

Visit Portland Head Light

Take photos of the iconic lighthouse and explore the ruins of Fort Goddard.

Take a mailboat run

Ride the Casco Bay Lines ferry for a scenic tour of the islands.

Visit the Portland Museum of Art

See an impressive collection of art in the heart of the Arts District.

Go on a brewery tour

Sample local beers at Allagash, Bissell Brothers, or many others.

Living in Portland

Portland offers a unique blend of urban amenities and New England charm. The city has a walkable downtown, excellent public schools, and a strong job market in healthcare, education, and technology. Housing costs have risen significantly but remain lower than Boston.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm and pleasant, 70-80°F

winter

Cold and snowy, 20-35°F

spring

Cool and rainy, 40-55°F

fall

Crisp and colorful, 45-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Harbor seals Seabirds White-tailed deer Various marine life

How to Get There

Portland is easily accessible via the Portland International Jetport (PWM), I-95, and Amtrak Downeaster service from Boston.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Portland outline

Trip Ideas Featuring Portland

2-3 Days

A Foodie Weekend in Portland

Eat your way through one of America's best restaurant cities, from potato donuts to James Beard award-winning dinners.

6 Stops View Plan

5-7 Days

The Ultimate Route 1 Road Trip: NH Border to Canada

A classic Maine road trip from the New Hampshire border to the Canadian border, hitting iconic lighthouses, lobster shacks, and coastal villages along the legendary coastal highway.

8 Stops View Plan

3 Days

Southern Maine Beach Hop: 3-Day Coastal Escape

Sandy beaches, seaside towns, and oceanfront dining along Maine's most accessible coastline from Kittery to Old Orchard Beach.

6 Stops View Plan

Outdoor Recreation

Fishing

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Lighthouse Touring

Year-round (Best: June - Oct)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Portland, Maine known for?

Portland is known for its exceptional food scene (ranked among the best foodie cities in the US), historic Old Port district, craft beer culture, and stunning coastal location.

Is Portland, Maine expensive to live in?

Portland has become more expensive in recent years, but remains more affordable than cities like Boston. The median home price is around $450,000, and the cost of living is about 10% above the national average.

What is the best time to visit Portland?

Summer (June-August) offers the best weather for outdoor activities and festivals. Fall (September-October) brings beautiful foliage and fewer crowds. Winter can be cold but offers a cozy atmosphere.