Things to Do in Portland, Maine
Top Activities and Attractions in Portland
Dreaming of a different kind of beach getaway? Instead of blaring radios and crowded beaches, plan a trip to Maine this summer. This state is known for its delicious lobsters, historic lighthouses, and plenty of outdoor activities. A list of things to do in Portland, Maine can take many forms, depending on your interests. Some travelers will pack every minute with whale watching tours or hikes while others will simply kick back and enjoy the peace and quiet. Keep reading to learn of even more activities to enjoy on your vacation to Portland. 
Beach Basics
If you're planning a summer vacation, some of the best Portland, Maine things to do are at the beach. Sure, there's plenty of sand for sunbathing or a friendly Frisbee toss, but adventure is also waiting. One of the most popular ways to spend a day is on some kind of boating excursion. From embarking on whale watching tours to catching your own lobster dinner, boat tours are a great way to gain a new perspective on the coastline.Portland is a great location for learning something new. Always wanted to learn how to sail? This vacation could be your opportunity. Take a lesson or two, and you will be on your way to mastering a new skill. While your oceanfront Portland vacation rental will have a beach right on its doorstep, it can also be fun to venture out and explore new beaches. Some of the best local options include Old Orchard Beach , Crescent Beach State Park , and Scarborough Beach State Park .
Indulge in the Classic Side of Maine
When it comes to things to do in Portland, Maine, it would be a shame to go and not indulge in the classics. First of all, that means digging into some Maine lobster. You can prepare the lobster in your own vacation rental's kitchen or go to one of the local restaurants where it's prepared in a variety of ways. Another classic Maine attraction is historic lighthouses. Take a stroll on the beach by the Portland Breakwater Light or the Spring Point Ledge Light for a romantic experience.
There are many indoor attractions in Portland that you can enjoy in case of a rainy day. Two of the most popular are the Portland Museum of Art and the Farnsworth Museum . But that's hardly it. Other popular local museums include the International Cryptozoology Museum , the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Museum , and the Portland Harbor Museum .There are many historic sites and homes to explore in Portland, as well, like the Victoria Mansion and the Wadsworth-Longfellow House .
If you're looking for activities beyond the beach but don't want to be stuck inside at a museum, take the time to explore downtown Portland. You can ride the trolley for scenic views, go shopping in Old Port Exchange , or sign up for a guided walking tour of local attractions.
Unique Attractions in Portland
Not all of the things to do in Portland, Maine are so classic. There are also some unique attractions for travelers that might want to scratch beneath the surface a bit on their visit. Travelers with a culinary interest will want to sign up for Maine Foodie Tours , designed to expose visitors to the eateries that have earned Portland such a great reputation for their food. If you're more interested in art, check out the art of today's artists in Maine at the Institute of Contemporary Art .The unique activities just keep coming in Portland. Depending on your interests you can take a photography course using the beautiful Maine coastline as your subject, explore the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens , head out on a kayaking tour, or go horseback riding at Pineland Farms . You might be surprised to learn that Portland has some great breweries, including the Shipyard Brewing Company and the Allagash Brewery .
From shopping at the LL Bean Flagship Store to watching the sunset, there is no shortage of fun, relaxing, and exciting activities in Portland, Maine.