Portland’s top attractions unite the city’s long history and contemporary tastes, quickly revealing why it became such a popular travel destination. The top things to do include exploring historic neighborhoods, touring lighthouses, and other landmarks and soaking in the food and culture of Casco Bay. The best things to do near Portland include: 

• Shop and explore along Old Port, a 19th century neighborhood famous for cobblestone streets, red brick buildings and local businesses.
• Explore historic Fort Williams Park and visit the Portland Head Light lighthouse.
• Fish, kayak or paddleboard on the Casco Bay.
• Sightsee the best of modern Portland culture in the galleries and shops of the Arts District. 
• Ride the ferry to Peaks Island for beautiful views of the ocean and a breezy, laid-back summertime vibe.

With natural beauty and rich history packed into every street corner, Portland features a variety of tourist attractions for the whole family. From sandy beaches to modern art galleries, the past and the present meet in Portland to create something wholly new and original. Popular attractions near Portland include:

• Stroll the cobblestone streets and fishing piers of Old Port
• Take in the beautiful view from the historic Portland Observatory
• Immerse yourself in modern culture in the museums and galleries of the Arts District
• Check out Eartha, the world’s largest rotating globe, at the DeLorme Map Store
• Relax on the sandy beaches and rolling hills of Cape Elizabeth just south of the city.

While Portland hosts many activities for adults, the city is full of things to do with kids too. From classic staples like bowling, arcades and laser tag to drive-in movies, family-friendly fishing and magical island adventures, the city has attractions for the whole family to love.Family-Friendly things to do near Portland include:

• Explore the magic in the village of fairy houses along Mackworth Island
• Swing by the tackle shop and enjoy an afternoon fishing off the Maine State Pier on Commercial Street
• Enjoy activities for everyone with bowling, laser tag, arcade games and more at Spare Time Entertainment
• Stroll along Old Port and visit Treehouse Toys and Maple’s Organics for gelato
• Catch a timeless double feature at the Prides Corner Drive-In Theater

While folks in Portland love their outdoor adventures, there are also plenty of relaxing things to do indoors as well. Whether you want to tour a slice of New England history, spend an afternoon relishing seafood and wine or enjoy a few hours of total relaxation, Portland has you covered.Portland things to do indoors include:

• Tour the home and studio of legendary American landscape painter and printmaker Winslow Homer
• Blast off into outer space and explore interactive exhibits at the Southworth Planetarium
• Wine and dine the Portland way at Cellardoor Winery at the Point
• Learn about the Forest City’s history and admire the beautiful Italian Villa architecture at the Victoria Mansion
• Experience 90 minutes of weightless relaxation at Float Harder Relaxation Center

The best activities in Portland highlight the city’s natural beauty, outdoorsy spirit and deep appreciation for great food and drinks. Check out local pastimes like swimming to the coastal islands at low tide, relishing the sunset skyline in a historic park and admiring the beautiful street art and harbor along the bike trails. Must-see places and activities near Portland include:

• Swim or kayak the Eastern Promenade to the knobs, small islands just off the coast
• Visit the decadent Bar of Chocolate Cafe for a pairing of cocktails and sweet treats
• Enjoy delicious vegan Thai food at the Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro
• Walk at sunset in Fort Sumner Park to take in the beautiful view of the city
• Grab a rental bike and ride to the Legal Graffiti Wall on the Eastern Promenade Trail

From the art galleries, cafes and shops downtown to hiking Pleasant Mountain just northwest of the city, adventure is abound in the Portland area. Fun things to do, like seeing one of the premiere orchestras in the country and or indulging in a lavish seafood feast, mean you can find excitement throughout city. Exciting activities near Portland include:

• Explore the restaurants, bars and boutiques along Commercial Street in downtown Portland.
• Grab lunch at Five Fifty-Five, a 19th Century firehouse turned restaurant with a five-course tasting of New England seafood.
• Watch the renowned Portland Symphony Orchestra perform at Merrill Auditorium.
• Learn about Colonial life, the Civil War and art history in Portland at the Maine Historical Society
• Hike the ten miles of trails just outside the city at Pleasant Mountain.

Between the weekly staples like live jazz and comedy and one-off concerts and performances, there’s no shortage of things to do at night in Portland. Whether you’re looking for a raucous night on the town with live music and dancing or a cozy, intimate way to enjoy the city after dark, your ideal adventure awaits across the Arts District and other neighborhoods of Portland. Nighttime activities near Portland include: 

• Check out live local music and great drinks at the Flask Lounge on Spring Street
• Soak up the 60s décor, eclectic music and two dance floors at Bubba’s Sulky Lounge
• Enjoy live jazz, small plates and the cozy, laid-back atmosphere at Bue
• Swing by comedy night at the cash-only bar Lincolns and be sure to save room for the chili mac
• Go see a regional or national performer at the intimate rock club Aura