Out and About in Portland
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Maine, Portland beckons with a diverse tapestry of culinary delights, featuring an array of restaurants and breweries that capture the essence of the region. From the savory seafood offerings to artisanal craft brews, the city’s culinary scene reflects its coastal charm. Beyond gastronomic adventures, Portland boasts a vibrant recreational landscape, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to explore its parks, trails, and waterfront areas. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural tapestry by exploring nearby attractions, from historic lighthouses to art galleries, ensuring a well-rounded and memorable experience in this dynamic coastal destination.
Dining and Breweries
Portland is known for its restaurant scene with award-winning chefs and restaurants using fresh, locally-grown ingredients, many with a focus on seafood. Top rated restaurants and bakeries can be found on the Visit Portland’s website. Reservations are recommended!
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- A great Maine delicacy: lobster roll! — Photo: Serena Folder, Visit Portland.
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- Maine is known for its wide variety of fresh seafood, try some while in Portland for the conference! — Photo: Serena Folder, Visit Portland.
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- Local ingredients makes for fine pub fare offerings! — Photo: Serena Folder, Visit Portland.
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- Many local hotels and bars offer an afternoon social hour with snacks. — Photo: Serena Folder, Visit Portland.
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- What’s good for breakfast on a sunny day in Maine? Find out on the Visit Portland website. — Photo: Serena Folder, Visit Portland.
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- Maine is known for its finely crafted local microbrews. — Photo: Lauren Peters, Visit Portland.
Maine is also known for its craft beer scene, with Portland being home to over 25 breweries. The majority of breweries located in downtown Portland are in the East Bayside neighborhood and you can find a listing of those establishments (including non-alcoholic and gluten-free options on the Visit Portland’s website as well.
Recreation
Maine is known for its natural beauty, coastal beaches, lighthouses, and seafood. After the conference day has ended, here are some options for sightseeing and local attractions:
- Take in a minor league baseball game with the Portland Sea Dogs.
- See a live music show at the historic State Theater.
- Knock down some pins at the city’s hip bowling alley Bayside Bowl.
- View classic and contemporary art at the Portland Museum of Art.
- Visit Fort Williams and Portland Head Lighthouse, the area’s most iconic lighthouse.
- Shop the Old Port boutiques on Exchange, Fore, Middle, and Commercial Streets.
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- Portland Parkside, Hadlock Field, Maine. — Photo: Serena Folder, Visit Portland.
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- Working Waterfront Tour. — Photo: Serena Folder, Visit Portland.
Nearby Attractions
Looking to extend your stay and explore Maine? These nearby towns and areas offer many attractions and natural beauty. You will need a car to explore these areas, as public transportation in Maine doesn’t extend much north of Portland.
- Southern Maine: Old Orchard Beach, Kennebunkport (20-30 miles south of Portland)
- Freeport: L.L. Bean Flagship Campus (20 miles north of Portland)
- Midcoast Maine: Maine Maritime Museum (Bath), Camden Hills State Park (Camden), Farnsworth Art Museum (Rockland), Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, Belfast (40-100 miles north of Portland)
- Orono: The University of Maine — Go Black Bears! (140 miles north of Portland)
- Mount Desert Island: Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park (175 miles north of Portland)
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