Eat Play Stay is dedicated to finding the best places for a weekend getaway in cities and towns across the US. Portland, Maine, is just two hours north of Boston and has lots of options for great things to eat and drink. In addition to great food, Portland is a great place to find adventure on land or on the water. Explore these fun things to do in Portland, Maine.
EAT – RESTAURANTS IN PORTLAND
Bissell Brothers Brewing
Bissell Brothers had one goal: to craft flavors and experiences that the people of Maine hadn’t had before and serve them as fresh as possible along with the freshest fish around. Now with the growth of the business, they have been able to share their beer with other people regionally and nationally. This local craft brewery in Portland features a bustling warehouse-like taproom with indoor and outdoor seating. Once an old train building from the 1900s has turned into a one-of-a-kind brilliant aesthetic and phenomenal atmosphere.
The Holy Donut
Want an authentic doughnut that’s gluten-free? Then head on over to The Holy Donut for this treat made with all-natural products. What is natural? The primary ingredient is mashed potatoes! Have your choice of 16 flavors, such as dark chocolate sea salt, ginger glaze, fresh lemon, honey lavender, maple bacon, or just a regular old-fashioned.
Eventide Oyster Company
Of course, a visit to a seafood restaurant in Portland is a must so head on over to Eventide Oyster. This small oyster bar began in 2012 but this busy seafood joint has a raw bar, lobster rolls, and a creative New England fare. An enormous block of Maine granite sits in the middle of the room that serves as the fresh shellfish display.
Becky’s Diner
After a night out of drinks and a show, a good meal is just what you need to end the night and Becky’s Diner is the spot to be. The menu has typical diner food with a heavy dose of seafood because they are on the dock. The Portland diner has been a staple in the community since 1991 and provides breakfast, lunch and dinner.
PLAY – THINGS TO DO IN PORTLAND
Casco Bay Adventures
Looking for an adventure on Casco Bay? Head on over to Casco Bay Adventures that will help you experience the beauty of the coast with sightseeing and tours. Maine is home to 60 lighthouses, six are those that are close to Portland. Come get a view of the wildlife, a history lesson, and even fishing and lobster catching if that is what you are into. Anchors away!
International Cryptozoology Museum
Looking for the legendary Bigfoot? You can find him at the International Cryptozoology Museum. Containing the personal collection of world-renowned Loren Coleman, the exhibits range from rare, one-of-a-kind scientific, zoological specimens to popular cultural homages, which include a life-size, 8-feet tall Bigfoot representation. Bigfoot isn’t the only unknown creature featured here so come get a lesson at the world’s only cryptozoology museum.
One Longfellow Square
One Longfellow Square is a non-profit performing arts and concert venue. Located in Portland’s West End at the entrance to the city’s vibrant Arts District, this intimate venue accommodates a wide range of events including film, theater, dance, and of course, live music.
STAY – WHERE TO STAY IN PORTLAND
The Francis Hotel
After getting full from all that shellfish from Eventide, hop over to The Francis. This 15-room modern hotel and spa is named after Francis Fassett, who designed the building as a single-family home in 1881. Fassett was a leading architect in Portland and is credited with helping rebuild much of the city after the Great Fire of 1866, heavily influencing the look and feel of Portland’s historic West End and Parkside neighborhoods.
Looking for more things to do in Portland?
Check out the Portland, Maine, episode of Finding Adventure with Kinga Phillips to learn more about where you can try motocross, lobstering and surf in Portland.
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