The Francis
the Old Port
Enjoy Portland’s waterfront distict
Spend the day strolling Portland’s historic working waterfront with it’s cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and numerous wharves where you can sit on the docks and watch fishermen unloading the day’s haul. The Old Port is home to many small boutiques and locally-owned restaurants and also boasts summer vendors and stunning views of Casco Bay all along Commercial Street.
Experience
Portland’s Old Port
Six Places to Catch a Boat in Portland, Maine
One of the biggest perks of coming to Maine is the ability to hop on a boat and take off into the bay. Luckily, there are a plethora of unique opportunities to tap into your inner seafarer. Check out some of our favorite ways to navigate the waters. Portland Schooner...
8 LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses in Portland, Maine
One of the things we love most about Portland culture is the encouragement to express one’s authentic self through and through. As we see threats to the LGBTQ+ community on a national and global scale, we at The Francis believe it’s more important than ever to...
Five Must-Do Summer Activities in Portland, Maine
Summer in Portland, Maine is a magical time of year. The city comes alive with a variety of events and activities that cater to all interests. Whether you’re into live music, delicious food and wine, or sailing on the open sea, there’s something for everyone in...
How to Pack for a Long Weekend Winter Getaway in Maine
We’ll let you deal with your skivvies, but we have suggestions for the rest. Follow along to our guide to ensure you pack all the right things while leaving the unnecessary ones behind. Layers layers layers Maine can be a tad fickle in the winter, but coming prepared...
50 things to do outside in Portland, Maine this summer
We’ve put together a list of our top 50 favorite places to go to enjoy the outdoors in and around Portland. Plus, more than half of these places and activities are within a 20-minute drive of The Francis! Head to the beach .01 // WILLARD BEACH (10 MINUTE DRIVE FROM...
Best fall activities in Portland, Maine
The days are still golden and sunny but the nights are getting crisp & cozy – which means that fall has come to Maine. Beach days have been replaced with drives and hikes through stunning fall foliage, blueberry farms are closed for the season but now it’s time to...