Explore the Top Things to Do
in Portland, Maine

We’ve got your morning covered with free local breakfast and pour-over coffee delivered to your room, but if you want to venture out and taste more of what the neighborhood offers, these are the must-visit gems.

• Tandem Coffee
  Right across the street in an old gas station—coffee roasted in-house and baked goods worth waking up for.
• Twinflower Café
  A wellness-focused café serving nourishing breakfast and lunch options, with plenty of vegan and gluten-free choices—just across the street.
• Smalls
  Part breakfast spot, part neighborhood bar, part quirky market—this West End gem does it all.
• Hot Suppa
  Southern-style breakfast and brunch just down the block. Don’t skip the corned beef hash.

• Wayside Tavern
  A beloved West End gathering place beside the hotel, known for its easygoing atmosphere, and excellent wine selection.
• Chaval
  Seasonal Spanish and French fare in a romantic neighborhood setting.
• Leeward
  Fresh pasta, natural wine, and big-time charm. One of Portland’s best.
• Pai Men Miyake
  Modern Japanese comfort food with killer ramen and a thoughtful sake list.

• Maine Day Ventures
  Walking tours, oyster adventures, and food-focused fun all over the city.
• Portland Schooner Co.
  Hop aboard a historic windjammer for a scenic sail around Casco Bay.
• Peaks Island
  A quick ferry ride takes you to quiet beaches, coastal trails, and a laid-back island vibe.

• The State Theater
• Portland House of Music
• One Longfellow Square
• Blue Portland Maine

• The Francis
  Tour the halls and public spaces of our own boutique hotel to view rotating local art.
• First Friday Art Walk
  Tour the open galleries in Portland’s Arts District, just steps from The Francis.
• Portland Museum of Art
  Maine’s oldest and largest public art institution, with rotating exhibits and a fantastic permanent collection.
• Institute of Contemporary Art
  Tour the rotating exhibitions at Maine’s College of Art & Design – admission is free!
• Maine Art Collective
  A space for emerging artists to showcase their talents.
• Casco Bay Artisans
  Representing over 50 artists from around the world, in a variety of mediums.

• Eventide Oyster Co.
  A James Beard Award-winner serving a legendary brown butter lobster roll.
• Bite Into Maine Food Truck
  Parked near Portland Head Light in the summer—classics served with an ocean view.
• The Highroller Lobster Co.
  Try the Lobby Pop or a lobster grilled cheese—modern twists on Maine’s favorite crustacean.

• Blanche + Mimi
  Vintage goods and modern homewares in the Old Port.
• Viand Mercantile
  Beautifully curated shop full of timeless, soulful design pieces.
• Soleil
  Colorful, playful finds—from candles to cookbooks to cute little gifts.
• Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop
  Maine’s oldest bookstore—bestsellers, indie favorites, and coastal charm.

• Allagash Brewing Company
  Legendary Belgian-style brews and a great patio in East Deering.
• Oxbow Blending & Bottling
  Funky farmhouse ales and Duckfat fries in an urban warehouse space.
• Bissell Brothers
  Hazy, hop-forward IPAs from one of Maine’s most beloved breweries.
• Portersfield Cider
  Handcrafted cider made from heritage apples, just 25 minutes from town.

• Portland Sea Dogs (Baseball)
  Red Sox’s Double-A affiliate—nothing beats a summer night at Hadlock Field.
• Maine Mariners (Hockey)
  Catch a hockey game October through April—high energy, local pride.
• Portland Celtics (Basketball)
  The G-League team for the Boston Celtics, playing right here in Portland.
• Hearts of Pine FC (Soccer)
  Portland’s semi-pro soccer team—games are fun, fast-paced, and full of community spirit.

• Novare Res
  A hidden beer garden with an unbeatable selection—33 taps and 400+ bottles.
• Bramhall Pub
  A moody basement bar with great cocktails and cozy speakeasy vibes.
• Five of Clubs
  Craft cocktails in a luxe, low-lit setting—ideal for a pre-dinner drink.

• Willard Beach
  A small sandy beach with gentle waves and stunning lighthouse views.
• Crescent Beach State Park
  Long stretch of soft sand and grassy dunes, perfect for picnicking or sunbathing.
• Higgins Beach
  Known for surfing, seashells, and scenic morning walks.
• Scarborough Beach State Park
  Ocean waves, lifeguards on duty, and a big, beautiful shoreline.
• Ferry Beach
  Tucked-away and less crowded—ideal for a quieter beach day.

• Astraea, A Wellness Spa
  Infrared saunas, couples massages, and more—right across the street from The Francis.
• Washington Baths
  A modern bathhouse with hot, cold, and community vibes.
• Botanically Curious
  Herbal consultations, teas, tinctures, and workshops in the Arts District.
• Restore Hyper Wellness
  Cryotherapy, IV drips, and other cutting-edge wellness services.
• SaltMind
  A sleek, tranquil salt cave for halotherapy, relaxation, and healing.