Guide to a Girl's Getaway in Portland, Maine

Advisor - Amy Barraclough
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Amy Barraclough

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  • Maine

  • Arts & Culture

  • Beaches

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  • Weekend Getaways

  • Coastal Town

  • Museums

  • Tours

Harbor in Portland Maine
Curator’s statement

Portland, Maine, is a lively coastal town. This town with harbor views is a perfect destination for a weekend away with your girlfriends, indulging in its cuisine and excellent shopping. Portland also has lovely beaches to offer and many outdoor activities like lighthouses, cruises and hikes just outside of town in the summertime.

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Where to stay in Portland, Maine

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The Francis

In Parkside, a sweet boutique with just 15 homey rooms and gallery-like public spaces with works by local artists.

Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront

Sleek newcomer near the waterfront where a drink at the rooftop bar is a must.

Hilton Garden Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront

Stay here for the plum location in the Old Port District and beautiful views of Casco Bay and the vibrant waterfront.

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Things to do in Portland, Maine

Lighthouse in Portland, Maine

Portland is a lovely New England city with much to explore – from its harbors to its seafood restaurant, lighthouses, museums and so on. It is a great city to spend a weekend with your girlfriends, taking in the classic charm of Maine. 

Tours  

Lighthouse Tour: Maine is the state of many lighthouses – 65 to be exact. As spectacular as they are at night, they’re fantastic places to navigate in the daytime. Among Maine’s lighthouses, many are open to the public. Some even offer access to keeper’s quarters. A good number have adjacent museums. 

Old Port Culinary Walking Tour: The Old Port is the Heart of Portland, showcasing its rich culinary heritage and breweries. Enjoy this tour to get to know the side of Portland that you can taste, savoring all the flavors of the traditional and contemporary city.

Portland Women's History Walking Tour: Portland women boldly shaped the city’s culture while continually moving the country toward equal rights. Hear stories of women who achieved remarkable things, like the Indigenous Penobscot performer who reframed immigration policy, the Chinese immigrant and laundress who won American Mother of the Year, the white tavern keeper who went up against the British Navy and the enslaved Black maid who abolished slavery statewide. 

Museums  

Portland Museum of Art: The PMA, is the largest and oldest public art institution in the US state of Maine. Here you can enjoy an array of local and national artists and history in this cultural destination. 

Victoria Mansion: A historical mansion in Maine distinguished for its architecture and extraordinary regal interiors. 

Portland Observatory: The Portland Observatory is a historic maritime signal tower in Portland, Maine, built in 1807. It is the only known surviving tower of its type in the United States.

A note from Amy

If you want to put your feet in the sand and catch up with friends walking on the beach, check out Higgins Beach.

Eat & drink in Portland, Maine

Restaurant in Portland Maine

Breakfast

Salt Yard: Great spot for a fantastic avocado toast with a comfortable atmosphere to catch up with friends.  

Tandem Coffee: Best biscuits and coffee in town. This is also a great location to watch the locals.  

Marcy's Diner: This spot dates back to 1989 and serves the best breakfast in town. 

Lunch

Otto: Best pizza in all of Portland. 

Duckfat: This small European-leaning sandwich shop and cafe is known for its duck-fat Belgian fries and milkshakes.

Local 188: Spanish restaurant serving tapas, paellas and other dishes in an eclectic setting. 

Hot Suppa: Southern comfort food served in a cozy environment.  

Dinner

The Honey Paw: Bright, contemporary restaurant offering Asian-inspired noodles and other bites with local craft beer.

Solo Italiano: Authentic Italian award-winning restaurant serving farm-to-table fare. 

Pai Men Miyake: Refined ramen, soba noodle soups and sake served in a sleek yet warm nook.

Drinks

Luna Rooftop Bar: Chic rooftop cocktail bar serving views over the harbor. 

Cocktail Mary: A friendly cocktail bar offering classics with a twist. 

Maine Brews Cruise: Learn about local beer and try special ales at this Portland Brewery. 

Need to Know

Planning a bachelorette weekend in Portland? Check out my complimentary guide: Bachelorette Weekend in Portland, Maine.

Advisor - Amy Barraclough

Travel Advisor

Amy Barraclough

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