Forsake Shoes

The Lucie Chelsea Women’s Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker Boot is a comfortable but stylish shoe to make walking on Portlands brick and cobblestone streets easy. Portland is a big walking city so the shoes memory foam footbed combined with a breathable membrane will be your go-to boot!

ENJOY THE COAST

Portland Headlight at Fort Williams

The world’s most photographed lighthouse! Head over to Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth to enjoy a picturesque view of the Maine’s rocky coastline. Fort Williams Park is home to retired military bunkers, a beach, a large field for games and recreation and is dog friendly as long as dogs are kept on leash. Enjoy food trucks and take in all that Maine has to offer.

Willard Beach

The perfect local beach to spend the day at or stop by for a dip. Willard Beach is located just across the bridge in South Portland. There are rocky cliffs on either side of the cove and a soft sand beach in the middle. Extremely family friendly with a large playground and swing set included at the entrance of the beach. There are bathrooms as well as outdoor showers to get that extra sand off. It is dog friendly sunrise to 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. to sunset. Don’t forget your sunscreen, a good book and a cold beverage!

The Eastern Promenade

Imagine a tall grassy hill overlooking Casco Bay with views of Peaks Island, Fort Gorgeous, sailboats and parasailers. Complete with a large playground, two tennis courts and basketball court, all free to use by the public. At the base of the hill you can rent kayaks, enjoy a walking path, dog beach and have access to Portland’s best food trucks. Truly the perfect place to spend an afternoon soaking in panoramic views of the bay.

Peaks Island

It’s ferry access only to this sweet island off the coast of Portland, 740 acres in size. Head to the Portland Ferry Terminal to load up and set off on your journey. Though cars are able to be brought over, the island is best accessed by bike, golf cart or on foot. If you’re looking for a sandy spot to hangout for the day, check out Sandy or Centennial Beach, if you want to be exposed to the true Maine coastline head to the backside of the island where you will find Cairn Beach. An old WWII military fort is on the island and fun to explore as well, the best part of the adventure is finding it.

FOOD + DRINK

Highroller Lobster Company

Image courtesy of Highroller Lobster Company

Lobster rolls, lobster on a stick, frozen rosé with a fun and colorful vibe… how could you say no?! One of Portland’s favorite spots, Highroller Lobster Company! This gem is at the top of Exchange Street in the Old Port. Though it is nestled among Portland’s historic buildings, their patios (yes, two!) are some of the best. If you’re looking for Portland’s best lobster roll — this is it!

The Juicery

The best smoothie bowl around, hands down. With a wide selection of drinks, fresh juices, smoothies and smoothie bowls — this place is your one-stop-shop for nutrition in the Old Port. Grab a bite from here and people watch on the benches outside as the bustle from the city passes you by or, cross Commercial Street and enjoy your meal on the Wharf

Image courtesy of The Juicery

Image courtesy of Leeward

Leeward

A Portland “newbie” that has made a strong name for themselves. Leeward, an Italian restaurant focused on the freshest ingredients from local farms. This special little place was only open for three nights before the world shut down in 2020 and they have truly persevered in some of the hardest of situations. Recently, they have become a James Beard Award Finalist for Best New Restaurant, so you know it’s good. Looking to enjoy some of the finer things on your trip to Portland? Make sure to grab a reservation here.

 

 

 

Eventide

Image courtesy of Eventide

Aiming to eat your weight in bivalves while in Portland? Eventide is the place to go. With arguably the best selection of oysters in town, and a funky twist on the traditional lobster roll, this restaurant is a must on your list, another James Beard Award favorite. Just steps from the Portland waterfront, Eventide will make a great addition to your stay, day or night.

Hunt & Alpine

Craft cocktails, creative mixologists and a romantic atmosphere, Hunt & Alpine is not only a favorite among visitors but a staple among the locals. A fresh and fun twist on bar snacks available at your fingertips and arguably the best espresso martini in town — all can be found at Hunt & Alpine. Their “Hunt & Alpine Classics” are available year round with seasonal additions rotating regularly. You’ll regret not stopping in for a bevvy here.

Image courtesy of Hunt and Alpine

Amigo’s

Everyone loves a good dive bar, especially with live music! Amigo’s has been a Portland classic for almost 50 years. The only place in Portland you can get a PBR pint for and play a round of pool for less than $5. With three bars in one building, this place is always a good time. Swing by after 9:30pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the summer to catch killer local bands. With their cash-only patio bar, you and hangout with the music all night. Getting there before 9 p.m.? Head up the stairs and grab some street tacos to fuel your night of fun or hangout on the front deck and watch the happenings of the Old Port. This classic is located on Dana Street, one of Portland’s foot-traffic-only streets.

Image courtesy of Amigo’s

Laura is a member of the Spoke+Blossom relationships team. She loves everything outdoors, especially if she can bring her border collie puppy, Fern. A change in career paths lead Laura to expand her horizons and take a stab at creating content. If not in the woods, you can find Laura on the beaches of Maine, where she has lived for most of her life.