A few of our favorite places to go and things to do in Portland Maine for just a couple of days!

As so many of you know, I simply adore New England! It’s where I hope to retire someday, just a little cottage by the sea. If I can only convince Josh. Although I’ve lived in Georgia my whole life I really feel like a New Englander at heart. I’ve loved it ever since I was young. Last summer we went to Maine for a few short days and while I had all the intentions of sharing some of our trip, time got away from me. While resting in Austin last week I was able to get some of my photos together with the hopes that if you’re unsure of where to visit this summer you’ll choose beautiful Maine!
If you find yourself in Portland here’s some of our favorite things you can do in just a couple of days.
Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth
No trip to Portland is complete without seeing one of the most iconic lighthouses in Maine locates in Fort Williams park. It’s a beautiful place to begin your trip. Aside from the lighthouse, the park has some great walking paths along the cliff sides and a few flower gardens with some nice shade trees where you can get a break from the sun if needed.
By the water you’ll find the coolest pebble beach. The water is a bit too cold for us to swim in but if you’re feeling brave jump right in! This was one of Charlie’s favorite spots to play and splash around a bit.
Spring Point Ledge in South Portland
Not too far down the road you’ll find one of my absolute favorite places in Portland, the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse. It was built in 1897 and in the fifties, I believe, the large boulders were brought in to create a large bridge from the main land to the lighthouse. It’s not a short walk out to the lighthouse but we’ll worth it. Take your time and watch your step. The lighthouse is free to tour and such a unique one to see.
Downtown Portland
Downtown Portland is a great walking city and you can see the whole thing easily in just a day! If you love history buildings and brick paved streets you’ll really enjoy Portland. We like to stay in Portland so that you can walk to most places. The Francis hotel is a fantastic place to stay if you love a historic building with a clean modern feel.
There’s a lot of great local store to shop and restaurants in Portland to choose from. Becky’s diner is one of our favorite places to grab breakfast. Its a classic diner with a great laid back environment.
After exploring the city a bit be sure to stop for the iconic potato donuts at The Holy Donut. They’re big enough to share, sweet and make for a great snack before lunch.
One of our favorite things to do in cities we visit is to take a tour bus ride. In Portland you have the great option of a duck boat tour. You get to see and hear all about downtown Portland and then cruise into the bay and see the lighthouses and the city scape from the water.
They even let each child play captain!
The duck your will drop you off right outside Portland Lobster Co. We like to sat outside and enjoy the view of the ferry and sailboats. A lobster roll is a must. Is there any better place to get lobster than Maine? The East Endor and Duckfat are also great places to eat downtown.
Ferry Boat Ride to Peaks Island
Ferry island is just a short ride on the ferry boat. Round trip tickets are only around $7 for adults and $4 for kids. I think Charlie enjoyed the boat ride as much Ferry Island.
Once you get there you can rent bikes or a golf cart if that’s more you style. There’s so many charming houses and gardens to see. You can grab some ice cream and a slice of pizza right by the water or jump right off the pier into the brisk water and beach area. You just might find a few shells while you’re there!
I couldn’t help but to snap a photo of this home and car when I saw it. It’s just another reason why I love Maine so much!
East End Beach
After dinner along the water in downtown Portland you can take a nice evening walk near East End beach. I love to watch the sailboats come in and there’s plenty of green space for Charlie to run around! The houses are also a sight to behold here, too many to share here.
Kennebunkport
Last but not least make a quite drive north to Kennebunk. It’s one of my favorite places to visit around Portland. It’s homes overflow with charm and makes for a quiet and relaxing getaway.
There’s plenty of quaint shops to look in and if you’re hungry enjoy a meal on a boat restaurant called Spirit of Massachusetts. If you’re looking for something a quick and easy the Clam Shack is a great choice.
H.B. Provisions is a great place to grab a snack or a scoop of ice cream. We took a small break while rain rolled in. Each table has games to entertain the kids and has an overall easy-going feeling. You’ll notice photos on the wall of the Bush family. They spend their summers here and just a short ride down the road you’ll find their home on the waterside. You can only see it from a distance but it’s quite picturesque!
The homes in Kennebunkport are some of my favorites. Each is unique and has such a welcoming feel. You just can’t beat that New England charm.
Maine has so much to see and do. If you have more time available Acadia national park is worth the drive and is a must see. There’s always plenty of great hiking, boating and antique shopping to do as well. If you’re only in town for a couple days the activities and sights above will give you plenty to see and do!
Welcome to Maine! I live in Winthrop, Maine and I have a summer cottage in Wells , Maine only 5 minutes driving distance from the ocean. Next time you are in Maine let me know! I love your blog ❤️
Welcome to Maine! I live in Winthrop, Maine and I have a summer cottage in Wells , Maine only 5 minutes driving distance from the ocean. Next time you are in Maine let me know! ❤️