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Portland, Maine, has become a popular destination for many first-time visitors looking for a charming waterfront city to spend their summer weekends. Others come to indulge in the city’s renowned seafood, with Maine supplying 80% of the United States’ lobster. With its easy access to nature and affordability, it’s no surprise that many visitors return for longer stays or even make it their permanent home. In fact, between 2020 and 2022, Maine experienced the highest percentage increase in population among all New England states.
However, Maine’s appeal is not a recent phenomenon. Artists, artisans, and writers have been drawn to the state for decades. In the first half of the 20th century, an art colony with two painting schools was established in Ogunquit on Maine’s southern coast. The Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, founded in 1950 on Deer Isle, continues to attract students and instructors from around the world. More recently, Maine’s creative spirit has spilled over into its food scene. Despite its small year-round population of just 68,000, Portland boasts a surprising number of high-quality restaurants and bakeries, both old and new. The same can be said for the mid-coast region, particularly the town of Rockland, located just northeast of Portland. With its burgeoning food and art scene, Rockland is on track to rival Portland’s reputation.
Kazeem Lawal, owner of the popular Portland Trading Co., moved from New Jersey to Portland 14 years ago and has witnessed the city’s remarkable growth firsthand. He describes Portland as a city that combines the charm of the past with the excitement of new developments. Just like Brooklyn two decades ago, Portland continues to grow and evolve.
In this article, Lawal and three other Mainers share their favorite spots in and around Portland. Meet our insiders:
– Alex Day, co-owner of Death & Co. cocktail bars, who relocated to Portland in 2019
– Lily King, a novelist who has called Portland home since 2002
– Kazeem Lawal, creative director of Portland Trading Co., who moved to Maine in 2009
– Toshiko Mori, an architect who divides her time between New York City and her home on an island in Penobscot Bay, Maine
Now let’s dive into their recommendations for where to stay, where to eat, what to do, and where to shop in Portland!
Accommodations:
– Alex Day recommends The Francis, a hotel with a cozy restaurant called Wayside Tavern. Rooms start at $129 per night.
– Lily King suggests Best Bower, a contemporary guesthouse, Blind Tiger with its luxurious setting, and the magical Chebeague Island Inn. Rates start at $165 per night (two-night minimum) for Best Bower, $259 per night for Blind Tiger, and $219 per night for Chebeague Island Inn.
– Kazeem Lawal prefers the Canopy Portland Waterfront, a new hotel located just two blocks from downtown. Rooms start at $199 per night.
– Toshiko Mori recommends 250 Main in Rockland, a pet-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms, harbor views, and excellent coffee from Rock City Coffee Roasters. Rates start at $169 per night.
Restaurants:
– Alex Day recommends Smalls, a neighborhood cafe-bar known for its great coffee and small plates. For a traditional seafood experience, he suggests J’s Oyster.
– Lily King is addicted to Drunken Noodles at Dok Mali, a Thai restaurant opened by Chef Nonglack Thanephonesy less than a year ago.
– Kazeem Lawal suggests Eventide for the ultimate lobster roll experience. If you’re not a fan of lobster, their fish and chicken sandwiches are also highly recommended.
– Toshiko Mori recommends Leeward, an Italian-style restaurant known for its pasta and seasonal dishes featuring local seafood.
Things to Do:
– Alex Day recommends exploring the Fore River Sanctuary, a beautiful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, and taking a ferry to visit the Casco Bay islands.
– Kazeem Lawal suggests booking a ticket on the mail boat to see all of the Casco Bay islands or visiting the Farnsworth Art Museum and the Center for Maine Contemporary Art in Rockland.
– Toshiko Mori recommends browsing the knife and kitchenware store Strata, where you can find unique Japanese glassware and culinary knives crafted by Japanese smiths.
– Lily King suggests visiting Cabot Mill Antiques in Brunswick for unique finds or checking out Trillium Soaps in Rockland for handmade soaps with natural fragrances.
These practical tips will make your visit to Portland more enjoyable:
– Alex Day suggests staying at The Francis or renting an Airbnb in Munjoy Hill.
– Kazeem Lawal recommends the Canopy Portland Waterfront or exploring nearby islands.
– Lily King’s shopping suggestion comes from her daughter Eloise, who loves the quilts at Blanche + Mimi.
– Toshiko Mori recommends Trillium Soaps in Rockland for handmade soaps and unique home goods.
With these insider recommendations, your trip to Portland, Maine, is sure to be unforgettable. Enjoy exploring this beautiful coastal city and all it has to offer!
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