3 Days of Spring on the Southern Maine Coast

Food, Festivities, and Fun in the Sun

Day One | Portland & Casco Bay

Greater Portland has a Spring in its step! The snow has melted and the region is ready to play. Get out and enjoy the blooming flowers, the burst of crisp, spring air, and explore all the seasonal snacks, brews, and art around every corner.

DAY ONE | Morning 

Grab a cup of coffee or read the morning paper while taking in the sights at one of the many great places to stay in Greater Portland, Maine. From hotels, motels, and inns to bed & breakfasts, our region has accommodations to match any needs. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or a couple seeking a springtime honeymoon.

You’ll find the perfect place to call home during your stay. Once you’re ready to settle in, consider the AC Hotel Portland Downtown Waterfront. With its central location in the middle of the action downtown, you’ll have easy access to shopping, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Unwind at the AC Lounge with waterfront views, signature cocktails, and tasty tapas—ideal for relaxing and soaking in the beauty of Portland’s waterfront.

DAY ONE | Afternoon

Get outside! You can sample the sights and sounds along our rocky coast with a variety of cruises and tours and sports and recreation. One option downtown is Casco Bay Lines located right on Portland’s working waterfront. They offer a schedule of ferry cruises and daytrips to Portland’s local islands.

Or, get your namaste on with Ashley Flowers Yoga in Payson Park, perfect for all levels of yoga experience! There is no shortage of outdoor adventures in Portland.

Looking to relax after a long day? Tap into local services to elevate your experience to the next level. Visit one of our spas + wellness centers for everything from Gua Sha facials at Rytualist Aesthetics to weightless immersion in a float tank at Float Harder Relaxation Center.

DAY ONE | Evening

After a day of walking cobblestone side-streets and exploring the hidden treasures of Casco Bay, you’re going to want to finish your first day in Portland at one of our award-winning restaurants. It’s no secret, Portland knows food. We are home to hundreds of unique, local eats—from fine dining finishes to quick eats & food trucks.

Climb the hill to Congress Street—the backbone of Portland’s Art District. There you’ll find art around every corner and plenty of restaurants to satisfy any craving. Take the scenic route and explore the sculpture parks, outdoor art, and murals that wait to be discovered.

Day Two | Freeport & Bradbury Mountain

Now that you’ve become acquainted with Downtown Portland and the heart of the Old Port, the working waterfront—it’s time to take a deeper dive into everything the Greater Portland region has to offer.

DAY TWO | Morning

Before you head out for the day, check out the East End Trail—just a short walk away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. The East End Trail, a part of the larger Portland Trails system, wraps around the lower East End neighborhood. It spans from the bottom of the Old Port to the Top of Munjoy Hill. Right off the trail is the town landing and boat launch which offers panoramic views of Casco Bay. 

DAY TWO | Afternoon

The average temperature during the spring season in Maine is between 45 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes for ideal hiking and biking temperatures. We always recommend wearing layers, so you’re ready for any temperature changes. There are numerous state parks and nature preserves in the Greater-Portland area like the Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal, just a short drive up I-295, and the Audubon society located just north of Portland in Falmouth.

If you’re on your way north for any outdoor adventures, be sure to visit Freeport and check out their area boutiques, outlets, and restaurants. Freeport, Maine is also home to the L.L.Bean Flagship shore, open 24/7 for all your shopping needs.

DAY TWO | Evening

If you haven’t had a chance to sample Greater Portland’s breweries, wineries, or distilleries—now is the perfect time. Portland officially has more breweries per capita than anywhere else in the country. One of the best things to do in Portland Maine is to go on a tour of the micro-breweries in the Greater-Portland area.

There are breweries spread out across the region that offer their own spin on craft brewing with a special dose of local flair. Make sure to dress warm and BYOB (bring your own blanket) because nearly all of the local breweries are offering outdoor seating this season.

DAY THREE | Cape Elizabeth & Maine Beaches

Did you even come to Maine if you didn’t step foot on our sandy shores or climb the rocks along our famous rocky coast? In Greater Portland it is safe to say local beaches are never far away—sometimes it’s even walking distance.

DAY THREE | Morning

Start your day with a sunrise at one of the many beaches open in Maine during Spring—and bring your dog too (until May 1st)! There are numerous local beaches and state parks for some of the best sunrise (and sunset) viewing.

DAY THREE | Afternoon

Just a short drive away from Portland is Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth. With spectacular views of the rocky New England Coast, the cliffs at Two Lights offer a sweeping view of the Atlantic ocean. Beginning May 1st, the Lobster Shack at Two Lights will open for the season.

You’ll want to make sure to check visiting lighthouses near Portland while you’re here. Topping the list of lighthouse favorites is Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse and rumored to be the most photographed lighthouse in the country. Just a short drive away in South Portland you will find two other must sees—Spring Point Ledge Light (located on Southern Maine Community College’s campus) and Bug Light, formally known as Portland Breakwater Light. Taking a waterside walk or visit Bug Light Park for an afternoon of kite-flying among the blossoming Spring flowers and greenery.

DAY THREE | Evening

Wrap up your three-day stay in Maine this spring travel season with a walk along Back Cove. The 3.6-mile loop, nestled between Tukey’s Bridge and Woodford’s Corner, offers great views of the water and a fantastic view of the Portland skyline. Learn more about outdoor activities in Greater-Portland here.

Before the lights go down in the city, make sure to check out our Events Calendar to see what is going on in the region during your time in Greater Portland.

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