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Old Port Portland

4.6
·491k reviews·Portland, United States

Historic waterfront district with cobblestone streets, unique shops, and a vibrant dining scene in Portland, Maine.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Old Port - Image 1

Old Port Portland

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic waterfront district with cobblestone streets, unique shops, and a vibrant dining scene in Portland, Maine.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Wander along cobblestone paths and discover charming boutiques and delicious eats in Portland's historic Old Port."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Cobblestone Comfort

Wear comfortable shoes! The cobblestone streets in the Old Port are charming but can be tricky.

🍽️ Dinner Reservations

Popular Old Port restaurants fill up fast. Book your table in advance, especially for weekend dinners.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Waterfront Stroll

Historic Waterfront Stroll

Commercial Street

Wander along cobblestone paths, admire 19th-century brick buildings, and watch boats in Casco Bay.

Unique Boutique Shopping

Unique Boutique Shopping

Various shops throughout the Old Port

Discover handmade goods, local souvenirs, and specialty items in charming independent stores.

Culinary Delights

Culinary Delights

Restaurants and bars across the Old Port

Savor fresh seafood, craft beers, and creative cocktails in a vibrant dining scene.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigate the Cobblestones

The Old Port's charm lies in its historic cobblestone streets, but they can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the Old Port district in Portland, Maine. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season, and consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the busiest times.

Embrace Local Flavors

From fresh lobster rolls to innovative cocktails, the Old Port is a culinary hotspot. Many restaurants in the Old Port area of Portland, Maine, are popular, so reservations are often recommended, especially for dinner. Explore the diverse dining options in the Old Port Exchange for a true taste of Portland.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, al fresco dining
Crowd
High
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Crisp air, beautiful foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How to spend a day in the charming Old Port district of Portland , Maine! ⚓️🚢🦀 You’ll start your day with exploring the charming cobblestone paths, historic piers, & 19th century brick buildings on commercial street. 😍 Take in the sights and sounds of the seagulls & boats as they come and go throughout the day. 🕊️🛳️🌊 During your stroll you’ll come across a ton of colorful murals, boutique shop...
mekovalentino
0 likes • 70.8K views

👟 Cobblestone Comfort

Wear comfortable shoes! The cobblestone streets in the Old Port are charming but can be tricky. TikTok

🍽️ Dinner Reservations

Popular Old Port restaurants fill up fast. Book your table in advance, especially for weekend dinners. Instagram

Located in the Old Port area of Portland, Yosaku is a cozy and distinctive restaurant that serves authentic Japanese cuisine🎏 If you haven’t been here yet, this is the best time to try it, as you can enjoy our sunny patio🪭 YOSAKU RESTAURANT🎎 207-780-0880 1 Danforth Street, Portland, ME #Yosakumaine #Portlandme #portlandoldport #oldportportlandmaine #oldportmaine #seafoodmaine #mainelobster #mai...
yosakumaine
5.1K likes • 185K views
It's time to register for the Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon & 5K, returning on June 7th, 2025! Whether you’re running the scenic half marathon or the 5K, you’ll experience all the beauty and charm of Portland, ME. Along the course, you’ll pass iconic landmarks like Casco Bay, Back Cove, and the historic Old Port neighborhood—making this race a true Maine experience. Secure your spot today by g...
oldporthalfmarathon
16 likes • 1.2K views

🛍️ Shop Local Gems

Explore unique boutiques for handmade gifts and souvenirs. Support small businesses in the Old Port! Instagram

🍻 Craft Cocktail Spots

For great drinks, try Hunt & Alpine Club or Blythe and Burrow. Navarro is a hidden gem for beer. Reddit

This Small Business Saturday, we’re highlighting some businesses to recognize all they do, and the charm they bring to our community. The Old Port is full of unique businesses, so shop local this holiday season! @shermansbooks @treehousetoys @uncommonpaws @themainesouvenirshop @shopdesignsbycc @findportland @pineconeandchickadee @portlandtradingco @saltcellarstore @momentumportland There are man...
portlandoldport
1.1K likes • 29K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Cobblestone Comfort

Wear comfortable shoes! The cobblestone streets in the Old Port are charming but can be tricky. TikTok

🍽️ Dinner Reservations

Popular Old Port restaurants fill up fast. Book your table in advance, especially for weekend dinners. Instagram

🛍️ Shop Local Gems

Explore unique boutiques for handmade gifts and souvenirs. Support small businesses in the Old Port! Instagram

🍻 Craft Cocktail Spots

For great drinks, try Hunt & Alpine Club or Blythe and Burrow. Navarro is a hidden gem for beer. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The historic architecture and waterfront views make for stunning photos. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Old Port for its charming historic atmosphere, vibrant shopping, and excellent dining options. The cobblestone streets and waterfront views are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find parking challenging and the streets can get crowded during peak times.

What People Like

Historic charm
Unique shops
Great food scene

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties
Crowded streets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Port district in Portland, Maine, is easily accessible by car, with several parking garages available. Public transportation options also serve the area. Many visitors find it convenient to walk around the Old Port once they arrive. TikTok

Parking in the Old Port can be challenging, especially during peak times. Several parking garages are available, such as the Fore Street Garage and the Casco Bay Garage. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transport if possible. TikTok

Absolutely! The Old Port is best explored on foot. Its compact size and charming cobblestone streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll. TikTok

Yes, the Old Port neighborhood in Portland, Maine, is highly walkable. You can easily spend hours exploring its shops, restaurants, and waterfront on foot. TikTok

The best way to explore the Old Port neighborhood Portland Maine is by walking. This allows you to fully appreciate the historic architecture, browse the unique shops, and soak in the waterfront atmosphere. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Old Port itself is a public district and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely wander its streets and enjoy the atmosphere. TikTok

The Old Port Exchange is a historic area with shops and restaurants; there are no entrance fees to explore it. Instagram

Shop hours in the Old Port vary, but most are open daily from late morning to early evening. Some may have extended hours on weekends or during holidays. Instagram

Yes, the Old Port waterfront is a public area and can be visited without any fees. Enjoy the views and the maritime activity. TikTok

Occasionally, special events like the Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon & 5K may require registration fees. Check local event listings for details. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss a stroll down Commercial Street for historic buildings and waterfront views, explore the unique shops, and enjoy the vibrant dining scene. TikTokInstagram

The Old Port Maine boasts a variety of shops, from bookstores and toy stores to boutiques selling handmade jewelry and dog accessories. Instagram+1

In the Old Port district Portland Maine, you can shop at unique boutiques, dine at excellent restaurants, enjoy waterfront views, and soak in the historic atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Old Port has several great bars. For cocktails, try Hunt & Alpine Club or Blythe and Burrow. Navarro is recommended for beer. Reddit

Families can enjoy exploring the shops, grabbing a bite to eat, and taking in the sights and sounds of the waterfront. Some shops, like Uncommon Paws, cater to pet lovers. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Old Port Portland Maine offers diverse dining. Yosaku serves authentic Japanese cuisine,Instagram Butcher Burger Old Port has great burgers and lobster rolls,Instagram and Fore Street Restaurant is highly recommended. Instagram

You can find delicious lobster rolls at places like Butcher Burger Old Port Instagram and Luke's Lobster Portland. Instagram

Absolutely! Fore Street Restaurant is a popular choice for dinner,Instagram and Yosaku offers a unique Japanese dining experience. Instagram

The Old Port features a wide range of cuisines, including Japanese,Instagram American (burgers, lobster rolls),Instagram and fine dining options. Instagram

Yes, casual dining is abundant, with spots like Butcher Burger Old Port offering delicious and accessible meals. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the historic brick buildings on Commercial Street, the bustling waterfront, and charming alleyways. The unique shops also offer great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Commercial Street, with its iconic 19th-century architecture and views of Casco Bay, is arguably the most photographed area of the Old Port. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of the Old Port. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals. TikTok

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for photography in the Old Port. Midday can be bright but still offers good opportunities. TikTok

It's best to ask permission before taking photos inside shops in the Old Port, especially if you are photographing merchandise. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Port offers a charming and engaging experience for families. Kids will enjoy the novelty of cobblestone streets and the sights and sounds of the working waterfront. TikTok Many shops, like Treehouse Toys, are kid-friendly, and casual dining options like Butcher Burger Old Port make meal times easy. Instagram+1

Consider a ferry trip to Peaks Island for a change of scenery, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along Commercial Street, pointing out the different boats. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a pleasant outing for all ages. Instagram

🛍️ Shoppers and Foodies

For those who love to shop and dine, the Old Port is a paradise. The Old Port Maine shopping scene is a treasure trove of independent boutiques, offering everything from artisanal crafts to unique fashion. Instagram+1 Make sure to explore shops like Sherman's Books and Uncommon Paws for distinctive finds. Instagram

Foodies will be delighted by the diverse culinary offerings. From the highly-rated Fore Street Restaurant Instagram to the authentic Japanese dishes at Yosaku Instagram and the must-try lobster rolls at Butcher Burger Old Port,Instagram there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to explore the local bars for craft cocktails and beers. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History and Architecture Enthusiasts

The Old Port district Portland Maine is a dream for anyone interested in history and architecture. The well-preserved 19th-century brick buildings and historic piers along Commercial Street tell a story of Portland's maritime past. TikTok Take your time to admire the architectural details and imagine the bustling port of yesteryear. TikTok

Wandering through the Old Port Exchange allows you to appreciate the evolution of the area. The cobblestone streets themselves are a historical feature, adding to the authentic ambiance. Consider a guided walking tour if you want to delve deeper into the historical narratives of this charming neighborhood. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Historic Old Port District

The Old Port district Portland Maine is a vibrant historic area known for its charming cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings, and lively waterfront. It's a hub for shopping, dining, and exploring the maritime heritage of Portland. Visitors often describe it as a place where history meets modern energy. TikTok

Walking through the Old Port Exchange is like stepping back in time. You'll find a unique collection of independent boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops, making it a fantastic destination for souvenir hunting or discovering local crafts. Instagram The Old Port waterfront offers picturesque views of Casco Bay, with boats coming and going, adding to the quintessential New England coastal experience. TikTok

When visiting the Old Port Maine, comfortable footwear is essential due to the uneven cobblestone surfaces. Many visitors recommend dedicating at least half a day to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere and explore the diverse offerings of this historic district. TikTok

Dining and Drinking in the Old Port

The Old Port Portland ME is a culinary hotspot, offering a wide array of dining experiences from casual to upscale. Seafood lovers can rejoice with numerous spots serving fresh lobster rolls and other local catches. Instagram+1

For those seeking specific recommendations, Yosaku is praised for its authentic Japanese cuisine and charming patio,Instagram while Butcher Burger Old Port is a go-to for delicious burgers and lobster rolls.Instagram For a more refined evening, Fore Street Restaurant is a highly recommended dinner destination. Instagram

When it comes to drinks, the Old Port has a lively bar scene. Reddit users suggest Hunt & Alpine Club and Blythe and Burrow for cocktails, and Navarro for a more hidden beer selection. Reddit The Old Port slice bar is also mentioned for casual bites. Reddit

Shopping in the Old Port

The Old Port Maine shopping scene is characterized by its abundance of unique, independent businesses. Unlike typical chain stores, the Old Port offers a curated selection of boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores that reflect the local character of Portland. Instagram

Visitors can find everything from handmade jewelry and dog accessories at stores like Uncommon Paws Instagram to books at Sherman's Books and toys at Treehouse Toys. The Old Port shopping district Portland Maine is perfect for those looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs or gifts. Instagram

Supporting these shops in Old Port Portland Maine is a key part of the visitor experience. Many of these businesses are small and locally owned, contributing to the vibrant and authentic atmosphere of the Old Port. Instagram

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