
Old Port Portland
Historic waterfront district with cobblestone streets, unique shops, and a vibrant dining scene in Portland, Maine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Old Port Portland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic waterfront district with cobblestone streets, unique shops, and a vibrant dining scene in Portland, Maine.
"Wander along cobblestone paths and discover charming boutiques and delicious eats in Portland's historic Old Port."

👟 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Waterfront Stroll
Commercial Street
Wander along cobblestone paths, admire 19th-century brick buildings, and watch boats in Casco Bay.

Unique Boutique Shopping
Various shops throughout the Old Port
Discover handmade goods, local souvenirs, and specialty items in charming independent stores.

Culinary Delights
Restaurants and bars across the Old Port
Savor fresh seafood, craft beers, and creative cocktails in a vibrant dining scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Cobblestones
Embrace Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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.
🛍️ Shop Local Gems
Explore unique boutiques for handmade gifts and souvenirs. Support small businesses in the Old Port!
🍻 Craft Cocktail Spots
For great drinks, try Hunt & Alpine Club or Blythe and Burrow. Navarro is a hidden gem for beer.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 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.
🛍️ Shop Local Gems
Explore unique boutiques for handmade gifts and souvenirs. Support small businesses in the Old Port!
🍻 Craft Cocktail Spots
For great drinks, try Hunt & Alpine Club or Blythe and Burrow. Navarro is a hidden gem for beer.
📸 Capture the Charm
The historic architecture and waterfront views make for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Absolutely! The Old Port is best explored on foot. Its compact size and charming cobblestone streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Yes, the Old Port neighborhood in Portland, Maine, is highly walkable. You can easily spend hours exploring its shops, restaurants, and waterfront on foot.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
The Old Port Exchange is a historic area with shops and restaurants; there are no entrance fees to explore it.
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.
Yes, the Old Port waterfront is a public area and can be visited without any fees. Enjoy the views and the maritime activity.
Occasionally, special events like the Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon & 5K may require registration fees. Check local event listings for details.
🎫 🧭 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.
The Old Port Maine boasts a variety of shops, from bookstores and toy stores to boutiques selling handmade jewelry and dog accessories.
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.
Yes, the Old Port has several great bars. For cocktails, try Hunt & Alpine Club or Blythe and Burrow. Navarro is recommended for beer.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Old Port Portland Maine offers diverse dining. Yosaku serves authentic Japanese cuisine, Butcher Burger Old Port has great burgers and lobster rolls, and Fore Street Restaurant is highly recommended.
You can find delicious lobster rolls at places like Butcher Burger Old Port and Luke's Lobster Portland.
Absolutely! Fore Street Restaurant is a popular choice for dinner, and Yosaku offers a unique Japanese dining experience.
The Old Port features a wide range of cuisines, including Japanese, American (burgers, lobster rolls), and fine dining options.
Yes, casual dining is abundant, with spots like Butcher Burger Old Port offering delicious and accessible meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic brick buildings on Commercial Street, the bustling waterfront, and charming alleyways. The unique shops also offer great photo opportunities.
Commercial Street, with its iconic 19th-century architecture and views of Casco Bay, is arguably the most photographed area of the Old Port.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of the Old Port. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals.
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.
It's best to ask permission before taking photos inside shops in the Old Port, especially if you are photographing merchandise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🛍️ Shoppers and Foodies
Foodies will be delighted by the diverse culinary offerings. From the highly-rated Fore Street Restaurant to the authentic Japanese dishes at Yosaku and the must-try lobster rolls at Butcher Burger Old Port, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to explore the local bars for craft cocktails and beers.
🚶♀️ History and Architecture Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Old Port District
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. The Old Port waterfront offers picturesque views of Casco Bay, with boats coming and going, adding to the quintessential New England coastal experience.
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.
Dining and Drinking in the Old Port
For those seeking specific recommendations, Yosaku is praised for its authentic Japanese cuisine and charming patio, while Butcher Burger Old Port is a go-to for delicious burgers and lobster rolls. For a more refined evening, Fore Street Restaurant is a highly recommended dinner destination.
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. The Old Port slice bar is also mentioned for casual bites.
Shopping in the Old Port
Visitors can find everything from handmade jewelry and dog accessories at stores like Uncommon Paws 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.
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.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit