Discover the Rich History of the Portland Waterfront Historic District
Explore the historical charm of Portland Waterfront Historic District, where maritime heritage meets modern delights in a picturesque coastal setting.
The Portland Waterfront Historic District is a vibrant blend of history and culture, offering stunning waterfront views, unique shops, and delightful dining options. It's a must-visit for any traveler looking to soak in the local charm.
A brief summary to Portland Waterfront Historic District
- Portland, Waterfront District, Maine, 04101, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and catch the sunrise over the waterfront.
- Don't miss the local seafood markets for some of the freshest fish and lobster in the region.
- Check the local event calendar for festivals and markets that can enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn more about the rich history and stories of the area.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of the West End, head east on Congress Street. Continue straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with State Street. Turn left onto State Street. After a short walk, you will come to the entrance of the Portland Waterfront Historic District on your right. This route will take approximately 15-20 minutes on foot.
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Public Transit (Bus)
If you prefer not to walk, you can take the Metro bus service. Find the nearest bus stop on Congress Street. Look for the route number 1 (which goes towards the Old Port). Board the bus and stay on for 3 stops. Get off at the stop named 'Commercial Street.' From there, walk east for about 5 minutes, and you will arrive at the Portland Waterfront Historic District. A single ride ticket costs about $2.00.
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Biking
For those who enjoy biking, you can rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in the West End. Once you have a bike, head east on Congress Street, then turn left onto State Street. Continue on State Street until you reach the waterfront area. The bike ride will take around 10 minutes. Make sure to follow local biking rules and park your bike at designated bike racks near the waterfront.
Discover more about Portland Waterfront Historic District
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Ford Statue
0.5 km
Explore the John Ford Statue in Portland, ME, a historical landmark celebrating the legacy of one of America's greatest filmmakers in a vibrant urban setting.
Maine Day Ventures/formerly Maine Foodie Tours
0.5 km
Explore Portland, Maine's culinary scene with Maine Day Ventures, offering immersive food tours that celebrate local flavors and vibrant culture.
Tracy-Causer Block
0.5 km
Discover the historic Tracy-Causer Block in Old Port, Portland, Maine - a stunning landmark showcasing the city’s architectural heritage and vibrant culture.
The Real Portland Tour
0.5 km
Experience Portland's rich history, stunning landmarks, and vibrant culture with The Real Portland Tour, your ultimate sightseeing adventure in Maine.
Boothby Square
0.5 km
Explore Boothby Square in Portland, ME - A historic landmark in the vibrant Old Port district, perfect for experiencing local culture and scenic beauty.
SeaPortland
0.5 km
Explore Maine's stunning coastline and vibrant maritime culture with SeaPortland, your premier tour operator in Portland, Maine.
United States Custom House
0.5 km
Discover the historic United States Custom House in Portland, Maine, a stunning architectural gem steeped in maritime history.
Portland Schooner Co.
0.6 km
Experience Portland's stunning coastline with Portland Schooner Co. – unforgettable boat tours and breathtaking views await you.
The Maine Lobsterman
0.6 km
Explore Portland's Maine Lobsterman, a stunning monument celebrating the region's rich maritime history and culture.
Portland Downtown
0.6 km
Discover the cultural and culinary heart of Portland, Maine, in its vibrant downtown filled with art, food, and unique shopping experiences.
Portland by the Foot
0.6 km
Experience the heart and soul of Portland, Maine, through guided walking tours that reveal the city’s rich history, culture, and culinary delights.
Old Port Historic Tours
0.8 km
Immerse yourself in the captivating maritime history and vibrant culture of Portland's Old Port with our engaging historic tours.
Our Lady of Victories Monument
0.8 km
Explore the Our Lady of Victories Monument, a historic landmark in Portland, Maine, celebrating the valor of soldiers with stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
Rackleff Building
0.8 km
Explore the historic Rackleff Building in Portland, Maine, a stunning landmark that embodies the charm and beauty of early 20th-century architecture.
Thomas Delano House
0.8 km
Explore the historical elegance of the Thomas Delano House, a stunning architectural gem in the heart of Portland's West End, Maine.
Unmissable attractions to see
DiMillo's Old Port Marina & Gift Shop
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant charm of DiMillo's Old Port Marina & Gift Shop, where local crafts meet breathtaking waterfront views in Portland, Maine.
A piece of the Berlin Wall
0.3 km
Explore a significant historical landmark in Portland—a piece of the Berlin Wall that symbolizes freedom and unity amidst a divided past.
Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours
0.3 km
Experience Portland's rich maritime history and vibrant culture with unique fire engine tours through the city's charming streets and waterfront.
Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours
0.3 km
Discover Portland's stunning coastline and rich maritime history with immersive boat tours that cater to all ages and interests.
Maine Duck Tours
0.4 km
Discover Portland’s charm from a unique perspective with Maine Duck Tours, where land and water adventures meet historical exploration.
Old Port Candy Co
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting world of sweets at Old Port Candy Co in Portland, ME – a candy lover's paradise filled with delightful treats.
Custom House Wharf
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Custom House Wharf in Portland, Maine, where history meets stunning waterfront views and local culture.
Portland Beer Hub
0.5 km
Explore a vast selection of local and international craft beers at Portland Beer Hub, a must-visit destination in the vibrant Old Port district.
Casco Bay Lines
0.6 km
Discover the beauty of Maine's coastline with Casco Bay Lines, your gateway to stunning islands and unforgettable ferry experiences.
Beaten Path Tours
0.6 km
Uncover the hidden treasures of Portland, Maine, with Beaten Path Tours, where local history and culture come alive.
Bell Buoy Park
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Bell Buoy Park, a picturesque urban oasis in Portland's Waterfront District, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Whales Mural Wall
0.6 km
Explore the Whales Mural Wall at Maine State Pier, Portland – a stunning artistic tribute to marine life that captures the spirit of the ocean.
Tommy's Park
0.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Tommy's Park, a serene retreat in the heart of Portland's Old Port, offering lush greenery and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Post Office Park
0.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Post Office Park in Portland, Maine, a perfect escape for tourists amidst the vibrant Old Port.
Lobsterman Park
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Lobsterman Park in Portland, Maine, where coastal charm meets lush landscapes for the perfect day of relaxation.
Essential places to dine
DiMillo's On the Water
0.2 km
Experience fresh seafood dining aboard a converted ferry in Portland's scenic waterfront district.
Portland Lobster Company
0.3 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Portland Lobster Company - where ocean flavors meet stunning waterfront views in Portland, Maine.
Luke's Lobster Portland Pier
0.3 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Luke's Lobster Portland Pier with stunning harbor views and sustainable catches.
Rigby Yard
0.4 km
Discover Rigby Yard: A charming restaurant in Portland's Old Port serving craft beers, cocktails & artisanal coffee in a vibrant atmosphere.
ViA VECCHiA
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at ViA VECCHiA in Portland's Old Port—where tradition meets modern dining.
Street & Co
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood at Street & Co in Portland's historic Old Port—where Mediterranean flavors meet fresh local ingredients.
Central Provisions
0.4 km
Experience the essence of Portland's culinary scene at Central Provisions, where small plates meet big flavors in an inviting atmosphere.
Evo Kitchen + Bar
0.4 km
Discover Evo Kitchen + Bar in Portland's Old Port - where Mediterranean cuisine meets fresh seafood in an inviting atmosphere.
Paper Tiger
0.4 km
Discover Portland's vibrant culinary scene at Paper Tiger - where local flavors meet global inspiration in an inviting atmosphere.
Becky's Diner
0.4 km
Experience authentic American breakfasts at Becky's Diner in Portland - where great food meets a nostalgic atmosphere.
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking waterfront views at The Porthole Restaurant & Pub in Portland, Maine.
Solo Italiano
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Solo Italiano in Portland's Waterfront District—where every dish tells a story.
Cheese Louise Portland
0.5 km
Experience the flavors of Portland at Cheese Louise, where gourmet sandwiches meet artisanal cheese in a vibrant setting.
Yosaku
0.5 km
Experience the best of Japanese cuisine at Yosaku in Portland - where fresh sushi meets traditional flavors.
Boone's Fish House & Oyster Room
0.5 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Boone's Fish House & Oyster Room in Portland, Maine—where ocean flavors meet waterfront views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
suger
0.3 km
Discover Suger, a unique women's clothing boutique in Portland's Old Port, offering stylish apparel and accessories for every occasion.
Shipwreck & Cargo
0.4 km
Explore Shipwreck & Cargo in Portland, ME for unique gifts, local crafts, and charming souvenirs that capture the essence of Maine.
Blanche & Mimi
0.4 km
Explore Blanche & Mimi in Portland, ME for unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a charming shopping atmosphere.
The Blue Lobster
0.4 km
Experience the charm of Maine at The Blue Lobster, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs in Portland's picturesque Old Port.
Fore & Wharf
0.4 km
Explore Fore & Wharf, a boutique in Portland's Old Port, showcasing unique gifts and local art that capture the spirit of Maine.
Life is Good
0.4 km
Experience the joy of casual fashion at Life is Good in Portland, where positivity meets style in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Viand Mercantile
0.4 km
Explore Viand Mercantile in Portland for unique home goods that blend local charm with artistic craftsmanship, perfect for every style.
Cool As A Moose
0.4 km
Explore Cool As A Moose, the perfect gift shop in Portland for unique Maine souvenirs, clothing, and fun accessories.
The Maine Souvenir Shop - Portland
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant selection of unique gifts and authentic Maine souvenirs at The Maine Souvenir Shop in Portland, a treasure for every traveler.
Siempre Mas
0.5 km
Discover unique clothing and handcrafted jewelry at Siempre Mas, Portland's charming boutique in the heart of Old Port, Maine.
CrateFull of Maine
0.5 km
Explore CrateFull of Maine, where local craftsmanship meets the charm of Portland in beautifully curated gift baskets and artisanal treats.
Freak Street Imports
0.5 km
Explore Freak Street Imports - your go-to gift shop in Portland, Maine for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Danforth Pewter Portland
0.5 km
Explore the charm of handmade pewter gifts at Danforth Pewter in Portland, Maine - a must-visit gift shop for unique treasures.
Earthbound Trading Co.
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and eclectic fashion at Earthbound Trading Co. in Portland, ME – a must-visit for creative souvenirs and local treasures.
Something's Fishy
0.5 km
Explore Something's Fishy in Portland, Maine for unique gifts and local artisan crafts that capture the essence of Maine's charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The King's Head
0.2 km
Discover the essence of British pub culture at The King's Head, Portland's vibrant spot for craft beers and hearty meals in a cozy setting.
Luna Rooftop Bar
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Luna Rooftop Bar in Portland, Maine, where crafted cocktails meet stunning waterfront vistas.
The Independent Ice Co.
0.4 km
Discover the unique flavors of Portland at The Independent Ice Co., where craft cocktails meet delectable dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Room for Improvement
0.4 km
Discover Room for Improvement, Portland's premier cocktail bar, offering a unique blend of artisanal drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Old Port.
Bonfire Country Bar Portland
0.4 km
Experience the heart of Americana at Bonfire Country Bar in Portland, Maine, where delicious Southern cuisine meets vibrant nightlife.
Portland Mash TUN
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Portland at Mash TUN - a lively beer hall offering craft brews and delicious bites in the vibrant Old Port district.
Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub
0.4 km
Discover the essence of Portland's craft beer scene at Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub, where great food and brews come together in a lively atmosphere.
Andy's Old Port Pub
0.5 km
Discover the quintessential Portland experience at Andy's Old Port Pub, where delicious seafood meets live music and a lively atmosphere.
Lincolns
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lincolns in Portland, where craft cocktails and local brews meet a lively atmosphere and welcoming locals.
The Armory Lounge
0.5 km
Discover The Armory Lounge: Portland's premier destination for handcrafted cocktails and local cuisine in a stylish setting.
The North Point
0.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and craft cocktails at The North Point, a must-visit lounge in Portland's Old Port district.
Maps
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Maps Bar in Portland, where every sip is a journey through captivating maps.
The Portland Hunt & Alpine Club
0.6 km
Experience the flavors of Scandinavia at The Portland Hunt & Alpine Club, where craft cocktails and unique dishes await in a cozy setting.
Arcadia - Portland, Me
0.8 km
Discover the lively Arcadia bar in downtown Portland, Maine, offering unique cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Downtown Lounge
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Downtown Lounge, Portland's affordable bar with a welcoming atmosphere and extensive drink selection.
