Getting Around
The Peninsula Is Walkable
Old Port to the West End is about twenty minutes on foot. The Jetport is ten minutes by car, and METRO buses cover the peninsula and South Portland.
Insider Tips
The Portland Guidebook
How to do Portland right, from the team bringing the Stay In standard to the North Coast.
Parking
Read the Signs, Especially in Winter
Much of the peninsula is residential permit parking, and Portland calls a winter parking ban when it snows. A driveway or a garage spot is worth asking about.
Seasons
Summer and Fall Are the Crunch
June through October is when the city fills and hotel rates go with it. November through April is quiet, which is when a monthly rate finds its guest.
Essentials
Groceries and Basics
Hannaford and Whole Foods for a full shop, Rosemont for the neighborhood version, and a farmers market in Deering Oaks on Saturday mornings.
Day Trips
What Is Within an Hour
Freeport and L.L.Bean in twenty minutes, Kennebunkport in forty, the Midcoast in an hour. Acadia is a long day, better as an overnight.
On the Water
Ferries and Boats
Casco Bay Lines for the islands year round, plus seasonal whale watches and lobster boat tours off Commercial Street.