Portland Arts District Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Portland Arts District
Popular places to visit
Portland Museum of Art
Maine’s largest and oldest art institution showcases three centuries of American art and European masters in its architecturally impressive museum complex.
Wadsworth-Longfellow House
As you tour this historic brick home, trace three generations of Maine family history and learn about the cultural and political impact of its family members.
Maine College of Art
You can spend time exploring the galleries in Maine College of Art during your trip to Portland. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and great live music.
Charles Q. Clapp House
Demonstrating the wealth and artistic sensibilities of 19th-century Portland, this masterpiece of Greek Revival architecture is next to the Portland Museum of Art.
State Theatre
The beautiful mix of architectural styles, from Art Deco to Moorish, makes this newly renovated performing arts venue one of New England’s best.
East End Beach
Swim in the Atlantic Ocean, stroll along the sand-and-pebble shoreline or enjoy a picnic with unbeatable views at Portland’s public beach.
Activities
Portland Smartphone Audio Tour: Self-Guided Drive
Our pick of the best Portland Arts District Hotel Deals
Holiday Inn Portland-By the Bay by IHG
"Overall, it was excellent. The staff was very professional and friendly. Was so thankful there was a shuttle bus available. Just wish restaurant/bar was opened until midnight. We went to an event at Merrill Auditorium and got back around 9:30 pm and was informed that the bar closed at 10 pm."
Reviewed on 3 June 2026
Clarion Hotel Portland Airport ME
"This hotel was bad from the minute we arrived. I called early in week to see if there was a possibility to check in early because we had a long ride & had to catch a ferry for a memorial for a boss in Peaks Island, ME. When we arrived the 2 at front desk kind of laugh at me & looked at me like I ..."
Reviewed on 1 June 2026
Portland Harbor Hotel
"The staff was very helpful, especially Adam, helping us negotiate places to go in Portland and answering our questions"
Reviewed on 2 June 2026
Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
"Very modern in a pleasant way, not a performative way. Excellent room. I don’t see why another reviewer “felt unsafe.” There isn’t much of a breakfast but there are nearby options. The big massage chair in our room was unexpected and unnecessary."
Reviewed on 3 June 2026
Portland Regency Hotel & Spa
"This hotel is the perfect place for downtown charm. It was very nostalgic right down to the actual room key."
Reviewed on 3 June 2026
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland DT/Maine Med
"Th"
Reviewed on 3 June 2026
Check Portland Arts District hotel availability
Our guide on where to stay in Portland Arts District
Downtown Portland
A noteworthy feature of Downtown Portland is its captivating waterfront views. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Cross Insurance Arena and Merrill Auditorium.
Old Port
The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Old Port. A stop by Cross Insurance Arena or Casco Bay Lines Ferry Terminal might round out your trip.
West End
If you're spending some time in West End, Victoria Mansion and Portland Fire Museum are top sights worth seeing.
East Bayside
If you're spending some time in East Bayside, Maine Jewish Museum and Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception are top sights worth seeing.
West Bayside
When in West Bayside, you can plan a visit to Merrill Auditorium and Cross Insurance Arena, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
