Visitor's Guide 2023-2024

DOG-DAY AFTERNOONS

DOG-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATIONS

Many area hotels will welcome your well behaved dog; call ahead to book and get the inside scoop about size restrictions, additional fees, and policies. Once you settle on the right fit, you’ll find establishments ready to roll out the red carpet for man’s best (traveling) companion. The Westin Hotel, in Portland’s Arts District, welcomes dogs with treats and Heavenly dog beds. Inn by the Sea, located on the shores of Cape Elizabeth, has led the way as a dog-friendly seaside green resort with a unique inn foster dog program, over-the-top pampering and a doggie menu. See the grids on pages 49-55 for other properties that accept pets. Often travelers are just happy to find a pet-friendly establishment. But in Greater Portland, many hotels take pet-friendly a step further, providing a water bowl and welcome bone upon arrival. Others offer doggie room service, gourmet pet menus (Meat Roaf, anyone?), and nearby dog-walking facilities Many local restaurants allow dogs to dine on outdoor patios or decks with their families. Woof-worthy water view destinations with live music include Portland Lobster Company and The Porthole. As you meander through Portland’s streets, you’ll find lots of shops provide water bowls and treats for your furry friends. And there are several independent pet emporiums in the area such as Uncommon Paws that offers their own designer leashes and collars made right in Maine as well as other unique, all-natural products for dogs and cats. When you’re traveling with your best friend, remember to pack all your dog’s essentials—collar with ID tags, leash, pick-up bags, food, medications and a vaccination certificate so you can just relax once you arrive. or area inns that are unabashed pet enthusiasts and include dog-walking services as part of the amenities. DOG-FRIENDLY DINING + SHOPPING

If dogs are bone-a-fide members of your family, you’ll appreciate Greater Portland’s dog-friendly vibe! Check out all the great reasons not to leave home without them.

DOG-FRIENDLY CASCO BAY ADVENTURES Cast-off with your 4-paw mate on a Casco Bay Lines ferry to one of Portland’s many island communities or take the Mailboat Cruise. Purchase ferry tickets at the dog-friendly terminal. The Inn on Peaks Island welcomes dogs to dine with their families on the patio. You could choose to pack a picnic, walk the shoreline island trail, and let your best friend cool off and do the doggy paddle. Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours welcomes mellow mutts to do a scenic lighthouse cruise with their owners and soak-up a little maritime history.

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

DOG-FRIENDLY TRAILS Portland Trails offers a vast network of over 70 miles of wooded trails, coastal paths and green space that you can sniff-out with your dog. On a hot day, your dog can dip their paws into a stream, river or the ocean depending on the trail. Visit PortlandTrails.org for interactive maps to help you pick your hike. The Eastern Promenade Trail can be accessed near the dog friendly Visitor Information Center at Ocean Gateway and delivers beautiful Casco Bay views and access to East End Beach.

Portland boasts miles of tongue-hanging coastline where beach dogs can get their paws sandy and splash around. From Labor Day to Memorial Day, area beaches offer extended beach hours with off-leash play at Portland’s Eastern Beach, South Portland’s Willard Beach and many Scarborough beaches. During the busy summer season, many area beaches provide beach dog hours around sunrise and sunset. Be sure to follow the posted rules, respect wildlife and only leave paw prints.

PHOTO: SHARYN PEAVEY / VISIT FREEPORT

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