Visitor's Guide 2026

DISCOVER GREATER PORTLAND OUR NEIGHBORHOODS + TOWNS Greater Portland is a collection of unique coastal spots, quiet wooded trails, and busy town centers. While Portland is the hub, the surrounding towns each have their own vibe and rhythm. Whether you’re looking for rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, or a classic Maine village green, you’ll find it just a short drive from the city.

CAPE ELIZABETH Cape Elizabeth is all about the dramatic Maine coast. It’s home to the iconic Portland Head Light —the most photographed lighthouse in America—and sprawling state parks like Fort Williams and Two Lights . You’ll find great cliff-side hiking, hidden coves, and some of the best

NORTH YARMOUTH Just a few miles inland, North Yarmouth is a quiet community where life moves a little slower. It’s a landscape of orchards, tree farms, and winding country roads. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find community concerts on the village green and a strong, welcoming local spirit. PORTLAND The heart of the region sits on a peninsula in Casco Bay . Portland is a working waterfront city where cobblestone streets meet modern galleries and award-winning restaurants. You can watch the fishing boats come in, hop a ferry to the islands, or just wander the neighborhoods of the East and West End for some of the best bay views in New England. POWNAL Pownal is a rural gem best known for Bradbury Mountain State Park . It’s one of the best spots in the region for a quick hike that yields a massive reward—the summit offers incredible views of the Maine woods and the coast. It’s also a top destination for mountain bikers and birdwatchers. SCARBOROUGH Scarborough gives you the best of both worlds: wide, sandy beaches and the massive Scarborough Marsh . You can spend the morning surfing the swells at Higgins Beach and the afternoon kayaking through the state’s largest salt marsh to spot migratory birds and local wildlife. SOUTH PORTLAND Located just across the bridge from Portland, “SoPo” offers a different perspective on the harbor. You’ll find the picturesque Bug Light Park , the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse , and miles of the Greenbelt Walkway . Willard Beach is a local favorite for a casual stroll or a swim.

WESTBROOK Westbrook is a revitalized mill town built around the Presumpscot River . The river is the centerpiece of the community, offering great spots for kayaking, paddleboarding, and walking along the falls. The downtown area is buzzing with new energy, creative spaces, and easy access to forested nature preserves. YARMOUTH Yarmouth is a classic coastal town centered around the Royal River . It’s famous for the annual Yarmouth Clam Festival, which draws huge crowds every July. When things are quieter, the town offers beautiful parks, a sheltered harbor, and easy access to some of the most peaceful beaches in the region.

ocean views in the state. CUMBERLAND Cumberland offers a perfect mix of

farmland and shoreline. It’s a great spot for walking wooded trails or exploring quiet tidal coves. If you’re visiting in the fall, the Cumberland County Fair is a must-see tradition that celebrates the town’s deep agricultural roots. FALMOUTH Falmouth blends a quiet, upscale feel with beautiful natural escapes. The town is known for its sheltered harbors full of sailboats and scenic inlets. A local favorite is Mackworth Island , where a wooded trail encircles the entire island, offering panoramic views of Casco Bay just minutes from the mainland. FREEPORT Most people know Freeport as a world-class shopping destination and the home of L.L.Bean , but there’s plenty of adventure beyond the outlets. You can explore the trails at Wolfe’s Neck Center , or enjoy the town’s famous seasonal festivals and holiday lights. GORHAM Gorham is a busy college town with a relaxed, pastoral feel. It’s got a great village center with local shops and historic architecture, but it’s also surrounded by rolling hills and riverbanks that are perfect for a quiet afternoon of exploring or paddling.

Gorham Pump Track Photo by: Kelly Schneck

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