What to do in Portland, Maine

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A trip to Maine needs to be carefully planned. There are many things to see, many things to sample and many experiences that one needs to have in this lovely state. If you are planning a trip to Portland, Maine there is really no question about where to stay. The Westin Portland Harbor View is the place to stay for picturesque views of the water, easy access to the Portland art scene, or just a fantastic place to unwind with the family (and even Fido) on your travels.

The Westin Portland Harbor View offers all of the amenities you could hope for in a hotel. The Akari Spa is full service and will help melt the stress of daily life away. You can take advantage of your downtime and get a great workout in thanks to the NEW BALANCE gear lending service, and you can bring your dog with you to stay and play.

While you are enjoying the hotel, you might wonder what there is to do in the area. I would recommend that you take the #1 rated Trolley Tour from Portland Discovery Tours of the city.  Not only are trolly rides fun (I’ve never met a kid that didn’t love them) but it is a great way to see the city. On the tour you will see many notable locations in Portland and enjoy learning the history of the area from local tour guides.  You can take either a 45 or 9 0 minute tour depending on your wants and your time available.

The same company also offers a Lighthouse Boat Tour , which makes an exceptional way to take in breathtaking scenes with your loved ones on your day of discovery. If you love lighthouses or boats you can’t go wrong on this tour. If the weather and the sea cooperate you may see 4 lighthouses on the tour among other sights.  You might also get the chance to see sea birds, seals, porpoises, and perhaps even an eagle like we did (quite exciting for us).

If you have worked up an appetite sight seeing, plan on visiting the fantastic Portland Lobster Company for an amazing meal you are not likely to ever forget. A trip to Maine is not complete without lobster, and this is the place to go.  The food was amazing, and there are even a few things on the menu for those who don’t love seafood as much as others might.  Tip- go early, the lines are insane later in the day.  You can also hear live music and sometimes even a comedy show depending on the day you visit.  Kids meals are available, and you can get lobster pretty much any way you can think of it.  You only live once, don’t miss the Portland Lobster Company (right on the bay).

The possibilities for entertainment, sightseeing and relaxation are endless in Portland. When you visit the Westin Harbor View you will feel like you are at home in a lovely city that is awaiting your discovery.

(photo via the Westin Portland)