Parkside Travel Guide
Portland
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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.
University of Southern Maine
Enjoy the student vibe at University of Southern Maine as part of your travels around Portland. Stroll along the waterfront or attend a sporting event in the area.
Eastern Promenade
Built on an old rail corridor along the easternmost portion of Portland’s peninsula, this waterfront trail offers stunning views of the harbor and Atlantic Ocean.
Portland Observatory
After visiting Portland Observatory, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Portland. Stroll along the area's waterfront or experience its great live music.
Things to do
Downtown Portland: Coastal Vibe and Old Mansions with In-Add Audio Tour
Ultimate Portland Self-Guided Driving GPS Audio Tour
Portland Golden Adventure Puzzle Quest and Tour
Maine: Portland Smartphone-Based Walking Audio Tour
Audio Guided Walking Tour from Old Port of Portland, Maine
Portland Smartphone Audio Tour: Self-Guided Drive
Top hotels in Parkside
Longfellow Hotel
Amazing staff and bar was great. Room was very clean but average.
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
The Francis
The building was in good condition all round. Staff were friendly and helpful.Location was central with restaurant nearby.The bar/ restaurant linked to the hotel is excellent
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
The Westin Portland Harborview
I chose this hotel specifically because it was advertised as pet-friendly, as I was traveling with my well-trained dog. While the location was convenient and the room itself was comfortable, the experience was soured by the lack of transparency regarding the pet policy. When I booked, the additional ...
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
Clean, quiet, good stay.
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
Portland Harbor Hotel
We have really enjoyed our stay at Portland Harbor Hotel. Our room was clean, the location is super convenient, and the staff was super helpful with recommendations, especially Adam. Everywhere he recommended to check out was amazing! He was also very cheerful and welcoming daily. If we’re ever back ...
Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026
Holiday Inn Portland-By the Bay by IHG
No continental breakfast, no happy hour, had to pay to park and rooms were loud.
Reviewed on 5 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Parkside
Portland Arts District
The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Portland Arts District. A stop by Cross Insurance Arena or Portland Museum of Art 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.
West Bayside
When in West Bayside, you can plan a visit to Bayside Bowl and Merrill Auditorium, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Valley Street
While visiting Valley Street, you might make a stop by sights like Hadlock Field and Fitzpatrick Stadium.
Oakdale
While Oakdale may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Hadlock Field and Children's Museum and Theatre of Maine.
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.
