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 seaside or attend a sporting event in the area.
Portland Observatory
After visiting Portland Observatory, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Portland. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its entertainment choices.
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.
Things to do
The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local
Ultimate Portland Self-Guided Driving GPS Audio Tour
Downtown Portland: Coastal Vibe and Old Mansions with In-Add Audio Tour
Top hotels in Parkside
Longfellow Hotel
Clean, beautiful room with a vintage feel. Great staff, very attentive. If you have a show to go to they offer a car service to take you there. It’s a 5 minute walk to the theater though so that was nice. Tandem bakery is right next door. You have to get coffee and pastries. Make sure to get a loaded ...
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
The Francis
Great location, comfortable bed, charming property, friendly and helpful staff.
Reviewed on 1 May 2026
Portland Harbor Hotel
Great location
Reviewed on 2 May 2026
Portland Regency Hotel & Spa
The room was great. No microwave (which would have been helpful)
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026
Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
Always a beautiful stay here, great location, friendly staff and great bartender! I especially love the bathroom set up, great space, lighting and shower!
Reviewed on 3 May 2026
Clarion Hotel Portland Airport ME
This wasn’t the most upscale place. In fact it was a little dated but it is perfect if you are going to an event or concert at Thompson’s point and for the price it is exactly as expected.
Reviewed on 4 May 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 Maine College of Art or Cross Insurance Arena 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 Portland Exposition Building.
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 Maine College of Art.
