Parkside Travel Guide
Portland
Visit Parkside
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 seaside or experience its acclaimed theatre scene.
Things to do
Ultimate Portland Self-Guided Driving GPS Audio Tour
Portland Smartphone Audio Tour: Self-Guided Drive
Downtown Portland: Coastal Vibe and Old Mansions with In-Add Audio Tour
Top hotels in Parkside
Longfellow Hotel
"This is an absolutely fabulous gem of a hotel. We were only there one night, but everything was superb. The room was lovely with a beautiful view (a bay view room). The shower was a highlight. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The best amenity was the town car available to shuttle us around ..."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland DT/Maine Med
"The property was very clean and quiet. The outside parking was ample and the surface had just been re-paved. The room was clean and comfortable, the a/c worked great and we had plenty of hot water with adequate water pressure. Breakfast was simple (bagels, waffle, cereal, eggs/sausage)but adequate. ..."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Portland Harbor Hotel
"Beautiful hotel, great location, friendly associates, but would not return to this location. Unfortunately many negatives.They offer what they call is a “kitchen” on every floor- coffee maker did not work and the ice machine did not work- spoke to an associate and was told coffee machine has been ..."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
"I loved staying at Cambria in Portland. The location was perfect; the rooms were spacious and clean. The pillows were really comfortable. The staff was excellent."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Clarion Hotel Portland Airport ME
"A"
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Clarion Pointe South Portland
"Basic but did as described. Room okay but had a dripping shower. Breakfast, again basic but sufficient."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Parkside
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.
Old Port
The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Old Port. A stop by Cross Insurance Arena or Casco Bay Lines Ferry Terminal 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.
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.
East Bayside
If you're spending some time in East Bayside, Maine Jewish Museum and Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception are top sights worth seeing.
