West End Travel Guide
Portland
Popular places to visit
Victoria Mansion
Visit the remarkably preserved 19th-century manor house, located in downtown Portland. Get an authentic impression of life during that era.
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.
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 West End
Portland Harbor Hotel
"Location is fantastic and staff was friendly. The room and common areas were acceptably clean. The room was pretty basic and felt a little cramped but I could have booked a suite and didn’t. Some of the maintenance could have been done better, which would have been more fitting for a well restored ..."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Portland Regency Hotel & Spa
"We had breakfast both days of our weekend at the lovely first floor dining room. The tables were beautifully set and the food delicious. Both Patrick and John were standouts on the dining staff."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
"Rooms are fantastic! Great view! Lots of nice small amenities."
Reviewed on 16 May 2026
HomeAwhile
"We stayed for 9 nights in a King Suite and it was nice to have the separation between the sitting area/kitchenette and the bedroom. The bed was comfortable and it was great to have a desk for a work area in the bedroom as well as a TV. The building has only been open for a couple of months so everything ..."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Inn at St John Portland In-Town
"Really great experience at a very cool and unique place! Breakfast was more than I was expecting and staff helpful and attentive at all times."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Holiday Inn Portland-By the Bay by IHG
"Had to stand there for 15 minutes to check in, the manager was busy doing something else but standing right there. I requested a wake up call and it did not happen."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around West End
Valley Street
While visiting Valley Street, you might make a stop by sights like Hadlock Field and Fitzpatrick Stadium.
Parkside
If you're spending some time in Parkside, Fitzpatrick Stadium and Neal S. Dow House 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.
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 Bayside Bowl.
West Bayside
When in West Bayside, you can plan a visit to Bayside Bowl and Merrill Auditorium, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
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.
