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.

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.
Things to do

Portland Smartphone Audio Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Portland Maine App-Based Driving & Walking Audio Tour Bundle
Top hotels in West End

Portland Harbor Hotel
Best location in Portland. The free bikes were the highlight, We went everywhere with them. Very convenient! The staff was very nice.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026

Portland Regency Hotel & Spa
A hotel has control over cleanliness, upkeep, and service. This hotel ranks very poorly in service. Not a single smile from any staff at check-in, check-out, or requests. They advertise pickup from the airport is available but after a call before flight, after landing, and then 3 more calls after ...
Reviewed on 12 May 2026

Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
Very clean and modern design, spacious room and overall the place was very quiet and made for a good night's sleep. Convenient to have the garage attached to the hotel, you just have to have your ticket validated by the front desk, but allows you to come and go as you please for the parking fee.
Reviewed on 12 May 2026

HomeAwhile
The extra space was very nice. The bedroom had blackout blinds.
Reviewed on 12 May 2026

Holiday Inn Portland-By the Bay by IHG
Best omelet station yet !!!!! Shuttle driver Alexander was very courteous. Used the laundry services on floor # 11. A+ Incredable views from our 9th floor room. We'll book at Holiday Inn again..
Reviewed on 12 May 2026

Inn at St John Portland In-Town
This is a homey place to stay. If you like an old inn, this is your place. Comfortable bed, well-furnished private bath down the hall, and relaxing breakfast room. Walkable from bus/train station.
Reviewed on 12 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 Portland Exposition Building.

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.
