South Portland Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located on the southern coast of Maine, South Portland is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant urban atmosphere. With its picturesque waterfront, diverse culinary scene, and proximity to stunning beaches and recreational areas, South Portland is a destination that caters to both nature enthusiasts and history buffs.

One of the highlights of South Portland is its stunning waterfront, which provides breathtaking views of the Casco Bay and the Portland skyline. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the Eastern Promenade Trail, a scenic pathway that stretches along the coast and offers panoramic vistas of the bay. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities that allow visitors to explore the bay and its numerous islands.

History lovers will find plenty to discover in South Portland as well. Fort Preble, a former military fort dating back to the early 19th century, offers a glimpse into the city's past and features well-preserved artillery batteries and barracks. Another historical site worth exploring is Bug Light Park, home to the charming Portland Breakwater Lighthouse, known locally as "Bug Light." This iconic lighthouse, with its red roof and white tower, stands as a testament to South Portland's maritime heritage.

Food enthusiasts will be delighted by the culinary scene in South Portland. The city boasts a wide array of dining options, ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale waterfront restaurants. Visitors can savor fresh lobster rolls, indulge in locally sourced seafood, or sample creative dishes prepared by talented chefs. The vibrant Willard Square neighborhood is a particularly popular destination for food lovers, with its eclectic mix of eateries and cafes.

In addition to its coastal charm and historical significance, South Portland offers easy access to some of Maine's most beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational areas. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the sandy shores of Crescent Beach State Park or take a hike along the scenic trails of Two Lights State Park, which offer stunning views of the rugged coastline.

Alternative names: Population: 25.6 thous.Elevation: 26 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 43°38'7"N, 70°17'34"W

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MaineUnited States

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South Portland Top Attractions

South Portland Attractions - What to See and Explore

South Portland offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Spring Point Ledge Light, Portland Breakwater Light, Southern Maine Community College, Willard Scoops. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Spring Point Ledge Light
Spring Point Ledge Light is a sparkplug lighthouse in South Portland, Maine, that marks a dangerous obstruction on the west side of the main shipping channel into Portland Harbor. It is now adjacent to the campus of Southern Maine Community College.
Vernacular architecture • Lighthouse
Portland Breakwater Light
The Portland Breakwater Light is a small lighthouse in South Portland, Maine.
Universities and schools • Fort Preble
Southern Maine Community College
Southern Maine Community College is a public community college in South Portland, Maine. It is part of the Maine Community College System.

43°38'21"N • 70°13'51"W
Willard Scoops
Park • Willard Square
Cemetery • Ligonia
Forest City Cemetery
Forest City Cemetery is a 97-acre cemetery in South Portland, Maine, owned and operated by the adjacent city of Portland. There are approximately 30,000 burials in the cemetery. Forest City's burial records are kept at Evergreen Cemetery in Portland. When the land was purchased in 1858, it cost the city $50,000.
43°37'44"N • 70°17'13"W
Maine Military Museum
Military museum • Museum
Gothic Revival architecture • Meetinghouse Hill
Seavey-Robinson House
The Seavey-Robinson House is a historic house built in the Carpenter Gothic style in South Portland, Maine. Built c. 1854–57, it is a rare example of a Carpenter Gothic cottage, originally built in a rural setting, since urbanized. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
43°38'32"N • 70°15'6"W
South Port Marine
Laundry • Sailing • Marina
Library • Knightville
South Portland Public Library
The South Portland Public Library is the public library serving South Portland, Maine. In 1965, ground was broken for the $300,579 library building. The doors were opened for service to the public in 1966. The Memorial Branch Library was opened on Wescott Road in 1976.

Day trips

South Portland – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of South Portland, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Funtown Splashtown USA (Saco), Lost Valley Ski Area (Lewiston), Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum (Portland).

10 milesSW
Theme park, Amusement park, Water park
Funtown Splashtown USA, Saco
Funtown Splashtown USA is a vibrant amusement park nestled in the city of Saco, Maine, offering a delightful blend of thrills and spills for visitors of all ages. As Maine's largest water and amusement park, it presents a perfect summer escape with a diverse range of...
35 milesN
Winter sport, Outdoor activities, Park
Lost Valley Ski Area, Lewiston
Nestled between the rolling hills of Auburn, Maine, the Lost Valley Ski Area stands as a winter haven for ski enthusiasts and families looking for a snowy retreat. Established as a local hub for winter sports, this ski area offers a variety of slopes to accommodate...
3.1 miNE
Museum, History museum
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, Portland
Tucked away in the picturesque city of Portland, Maine, the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum offers a unique glimpse into the bygone era of narrow gauge railroads that once traversed the rugged landscapes of Maine. This charming museum is dedicated to preserving the...
39 milesNW
Winter sport, Park, Ski area
Shawnee Peak, Bridgton
Shawnee Peak is a ski resort located in Bridgton, Maine, in Cumberland County. Located on the northern end of Pleasant Mountain, Shawnee Peak features two base areas and 245 skiable acres. The ski area first opened on January 23, 1938 and is the oldest major ski area in Maine.
33 milesN
Museum, Art museum
Bates College Museum of Art, Lewiston
The Bates College Museum of Art is an art museum located on the campus of, and maintained by, Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. It holds various mediums of arts that showcase Maine and the greater American area. The museum's collection offers an overview of modern and contemporary art.