14 Best Things to Do in Portland, Maine

Let’s start big picture here.
Dating back to 1791, this is the oldest lighthouse in Maine, and arguably the most beautiful in New England. It contains an excellent museum (in the former Keepers' Quarters) delving into its history, as well as a gift shop. And just outside is Fort Williams Park, 90 acres filled with coastal hiking paths and picnic tables, gardens and a beach. Note that the Park is open year round from sunrise to sunset, but the museum and shop are open daily in the summer, and weekends only in the off-season.

Any standout features or must-sees?
With so much to do around the Park—from eating at the vendors (for lobster rolls, ice cream, and such) or picnicking on the beach to hiking—many visitors forget to give plenty of attention to the views from The Lighthouse itself. Not only are the thunderous waves and ocean around it magnificent, but you can see four additional lighthouses from it, too.

Was it easy to get around?
Signs and maps of the Park are easy to follow, and direct you to the attractions like the play spaces of the Children's Garden and its wildflower meadow; the rocky beach area; the Civil War-era mansion that predates the Lighthouse; and the two batteries of Fort Williams. Some paths (like the one to the lighthouse itself) are wheelchair-accessible, but some dirt paths are not.

All said and done, what—and who—is this best for?
Travelers with different interests will likely want to spend more time on different aspects of the Lighthouse and the Park. Some may want to learn all about its military history in the Museum or at the two batteries. Civil War architecture buffs will love The Goddard Mansion. Families shouldn't miss the beach, the Children's Garden, or the ice cream and crepes sold seasonally. Everyone, though, enjoys the views from the Lighthouse and paths around it.