From live music and lobster rolls to ghost tours and sunset walks — Portland after dark is pure magic.
Introduction: Portland Nights Are Made to Explore
When the sun dips behind Casco Bay and the fishing boats return to harbor, Portland, Maine begins a new kind of adventure, one with music, food, laughter, and hidden gems glowing under streetlights.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking romance, or just looking for fun things to do in Portland, Maine at night, this local night guide will show you everything worth exploring after dark.
From rooftop views and romantic strolls to axe throwing and art walks, Portland doesn’t go to sleep when the sky goes dark. It lights up.
Download PDF Guide: Things to Do in Portland, Maine at Night
A. Seventeen Unique Things to do in Portland, Maine at Night
1. Catch Live Music in a Historic Venue
Portland has a vibrant music scene, especially at night. From rock to jazz, there’s something for every sound.
🎤 Top Venues:
- – A grand, old-school theater for major concerts
- Port City Music Hall – Up-close and energetic local shows
- Blue Jazz Club – Chill, classy, and intimate
- Aura – Modern nightclub feel with DJs & bands
💡 Pro Tip: Many spots host free or $5 shows on weekdays!
2. Bar Hop Through Old Port
The Old Port District becomes an electric playground at night — full of craft brews, cocktails, and cobblestone streets.
🔥 Must-Visit Night Bars:
- Lincoln’s – Hidden $5 speakeasy with no sign
- The Bar of Chocolate – For espresso martinis and dessert drinks
- Rí Rá Irish Pub – Classic vibe, live music
- Gritty’s – Portland’s OG brewpub
Whether you’re bar-hopping solo or with friends, you’ll find something fun on every corner.
3. Watch the Sunset from Eastern Promenade
This isn’t just a daytime trail. At dusk, the Eastern Prom becomes a stunning spot for:
- 🧺 Evening picnics
- 🚶♀️ Romantic walks
- 📸 Sunset photos over Casco Bay
Bring a blanket, watch the ferries come in, and take in the glow over the ocean.
4. Take a Night Food Tour
Yes, Portland is a top food city — even after 8 PM. And food tours still run into the night.
Try:
- Lobster rolls at Highroller Lobster Co.
- Duckfat fries and milkshakes
- Late-night pizza at Slab
- Fancy bites at Central Provisions
Or go on a DIY food crawl in Old Port — appetizers here, cocktails there, dessert around the corner.
5. Take a Sunset or Moonlight Cruise
One of the most romantic things to do in Portland at night is to see the city from the water.
🛶 Evening cruise options:
- Schooner sunset sails
- Casco Bay ferry rides
- BYOB harbor cruises
Most are 1.5–2 hours and leave around 6:30–7:30 PM in summer. Perfect for couples and photographers alike.
6. Grab Late-Night Bites at Local Favorites
Hungry after 10 PM? Portland delivers.
🍔 Where to eat late:
- Nosh Kitchen Bar – Burgers, bacon dusted fries
- Boda – Thai street food “after dark” menu
- Otto Pizza – Always reliable, open late
- Pai Men Miyake – Ramen, sake, chill vibe
Some kitchens close early, so check hours or hit up the city’s late-night food trucks.
7. Go Ice Skating or Bowling
Want some active fun at night in Portland?
- Bayside Bowl – Bowling, rooftop bar, tacos
- Thompson’s Point Ice Rink (winter) – Outdoor rink with lights and music
- Spare Time Bowling – Good for families or groups
Great for friends, date nights, or families with older kids.
8. Take a Ghost Tour in the Old Port
If you love haunted history, don’t miss a Portland ghost tour.
🕯️ Walk the dimly lit streets as you hear stories of:
- Sea captains
- Shipwrecks
- Haunted pubs
- 1800s mischief
It’s spooky, fun, and full of fascinating history.
9. Explore the First Friday Art Walk (Monthly)
If you’re in town on the first Friday of any month, don’t miss this.
🎨 What you’ll find:
- Local galleries open late
- Artists painting live
- Pop-up performances and music
- Food trucks and vendor stalls
It’s free, festive, and gives you a creative look at Portland’s art scene.
10. Throw Axes & Play Games
Unwind with fun night games and challenges:
- Urban Axes – BYOB axe throwing
- The Axe Pit – Walk-ins welcome
- Arcadia National Bar – Retro games + craft beer
- Board Game Bars – Like Rivalries Sports Pub
Perfect for friends and crazy things to do in Portland Maine energy.
11. Late-Night Lounges
Not into bars? Prefer something mellow?
Try:
- Vena’s Fizz House – Inventive cocktails & mocktails
- MJ’s Wine Bar – Cozy with live music
- Bramhall – Underground vibe, candles, and quiet conversation
These spots are excellent for a quiet night out.
12. Do Some Evening Shopping
Many downtown shops close by 6 PM, but:
- The Maine Mall in South Portland is open until 8–9 PM
- Souvenir shops like The Maine Souvenir Shop stay open late in summer
- Union Station Plaza has 24/7 options (grocery, essentials)
Perfect if you’re out late and need gifts or gear.
13. Capture Portland by Night (Best Photo Spots)
- Portland Head Light at night
- Casco Bay from Eastern Prom
- Old Port under the string lights
- Commercial Street reflections
Bring a tripod and capture Portland’s magic after dark.
14. Indoor Escape Rooms
Rainy night? Try a local escape room challenge:
- The Escape Room Portland
- GTFO Escape Room
Solve puzzles with friends or strangers — it’s immersive, clever, and totally unique.
15. See an Indie Film at Nickelodeon Cinemas
Support a local cinema and enjoy:
- Indie films
- Documentaries
- Cult classics
- Quiet, old-school vibes
Tickets are affordable, and the atmosphere is welcoming.
16. Stargazing at Fort Williams Park
Head to Cape Elizabeth, just minutes away, and find a peaceful stargazing spot by the cliffs.
Bring a blanket, download a stargazing app, and enjoy the dark skies away from city lights.
17. Just Walk Old Port and Soak It In
Sometimes the best nights are the simplest. Just walk the Old Port and let the city surprise you.
- Music from bars
- Street performers
- Sea air and harbor lights
- People watching
Portland is safest, most alive, and most beautiful after dark.
B. Five Best Things to Do in Portland, Maine at Night for Adults
18. X-Golf Portland
| Name | X-Golf Portland |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.7 (29 Google reviews) |
| Type | Sports Bar & Indoor Golf Simulator |
| Address | 101 York St, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Phone | (207) 536-1257 |
| Website | xgolfportland.com |
| Menu | View Menu |
| Services | ✅ Dine-in
❌ Takeout ❌ Delivery |
| Hours | Wed–Fri: 12 PM–9 PM
Sat: 9 AM–10 PM Sun–Tue: Closed |
| Highlights | Indoor golf, sports bar vibe, group-friendly |
19. Blue Portland Maine – Live Music Venue
| Detail | Information |
| ⭐ Rating | 4.5 (312 reviews) |
| 🎵 Type | Live Music Venue, Bar |
| 📍 Address | 650 Congress St #A, Portland, ME 04101 |
| 🏢 Located in | Lafayette Apartments |
| 🕒 Hours | 5 PM–12 AM (Tuesday–Sunday): Closed⋅ |
| 🌐 Website | blueportlandmaine.org |
| 📞 Phone | Not publicly listed |
| 🍸 Atmosphere | Intimate, candle-lit, jazz/folk vibe |
| 🎤 Events | Live music almost nightly, private events, artist showcases |
| 📌 Nearby | Arts District, near museums and top restaurants |
| 🧭 Directions | View on Google Maps (optional) |
20. Nickelodeon Cinemas (Patriot Cinemas)
| Name | Nickelodeon Cinemas (Patriot Cinemas) |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.4 (653 Google reviews) |
| Type | Movie Theater |
| Description | Shows indie, local, and blockbuster movies |
| Address | 1 Temple St, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Phone | (207) 772-4022 |
| Website | patriotcinemas.com |
21. Portland Head Light
| Name | Portland Head Light |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.8 (15,815 Google reviews) |
| Type | Historical Landmark & Lighthouse |
| Description | A scenic lighthouse built in 1791 with a museum, located in Fort Williams Park. Still in operation. |
| Admission | Museum entry from $2.00 (additional fees may apply) |
| Address | Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107 |
| Phone | (207) 799-2661 |
| Website | portlandheadlight.com |
22. Muse Paintbar – Portland
| Name | Muse Paintbar – Portland |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.7 (239 Google reviews) |
| Type | Painting Studio |
| Description | Fun painting classes with food, beer, and wine – great for a relaxing night out. |
| Address | 245 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Phone | (888) 607-6873 |
| Hours | Tue–Fri: 2:30–9:15 PM
Sat: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM Sun: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM Mon: Closed |
| Website | musepaintbar.com |
| Notes | LGBTQ+ friendly |
C. Eight Best Things to Do in Portland, Maine at Night for Couples
Planning a romantic night out? Portland’s coastal charm and cozy venues create the perfect atmosphere.
23. Rocky Bottom Fisheries
| Name | Rocky Bottom Fisheries |
| Rating | ⭐ 5.0 (305 Google reviews) |
| Type | Boat Tour Agency in Portland, Maine |
| Activities | Family-friendly lobster fishing & sunset cruises |
| Boat Info | 40-foot lobster boat |
| Address | 60 Portland Pier, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Phone | (207) 274-1844 |
| Hours | 9 AM–7 PM |
| Website | www.rockybottomfisheries.com/ |
24. Terrarium
| Name | Terrarium |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.8 (80 Google reviews) |
| Type | Garden Center in Portland, Maine |
| Services | In-store Shopping, Curbside Pickup |
| Address | 98 Cross St N Suite A, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Phone | (207) 747-4015 |
| Hours | 12–8 PM |
| Website | terrariumportlandme.com |
| Extra Notes | 🌈 LGBTQ+ Friendly • Women-Owned Business |
25. Maine Day Ventures (formerly Maine Foodie Tours)
| Name | Maine Day Ventures (formerly Maine Foodie Tours) |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.8 (613 Google reviews) |
| Type | Tourist Information Center / Guided Food & Walking Tours |
| Popular Tours | Old Port Culinary Walking Tour – $155
Savor Bar Harbor Tour – $155 Walk Through Time in Portland – $45 |
| Tour Start | Andy’s Pub, 94 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Phone | (207) 233-7485 |
| Hours | 9 AM–5 PM |
| Websites | mainedayventures.com
mainefoodietours.com |
| Extra Notes | 🌈 LGBTQ+ Friendly • Women-Owned Business |
26. Casco Bay Custom Charters
| Name | Casco Bay Custom Charters |
| Rating | ⭐ 5.0 (109 Google reviews) |
| Type | Boat Tour Agency |
| Top Tours | • New England Fall Foliage Charter – $166
• Lighthouse & Sightseeing Charter – $166 • Private Lighthouse & Coastal Tour – $225 |
| Tour Start | 320 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Phone | (207) 205-5796 |
| Hours | 9 AM–7 PM |
| Website | cascobaycustomcharters.com |
| Booking Site | fareharbor.com |
| Extra Notes | 🌈 LGBTQ+ Friendly |
27. The Portland Donut Tour – Maine
| Name | The Portland Donut Tour – Maine |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.8 (69 Google reviews) |
| Type | Tour Operator (Walking Donut Tours) |
| Top Tours | • Portland Donut Walking Tour – $60
• Old Port Doughnut Tour – $65 • Donut Tasting Tour – $65 |
| Tour Starting Point | The Maine Souvenir Shop, 2 Exchange St, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Phone | (207) 345-6985 |
| Hours | Opens at 9:00 AM (Currently Closed) |
| Website | mainedonuttour.com |
| Booking | Instant confirmation · Mobile tickets available |
| Extra Info | 🌈 LGBTQ+ Friendly · Includes sweet treats, craft drinks, & fun history |
28. Walk the Eastern Promenade or Waterfront
A quiet evening walk with ocean air, city lights, and the sound of waves — completely free and utterly romantic.
- Stroll past sailboats and lighthouse silhouettes
- Sit on a bench with a hot cocoa or gelato
- Watch the stars over Casco Bay
🕯️ Ideal after dinner or before heading to dessert.
29. Chocolate & Jazz
Sometimes, a perfect date night is just sipping and listening.
- Bar of Chocolate Café – Espresso martinis + decadent desserts
- MJ’s Wine Bar – Warm, inviting, with live jazz
- Blue Jazz Club – Smooth sounds, candlelit tables, perfect for quiet nights
Great for couples who enjoy soft conversations and artistic atmospheres.
30. Art After Dark or Gallery Hopping
On First Fridays, downtown Portland hosts a free art walk — and many galleries stay open late.
- Hold hands while admiring paintings
- Meet artists and buy one-of-a-kind gifts
- Often paired with live music and wine tastings
🎨 Creative couples love this monthly tradition!
D. Top 5 Best Fun Things To Do With Kids in Portland, Maine
31. Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad
| Name | Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.5 (911 reviews) |
| Category | Rail Museum |
| Description | Coastal rides on a vintage narrow-gauge train with scenic ocean views and a conductor sharing historical stories. |
| Features | ✅ Gift Shop |
| Admission | $18.25 (Additional fees may apply) |
| Address | 65 Thames St, Portland, ME 04101 |
| Hours | Sun–Thu: 9:30 AM–6 PM
Fri–Sat: 9:30 AM–8 PM |
| Phone | (207) 828-0814 |
| Website | mainenarrowgauge.org |
| Plus Code | MQ63+8M Portland, Maine |
| LGBTQ+ Friendly | ✅ Yes |
32. Color Me Mine (Portland, ME)
| Name | Color Me Mine – Portland, ME |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.3 (123 reviews) |
| Category | Painting Studio |
| Description | Paint-your-own pottery studio offering walk-in sessions, workshops, and private party bookings. Great for all ages. |
| Address | 16 Van Aken Way, Portland, ME 04102 |
| Phone | (207) 536-4848 |
| Website | portland.colormemine.com |
| Hours | Sunday: 10 AM–6 PM
Monday: 10 AM–6 PM Tuesday–Saturday: 10 AM–8:30 PM |
| Services | ✅ Walk-ins Welcome
✅ Workshops ✅ Birthday Parties |
| LGBTQ+ Friendly | ✅ Yes |
| Women-Owned | ✅ Yes |
33. Deering Oaks Park – Portland, ME
| Name | Deering Oaks Park |
| Type | Public Park |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.5 (355 reviews) |
| Address | Portland, ME 04101 |
| Hours | Daily: 6 AM – 8 PM |
| Dog Friendly | ✅ Yes |
| Website | deeringoaks.org |
34. Southworth Planetarium – Portland, ME:
| Name | Southworth Planetarium |
| Type | Planetarium |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.1 (54 reviews) |
| Address | 70 Falmouth St, Portland, ME 04103 |
| Location | University of Southern Maine |
| Hours | Mon–Fri: 9 AM–3 PM
Fri: 6:30–8 PM Sat–Sun: 12:30–2 PM |
| Website | usm.maine.edu |
| Phone | (207) 780-4249 |
35. Maine Warrior Gym – South Portland, ME
| Name | Maine Warrior Gym |
| Type | Gym |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.8 (149 reviews) |
| Address | 333 Clarks Pond Pkwy, South Portland, ME 04106 |
| Website | mainewarriorgym.com |
| Phone | (207) 370-4298 |
3-Day Portland, Maine Itinerary (With Cost Guide)
Whether you’re visiting Portland solo, with a partner, or with family, planning your trip around value, comfort, and unique local experiences is key. Here’s how you can make the most of 3 nights in Portland, Maine.
1. Solo Traveler Itinerary: Portland in 3 Days
Portland is a fantastic destination for solo travelers. It’s walkable, welcoming, and full of great food and solo-friendly spots.
Day 1: Explore Like a Local
- Walk around the Old Port cobblestone streets
- Grab a lobster roll at Highroller Lobster Co.
- Stroll along Eastern Promenade
- Visit Gritty’s or Bissell Brothers for a beer
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$100
(Includes food, drinks, transit, and entry fees)
Day 2: Art & Adventure
- Take the Casco Bay ferry to Peaks Island ($8–$18)
- Rent a bike or golf cart for island exploration
- Visit the Portland Museum of Art ($20)
- Dine at Duckfat (famous for fries + shakes)
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$120
(Ferry, rental, museum, meals)
Day 3: Chill & Discover
- Brunch at Tandem Coffee + Bakery
- Go bowling at Bayside Bowl
- Browse indie books at Print: A Bookstore
- Watch sunset at Fort Williams Park
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$90
(Bowling, food, souvenirs)
2. Couples’ 3-Day Romantic Getaway in Portland
Portland is perfect for a romantic escape with ocean views, fine dining, and cozy moments.
Day 1: Date Night Downtown
- Stroll Old Port at dusk
- Have dinner at Fore Street (award-winning)
- Sip cocktails at The Bar of Chocolate
- End with a harborfront walk
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$180
(Fine dining + drinks + parking)
Day 2: Love on the Water
- Take a sunset cruise on Casco Bay (~$60/person)
- Visit Portland Head Light for golden hour photos
- Share dessert at Gorgeous Gelato
- Explore Old Port boutiques
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$160
(Includes cruise, food, shopping)
Day 3: Arts & Wine
- Brunch at Bayside American Café
- Visit Victoria Mansion or art galleries
- Go wine tasting at MJ’s Wine Bar
- Walk the First Friday Art Walk (if Friday)
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$140
(Brunch, tasting, museum tickets)
3. Family-Friendly 3-Day Portland Itinerary
Portland offers tons of safe, affordable, and fun options for families with kids of all ages.
Day 1: Learning + Laughs
- Explore the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine
- Lunch at Flatbread Company (kid-friendly pizza)
- Playtime and sunset at Willard Beach
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$160
(2 adults + 2 kids incl. tickets + meals)
Day 2: Island Adventure
- Hop on the Peaks Island Ferry
- Rent surrey bikes and explore
- Enjoy lunch by the water
- End with ice cream at Beal’s
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$200
(Ferry, bike rental, lunch, treats)
Day 3: Indoor Fun & Shopping
- Morning bowling at Bayside Bowl
- Lunch at The Friendly Toast
- Stop by The Maine Mall or indie toy stores
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$180
(Bowling, food, shopping)
The Nitty-Gritty: Smart Planning Tips
- Parking: Street parking is metered until 6 PM. After that, it’s free but competitive. Your best bet? Park in a city garage (Spring Street or Elm Street). They are affordable, safe, and save you the headache.
- Getting Around: The Old Port is incredibly walkable. For longer distances or after a few drinks, Uber and Lyft are reliable and plentiful.
- Reservations: For popular restaurants like Eventide or Fore Street, book weeks (if not months) in advance. For most breweries and casual spots, it’s first-come, first-served.
FAQs (Quick Answers)
Q: What can you do in Portland Maine at night?
A: Enjoy live music, eat great food, bar hop, go on ghost tours, take a cruise, or watch the sunset from Eastern Prom.
Q: Is there nightlife in Portland Maine?
A: Yes, especially in the Old Port district. You’ll find bars, breweries, lounges, music venues, and night eats.
Q: Are there free things to do at night in Portland?
A: Yes — enjoy a waterfront walk, see street art, attend art walks, or visit parks like Eastern Promenade and Fort Allen Park.
Q: What are romantic night ideas in Portland Maine?
A: Sunset cruises, candlelit dinners, jazz lounges, and nighttime beach walks.
Q: Is Portland, Maine safe to walk around at night?
A: Absolutely. The core areas you’ll explore—the Old Port and downtown—are well-lit, densely populated with fellow evening explorers, and regularly patrolled. It’s a safe and welcoming environment. Standard city smarts always apply, but you can relax and enjoy yourself here.
Q: I’m not a big drinker. What else is there to do?
A: So much! Portland’s after-dark personality is incredibly diverse. This guide is packed with non-alcoholic adventures: ghost tours, scenic lighthouse visits, sunset sails, world-class people-watching, and some of the best food you’ll ever eat.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Think “casual comfort with style.” Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable for the cobblestone streets. Always bring a layer—a light jacket or sweater—even in summer. The waterfront breeze has a chill you won’t expect.
Conclusion: Portland Nights Are Full of Possibility
No matter your style, budget, or company, there’s no shortage of things to do in Portland, Maine at night. From scenic waterfronts and live shows to quiet wine bars and axe throwing, Portland gives you every reason to stay out a little later.
So when you’re done exploring by day… stay for the night. You won’t regret it.
Similar (Portland, Maine) Related articles:
50+ Best Things to Do in Portland, Maine (2025 Guide) | Where to Eat, Stay & Explore
