Maine Character Energy

There’s something so dreamy and mystical about Maine — a hum of electricity in the New England air. There was a cold, steady rain the entire time we were in Portland, but I kind of loved it. Early May isn’t quite peak season, so the cobblestone streets were quiet.

I had high expectations for a trip that has been on my bucket list for ages, but I didn’t expect to feel quite like a character walking through a Hallmark movie. Every charming boutique, seaside restaurant, and pottery shop in Portland hosted friendly locals, artists, travelers, and fishermen. Pair that with raw oysters, fresh lobster rolls, and a bit of bubbly — I was fully coasting in the best way.

@emmamurphysc maine character energy ✨🦞🌊 • • • #maine #traveltiktok #portlandmaine #kennebunkport #roadtrip #eastcoast #rainydayvibes #maincharacter #mainevibes #mainetok ♬ original sound - Noah Kahan

Where We Stayed in Portland

We spent three nights at The Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront (thank you, Chase Rewards!) located right in the heart of Portland, which also happens to be where you can find the popular rooftop bar in the area, Luna.

The staff was friendly and hospitable, and the rooms were comfy and quiet — but the best part was the hotel is walking distance from all the best shopping and dining in Old Port.

Where We Ate in Portland

As an East Coast native, I consider myself a bit of a seafood snob, but Maine’s fresh lobster, oysters, and haddock certainly lived up to the hype. Here are some of the best places we ate during our four-day trip to Portland:

Breakfast

• The Holy Donut — Family-owned, good vibes, fun flavors of Maine’s famous potato donuts

Lunch

• Bite Into Maine — Food truck, lobster rolls, amazing view of Maine’s oldest lighthouse (Portland Head Light)

• Portland Lobster Co. — Casual, picnic tables, harbor view

Dinner & Drinks

• Luna Rooftop Bar — Best views of the area, small plates menu

• The Highroller Lobster Co. — Fun vibes, great service, amazing lobster roll flights

Dessert

• Gelato Fiasco — Free rainbow sprinkles!

• Mt. Desert Island Ice Cream — Super creamy with lots of fun flavors

@emmamurphysc this self-proclaimed seafood snob had high expectations for Maine, and Portland definitely delivered — here are all the great places we ate on our trip! 🦞🦪🦐🍋💙 what spots did we miss that we need to try on our next visit? • • • #maineseafood #portlandmaine #portland #seafoodlover #seafoodrestaurant #eastcoastsummer #eastcoastlifestyle #foodietiktok #travelfoodie #restaurantreview ♬ Breezin' - George Benson

Where We Shopped in Portland

• Made in Maine — Everything here is handmade by local Maine artists

• Shipwreck & Cargo — Perfect for your last-minute souvenir needs

• Old Port Card Works — Beautiful postcards (and tasty candy, too!)

• Uncommon Paws — We bought our dog the cutest lobster toy here

• Sea Bags Flagship Store — These bags are made from recycled sails; this store is a must-see

• Maine Potters Market — One of many nearby places to find handmade Portland pottery

Portland Lighthouses

Portland Head Light

Portland Head Light is the oldest lighthouse in Maine. Try to go on a sunnier day than we did — but even with the fog rolling through, we were able to capture some stunning views.

Spring Point Ledge Light

Spring Point Ledge Light is the only caisson-style lighthouse in the U.S. that you can walk to…but it’s a treacherous walk. Wear smart shoes if you plan to make the rocky trek.

I left a piece of my heart in New England — but I’ll be back.

Hey Siri, play Noah Kahan on repeat.