West End Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit West End
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.
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.
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.
Eastern Promenade
Built on an old rail corridor along the easternmost portion of Portland’s peninsula, this waterfront trail offers stunning views of the harbor and Atlantic Ocean.
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.
Activities
Discover Portland City and Lighthouse Tour
Portland Smartphone Audio Tour: Self-Guided Drive
Our pick of the best West End Hotel Deals
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland DT/Maine Med
"This was a brief stay on our driving trip through the New England states. The property is very nice, modern and well maintained. Rooms are super clean, well appointed and have great amenities. Breakfast was decent, although the coffee was mostly gone when I filled my cup before leaving. I would definitely ..."
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Portland Harbor Hotel
"Beautiful hotel however felt that it is expensive for where it is and then you have $45 daily for valet parking then a $35 resort fee also daily. This can be used towards breakfast or drinks but we only managed to use once during our 2 night stay. We did not enjoy the breakfast, the hash was very ..."
Reviewed on 23 June 2026
Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
"The staff was fine but not always as helpful as they could have been. The rooms were great and the beds clean and comfortable. The shower floor needed to be cleaned but the rest of the place was great. It’s in a wonderful location so we could walk to all the places we wanted to visit. The airport ..."
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Portland
"Nice clean stay, shower had good pressures"
Reviewed on 20 June 2026
Clarion Pointe South Portland
"Very nice people"
Reviewed on 23 June 2026
Portland Regency Hotel & Spa
"Everything was beautiful in the heart of the Old Port."
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Our guide on where to stay in West End
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.
Old Port
The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Old Port. A stop by Cross Insurance Arena or Casco Bay Lines Ferry Terminal might round out your trip.
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.
East Bayside
If you're spending some time in East Bayside, Maine Jewish Museum and Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception are top sights worth seeing.
West Bayside
When in West Bayside, you can plan a visit to Merrill Auditorium and Cross Insurance Arena, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
