Why Portland, Maine Is One of the Best Walking Cities in New England
Portland, Maine doesn’t just allow walking—it rewards it.
With a compact peninsula, layered neighborhoods, and a waterfront woven into daily life, Portland is one of the rare cities where walking isn’t just convenient—it’s the best way to understand the place. Many of the most memorable things to do in Portland, Maine happen at walking pace.
A City Built for Feet, Not Cars
Portland’s downtown peninsula is narrow and intuitive. You can walk from the Old Port to the waterfront, the Arts District, and residential neighborhoods without realizing you’ve crossed multiple zones. That closeness keeps you connected to what’s happening around you.
Why Walking Tours Matter 
Guided walking tours add context—connecting history, geography, and daily life. Instead of memorizing dates, you begin to understand why Portland looks the way it does and how its neighborhoods evolved.
History Lives at Street Level
Brick sidewalks, repurposed warehouses, and working wharves tell Portland’s story. Walking gives you time to notice details that are easy to miss when driving.
Walking vs Driving
Driving skips the connective tissue of the city. Walking allows flexibility, curiosity, and conversation. Many visitors pair walking tours with van or harbor experiences for a fuller picture.
Things to do in Portland, Maine
Planning Tips
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Take a walking tour early in your stay
• Pair walking with van or harbor tours
• Start from one central meeting point—the Portland Beer Hub