Fun things to do in South Portland: 23 fun attractions and activities (2024)

Be prepared for absolutely stunning views of the ocean as far as your eyes can see, waves crashing against the jagged rocks of the cliffs and a beautifully restored historic lighthouse perched high above it all. This is definitely one that you want to see if in the area. It was quite busy on the weekend and we could hardly get any photos without a ton of people walking in them. If you really want some great views of this lighthouse, make sure to take the cliff side trail. It’s well worth the short time it takes and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views.

This place is beautiful. Free to get in to the park, just pay for parking ($2). Well maintained and worth the visit no matter what time of year. There is also a small swimming beach, an old fort to explore, and plenty of open grassy areas where I often see families playing with kids and dogs. Great spots for photo shoots. Plus there’s usually at least one food truck on the property.

This is our second trip to this iconic lighthouse (built in 1791), which is noted to be the most photographed lighthouse in the country. It is stunning, and no matter how many times you visit, you will stand in awe of how majestic it is. We have visited at least 50 to 75 lighthouses, and if I could only visit one knowing what I know now, it would be this one. A lighthouse is not to be overlooked.Concession stands abound in case you get there and you forget to pack a picnic lunch.There is plenty of paid parking.

This is attached to Fort Williams park. I made a post about the Park and all the comments apply to this post as well.In addition, you can walk up to the lighthouse and see some historical markers, and the building and FOG HORN up close.Unfortunately the BIG HORN did not blast while we were standing there but I imagine it would be loud and scare children and little dogs 🤣The building is well maintained and the views are really stunning. We saw some sea birds in the ocean waters diving underwater but not much other sea life from atop the cliffs.Bring a nice camera for the views and take plenty of photos.

Large expansive park with beautiful views and plenty of walking paths to occupy anyone for hours. Just go to walk or learn some local history of this area. It was very important during wartime and beyond. In the past there was a self sustaining community equipped with everything from a hospital to a swimming pool! Plenty of parking and easy to navigate around the area but couldn’t find any maps for the trails.

Beautiful here. So much open space. Stunning views. The lighthouse is so picturesque. Last time we were here was during covid so not much was open. Now, the lighthouse museum is open (there is a nominal fee, I think it's $2 per person more or less). There are picnic tables, and benches in the park. There are other buildings on the property as well that are open now. There are a few food trucks. We even saw people on the beach - it's a bit rocky but it looks like you can still enjoy the beach! Plenty of parking. There are a few parking lots so definitely drive around before you decide where to park. We paid $5 for 2 hours.

Beautiful picturesque light house with cool looking rocks facing the ocean. Before the lighthouse there was a hilly area where people had sleighs and were having fun. There was plenty parking and since it was a holiday, no one was attending the parking lot. I loved the color of the lighthouse and it had a beautiful view. I highly recommend coming either in the winter for sledding or in the summer for BBQ.

The surrounding view is breathtaking! Climbing around is fun. We wore hiking shoes and felt quite comfortable climbing the rocks. I saw some people managed with sandals and sneakers but I totally recommend wearing hiking boots. There is a small gift shop here and an ice cream truck nearby. We parked at the 1st lot we saw but there are more parking nearer to the light house. Self paid parking.

Such a beautiful area to visit. It was so lovely at sunset. There are picnic tables on the hill for you to enjoy a meal and a couple food trucks are there as well. This lighthouse is a fabulous one to see in person up close.

Beautiful site to visit. There are stunning views surrounding the lighthouse. A walking path provides a scenic walk through the grounds. There is ample parking.

This was a beautiful stop on a winter day. We brought my dog who enjoyed smelling around (on leash) and were able to wander some trails that were packed down despite the snow. Roads were well maintained even in proximity to winter weather.

Visited Portland Head Light House and Ft. Williams and it was awesome seeing such an historic place and the iconic light house. Unfortunately, we visited on a time when the museum was closed. But despite this, we still had a great time. Will definitely come back again during the summer.

Visiting Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, ME was an absolute delight. The majestic lighthouse standing tall against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean was a breathtaking sight. The serenity of the surroundings made it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Walking along the rugged coastline, with the soothing sound of waves crashing against the rocks, was truly therapeutic. The historical significance of the lighthouse added an extra layer of charm to the experience, offering a glimpse into the region's maritime past. Overall, a visit to Portland Head Light is a must for anyone seeking beauty, tranquility, and a connection to Maine's rich coastal heritage.

Beautiful landmark. Great place to get a bite to eat at one of many food trucks. Beautiful place for photos, picnics, weddings. Only had port a potties for restrooms. Small fee for parking.

We walked around to the back of the lighthouse and enjoyed the sunrise with the boats and nobody near us. When we were walking back we realized most people were standing in a different spot where they could get a picture of the lighthouse and the sunrise together. We took some pictures there as well. Absolutely beautiful and being able to cross this off the bucket list! It's worth getting up early if you like this kind of thing!!

Historic lighthouse located in a huge park with walking trails. There were three spots right by the lighthouse that were free parking, while the other lots were paid parking (via a parking app). Came here on a Wednesday and it was raining so there weren’t too many other people there. The museum wasn’t open when we went, but it was still cool to see the lighthouse from various angles. It’s a very picturesque spot.If you walk along the trail (compact dirt track), you’ll come across a mansion as well as another area where you could picnic. There were also portapotties by the picnic area. The beach is rocky so wear comfy shoes if you’re planning on talking a stroll. There are benches along the trail if you want to sit and have a main character moment.Overall, a great sight for first-timers and tourists.

This was our second trip here. Was a rainy day this time, sunny the first day. Definitely better on a sunny day! Still worth the walk around and a great Park like atmosphere. Pay parking is cheap. Be sure to eat the lobster rolls at the top of the hill :-)

If you enjoy a lighthouse this is the stop! Sprang a couple hours walking around and taking in the scenery! Loved this lighthouse. Quite a bit of traffic and people so be patient to get a great picture.Explored the old forts as well.

Really nice spot to enjoy the view.There is a rocky area you can walk on and sit by the water, or walk on a dirt road with a bunch of benches.There is a parking lot for cars, and some electric charging stations. However, you have to download an app and there is no signal there so you have to walk around to get signal first then charge.The staff is kind, and there is an ice cream truck nearby.

If you opt out of the museum it's free to roam about the park. It was a lightly rainy day and it was lovely. Make sure to bring a warm jacket for that cool breeze. The staff was super sweet. If you need to use the restroom the only ones are the porta potties around the parking lot. Enjoy a nice walk around and take plenty of pictures.

The lighthouse is beautiful. It is free to visit. There are lots of people visiting and taking photos. You couldn't go inside when we visited, but I don't know if there are times of the year when you can go inside. There are portable pottys there, which people were using, but I didn't, so I can't speak to how clean they were. There are walking trails on either side of the lighthouse, so you can see it from different vantage points as well. It's very pretty overall and I really enjoyed the visit. If you are in the area and get a chance to go, you should definitely go.

Lovely lighthouse with a surrounding park. Easy parking close by, but also nice walking paths around the water should you choose to go that way instead. Worth the visit even when the lighthouse itself is closed.

Beautiful piece of history. They have a nice trail that goes all the way around the park. I love that aside from EXTREMELY dangerous cliffs they haven’t completely blocked off rock or water access. They have the warnings but leave it up to you and your own common sense to decide if you want to venture out. There are history markers all over the place telling tourists the history of the place while many of the old out buildings are still accessible for adventuring. The only one you can’t go into is the old mansion but it’s literally a safety and liabilities issue. They haven’t put the dense so far around it that you can’t see into it. Had an amazing time!

I first observed the lighthouse while taking a tour with Eco Adventures out of Portland. I finally had a chance to visit. WOW 😲! I had fun exploring the museum, gift shop, the lighthouse grounds and the connecting 🏞️ parks. I also learned some history about lighthouses as well as this one.The views are great 👍 and there was a small storm that churned the ocean 🌊. Walking along the 🪨 rocks next to the ocean was fun!The museum was only $2. There are displays, old photos, articles and artifacts that explain the history of the lighthouse and Fort Williams.Though there are quite a few parking 🅿️ spaces, you may spend some time trying to find a spot. I found one after five minutes. There is a pay meter at the parking 🅿️ lot near the Head 🗣️ Light 🕯️. If you want to explore everything, pay the three hours for $7. Two hours costs $5.The park next to the Head Light is spacious, has a paved walking trail and an area where you can let your dog 🐕 run free 🆓. Rosa Rugosa 🌺 flowers grow along the trails. You can observeboats and airplanes going by.The park ranger I interacted with was helpful. He offered a couple with a dog 🐶 a water 💦 dish so there dog could get a drink from the water fountain 🚰.If you go, which I recommend, see if you can visit all of the other parks and historical attractions while you are there.

Bucket list item! Loved it. Too bad you can't go inside the lighthouse but at least you are there. The views are spectacular! The sound of the waves crashing was so peaceful. Loved loved loved it. There are a couple of food trucks with lobster rolls, etc. You can even have a picnic they're at the surrounding park.

Gorgeous park and beautiful lighthouse. Many places to take photos from. Quaint giftshop and small museum on site. I wish I had more time to sit & relax! You can not go up in the lighthouse, but museum is in part of the lighthouse.

I recently visited Portland Head Light with my family, and it was a truly memorable experience. The weather was perfect, enhancing the beauty of this iconic lighthouse. The scene was especially enchanting as the lighthouse stood majestically amidst a beautiful fog that added a mystical charm to the surroundings.The area is well-maintained, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. The views of the sea are breathtaking, and the historical significance of the lighthouse adds an educational aspect to the visit. There are plenty of picturesque spots for photography, and the pathways around the lighthouse are great for a leisurely walk.Overall, Portland Head Light is a fantastic destination that combines natural beauty with historical allure. It’s definitely a must-visit if you’re in the area, especially with family.

🌊Beautiful View - Nature Trails, Flowers, Lighthouse🌊I visited the Portland Head Lighthouse during a bus tour stop (and only regret not having even *more* time to enjoy the outdoors). This location served as a military based until 1964, and is now maintained by the Cape Elizabeth Historical Preservation Society.The wind coming off of the ocean is so refreshing. Every angle of the lighthouse is photogenic. There's also a series of walking paths that branch away from the lighthouse (Fort Williams Park), including picnic benches, shady trees, flowers, and views of the ocean. If you're able to get out to the coastline, do it. The view, the weather, and the sense of calm are all well worth it.

Came on a Friday late morning around 10:15 during the off season (first Friday of March).Gorgeous sunny day.The gift shops aren’t open but nonetheless the views are what I had imagined Maine looked like. To see it in person was even better.I’d recommend bringing a lunch, sit and just enjoy nature and the chance to pause from the busyness of life.

Great walk along the shore with the family with options to go down the rocks and check out tidal pools. Beautiful light house views.Little rocky beach by the ruins.

Considered the most photographed lighthouse in Maine! For good reason as the views are amazing and this is one of the tallest and most accessible lighthouses in Maine!Several parking spaces, but you have to pay $5 for 2 hours. Easy 5 min walk to the lighthouse from the parking lot.Also a food truck by the parking lot serving lobster rolls, but at +$38, this was the most expensive lobster roll I had seen in all of Maine!

Very beautiful place to just relax and inhale the sweet salty sea air. Very windy so it tends to get cold be sure to wear something warm.

We wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and liberate ourselves in the refreshing breeze and serene blue sea, so we headed to Maine for our holiday.Portland Head Light is one of the highlights of Maine. As the oldest lighthouse in Maine, it offers breathtaking views from every angle. Picture a pristine white lighthouse standing tall against the backdrop of the blue sky and sea – it's an unforgettable sight.Nearby, you'll find food trucks where you can grab delicious food, drinks, and ice cream to make your day here in Portland even better.

Portland Headlight makes me a little teary eyed. She is so beautiful. I love that you have access to the rocky shoreline and can take your time to fully take in the experience. The sound of the boat horns in the distance, the sun on your face and the wind in your hair. It is the perfect escape from daily stressors.

Portland Head Light stands as a timeless beacon of maritime history and natural beauty. Perched majestically atop the rugged cliffs of Cape Elizabeth, it offers an iconic symbol of Maine's coastal heritage. The lighthouse itself is a marvel of architecture, its sturdy stone walls and classic tower evoking a sense of strength and resilience against the relentless ocean waves.Visitors to Portland Head Light are treated to panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, with sweeping vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Whether you're admiring the lighthouse from afar, exploring the surrounding parkland, or climbing the stairs to take in the breathtaking scenery from the top of the tower, every moment spent here is filled with awe and wonder.The park surrounding Portland Head Light offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, from picnicking on the grassy lawns to hiking along scenic trails that wind through the rugged coastline. History buffs will appreciate the museum located within the former keeper's quarters, which offers fascinating insights into the lighthouse's rich maritime heritage.Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from afar, Portland Head Light is a must-see destination that captivates the imagination and leaves a lasting impression.

Fort Williams Park is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. Plenty of parking, easy access, and gorgeous scenery. You pay for parking ($2.50/hr), but there is no entrance fee. They even have a dog park!

During our trip to Portland, my girlfriend and I decided to check out some of the lighthouses scattered across the coast. Out of the 4 lighthouses we saw, the Portland Head Light was easily the best. The Head Light is very picturesque, and the crowds weren’t bad when we visited. We also checked out the museum for the lighthouse, which was inexpensive and had lots of neat facts about the entire history of the lighthouse.

Beautiful place!Listed as the first lighthouse enacted by the federal government. A definite must see in your visit the Portland.The park is massive, multiple locations to see but the lighthouse attracted all of us.The waves crashing, the distant islands, the fast winds. All helped created a memorable experience

A must visit if you are in the area or if you are Toilets come in the form of porta potties. Parking spots come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. If I were you, I would bring bread with me to the lighthouse—I get hungry often. This is a perfect location for well behaved children. The lighthouse quite large. Would recommend.

It's the signature of Portland and a must visit place when you visit Portland. It's only 15 minutes drive from downtown. This place is historical and so beautiful. A good place to visit with your family and friends and spend time here. The light house is so picturesque. There are some food trucks here too.