Flying Into Maine? Here’s Your Easy Travel Guide
Headed to Maine for training and looking to make the most of your trip? Great news. Getting here is simple, and the area offers some of the best food, sightseeing, and coastal charm in New England.
Fly Into Portland International Jetport (PWM)
Portland International Jetport is the closest and most convenient airport. It is a small, clean, easy-to-navigate airport with quick baggage pickup and fast rideshare access. Most major airlines fly in daily, including Delta, American, United, JetBlue, and Southwest.
Travel time from the Jetport to most Portland hotels or the downtown area is typically 10 to 12 minutes.
Where to Stay
For the best Maine experience, stay in Downtown Portland. It offers walkable access to food, shopping, waterfront views, and the kind of cozy coastal atmosphere Maine is known for. Recommended neighborhoods include:
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Old Port: Cobblestone streets, boutique shops, cafés, and world-class seafood.
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Downtown Arts District: Museums, galleries, theaters, and great restaurants.
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Waterfront/Commercial Street: Easy access to the harbor, boat tours, and coastal views.
Popular hotel options include the Westin Harborview, AC Hotel, Press Hotel, Hyatt Place, and numerous charming boutique inns.
What to Do and See
Portland is a small city with big personality. Out-of-state travelers love:
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World-class dining: Especially seafood and farm-to-table restaurants.
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Shopping: Local boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and artisan goods.
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Sightseeing: The working waterfront, lighthouses, ferries, museums, and historic architecture.
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Coastal Maine experiences: Lighthouse tours, Casco Bay ferry rides, whale watching, and scenic walks along the Eastern Promenade.
Getting Around
- Howell’s is an easy 30 minute drive from Portland, ME.
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Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.
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Rental cars are accessible at the Jetport.
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Portland is very walkable, especially in the Old Port area.
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If your training takes place outside the city, consider renting a car for flexibility.
Travel Tips for Out-of-State Visitors
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Weather changes quickly. Pack layers and be prepared for cooler evenings.
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Maine’s food scene is exceptional. Make reservations early, especially in spring, summer, and fall.
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Downtown parking is limited. Your best bet is to walk or use rideshare.
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If you plan to explore beyond Portland, the coastline is filled with quick daytrip gems like Cape Elizabeth, Freeport, and Kennebunkport.
