When arriving into Portland, Maine we instantly fell in love with dog-friendly nature of the community. Traveling with a dog is not always easy, but your whole family will feel welcome in Portland. The historic city of Portland holds an eclectic mix of historic and modern, fishing village and artistic scene. Prepare yourself and your pooch for the ultimate getaway to Maine!
Walk along the Portland waterfront
Go for a stroll with your dog down the cobblestone streets of the old port. Enjoy the fascinating brick architecture and never ending sailing of ships. Peek into the many boutique shops lining the street with a beautiful mix of new and old.
Walking down Commercial Street make sure to head down Long Wharf to see all the tour boats making their way in and out of the port. Stop for a drink or a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants that offer dog friendly outdoor seating.
Explore Fort Williams Park and Portland Head Light
Do not let your dog miss out on the icon of the city, the Portland Head Light. This stunning lighthouse is located inside of Fort Williams Park. Here you can enjoy the beautiful Head Light, the powerful rocky Maine coast and exploring military ruins.
Take a dog-friendly tour
For those looking for a guided tour with the history of Portland and some unique experiences, there are several dog friendly options. Hop aboard the Casco Bay Mailboat Run to enjoy a first hand view of the islands dotting the bay off of Portland. Get a close up view of Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Long, Cliff and Chebeague on this roughly three our tour.
Book a trolly or boat tour with Portland Discovery – Land & Sea Tours for a bit of history and fun. The trolley tour not only takes you through the history of Portland, but also adds in a 30 minute stop at Portland Head Light, the perfect way to visit without a car.
Enjoy the green areas around Portland
While you might find your days full with the amount to do and see in downtown Portland, but remember, there is plenty more to enjoy in the surrounding areas. Go for a natural walk along the Eastern Promenade Trail on the waterfront. Enjoy spectacular harbor and ocean views as you pass over Tukey’s Bridge. There is also an additional 70 miles of trails and hikes throughout the greater city under the umbrella of Portland Trails.
If you are visiting Portland between Labor Day and Memorial Day dogs are allowed on pretty much all the beaches in the area throughout the day, including Crescent Beach State Park.
Downtown Portland Accommodations
If you are looking to stay at the center of the action in downtown Portland with your pup, look no further than the Hilton Garden Inn. Enjoy views out into Casco Bay and down the bustling water front. Besides the spacious rooms and comfortable beds, just around the corner is plenty of green space along Franklin Street for your dog. The Hilton Garden Inn charges a one time $100 pet fee for dogs with no restrictions.
Cape Elizabeth Accommodations
Stay a bit further outside of Portland along the beaches of Cape Elizabeth at the luxurious Inn by the Sea. This seaside resort not only allows dogs, but wants them to enjoy the experience as much as the rest of the family. Here they also take it one step further with a gourmet food menu for dogs and a pet special stay with a personalized L.L. Bean dog bed to take home.
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Molly
Thursday 11th of June 2020
Thank you for a lovely list of dog friendly parks.
I'm wondering if you might consider reminding dog guardians with aggressive dogs to keep theirs on leash?
We've had several attacks resulting in injured and unfortunately loss. Not to mention the trauma of witnessing such attacks. We need to encourage mindfulness and training on both ends of the leash.
I support no kill shelters but feel not all of them are created equal. When you have a tourist economy, people from around the country are visiting with their dogs. Unfortunately, not everyone takes the time to train their rescue or has the good common sense to keep their dog leashed.
I'm reaching out because I don't know what else to do. If you have any suggestions in happy to hear them.
Thank you kindly, Molly
Travel To Blank
Tuesday 16th of June 2020
People should always keep their animals on a leash unless it says otherwise! I would honestly contact the local city hall and ask them to put signs in parks saying that it is a must to use leashes.
Good luck and I am so sorry to hear what have happened to you previously!