Ideas for a rainy day in Portland

Question

We are currently staying in Portland with two teenagers (17 and 14) and looking for ideas on what to do on a rainy day. We have a car so happy to travel

Answer

Hi there!

It can be a bit tricky when you're in Portland with teenagers and the weather isn’t cooperating, but don’t worry — there are plenty of indoor activities that will keep everyone entertained! Here are some ideas for a rainy day in Portland, with a mix of things that teenagers will enjoy, along with a bit of fun for the whole family:

1. Portland Museum of Art

The Portland Museum of Art (PMA) is a great place to explore, especially on a rainy day. It has a diverse collection, including American, European, and contemporary art. Your teenagers might enjoy the interactive exhibits, as well as special exhibitions that focus on photography, modern art, and even Maine-based artists.

Family-friendly exhibits: The museum often has kid-friendly tours or exhibits with engaging descriptions and activities for teens.
Architecture: The museum building itself is beautiful, blending historic and modern elements, and is fun to explore even if you're not an art enthusiast.

2. Maine State Museum (Augusta)

If you're up for a bit of a drive, about 1 hour north to Augusta, the Maine State Museum offers an excellent range of exhibits on Maine's history, culture, and natural sciences. It’s an educational yet fun experience, and they often have interactive displays that teenagers can enjoy.

Hands-on exhibits: There are lots of interactive displays for visitors of all ages, including geology, marine life, and the state’s industrial history.
Historical perspective: Learn about Maine’s history through artifacts, exhibits about Native American culture, and the state’s role in America’s past.

3. Portland Head Light & Fort Williams Park

If the rain lets up or you’re okay with a little drizzle, Fort Williams Park offers a stunning view of Portland Head Light, one of the most iconic lighthouses in Maine. You can drive through the park and explore some of the old fort structures, or take a quick visit to the museum in the park that focuses on local maritime history.

Scenic and educational: While you might not want to spend too much time outdoors in the rain, it’s still a great spot for a quick stop and to learn about Portland’s maritime heritage.
Indoor options: If you’d prefer to stay dry, the museum at Fort Williams provides indoor exhibits about the lighthouse’s history.

4. The Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine

Though it’s designed with younger children in mind, The Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine can still be fun for teens, especially if they’re in the mood to embrace their playful side. There are hands-on exhibits on science, art, and Maine culture, and they often have special events or performances.

Interactive exhibits: Some exhibits encourage creativity and play, which might be fun for teenagers if they're willing to let loose a bit.
Theatre performances: Check to see if there are any performances that might appeal to older kids.

5. Escape Rooms

Escape rooms are always a hit with teenagers and can provide a fun, challenging, and collaborative activity to do indoors. In Portland, you can check out places like The Escape Room Portland or The Room of Clues to test your problem-solving skills as a family. Many escape rooms have themes that range from adventure and mystery to horror, so there should be something for everyone.

Teamwork and fun: Teens will love the chance to work together to solve puzzles, and it’s a fun way to bond as a family.
Variety of themes: Choose from a range of themes, from history to fantasy, and enjoy an immersive experience.

6. The Salt Cellar

If your teens enjoy unique shopping experiences, head to The Salt Cellar, an awesome store in Portland that specializes in a variety of salts from around the world. It's a cool place to browse, and they also have unique local Maine goods and spices. It's small, but it's an experience in itself to explore the different salts and other products.

7. Maine Mall

If you’re looking for something more traditional, the Maine Mall, just a short drive from Portland, has a wide variety of stores and entertainment options. You can hit up some of the popular stores, or take a break at the food court, which offers a variety of options that teens will enjoy.

Shopping and dining: The mall is home to many popular shops, from fashion to tech, and has a fun, youthful vibe.
Movie theatres: Check out what’s playing at the nearby cinemas — it could be a great way to spend a few hours on a rainy day.

8. Bowdoin College Museum of Art

If your teens enjoy art, head to the Bowdoin College Museum of Art, located in Brunswick (about a 30-minute drive from Portland). The museum has a strong collection of American and European art, including some fascinating contemporary works. It’s a smaller museum, but it offers a quiet and educational experience with a chance to see world-class art without the crowds.

Educational experience: Explore American and European paintings, sculptures, and more.
Interactive exhibits: Some exhibits include activities or digital components to engage visitors more interactively.

9. Visit a Local Brewery or Coffee Shop

Portland is known for its craft beer scene, so if your teens are into exploring local culture, you can visit one of Portland’s many breweries that allow tours or tastings, such as Allagash Brewing Company or Shipyard Brewing Co. (though only the adults can participate in the tastings). Alternatively, cozy up in one of Portland’s excellent coffee shops, such as Specialty Coffee or Rising Tide Brewing, for a warm drink and some downtime.

Conclusion:

There’s plenty to do in Portland, even on a rainy day. Whether you're looking for culture, history, interactive activities, or a fun way to relax, you’ll find plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. Hopefully, these suggestions will help make your rainy day in Portland a little brighter!

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