Quick Facts: Boston to Portland Day Trip at a Glance (2025)
Planning your escape to Maine’s charming coastal city? Here’s everything you need to know in a nutshell for a perfect day trip from Boston to Portland, ME.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~107 miles (172 km) |
| Driving Time | ~1 hour 45 mins to 2 hours 30 mins (traffic dependent) |
| Train Duration | ~2 hours 30 mins |
| Best Time to Visit | June – October (for best weather, fall foliage, and open attractions) |
| Estimated Cost | $110 – $305+ per person |
| Known For | Iconic Lighthouses, Fresh Lobster Rolls, Craft Beer, The Historic Old Port |
How to Get from Boston to Portland, Maine
Getting from Boston to Portland is a breeze, with several convenient options to fit your travel style and budget. Whether you prefer the freedom of the open road, the relaxation of a train ride, or the economy of a bus, the journey is straightforward and part of the adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to make the trip.
Driving from Boston to Portland
The most flexible way to travel is by car, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace and easily visit sights just outside the city center, like the famous Portland Head Light.
- Route: The most direct route is straight up I-95 North. It’s a simple and well-maintained highway.
- Driving Time: In ideal conditions, the driving time from Boston to Portland, ME is about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Be warned: summer weekend traffic, especially on a Friday or Sunday, can easily extend this to 2.5 hours or more.
- Distance: The distance from Boston to Portland, Maine is approximately 107 miles.
- Tolls: Expect a toll on I-95 in Hampton, New Hampshire. It’s typically around $2.00 each way, but it’s always wise to check current rates.
- Parking in Portland: Parking in the historic Old Port can be challenging. We recommend using a designated garage like the Casco Bay Garage or Fore Street Garage, where daily rates are usually between $20-$40. For street parking, download the PassportParking app, but be mindful of time limits.
Taking the Train: Amtrak Downeaster
For a relaxing and scenic journey without the stress of traffic or parking, the train is an excellent choice. This answers the common question: does Amtrak go from Boston to Portland, Maine? Yes, it does!
- Service: The Amtrak Downeaster provides multiple daily trips between the two cities.
- Duration: The train ride from Boston to Portland, Maine is consistently around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Stations: You’ll depart from Boston’s North Station and arrive at the Portland Transportation Center. Note that the Portland station is about 2 miles from the Old Port, so you’ll need a short Uber, taxi, or local bus ride to reach the heart of the action.
- Cost: Fares vary significantly. Book in advance for one-way tickets as low as $29. Last-minute or peak-time tickets can cost $60 or more.
Taking the Bus
The bus is often the fastest and most budget-friendly public transportation option for a day trip to Portland.
- Service: Concord Coach Lines is the primary operator, known for its comfortable and reliable service.
- Duration: The trip typically takes about 2 hours, sometimes beating both train and traffic-logged car travel times.
- Stations: Buses depart from Boston’s South Station and arrive at the same Portland Transportation Center as the Amtrak train.
- Cost: This is your cheapest bet, with one-way fares usually around $30.
What About a Ferry?
Many travelers wonder, is there a ferry from Boston to Portland, Maine? The answer is clear: no, there is currently no direct passenger ferry service operating between Boston and Portland. While The CAT ferry once offered service from Portland to Nova Scotia, that service no longer operates from Maine, and there has not been a direct Boston-to-Portland route for leisure travel.
Top 5 Things to Do on a Portland Day Trip
Portland is packed with incredible sights, tastes, and experiences. To make the most of your limited time, here are five must-do activities that define the perfect day trip.
- Visit the Portland Head Light
No trip to Portland is complete without seeing Maine’s oldest and most photographed lighthouse. Located in the stunning Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, it offers quintessential New England coastal views. Don’t miss the cliff walk, the Goddard Mansion ruins, and the small museum in the former Keeper’s Quarters.
- Location: Cape Elizabeth (a 10-15 minute drive from downtown Portland)
- Cost: Park entry is free; parking is paid via kiosk (~$2/hour). Museum entry is ~$2.
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
- Explore the Old Port
Wander through the historic heart of Portland. The Old Port’s cobblestone streets, charming 19th-century brick buildings, and working waterfront create an unforgettable atmosphere. Pop into unique boutiques, browse local art galleries, and find the perfect Maine souvenir.
- Location: Centered around Commercial Street and Fore Street
- Cost: Free to explore
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Eat an Authentic Maine Lobster Roll
You simply can’t leave Maine without indulging in its most famous dish. Decide if you’re team “Maine style” (chilled lobster salad with a touch of mayo) or “Connecticut style” (warm lobster meat drenched in butter). You can’t go wrong either way!
- Recommendations: High-Tide, Bite Into Maine (conveniently located at Fort Williams Park), or the trendy Highroller Lobster Co.
- Cost: Market price, typically $25 – $40
- Take a Scenic Cruise on Casco Bay
See the city, lighthouses, and Civil War-era forts from a different perspective. A boat tour on Casco Bay is a fantastic way to appreciate the rugged coastline and see marine life. Options range from informative tours to relaxing sails.
- Operators: Casco Bay Lines (check out the Mailboat Run for a local’s experience) or Portland Schooner Co. for a trip on a historic sailboat.
- Cost: ~$20 – $55 per person
- Duration: 1.5 – 3 hours
- Indulge in Portland’s Famous Food & Drink Scene
Portland’s reputation as a foodie destination is well-earned. Beyond lobster, the city is famous for its craft breweries and unique treats. Make time for at least one of these iconic stops.
- Recommendations: Grab a legendary potato donut from The Holy Donut, share an order of poutine from Duckfat, or sample world-class beers at Allagash Brewing Company.
- Cost: Varies
- Duration: 1-2 hours per stop
Sample Itinerary: A Perfect Day in Portland
Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s a step-by-step plan to help you structure your day and experience the best of Portland without feeling rushed.
Morning: Lighthouses and Donuts
8:00 AM: Depart from Boston to beat the worst of the traffic.
10:00 AM: Arrive in Portland, park your car, and head straight to The Holy Donut for a uniquely Maine breakfast snack.
11:00 AM: Drive to Fort Williams Park to marvel at the Portland Head Light. Take a walk along the cliffs and soak in the ocean air.
Afternoon: Old Port Exploration & Lunch
12:30 PM: Head back downtown for lunch in the Old Port. Now is the time for that glorious lobster roll!
2:00 PM: Spend the next couple of hours getting lost on the cobblestone streets. Explore the shops, galleries, and waterfront of the Old Port.
4:00 PM: Choose your afternoon adventure! Hop on a Casco Bay Cruise for sea views or visit a brewery like Allagash for a tasting tour.
Evening: Dinner and Departure
6:00 PM: Enjoy an early dinner at one of Portland’s acclaimed restaurants before hitting the road.
7:00 PM: Begin your drive back to Boston.
9:00 PM: Arrive back in Boston, full of delicious food and happy memories.
Where to Eat in Portland (For Every Budget)
From quick bites to fine dining, Portland’s food scene has you covered.
Quick & Casual ($)
- Duckfat: Legendary for their Belgian fries cooked in duck fat, plus incredible poutine, paninis, and milkshakes. Expect a line, but it moves quickly.
- The Holy Donut: A Portland institution. These donuts are made with a secret ingredient—Maine potatoes—making them uniquely moist and delicious.
Classic Maine Experience ($$)
- Eventide Oyster Co.: Famous for its Brown Butter Lobster Roll served in a steamed bao bun and an impressive daily selection of fresh oysters. Be prepared to wait in line.
- The Highroller Lobster Co.: A fun, modern spot with a vibrant atmosphere. They offer creative takes on the lobster roll with a variety of sauces and toppings.
Upscale & Memorable ($$$)
- Fore Street: A James Beard award-winning restaurant focused on local ingredients cooked over a wood-fired hearth. Reservations are a must and are notoriously hard to get.
- Central Provisions: A chic restaurant serving inventive small plates in a beautifully restored historic building. Perfect for adventurous eaters.
Insider Tips for a Flawless Day Trip
- Book in Advance: For popular restaurants like Fore Street or activities like a schooner sail, make reservations weeks or even months ahead of time, especially for a summer weekend.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven cobblestone streets. Prioritize comfort!
- Dress in Layers: Coastal New England weather is fickle. Even on a warm summer day, the ocean breeze can be chilly. A light jacket or sweatshirt is always a good idea.
- Travel on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, visit on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday to avoid the biggest crowds and the worst highway traffic.
- Check Event Schedules: Before you go, do a quick search for festivals or concerts in Portland. This can affect traffic, parking, and crowd levels in the Old Port.
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Here’s a sample budget to help you plan. Costs are per person and can vary based on your choices.
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation (per person) | $60 (Bus/Gas) | $80 (Train/Gas) | $80 (Train/Gas) |
| Food & Drink | $40 | $80 | $150+ |
| Activities | $10 | $40 | $75 |
| Total (per person) | ~$110 | ~$200 | ~$305+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Portland, Maine a day trip from Boston?
Yes, absolutely! With a driving time of just under two hours in good traffic, it is one of the most popular, rewarding, and manageable day trips from Boston. You can leave in the morning and be back by evening with a full day of exploration in between.
Is the drive from Boston to Portland, Maine scenic?
The direct route on I-95 is a standard highway drive and is not particularly scenic. However, if you have extra time, you can easily create a scenic drive by taking detours along coastal Route 1A through charming towns like Portsmouth, NH, or York and Kennebunkport in Maine. This will add significant time to your trip but is very beautiful.
Is Portland, Maine worth visiting for a day?
Yes, Portland is definitely worth visiting for a day. The city’s downtown and Old Port area are very compact and walkable, allowing you to experience the main highlights—the historic port, a world-class food scene, and a classic Maine lighthouse—all within a single, enjoyable day.
How much is a train ticket from Boston to Portland, Maine?
A one-way train ticket on the Amtrak Downeaster typically costs between $29 and $60. Prices are dynamic and depend on how far in advance you book, the time of day, and the season. For the best fares, it is always recommended to book as early as possible.
TLDR: Your Quick Guide to a Boston-Portland Day Trip
Pressed for time? Here’s the essential info:
- Getting There: Drive (1h 45m+), take the Amtrak Downeaster train (2.5 hrs), or the Concord Coach Lines bus (~2 hrs).
- Must-Do: See the Portland Head Light, walk the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, and eat a lobster roll.
- Top Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid traffic and crowds. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Budget: Plan for about $110-$200 per person for a fantastic day out.
