Portland, Maine is one of my favorite cities year-round. But there’s something especially magical here during the holidays. Here are a few reasons Portland should be your next holiday destination.

1. PORTLAND LIGHTHOUSES IN THE SNOW

Maine is known for having some of the most beautiful lighthouses in America. And there’s nothing like seeing them covered in fresh snow! We took the Real Portland Tour around the city to stay warm as we traveled, get amazing facts about the city and lighthouses, and get out and explore some stunning scenery!

2. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT THE COASTAL MAINE BOTANICAL GARDENS

One of the best parts about the holiday season are the colorful twinkly lights strewn up around the city. But just outside of Portland, at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, it’s even more stunning during Gardens Aglow. With over 650,000 lights, it’s a scene like no other.

3. VISIT THE VICTORIA MANSION

The Victoria Mansion is a Portland landmark that dates back to the 19th century. While gorgeous any time of year, during the holidays, local artists take over the mansion for an annual 6-week holiday celebration. Each year is a different Christmas theme and the entire house is decorated from floor to ceiling.

4. THE ULTIMATE SHOPPING DESTINATION

Portland has something for everyone and for all types of budgets! The L.L. Bean Flagship store in Freeport has three massive buildings including their home store, hunting and fishing, and main camping and outdoor gear store. Nearby in Freeport, you’ll also find the L.L. Bean Outlet store and other outlet shops for some serious bargains.

One local shops that’s a Portland staple is Sea Bags. This amazing store reuses old sails and recycles them into adorable bags, totes, and accessories. Everything used to make their products is sourced locally and made by hand right in their store. While you’re shopping around you can even glimpse into the sewing area and see people hard at work creating these beautiful bags.

If you’re looking for something a little more high-end, the In The Know Shopping Tour is a great way to get a glimpse at some of Portland’s ritzier shops. The walking tour takes you into some exclusive, local stores, all run by women!

And if you’re like me, and not into shopping as much, try Merry Madness! A great way to combine a boozy walking tour with late night local shops. This annual event kicks off with a red carpet reception and a free glass of wine, before sending you on your way to any of the more than 75 stores that stay open late and offer snacks and drinks. It’s also a great way to take in downtown Portland covered in Christmas lights.

5. GO SEE A CHRISTMAS SHOW

Portland has a couple of different options for really doing the holiday season right with a live performance! Go and see the Nutcracker performed by the Maine State Ballet or head to Portland Stage to check out It’s a Wonderful Life the live radio play. Nothing will get you into the holiday spirit more!

6. THE FOOD AND DRINK SCENE IN PORTLAND

Portland Maine was named Restaurant City of the Year by Bon Appetit and there is no shortage of incredible places and eat and drink around here. From Lobster at The Porthole to fine dining at Sur-Lie, you could eat somewhere new every night for a year and never get bored! One of my favorites was Quiero Cafe for lunch and their amazing empanadas. Noble Kitchen and Bar was another incredible stop along my journey for both food and drinks (the Hot Spiced Apple was the perfect finish to a cold winter day).

There’s also an endless array of places to grab a cocktail, beer, wine, or all three. Top of the East overlooks the city in a classy (enclosed) rooftop bar. Independent Ice Company has more whiskey than you could ever ask for and the knowledgable bartenders to go with it! When we were there they showed us a bottle of The Boss Hog that was just shipped in and the ONLY bottle in the state. And Blythe and Burrows has the most incredible and beautiful cocktails I’ve ever seen (with a Christmas flair).

7. STAY OUTSIDE PORTLAND AT THE COZY INN BY THE SEA IN CAPE ELIZABETH

I love cities, and Portland is one of my favorites, but I also LOVE nature and getting a bit away too. Staying at the Inn By The Sea in Cape Elizabeth was a beautiful way to begin and end each day. With coastal views, an incredible spa and restaurant, and snowshoe and ski trails, this place had everything. I kicked off one morning snowshoeing to the beach and there’s not many places you can say that!

Bonus: If you’re looking to stay right in the city, check out 121 MIDDLE for an urban inn experience. This location was ideal for walking around town and the downtown apartment style makes you feel right at home.

There’s something about cobblestone sidewalks, old buildings, and fresh snow that just make Portland Maine feel like a small-town Hallmark movie during the holidays. But with all of the modern city flair you want in restaurants and shops. This combination makes it the ultimate holiday destination. Watch the full episode below!