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Classic cocktail bar with nautical decor, chic basement, and a speakeasy behind a bookcase
Puerto Rican bar and kitchen with unique cocktails and small, shot-sized cocktails
Italian restaurant with an outstanding cocktail program, known for unique and flavorful drinks
Portland institution known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic decor, and expansive menu of craft beers and comfort food
A curated evening itinerary from early drinks to late-night dancing.
Start with cocktails or craft beers at a neighborhood bar. Keep it relaxed — the night is young.
Papi
Old Port ·
Hit the main strip. Rooftop bars, live music, or a lively pub crawl through the best neighborhoods.
Luna Rooftop Bar
·
The clubs open up. Dance floors fill, DJs take over, and the real nightlife begins.
Bonfire Country Bar
Old Port ·
The historic Old Port district is the heart of Portland's nightlife, known for its cobblestone streets, lively pubs, cocktail bars, and dance clubs. It offers a diverse range of options from casual brewpubs to upscale cocktail lounges, with many venues featuring live music and late-night hours
An emerging area with unique spots like Bar Publica, offering a more local and eclectic vibe compared to the bustling Old Port
Beyond the Old Port, the downtown area offers additional nightlife options, including hotel bars and other establishments
| District | Best For | Crowd | Walk Score | Top Venues |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Port | Diverse nightlife | — | ||
| West Bayside | Unique cocktail experiences | — | ||
| Downtown | Hotel bars | — |
Portland, ME offers a dynamic nightlife scene, particularly centered in the Old Port district. You'll find a wide array of options, from sophisticated cocktail bars and traditional pubs to lively dance clubs and brewpubs, often featuring live music.
Some of the top-rated bars in Portland include Blyth & Burrows for classic cocktails, Papi for unique Puerto Rican-inspired drinks, and The Great Lost Bear for an extensive craft beer selection. Other popular spots include Portland Hunt + Alpine Club and ViA VECCHiA.
Nightlife in Portland typically starts to pick up in the early evening, around 5-6 PM, with happy hour specials. Most bars and clubs in the Old Port area remain active until 1 AM, especially on weekends.