Portland Maine Rentals

When you next stop into Portland's Old Port, don’t miss the chance to try Becky’s Diner on Commercial Street. Since 1991, this beloved spot has been a staple on Portland’s waterfront, offering hearty meals at all hours to locals and visitors alike. Founded by Becky Rand, a mother of six, the diner was born out of a need to serve the city’s fishermen who worked unconventional hours. Over the years, Becky’s Diner has grown in popularity, earning praise from Gourmet Magazine, Rachael Ray, and even a feature on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.

Despite its growth, Becky’s remains true to its roots, serving up fresh, locally sourced seafood and classic diner fare in a welcoming atmosphere. The diner’s commitment to the community and the working waterfront has made it a local landmark, attracting everyone from everyday patrons to celebrities like Taylor Swift and former President Bill Clinton.

Now operated by the next generation of Becky’s family, the diner continues to thrive, serving up the same delicious food that made it famous. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick breakfast or a late-night dinner, Becky’s Diner offers a taste of Portland’s rich maritime history and a warm, family-friendly environment.

🍁 Planning a back-to-school trip to Maine this fall? September is just around the corner, and housing in the Portland area fills up fast! Whether you're looking for short-term or long-term accommodations, now is the time to book your stay. Secure your spot in beautiful Portland, Maine for the fall and winter seasons before it's too late! 🏡✨

The Porteous, Mitchell and Braun Building has a rich history that reflects the evolution of Portland's commercial landscape. Originally constructed in 1904, the building was designed by Penn Varney, a well-known architect from Lynn, Massachusetts, for the Portland-based dry goods firm Watson, Miller & Company. At that time, the structure was three bays wide, serving as a modest yet significant presence in the city's business district.

In 1906, the building's trajectory changed when it was acquired by Porteous, Mitchell and Braun, a Connecticut-based retailer looking to expand its footprint. This acquisition marked the beginning of significant transformations. In 1911, the building was doubled in size, a project that included the commissioning of a new facade from Portland architect George Burnham. Burnham's design unified the building's appearance, incorporating elements like fluted pilasters and a distinctive cornice that added to its grandeur.

The building continued to grow, with expansions extending it to Free Street by 1953, reflecting the thriving business of Porteous, which became Portland's leading department store. The store remained a central fixture in the city until it ceased operations in 1991. Following its closure, the building underwent a significant restoration and adaptation, repurposing it for the Maine College of Art. This transition preserved the building's historical essence while giving it new life as a center for creativity and education. The structure now stands as a testament to Portland's commercial history and architectural heritage.

Wharf St. might be small, but it's packed with character, history, and a nightlife scene that’s been alive and kicking for over two decades. 🍻 Just a block away from the working waterfront on Commercial St., this two-block stretch is home to legendary spots like Amigos, where the drinks and tunes have been flowing since the '70s, and Central Provisions, a local favorite for creative bites. Though it may appear old, the current street was developed from an existing alleyway in 1979, when Portland invested nearly $200,000 in 1979 to convert it into a pedestrian thoroughfare.

Whether you're grabbing a pint at Gritty McDuff's, indulging in a sweet treat from Beal's Ice Cream, or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Wharf St. is where Old Port truly comes to life. And with Exchange St. right around the corner, you can add a bit of shopping to your adventure. 🌟 Explore, enjoy, and make a night of it on Wharf St. – the heart of Portland's Old Port!

And when you get tired, you know where to rest your head! Explore our comfortable, beautifully appointed apartments online at https://portlandmainerentals.com/view-listings

Maine is a summer paradise, offering stunning natural beauty, charming coastal towns and a plethora of outdoor activities. Imagine days filled with exploring scenic trails, visiting picturesque lighthouses and enjoying fresh lobster by the sea. The state’s vibrant arts scene, bustling farmer's markets and unique local shops add to the charm. Whether you're kayaking on a tranquil lake, hiking in Acadia National Park or simply relaxing on the beach, Maine promises unforgettable memories.

If your travels bring you to Portland, experience the city like a local with Portland Maine Rentals. We offer beautiful, fully appointed units perfectly located around the peninsula, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. If you're here for a weekend getaway or a summer-long retreat, Portland Maine Rentals has a perfect home base for your adventures.

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a unique glimpse into Portland's history. Founded in 1993, the museum operates a 1.5-mile railway along Casco Bay using historic steam and diesel locomotives. This collection preserves the legacy of Maine's 2-foot narrow gauge railways, which played a significant role in the state's transportation history from the late 19th to early 20th centuries.

Located near Portland's Old Port, the museum stands close to the former Grand Trunk Railroad station. Constructed in 1903, the Grand Trunk station was once a bustling hub for rail travel to Montreal before its decline and eventual demolition in 1966. Despite the loss of the station, the adjacent office building at 1 India Street was restored and now serves as the headquarters of Gorham Savings Bank.

In its prime, the Grand Trunk Railway had extensive properties along Portland's waterfront, and these can still be explored virtually through the Maine Memory Network's 1924 tax records. The narrow gauge railways, with their 2-foot track width, were particularly suited to Maine's challenging terrain, providing an affordable and efficient means of connecting remote towns to larger cities.

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad continues this tradition, preserving and operating trains along a scenic stretch of track, allowing visitors to experience a piece of Maine's railroading past. In the summer time, multiple train rides operate daily. Take a look if you find yourself walking India Street on Portland's waterfront!

Learn more about the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad at https://mainenarrowgauge.org/

And visit our blog to learn more about things to do when .

Location, location, location! 🏡 🏖️ Our Eastern Promenade units sit at one of the most beautiful spots on Portland's peninsula. Built in 1915, these historic buildings have been completely renovated and thoughtfully furnished. Enjoy our communal vegetable garden, take in the view of Casco Bay or hop across the street and explore Eastern Prom!

222 Eastern Prom., Unit 1, is available starting in August! This stunning one bedroom, one bath apartment features water views, granite counters, hardwood floors and on-site laundry... plus plenty more amenities to match the gorgeous furnishings. Available starting August for a 10- to 12-month lease. Contact us for more details.

Or check out our listings online: https://portlandmainerentals.com/property/222-eastern-promenade-unit-1/

📍 Discover the U.S. Custom House in Portland, Maine!

In the heart of Portland's waterfront, just to Commercial Street, the U.S. Custom House stands as a testament to Portland's maritime history. Started in 1867, this stunning building blends Renaissance Revival and Second Empire architectural styles, which were popular in the mid-19th century. By 1866, Portland's customs business was thriving, collecting an impressive $900,000 annually, making it one of the most significant seaports in the country.

The need for a new Custom House arose after the Great Fire of July 4, 1866, which destroyed the Exchange Building and much of downtown Portland. Made of New Hampshire granite and completed after five years of meticulous work, the U.S. Custom House served its original function until 2012!

It's hard to miss this impressive building if you walk through Portland's Old Port, just a stone's throw from our Arts District and Munjoy Hill apartments.

Our Wilmot Street apartments are stylishly appointed, equipped with all the toys and amenities needed to make you feel at home, and located in Portland's downtown center, just a moment's walk to the Old Port. Whether you're in Portland as a short-term visitor or here for a lifetime, PMR can help you find your perfect home. We take care of the services and the styling so that you can simply enjoy our beautiful city.

With new units - including our Wilmot Street apartments -becoming available regularly, there's always something in our portfolio to match your needs.

Learn more about our units online: https://portlandmainerentals.com/view-listings/

Have you walked the Park Street Row? 🧱

A beautiful example of 19th-century Greek Revival architecture, it's the largest known row house complex in Maine. Just on the eastern edge of Portland's downtown, the row houses occupy one entire side of Park Street, consisting of fourteen connected units, built of brick and brownstone on granite foundations, each four stories tall with a dormered and sky-lit roof.

Considered on of the most ambitious building projects of the time, the idea was introduced by John Neal, a writer, critic and architect. In 1835, Neal planned to build a row of eight connected homes on State Street but reduced it to two units after investors backed out. The Ann Street Company (consisting of his former investors), formed that year and purchased a ropewalk – a long, narrow lane used for braiding rope – to began construction on what would become the Pakl Street row houses. They built 14 units plus six more on Gray and Spring Streets but, due to the Panic of 1837, only the exteriors were finished before they ran out of funds, having to auction off the unfinished units, which were finished individually by the new owners (some using them to store hay and supplies!). Neal later described the project as "a huge, unsafe, unsightly row of tall houses, which passed then, and still pass for a factory, with strangers."

Park Street Row was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. If you find yourself walking on Congress Street in Portland's West End, take a stroll through local history on Park Street!



(First image: Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, ME,3-PORT,23-2)

St. Lawrence Chapel was built near the summit of Munjoy Hill in 1854, when East End Congregationalists organized to construct a more local meeting place. Having outgrown that chapel by 1897, the congregants hired the New York City-based architect Arthur Bates Jennings to design what would become the St. Lawrence Church.

The building was unique in Maine for its combination of Richardsonian Romanesque and French Chateau elements, and was later added to the National Register of Historic Places. Sadly, that didn't save the building from deterioration as the congregation declined and was finally disbanded in 1986, after which the space sat empty for many years.

Starting in 1993, Portland residents began a campaign to maintain and upgrade the space. That included razing the sanctuary of the church in 2008, though the parish hall was preserved and restored. Now, thanks to the non-profit Friends of St. Lawrence Church, the restored parish hall shines as a vibrant performing arts venue. Today, the center's facilities include a 110-seat theater with state-of-the art equipment, and the group is planning to develop a 400-seat theater in the future. 🌟

📢 Moving to a new city for a job is challenging enough without the hassle of finding temporary housing. Let us help! We've been serving visitors to Portland for over 30 years, offering beautifully furnished apartments in the city's historic districts. Newly arrived Portlanders will love the cobblestone streets, farmers markets, art museums, fine dining, sea breezes and water views. Plus, enjoy complimentary cable, Wi-Fi, and parking in our units. Not to mention, we'll take care of snow removal!

PMR provides flexible, customized solutions for both long-term and short-term stays. Our competitive pricing, diverse options and exceptional staff make us the best choice in Portland. Contact us today to discuss your needs and let us find the perfect place for your team! Visit online: https://portlandmainerentals.com/corporate-rentals/

Portland's East End Beach: a perfect, sandy hideaway to beat the heat 🌞

Portlanders love East End Beach, located at the bottom of Monjoy Hill's Eastern Promenade. It's hard to date when locals began using the beach – though it's probably been a popular summer spot as long as people have inhabited Casco Bay.

This picturesque beach, tucked into the curving shoreline, has teamed with swimmers and sunbathers at least since a thorough 1905 redesign of Eastern Prom by the famed Olmsted Brothers (known for planning Central Park and the modern Boston Commons). Whether you’re into swimming, kayaking, rowing, or just relaxing on the sand, East End Beach has something for everyone. 🛶 🏊‍♂️ 🌊

📍 Located off Eastern Promenade and Cutter Street, the beach features a public boat launch, mooring field, restrooms and changing areas. It’s the perfect spot for a post-shopping dip after exploring Portland’s Old Port.

Enjoy easy access with nearby parking, picnic tables and benches on the grassy hillside. Watch sailboats drift by and keep an eye out for seals! 🦭

Portland Paddle, right next to the beach, offers paddle boards, canoes and kayaks for rent, so you can explore Casco Bay and its nautical attractions like Fort Gorges and nearby islands.

Dogs are welcome at East End Beach, though access is limited from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For more details, visit: https://www.portlandmaine.gov/1220/East-End-Beach 🐾

Come and experience the only public beach in Portland – your perfect summer getaway awaits!

📚🏛️ Portland's historic Baxter Building 🏛️📚

Located at 619 Congress Street, the Baxter Building is a historic gem completed in 1888. It originally served as the city's public library until 1978, when the library moved farther down Congress Street. The Romanesque Revival building found new life in 1983 when the Maine College of Art transformed it into studio spaces, darkrooms, a computer lab and library.

The building was designed by Bath-born Francis H. Fassett, who also laid out the original Maine General Hospital building (still around, today). The Baxter building underwent a significant update in 1928 by the prolific, Portland architect John Calvin Stevens. In 2010, Northland Enterprises LLC, the current owner, renovated the building with designs from Scott Simons Architects and Archetype Architects. Today, the space is used as the headquarters of the VIA Group, a prominent marketing and advertising firm.

If you're in downtown Portland, take a stroll over to this iconic building and dive into the rich history of Portland architecture! 🏙️✨

Walk around Portland's arts district and it's pretty hard to miss the towering Eastland Hotel, now officially known as the Westin Portland Harborview. This storied and historic American hotel was developed in 1927 by the Rines family, owners of the popular, local Rines Brothers department store. They commissioned architect Herbert W. Rhodes (designer of Portland's Time and Temperature building, one of Maine's first 'skyscrapers', as well as the city's State Theatre building).

At the time of its opening, the Eastland hotel was the largest in New England and boasted famous visitors to Maine. (It even, famously, turned down a stay by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt when she refused to part with her dog for the night!)

After changing hands many times and coming close to bankruptcy, the property was purchased and fully renovated before being reopened in 2013 by Westin, who continue to operate the hotel today. If you're visiting Portland, take in the views from the hotel's Top of the East penthouse bar and restaurant. And for locals, think about a luxurious, weekend stay and pretend to be a tourist in our city... well, maybe wait until the off-season!

It feels like a summer day on Munjoy Hill! 🕶️ 🏖️

Stroll the prom and step into a sea-side summer getaway...

Portland is home to some jaw-dropping green spaces, whether for their unique locales or stunning vistas. Visitors and locals fill up the Eastern and Western promenades (on nice days) and Baxter Woods is a fun visit if you want to do some trail walking. But one of Portland's least visited and, arguably, most interesting parks is Fort Gorges.

This Civil War-era fort (obsolete before it was even completed, due to the rapid technological developments of the war) sat unused and unoccupied until it was turned over to the city of Portland in 1960. Built on a jut of rock called Hog Island Ledge about a mile from East End Beach, the fort can easily been seen from Portland's Munjoy Hill neighborhood. Getting there is another story–though, as a public park, the island and fort are open to the public and even allow cooking and picnicking.

To reach the island, intrepid explores will need to take to the waves. No ferry service runs to the island park, but you can hire local water taxis or, better yet, go under your own power! Portland Paddle, located at the base of Eastern Prom and beside East End Beach, rents kayaks and paddle boards by the hour or the day. Or bring your own watercraft!

Exploring Fort Gorges is tons of fun, and can even be a little spooky. Get lost in this 150-year old stone fort and get away from Portland's crowds on a busy summer day!

Looking for a quick getaway from Portland? Just a 15-minute ferry ride away, Peaks Island offers a peaceful retreat with stunning natural beauty and a charming community. Whether you’re biking the four-mile island loop or exploring the hidden beaches along Seashore Avenue, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss a visit to Battery Steele, a World War II artillery emplacement, or a relaxing afternoon on Sandy Beach.

Curious to learn more about this enchanting destination? Dive into our full blog post to uncover more activities, dining options, and hidden gems on Peaks Island. From historical sites to scenic walks, discover why Peaks Island is the perfect day-trip destination.

Read the full article here to plan your next adventure!
https://portlandmainerentals.com/discover-peaks/

If you haven't visited DiMillo's Restaurant and Lounge on Long Wharf in Portland's Old Port, you're missing out on a Portland landmark. Housed in a historic ferry boat docked at Long Wharf in the Old Port, DiMillo's offers an unforgettable atmosphere where fresh, local seafood takes center stage.

Opened in 1982 as the first floating restaurant on the Upper East Coast, this impressive vessel, permanently moored, provides a fun and stable dining experience with stunning waterfront views. The boat, originally named "The New York," was built in 1941 and served as a ferry before being transformed into the beloved restaurant it is today. From the moment you step aboard, you're enveloped in a rich history that began with Tony DiMillo's first restaurant in 1954.

If you're walking in the Old Port, it's hard to miss Long Wharf (which also houses) Dimillo's Marina and other boating services. The wharf, dilapidated at the time, was bought by Tony Dimillo in 1978. After a short repair, it quickly filled up once again with boaters and fishermen.

Known for their famous lobster dinners and commitment to freshness, DiMillo’s restaurant continues Tony's legacy. Whether you’re savoring the clams that "slept last night in Casco Bay" or enjoying a drink in the Port Side Lounge, you'll be treated to top-notch hospitality from the DiMillo family.

Perfect for visitors and new residents alike, make your next meal a memorable one on this floating icon.

👟 🏢 One of the great benefits of Portland is its walkability. On foot, you can explore most of the peninsula in a day, and taking a walking tour is one of the most engaging ways to experience the city. This summer, immerse yourself in the city's storied history and contemporary culture (or cuisine scene) with a Portland walking tour!

Here are some of the current tours we'd recommend, but a quick search will yield many more...

* Portland by the Foot: Join Dugan Murphy, a beloved local historian and Maine's top-rated tour guide, for an enlightening journey through Portland’s hidden histories and Black heritage. Discover untold stories that shaped the city, from Indigenous Wabanaki leaders to influential Black Portlanders who fought for equality and freedom.
https://www.portlandbythefoot.com

* The Real Portland Tour: This 1.5-hour adventure takes you through Portland's iconic sights, including three historic lighthouses and 19th-century Fort Preble. Travel comfortably in a small group with a knowledgeable local guide.
https://realportlandtour.com/home

* Discover Portland City and Lighthouse Tour: Enjoy a narrated trolley tour that highlights the best of Portland’s peninsula and concludes with a visit to the picturesque Portland Head Light.

* Private Island Fort Tour: Cruise Casco Bay to explore historic stone fortresses, including Fort Scammel, which saw active combat. This unique tour offers breathtaking views and fascinating history.
https://seaportland.com/fort-tour-beer-experience/

* Old Port Culinary Walking Tour: Indulge in Portland’s culinary delights with this tour that showcases local artisans. Sample a variety of foods and beverages while learning about the city’s colorful culinary history.

* Self guided tours through Greater Portland Landmarks: Be your own guide with interactive maps that cover over a dozen Portland neighborhoods, plus surrounding areas like Peaks Island, Cumberland, Gorham, and Yarmouth. Explore at your own pace and discover the rich history and charm of Portland, thanks to Greater Portland Landmarks.
https://www.portlandlandmarks.org/self-guided-walking-tours

Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, Portland's walking tours offer something for everyone!

Planning a move to Maine? 🏡 🌲 🦞

Maine is one of the best places in the world to call home! Friendly people, a pristine natural environment, beautiful coastline, great food and exciting recreation put it at the top of the list. If you're making the move to Maine, check out our furnished apartment in Portland. Outfitted and renovated to match the stunning beauty of Maine, you'll be happy to call a PMR apartment home, whether for a visit or a lifetime stay!

As locals, we can sometimes overlook the stunning architectural history of Portland. Today may not be the best day for it, but take a quick walk around downtown and it's hard not to run into one or two buildings that will make your jaw drop–if you're paying attention.

Beside ever taller office blocks, sitting on the eastern edge of Portland’s downtown is our city’s fourth city hall. This grand building not only serves as the hub of civic activity, but it anchors a vital cluster of public institutions. The story of our city hall is one of rebirth and celebration, but also destruction.

Portland's fourth city hall, and considered by the architect to be one of his finest works, this building is the hub of civic life... and home to one of the world's largest organs!

Read more on the PMR blog:
https://portlandmainerentals.com/portland-landmarks-portlands-fourth-city-hall/

🎨 Dive into the tapestry that is Portland's First Friday Art Walk, as artisans, craftspeople and vendors line Congress Street, sharing their works with the world. Explore the bustling Arts District, where shops and eateries open their doors to a whirlwind of tastings, art showcases, and unbeatable deals.

🍽️ 🎶 From Longfellow Square to Munjoy Hill, the streets come alive with music, captivating work and opportunities to connect with local artists. The Art Walk offers a fun and unique experience each month, for those seeking unique treasures or just hoping to soak up the lively atmosphere. Don't miss it, if you're in Portland on the first Friday of the month (year round)!

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🎨✨ Portland, Maine is bursting with color once more! Vibrant streets, blooming gardens, and lively vibes are painting the town anew.

Embracing the beauty of renewal and the joy of seeing our city come alive again! 🏙️🌷

Living or visiting 's East End is a blast! From diverse dining spots to scenic parks, this neighborhood has it all. Check out our staff favorites: Cong Tu Bot for delicious Asian street fare or the local charm of Munjoy hill Tavern. Need a caffeine fix? Coffee ME Up has you covered! And don’t miss Terlingua for a unique dining experience blending Caribbean, Southwest and Mexican flavors. Plus, there’s Lone Pine Brewing Company and Belleflower Brewing for craft beer enthusiasts. Looking for outdoor fun? The East End may be geographically small, but there's so much here. Explore Eastern Promenade’s scenic trails and East End Beach’s waterfront views. Feeling adventurous? Kayak around Casco Bay’s islands or join a guided tour with Portland Paddle. Portland’s East End is the perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty!

This month, we highlighted fun things to do in the East End–whether you're visiting or you're a local! Check it out on the PMR blog:
https://portlandmainerentals.com/explore-portland-maines-east-end-this-spring/

Micucci Grocery, a Portland institution, traces its roots to 1949 when Leo and Iris Micucci opened a delivery warehouse on India Street. Originally intended to supplement their successful food delivery business in New Hampshire, the warehouse quickly morphed into a bustling storefront as customers clamored to buy goods straight from their wholesale stash.

Leo eventually married Iris, who played a significant role in expanding the business. Their signature 'Sicilian slab,' a delightful culinary treasure, remains a cherished part of Portland's food scene to this day. The wholesale operation later moved to Riverside Street, serving mainly local restaurants, while the original India Street grocery store continues to delight patrons with its array of Italian delicacies.

Renowned as one of the best Italian markets in Maine, Micucci Grocery offers an impressive selection of wine, cheese, pasta, oil and fresh baked goods. Customers rave about the store's offerings, including hard-to-find items like squid ink pasta and caper berries, as well as their famous meatballs and fresh ravioli.

Today, the family business includes other grocery and prepared food establishments across Maine, as well as a thriving wholesale business that imports and distributes food products.

For those visiting Portland, a trip to Micucci Grocery on India Street is a must! Whether you're stocking up on imported items or grabbing a slice of the renowned pizza, you're sure to experience the same warmth and flavor that have made Micucci Grocery a local favorite for over 70 years.