After soaking in the seaside charm of Ogunquit Beach earlier in the day (read about that adventure here), I wasn’t quite ready to let the magic of the Maine coast slip away. With the 4th of July evening approaching, there was one more destination calling me, Portland, Maine.
Just under an hour’s drive north along scenic Route 1, Portland offered the perfect blend of coastal history, cobblestone streets, culinary delights, and waterfront celebration. It turned out to be the perfect capstone to an already beautiful day on the coast.
Getting to Portland from Ogunquit
The drive from Ogunquit to Portland was short and scenic, especially on a summer evening. We left late afternoon, giving ourselves enough time to find parking and soak in the atmosphere before the city lit up with fireworks. We found a spot in a public parking area near downtown Portland, which gave us easy access to the Old Port area, a must-visit for any first-time traveler.
Strolling Along Wharf Street
Our first stop? The charming, cobblestoned Wharf Street in the heart of the Old Port district. Lined with historic brick buildings, cozy pubs, and eclectic boutiques, this area felt like stepping into another era, with a modern twist. Street musicians added to the lively vibe, and the scent of sea air mixed with fresh-baked bread and seafood lingered in the breeze.
We wandered leisurely, snapping photos and soaking up the energy of locals and tourists celebrating the 4th.
A Sweet Stop at Beal’s Ice Cream
It wouldn’t be a summer evening without a little indulgence, and Beal’s Ice Cream was the perfect treat. Tucked away on Moulton Street, this local favorite serves generous scoops of creamy, house-made ice cream with unique flavors. I went with the Mango Pineapple, Maine’s seasonal pride, and it was every bit as delightful as it sounds.
We found a quiet bench and let the melting ice cream mark the moment while the city buzzed in anticipation of the upcoming fireworks.
An Evening at the Eastern Promenade
As golden hour approached, we made our way to Eastern Promenade, a beautiful, expansive park that overlooks Casco Bay. People had already begun setting up blankets and lawn chairs, claiming their spots for the City of Portland’s fireworks display.
There was a celebratory hum in the air, families chatting, kids waving glow sticks, boats bobbing in the harbor. As darkness fell and the first firework soared skyward, the crowd hushed, and the sky exploded in color. It was one of the best 4th of July fireworks I have seen in the USA.
After the finale lit up the bay, we let the crowd thin out a bit before heading back. The drive from Portland to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where we’d decided to stay the night, was quiet and peaceful. Reflecting on the day, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for how seamlessly everything flowed, from sun and sand in Ogunquit to history and celebration in Portland.
Portland surprised me, not because it’s beautiful (which it is), but because of how it manages to be vibrant, historic, and laid-back all at once. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip like ours, Portland is more than worth the detour. And watching 4th of July fireworks over the Portland, Maine bay? That’s a memory I’ll hold onto for a long time.
