Discover the best wheelchair accessible attractions, scenic spots, and experiences in Portland, Maine for active senior travelers. Includes accessibility info for hotels, transportation, and more.
Written by Chillie Falls, AccessAdventure.net, July 28, 2025
Portland, Maine is a charming coastal city with cobblestone streets, rich maritime history, and vibrant culture. It’s also surprisingly wheelchair-friendly, making it an ideal pre- or post-cruise destination or a scenic stop for senior travelers exploring New England. Whether you’re into lighthouses, seafood, art, or history, Portland has something for everyone — and many experiences are accessible to power wheelchair users.
Here are 7 wheelchair accessible things to do and see in Portland, Maine, along with helpful info on transportation, hotels, and accessibility tips.
1. Explore the Old Port District
The Old Port is Portland’s most iconic neighborhood, known for its waterfront views, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants. While some cobblestone areas can be a bit bumpy, many sidewalks have been updated with curb cuts, and most storefronts are accessible or offer portable ramps.
Accessible Tips:
- Many shops have level entry or portable ramps upon request.
- Portland Discovery Land & Sea Tours, which leaves from the Old Port, offers accessible trolley tours with advance notice.
2. Visit the Portland Museum of Art
Located downtown, the Portland Museum of Art is fully wheelchair accessible and showcases a mix of American, European, and contemporary art. It features works by Winslow Homer, Claude Monet, and Maine-based artists.
Accessibility Features:
- Elevators and accessible restrooms
- Complimentary wheelchairs at the front desk
- Nearby accessible parking
3. Take in the View at Portland Head Light
No visit to Portland is complete without seeing the iconic Portland Head Light in Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth — just 15 minutes away. The lighthouse is the most photographed in the U.S., and while the tower itself isn’t accessible, the surrounding park and coastal paths offer stunning views.
Accessibility Highlights:
- Accessible parking and paved paths
- Flat terrain with multiple scenic viewing areas
- Accessible restrooms at the park
4. Taste Your Way Through a Lobster Roll Tour
Portland is a foodie haven, especially for seafood lovers. Many wheelchair-friendly restaurants offer Maine’s famous lobster rolls and waterfront dining.
Top Accessible Picks:
- Eventide Oyster Co. – Known for creative takes on classic seafood, with wheelchair-friendly indoor seating and accessible entrance.
- DiMillo’s on the Water – A floating restaurant in a docked ferry with ramp access and level interiors.
- Luke’s Lobster – Located on the pier with ramp access and open-air seating.
5. Stroll the Eastern Promenade Trail
This paved, multi-use trail offers breathtaking views of Casco Bay and is perfect for a gentle cruise in a power wheelchair.
Trail Features:
- 2.1-mile accessible path along the water
- Picnic areas and shaded spots
- Free parking available near the trailhead
6. Ride the Casco Bay Ferry
The Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal is fully accessible, and the short mailboat or island cruises give visitors a look at the beautiful harbor and nearby islands.
Accessibility Info:
- Wheelchair-accessible boarding (staff available for assistance)
- Accessible restrooms onboard
- Indoor seating with harbor views
7. Shop and Dine at the Maine Mall (Rainy Day Option)
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the Maine Mall in South Portland is a fully accessible indoor space with national retailers, local boutiques, and plenty of dining options.
Accessibility Features:
- Ample accessible parking
- Automatic doors, elevators, and wide aisles
- Nearby accessible hotels
Accessible Transportation in Portland
- METRO Bus: Many of Portland’s public buses are wheelchair accessible and equipped with ramps and securement areas.
- Regional Transportation Program (RTP): Offers accessible rides for seniors and those with mobility needs (advance reservation required).
- Taxis & Rideshare: Uber and Lyft both operate in the area and offer WAV (wheelchair-accessible vehicle) options if booked in advance.
Accessible Hotels in Portland, Maine
Many local hotels offer ADA-compliant rooms and roll-in showers. Here are three popular and centrally located options:
- Portland Harbor Hotel – Located in the Old Port, offers accessible rooms with roll-in showers and barrier-free access to common areas.
- Hyatt Place Portland-Old Port – Modern hotel with excellent accessibility and great harbor views.
- Hampton Inn Downtown – Waterfront – Offers accessible rooms and is close to many major attractions.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re exploring Maine’s rugged coastline or enjoying a leisurely day by the harbor, Portland offers charm, culture, and culinary delights — all with accessibility in mind. For active seniors using a power wheelchair, the city is navigable, welcoming, and filled with opportunities to create unforgettable travel memories.
Have you visited Portland in a wheelchair? Let us know your favorite accessible spot!