Last updated: 2025-04-22
Portland’s indoor attractions offer sanctuary from unpredictable New England weather, providing engaging experiences that showcase the city’s rich cultural landscape. From maritime history to contemporary art, these venues capture the creative spirit of Maine’s most vibrant urban center.
Whether exploring museum exhibits, catching a theatrical performance, or discovering unique collections, Portland’s indoor destinations deliver immersive experiences that connect visitors and locals with the city’s distinctive character and artistic heritage.
Discover Portland’s coolest indoor adventures now!
Featured Indoor Activities in Portland
- State Theatre
- Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine
- Thompson's Point (indoor events)
- Portland Stage Company
- Maine Narrow Gauge Co. & Museum
- International Cryptozoology Museum
- Maine Historical Society
- Space Gallery
- Maine Jewish Museum
Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine
What to Expect
Multi-sensory exhibits connecting Maine's cultural and natural landscapes
Description
Interactive children's museum and theatre offering immersive exhibits and live performances that engage young learners through hands-on experiences. Exhibits explore Maine's natural environment, cultural heritage, and provide developmental learning opportunities for children and families through play-based education.
Where: Portland | More Info: Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine
International Cryptozoology Museum
What to Expect
World's only dedicated cryptozoology museum
Description
The International Cryptozoology Museum showcases a comprehensive collection of scientific and cultural artifacts exploring unknown creatures. Featuring thousands of specimens related to cryptids like Sasquatch, the museum offers a unique exploration of zoological mysteries through exhibits, native art, and cultural artifacts.
Where: Portland | More Info: International Cryptozoology Museum
Maine Historical Society
What to Expect
Comprehensive historical archives documenting Maine's cultural evolution
Description
The Maine Historical Society preserves and shares Maine's rich cultural heritage through extensive archival collections, rotating exhibits, and educational programs. Visitors explore comprehensive displays highlighting state history, featuring artifacts, photographs, and interactive historical narratives that illuminate Maine's complex social and cultural development.
Where: Portland | More Info: Maine Historical Society
Maine Jewish Museum
What to Expect
Restored turn-of-the-century synagogue housing Jewish cultural exhibits
Description
The Maine Jewish Museum preserves and celebrates Jewish heritage through rotating art exhibitions, historical displays, and interactive experiences. Located in a restored historic synagogue, the museum features Holocaust survivor photographs, Maine Jewish history collections, and the Maine Jewish Hall of Fame.
Where: Portland | More Info: Maine Jewish Museum
Maine Narrow Gauge Co. & Museum
What to Expect
Authentic narrow gauge railroad museum with scenic coastal train rides
Description
Historic railroad museum offering scenic train rides along Casco Bay, featuring authentic narrow gauge train cars and immersive educational experiences. Provides onboard narration highlighting Maine's railroad history, with family-friendly tours showcasing regional maritime landscapes and transportation heritage.
Where: Portland | More Info: Maine Narrow Gauge Co. & Museum
Portland Stage Company
What to Expect
New work development and regional playwright support program
Description
Professional theater company offering live performances and comprehensive theater education programs. Supports regional playwrights through innovative initiatives like the Clauder Competition and Little Festival of the Unexpected. Provides engaging theater experiences for students from kindergarten through high school with professional-level instruction.
Where: Portland | More Info: Portland Stage Company
Space Gallery
What to Expect
Multidisciplinary arts nonprofit supporting contemporary creative projects
Description
SPACE is a nonprofit contemporary arts center in Portland, Maine, offering diverse artistic experiences through exhibitions, performances, and creative programming. The venue showcases visual arts, hosts live performances, supports artist residencies, and provides a platform for innovative cultural exchanges.
Where: Portland | More Info: Space Gallery
State Theatre
What to Expect
Restored 1920s architectural landmark with exceptional performance acoustics
Description
Historic performing arts venue hosting live music, theater, comedy, and film screenings in a beautifully restored 1920s theater. Features exceptional acoustics, intimate performance spaces, and a diverse lineup of cultural entertainment that appeals to varied audience interests.
Where: Portland | More Info: State Theatre
Thompson's Point (indoor events)
What to Expect
Versatile urban event complex with multiple specialized venues
Description
Thompson's Point is a multi-venue entertainment complex in Portland, Maine, offering diverse indoor and outdoor event spaces. The site features Brick South, The Depot Pavilion, Halo at the Point, and the Thompson's Point Rink, hosting concerts, markets, corporate events, and seasonal activities.
Where: Portland | More Info: Thompson's Point (indoor events)
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