The best museums in Portland in September 2025

These are the top 10 best museums in Portland, United States, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2025. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in Portland, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in Portland.

Looking for the best museums in Portland? These are the best ones:

  1. Portland Observatory1

    Portland Observatory

     Portland, ME
    The Portland Observatory, located at 138 Congress Street in the Munjoy Hill section of Portland, Maine, is a historic maritime signal tower. Constructed in 1807, it holds the distinction of being the only known surviving tower of its kind in the United States.
  2. Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum2

    Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum

     Portland, ME
    The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, located in Portland, Maine, was established in 1993. This came after the Edaville Railroad, a museum railway in Massachusetts, was forced to close in 1991 due to financial difficulties. The museum's establishment was a way to preserve the history and legacy of the Edaville Railroad.
  3. Portland Museum of Art3

    Portland Museum of Art

     Portland, ME
    The Portland Museum of Art, situated in Portland, Maine, is a significant cultural institution that houses an extensive collection of over 15,000 artworks. These pieces span from the 18th century to the present, offering a comprehensive view of art history and contemporary artistic practices.
  4. Wadsworth-longfellow House4

    Wadsworth-longfellow House

     Portland, ME
    The Wadsworth-Longfellow House, located at 489 Congress Street in Portland, Maine, is a historic house and museum. It is managed by the Maine Historical Society and offers a unique glimpse into the past. The house holds both historical and literary significance, being the oldest standing structure on the Portland peninsula and the childhood home of renowned American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
  5. Fifth Maine Regiment Community Center5

    Fifth Maine Regiment Community Center

     Portland, ME
    The Fifth Maine Regiment Community Center is a historic site located at 45 Seashore Avenue on Peaks Island, an island neighborhood of Portland, Maine in Casco Bay. This location offers a unique blend of history and scenic beauty, making it an interesting destination for tourists.
  6. Museum of African Culture6

    Museum of African Culture

     Portland, ME
    The Museum of African Culture, located in Portland, USA, was a unique institution that specialized in the art and tribal culture of Sub-Saharan Africa. It was a place where visitors could immerse themselves in the rich and diverse cultures of the African continent, offering a unique perspective on the traditions, art, and life of its people.
  7. The McLellan-Sweat Mansion7

    The McLellan-Sweat Mansion

     Portland, ME
    The McLellan-Sweat Mansion, also known as The McLellan House, is a historic house museum located on High Street in Portland, Maine. It forms an integral part of the Portland Museum of Art complex, serving as its rear component. This unique positioning allows visitors to experience both the rich history of the mansion and the diverse art collection of the museum in one visit.
  8. Tate House Museum8

    Tate House Museum

     Portland, ME
    The Tate House Museum is a historic site located at 1270 Westbrook Street, near the Fore River in the Stroudwater neighborhood of Portland, Maine. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the history of the area. The house is one of the oldest in Portland, providing a unique opportunity to explore the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.
  9. The Umbrella Cover Museum9

    The Umbrella Cover Museum

     Portland, ME
    The Umbrella Cover Museum, located in Peaks Island, Maine, is a unique institution that celebrates umbrella covers. This museum is a testament to the often overlooked and underappreciated umbrella cover, showcasing a variety of covers from around the world.
  10. Victoria Mansion10

    Victoria Mansion

     Portland, ME
    Victoria Mansion, also known as the Morse-Libby House or Morse-Libby Mansion, is a significant example of American residential architecture. It is located in downtown Portland, Maine, United States. This mansion is a landmark that showcases the architectural prowess of the 19th century.

All museums in Portland