This is Portland, Maine, and the mistake is packing for the summer postcard. Even in July, evenings out on the water in Casco Bay can turn cool, and from December to February highs barely clear freezing. Bring a warm layer whatever month you come.
Portland weather by month
Daily high and low (°F), and days with rainSee the numbers
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 34°F1°C | 36°F2°C | 45°F7°C | 54°F12°C | 64°F18°C | 73°F23°C | 82°F28°C | 77°F25°C | 73°F23°C | 63°F17°C | 48°F9°C | 37°F3°C |
| Low | 21°F-6°C | 18°F-8°C | 28°F-2°C | 37°F3°C | 48°F9°C | 57°F14°C | 66°F19°C | 61°F16°C | 55°F13°C | 46°F8°C | 34°F1°C | 23°F-5°C |
| Rain days | 11 | 7 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 10 |
Season by season
Winter
December–FebruaryHighs of 34–37°F (1–3°C) and lows of 18°F (-8°C) to 23°F (-5°C), with 7 to 11 rain or snow days a month. Nor'easters can dump snow on the Old Port, and brick sidewalks ice over. Pack a proper winter coat, a hat, gloves and waterproof boots with grip.
Spring
March–MaySlow to warm up. Highs go from 45°F (7°C) in March to 64°F (18°C) in May, with 12 rain days every month. It's muddy and damp, so a rain shell and waterproof shoes are the two things you'll use most.
Summer
June–AugustThe season people come for: highs of 73–82°F (23–28°C), warmest in July, with 11 to 14 rain days a month. Days are great for the Eastern Promenade and a ferry to the islands, but the water is cold and evenings on the bay need a fleece or a wrap.
Fall
September–NovemberSeptember is still 73°F (23°C) with only 6 rain days, which makes it one of the best months to come. October brings foliage and highs of 63°F (17°C); by November highs are down to 48°F (9°C) and lows to 34°F (1°C). Pack layers and a warm jacket after mid-October.
What to bring to Portland
0 of 19 packedSpring and summer bring 11 to 14 rain days a month, and this shell also blocks the wind on the ferry.
The women's shell: waterproof, light and packs down small for a day on the islands.
- A warm wrapClothing
Throw it on when the sun drops and the breeze picks up on a Casco Bay boat.
- Dramamine Advanced Herbals GingerHealth & Safety
Non-drowsy ginger capsules for mild queasiness on the Casco Bay ferries and whale-watching boats.
- Hydro Flask 32 oz Travel Bottle with Flex Straw CapWater Bottles & Hydration
Fits the cupholder for the drive out to Portland Head Light and up the coast.
- Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 20LBags & Luggage
A weather-sealed day bag for a wet day on the Old Port's streets and wharves.
Clothing
- Insulated winter coat · 1Dec–Feb highs barely clear freezing
- Fleece or sweater · 2Cool evenings on Casco Bay
- Thermal base layers · 2Winter
- Hat, gloves and scarf · 1 set
- T-shirts and shorts · 3July highs reach 28°C
Footwear
- Waterproof boots · 1Winter snow and slush
- Comfortable walking shoes · 1
Gear
- Wool socks · 4 pairs
- Sunglasses · 1Glare on the water
Health and toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
Documents and money
- Driver's license or ID
Tech
- Phone power bank · 1
What shoes should you pack for Portland?
Waterproof shoes with good tread. The Old Port's cobbles and old brick are uneven, and in winter they're icy. Pack boots from December to March, and comfortable walkers for summer.
What do people wear in Portland?
Casual New England: flannel, fleece, jeans, a good rain jacket, boots. Nobody dresses up much, even for the well-known restaurants. Function wins here.
What plugs does Portland use?
The US uses type A and B plugs at 120V. Visitors from outside North America need an adapter with US plugs and gear that handles 120V.
Tours and things to do in Portland
Packed and ready? Browse guided tours, day trips and tickets for Portland.
What should you leave at home for Portland?
Fancy shoes that can't take wet brick. Swimwear unless you're ready for cold Atlantic water. And a summer-only wardrobe, because it gets chilly out on the bay at night, even in July.
Packing for Portland: questions people ask
What should I wear in Portland, Maine in summer?
T-shirts and shorts for highs of 73–82°F (23–28°C), plus a fleece or light jacket for evenings by the water and a rain shell for the 11 to 14 rain days a month.
How cold is Portland, Maine in winter?
Cold. Highs sit at 34–37°F (1–3°C) and lows drop to 18°F (-8°C) in February. You'll want a winter coat, a hat, gloves and boots.
When is the best time to visit Portland, Maine?
Late summer and September. September highs are 73°F (23°C) with just 6 rain days, and October brings fall color with highs around 63°F (17°C).
What should I pack for the Casco Bay ferries?
A warm layer and a windproof shell, even in summer. If boats make you a little queasy, bring something for motion sickness.
Do I need rain gear in Portland, Maine?
Yes from March through August, when most months get 11 to 14 rain days. A packable shell is the easiest answer.
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