Want to get out of the rain or cold? From painting your own personal masterpiece at Muse Paintbar to viewing an art exhibition at the Portland Museum of Art, there are plenty of things you can do instead of staying cooped up at home.
Turn off Netflix and check out these fun activities you can do in Maine all while staying inside!
1. Paint Night at Muse Paintbar - Portland
Paint nights are fun for everyone and are a great activity for groups or couples. Unlike popular belief, you can show up without any painting skills or artistic talents and still come out with a keepsake and an enjoyable experience.
Muse Paintbar is located conveniently in the Old Port of Portland so you can grab dinner before, but keep in mind that you can also order some snacks and drinks before or in the middle of your painting session.
The paint instructors at Muse walk you through everything and break down the steps of a particular painting, how to mix certain colors, and what brushes to use. Also, if you want to be creative, you can go rogue and paint whatever you want, it's up to you!
Check out Muse's Portland schedule here to find a painting you would like to create and reserve a spot!
2. Rock Climbing at Salt Pump Climbing Co. - Scarborough
Located in Scarborough, the rock climbing gym at Salt Pump Climbing Co. is a great workout and a fun activity to do when you want to stay indoors. One of my favorite things about this rock climbing gym is that they have 7 auto-belays, devices that allow you to climb the top-rope terrain without the need of a partner. This makes it perfect for solo climbers or first-timers who don't know how to belay.
Salt Pump has a variety of climbing surfaces for top-rope, lead climbing, and bouldering with a range of difficulties. For those who want to learn how to belay, the gym offers a 2-hour intro to climbing class where you will learn the fundamentals of being a top rope climber and belayer. As a bonus, you receive a free two-week membership trial when you take the class. If you are unsure about rock climbing you can purchase an affordable day pass and all the rental gear you would need to try it out.
3. Treasure Hunting at The Willows Flea Market - Mechanic Falls
One of my favorite past times is to search for unique items at flea markets. Only a 45-minute drive north from Portland, The Willows Flea Market in Mechanic Falls offers over 250 vendors and three full floors of collectibles and treasures. In fact, The Willows has been deemed the largest flea market in the state!
Some examples of items you may find are vintage tins, books, toys, clothing, baskets, dried flowers, dishes, bottles, homemade candles, etc. If you are looking for a unique item for your home or want to find a special gift for someone, The Willows is the perfect place to go. I always end up purchasing something whenever I stop by!
4. Boba Tea and Board Games at Uncharted Tea - Portland
Uncharted Tea on Congress St. in Portland specializes in bubble tea made with premium local ingredients. I recommend ordering the "Atlantis" bubble tea made with matcha and the hummus toast: a thick slice of bread from Standard Baking Co. topped with seasoned cauliflower and hummus.
The café has a large open and beautiful space filled with comfortable seating to relax and sip on your tea. Also, Uncharted Tea is stocked up with plenty of board games so you can grab a cribbage board and a deck of cards to play while you hang out.
5. Portland Museum of Art - Portland
Portland Museum of Art is always a good choice if you want an indoor activity. There are many art collections to explore and varying exhibitions so you will get a new experience every time you visit. Along with perusing the art, the museum also has a gift store and a café so there's plenty to keep you busy.
Admission:
$18 | Adults
$15 | Seniors & Students 22+
Free | Visitors 21 & under
Admission is FREE to all every Friday from 4-8 p.m.
Hours:
Monday and Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday-Sunday: 10 am - 6 pm
Friday: 10 am - 8 pm
6. Soakology - Portland
Indulge in Tranquility at Soakology, a Tea and Spa Lounge on Congress Street. Choose from a variety of foot soak scents such as milk & honey, lavender, peppermint, and more. Sink into the plush armchair, savor a refreshing tea or snack, and let yourself unwind in pure bliss.
Note: Making an appointment is highly recommended - request online here.
Thanks for reading!
- The Maine Chick
