‘Tis the season and with so many gifts to get and so little time to get them, we’re here to help with the Ultimate Gift Guide to Shopping In Portland, Maine and beyond. Here’s a list of 12 businesses to get you started on your gift giving this year!
Add a touch of sparkle this holiday season with timeless pieces from D. Cole. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or treating yourself, these handcrafted designs are made to be cherished.
D. Cole is a family owned and operated jeweler located in the heart of the Old Port. Founded by Dean and Denise Cole in 1977, they have grown their business to now include their children, daughter-in-law, and brother. After relocating to Portland in 1981, they have spent 42 years creating jewelry right here in Portland. D. Cole has also been awarded the title of Best Jewelry Store four years in a row in the Best of Awards. They are known for their high-quality handcrafted jewelry, which includes custom, engagement rings, wedding bands and many more wearable works of art.
You can browse their products online here, or visit their store at 10 Exchange, Portland, Monday – Saturday, 10AM – 5PM.
For those in search of a distinctive holiday gift for their cherished pets, a visit to Uncommon Paws on Exchange Street is highly recommended. This locally owned and operated boutique pet store boasts an impressive selection of meticulously crafted products. Notably, a significant portion of their inventory is sourced or crafted within the community, emphasizing a commitment to supporting local artisans and businesses, particularly those in the state of Maine.
Uncommon Paws provides an opportunity for pet owners to indulge in unique, high-quality items, fostering a sense of community connection and celebrating local craftsmanship. Take a moment to explore the store; your pets are sure to appreciate the thoughtfulness behind each carefully curated offering.
You can shop Uncommon Paws online or visit their store at 21 Exchange, Portland, Monday – Sunday starting at 10 AM.
This holiday season, you can give the power of play with the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine! The Children’s Museum features an award-winning three-story destination for children to imagine and learn through play. With over 15 interactive exhibits, a robust calendar of theatrical performances, there is always something to see.
Memberships make for a great gift, and include 10% discount on workshops, classes, theatre tickets, and party rentals, magic member hours (9am-10am Monday & Wednesday – Friday from September to May), reciprocal benefit discount to 200 children’s museums nationwide, Support CMTM and help families of all backgrounds access the Museum & Theatre. Per-person memberships start at just $130.
Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine is located at 250 Thompsons Point Rd, Portland, Maine. Visit them online to learn more!
Portland’s newest Med Spa, Bevara makes for the perfect wellness gift for others, or treating yourself to some holiday self care. Bevara offers hydrafacials, chemical peels, fillers, microneedling, laser hair removal, and much more.
Bevara is offering a gift guide special which includes a FREE Consultation, 45 Min Hydrafacial, and $150 credit towards your favorite skincare! Purchase your package here!
Bevara was founded to help you preserve your inner beauty, and take preventative steps against aging. This spa has a focus on both medical aesthetics, and sophistication to create the ultimate med spa experience. If you’re new to the med spa scene, or just want to learn more, they offer free consultations for new clients! Gift cards are available, and can be purchased in store or online here.
Bevara Med Spa is located at 1 Portland Square, Suite 108, Portland, Maine. Visit them online to learn more!
For the imbibers on your gift list: Man and Oak, the largest bottle club in New England, located in downtown Portland, offers a unique experience. Whether you desire a quiet space to catch up on work, a relaxed, ambient atmosphere to bring friends together, or a hub for spirits education, Man and Oak has you covered.
Man and Oak has over 300 private bottle lockers. Memberships start at $55.00 per month for a small locker (2-4 bottles) and go up to 8-12 bottles in their master locker. Members can access their lockers to pour their own liquor, or make their own cocktails to enjoy while in the club. While sipping your cocktail, you can embark on a variety of educational endeavors as Spirit Suppliers, Brand Ambassadors, and Bartenders offer a variety of classes for members to build their dram knowledge. Recent classes include a Manhattan Class, a Whiskey Blending Workshop, and Amaro World. A monthly membership just might be the perfect, out of the box gift for your cocktail connoisseur friends and family.
The space is available for private events as well, and has successfully hosted birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and professional business meetings.
Man and Oak is located at 44 Oak St, Portland, Maine. Visit them online to learn about upcoming classes and to reserve a locker for your loved one.
Luxe on Free Salon is your go to salon for any hair appointment. From blonding specialists to balayage magic, Luxe does it all. Voted best salon in Portland three years in a row, this talented team of hair stylists decades of combined experience. Explore their full list of services, including coloring, extensions, balayage, highlights, perms, and more!
They are currently offering a Free Collagen Treatment (Also known as Hair Botox) to all new clients! You can also get 20% off all retail items now until December 24th, 2024!
Their newest booth renter, DJ, is a 20 year educated stylist who brings a wealth of expertise to the salon, and is currently accepting new clients. Treat someone to a fresh look this holiday season and book them an appointment, or pick up a gift card in store!
Luxe on Free Salon is located at 4 City Center, Portland, Maine. Check out their Instagram to learn more or visit them at the salon!
Located in the heart of the Old Port, The Regency is a boutique hotel that is the makes for a great Portland getaway. This charming hotel is perfect for any trip, whether it be a romantic weekend, staycation, group getaway, or family vacation. Surrounded by local shops, restaurants, and bars, exploring the city is only steps away.
If you’re looking to explore the unique and festive shopping in Portland, their Shop & Stay Package is available now through January 5th! The package includes Deluxe Accommodations, À la Carte Breakfast for Two at the Eighteen95 Restaurant, and Valet Parking for one vehicle.
The Regency also features multiple food and drink options within the hotel. Visit Ironside Whiskey bar, The Armory Lounge, and the Eighteen95 Restaurant. If you’re looking to unwind, explore their spa offerings and schedule a massage, facial, or body treatment.
The Portland Regency Hotel & Spa is located at 20 Milk St, Portland, Maine. Bookings and E-Gift Cards are available online, or visit them to learn more!
Step into the world of Jar Cannabis Co, a trailblazer in Maine’s regulated cannabis scene since its inception. With a legacy built on experience, quality is not just a commitment – it’s second nature. Run by a tight-knit group of lifelong friends who hold family, health, and the great outdoors in the highest regard, Jar Cannabis Co is more than a storefront; it’s an invitation to explore a lifestyle where cannabis is seamlessly woven into a tapestry of balance, adventure, and well-being. Get ready to embark on a journey where every visit is a chance to discover and elevate your cannabis experience, guided by those who truly understand the essence of living life to the fullest.
Learn more online, and shop Jar Co. in store at 9 Exchange Street, Portland, daily at 10 AM.
Gritty’s is the perfect place to experience the ambiance of Portland’s Old Port. Known as Maine’s Original Brewpub, they’ve been brewing right here in Maine since 1988. From it’s humble beginnings as a small brewpub, they now brew authentic English ales across the state and have become a staple for locals and tourists alike. In addition to local brews and pub food, they also have live music and host trivia nights.
From Black Friday to Christmas Day, Gritty’s is offering a deal on gift cards! For every $50 in gift cards you buy, you get a $10 gift card for FREE! Give the gift of a pint this holiday season, and purchase a gift card or merchandise for the beer lover in your life!
*Please note, gift card deal only available for purchase in person.*
Digital gift cards are available, as well as traditional gift cards that can be shipped. Shop here!
Gritty McDuff’s is located at 396 Fore St, Portland, Maine. Open daily from 11:30am-1:00am.
Game on! For the sports fan in your life, tickets to a Mariners game make for the perfect gift. Based in Portland, this ECHL team began play in the 2018-19 season with their home games taking place at the Cross Insurance Arena. Check out their schedule here to find the perfect game to attend, and catch live match in the city.
Holiday packs are on sale now, and include things such as tickets, signed pucks, limited-edition holiday scarfs, travel wine glasses, and more!
Shop holiday packs and tickets here!
Miranda Restaurant Group
The Miranda Restaurant Group has a handful of locations around the city, each bringing you a different exciting experience. A gift card to any of these are sure to fare well under the tree this holiday season.
ViA VECCHiA, one of Portland’s beloved Italian eateries, features a range of authentic dishes such as ravioli, filet, and delicious aperitivo to go along with it.
Blyth & Burrows prides themselves on their knowledge and craft of the cocktail experience. This upscale cocktail bar & raw bar features expertly crafted cocktails and small plates that are sure to impress.
Papi is a Puerto Rican bar and kitchen serving authentic dishes, innovative cocktails, all from the heart of the Old Port. This lively bar is the perfect spot for groups, or a date night out.
Henry’s Public House is an American Tavern that doesn’t just serve food, it captures the entire spirit of Portland. Experience classic pub fare paired with local Maine beers, or carefully crafted cocktails.
Off Track Pizza is your go to spot for a slice at lunch, dinner, or even after midnight. This new pizza joint features bottled cocktails, sandwiches on freshly baked focaccia bread, all in addition to a variety of pizzas.
You can purchase gift cards for any restaurant online or by visiting each location in person.
Maine Souvenir Shop & Flynn Hats Pop-Up
Keep it local this holiday season! The Maine Souvenir Shop is a shop that is dedicated to giving back to artists and community. They only feature items made and or designed by someone from Maine. Shop from a wide variety of products, such as artwork, clothing, jewelry, candles, and much more.
Browse products from over 100 Maine artists in store, or visit their website to start shopping!
The Maine Souvenir Shop is located at 2 Exchange St, Portland, Maine. Open daily at 8am.
Looking for More Ideas?
Here’s a few more places to grab that perfect present.
Terrarium
Terrarium, an urban garden center nestled in the heart of the Old Port, is a place to shop for house plants, to imbibe, to connect with plant loving folks, and to be creative.
Offering an expansive variety of common and rare houseplants, terrarium building workshops, small bites, beer, wine and more, a gift card is the perfect gift for the creatives or plant loving pals on your shopping list. Have a friend that just moved into a new home? Give their home a welcoming touch with a brand new terrarium or shop their wonderful selection of houseplants in-store!
You can visit Terrarium at 98 Cross St N in Portland, Maine, Wednesday – Thursday 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Friday 12:00PM – 8:00PM, Saturday 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
You can shop online or visit Designs by CC at 7 Pleasant Street, Portland Monday – Saturday from 10 AM – 5 PM.
Maine Day Ventures
For the adventurer on your list, purchase a Maine Day Ventures Gift Card. All activities are fun adventures- highly interactive and authentic. Activities highlight Maine’s culinary scene and colorful history both on land in in the water. Gift cards are available in any dollar amount. Culinary tours are currently $130 and history tours are currently $42. Gift cards never expire or depreciate, and can be redeemed towards any adventure in all of our locations: Portland (year round), Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor and Kennebunkport (seasonally).
Purchase gift cards online here.
Health Resonates
Discover serenity at Health Resonates, a charming escape catering to all your wellness and beauty needs. Nestled in Portland’s West End, this Boutique Wellness Spa stands out as a unique haven in the city. Our commitment is to provide unparalleled, results-driven services, assisting the community on their healing journeys and beyond.
Health Resonates is proudly women-owned, a collaborative effort led by Tara Evelyn, a licensed Massage Therapist, Energy Healer, Aesthetician, and the visionary founder of Health Resonates, along with Anna Flaherty, an experienced licensed Massage Therapist and Aesthetician. Together, as co-owners, they have created a sanctuary dedicated to relaxation and well-being.
The spa, located at 773 Congress Street is by appointment only. They’ll be having an open house on Wednesday, December 20th from 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM. They also offer gift cards online.
Buzz Coffee
Nestled in the heart of the Old Port, discover Buzz Coffee an underground coffee haven that beckons you into the warmth of the holiday season. This cozy coffee shop, hidden away from the bustling streets, proudly features a selection of carefully brewed coffees crafted from Little Wolf beans, along with drip coffee, cold brew, a variety of teas, and an enticing array of espresso-based drinks.
Indulge in the festive spirit as you savor each sip of our meticulously prepared holiday-themed beverages. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting cup of drip coffee or a refreshing cold brew, our menu offers something delightful for every palate.
This holiday season, elevate your gift-giving experience with our special touch—gift cards that capture the essence of our hidden gem. Share the joy of exceptional coffee and the coziness of the season with your loved ones. Treat them to the gift of warmth and flavor, tucked away in the heart of the Old Port.
Order Buzz Coffee online here or purchase gift cards in-person at 19 Exchange Street, Portland Wednesday – Sunday starting at 9 AM.
X Golf Portland
The perfect, unique gift for dad and/or mom this year is a gift card to X Golf Portland on York Street. With state-of-the-art golf simulators, this is the perfect spot for the golfer in your family to stay loose during the cold months.
X Golf offers private simulator rooms, so no one will see you when you’re working on that slice, and a full bar and food service, so you can make the most of your afternoon on the indoor links. Rental golf clubs are available for anyone that hasn’t fully committed to the golf life yet, and for the golfer who really wants to perfect their game, X Golf offers lessons with actual professional golfers.
You can stop in for a round, or to purchase your gift card with X Golf at 101 York St B, Portland.
You can shop The Post Supply online or visit their store at 65 Washington Avenue, Portland, Monday – Sunday starting at 10 AM. Closed Tuesday.
Bella Funk
Bella Funk, a brand situated in both the mountainous landscapes of Littleton, NH, and the coastal charm of Portland, ME, is the brainchild of two sisters united by a shared passion for exquisitely crafted products and a common goal to empower women through an inspired lifestyle. Meticulously sourced and impeccably made, their products embody a commitment to quality and consciousness.
With a keen emphasis on small batch makers, Bella Funk values the intricacies of the handmade process and the narratives that accompany each creation. Their ethos revolves around cherishing the artistry involved in crafting products, appreciating the individual stories woven into each piece. Explore the curated world of Bella Funk, where craftsmanship meets mindful sourcing, and where each product is a testament to the dedication of its creators.
You can shop Bella Funk online or visit them at 43 Exchange Street daily; Monday – Sunday starting at 10 AM.
Toad & Co
Explore a diverse array of both contemporary and pre-loved treasures, all conveniently housed in one location. Situated in Bayside, the store not only offers the latest Toad&Co styles for the season but also serves as the headquarters for ToadAgain, their innovative circular clothing solution.
Whether you’re seeking the newest Toad&Co fashions or a distinctive resale or vintage piece, this space has it all. Additionally, the premises house the ToadAgain facility, dedicated to the meticulous processing and renewal of all pre-loved garments received through the ToadAgain initiative. It’s a unique destination where fashion choices meet eco-conscious practices, creating a harmonious blend of style and sustainability.
You can shop Toad&Co online or visit them at 31 Diamond Street daily; Monday – Sunday starting at 12 PM.
Strata
Chef, please! A city full of restaurants means a city full of chefs. This holiday season sharpen up your gift giving skills with a visit to Washington Avenue’s Strata, a sharpening service and culinary knife and kitchenwares shop resides.
You’ll find a handpicked selection of their favorite culinary knives from around the world, including brand/maker Hitohira, their main Japanese supplier. Strata focuses on sourcing quality steels produced on a small scale, and carrying knives for all skill levels and budgets. They work with craftspeople all over the world to feature the highest quality kitchen tools and accessories they can find. In addition to knives, you can shop sharpening stones and plates, belt knife pouches/sheaths, axes and hatchets, cookware and more.
You can shop Strata online or visit their store at 67 Washington Avenue, Portland, Wednesday – Sunday starting at 10 AM.
Little
Honoring the magic of childhood, Little offers high-quality, beautifully made children’s ware that inspires joy for the whole family.
Encouraging individuality in even the littlest of tots, Little’s premium children’s brands and clothing, toys, and furniture are playful, timeless, and unique. For example, this season, gift the expecting family Oeuf Knitwear’s Everyday Pants or the Collégien Socks to keep their tiny toes safe and warm all winter long. For bedtime, the cozy crew stuffed animals from Jellycat feature a soft, cozy exterior that will send their bundle of joy off to sleep with the sweetest of dreams.
You can visit Little at 38 Exchange Street, Portland Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM or you can visit their online shop.
Eunoia
For the friend or loved one who never has a hair out of place, Eunoia hair salon offers a mindful approach to beauty.
When your friend and/or loved one visits the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere of Eunoia, they will know that they are among friends. The knowledgable and experienced team of stylists are passionate about enhancing women’s natural features to help them look and feel their best, while going beyond exterior, they focus on nourishing the mind and body with an exceptional client experience, which is at the heart of everything they do.
Services available at Eunoia include blowouts (Brazilian included), color retouch, color, all over glaze, event hair, and more.
You can book an appointment here or visit Eunoia’s location at 4 1/2 Milk Street the Old Port Tuesday – Saturday starting at 10 AM.
We hope this gift guide finds you well this holiday season! Please continue to support Maine businesses year-round and as often as possible. Happy holidays, from Portland Old Port!
