Depart New York at 2:00 PM; arrive Portland by 6:30 PM. Check into your Airbnb in the Munjoy Hill neighborhood (15 minutes from downtown), then head directly to Eventide Oyster Co. on Middle Street for dinner. Their raw bar and wood-fired seafood (lobster rolls, roasted mussels) are local institution-level, and the casual, bustling atmosphere is perfect for families; kids gravitate toward the oyster shucking counter. Alternatively, Noshville on Congress Street offers health-focused Mediterranean casual fare if seafood feels heavy after travel.

Start at Portland Farmers Market (Deering Oaks Park, 8:00 AM–1:00 PM Saturdays; this week's Tuesday pop-up at City Hall Plaza, 7:00–11:00 AM) for fresh local produce and pastries. Grab coffee and a pastry from Standard Baking Co. right next door—their sourdough and almond croissants are legendary. Walk the kids through Deering Oaks Park, which has a shallow duck pond and playground.

Rent a Turo car (essential for the week). Drive 30 minutes north to Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse (Two Lights State Park). This iconic red-and-white lighthouse requires a 15-minute coastal walk, and the rocky shoreline is captivating for children. Pack a picnic lunch from the market. Return to Portland and spend mid-afternoon at Portland Observatory, a 19th-century maritime tower with 103 steps and panoramic views—kids love the climb, and the maritime history is accessible.

Dinner at Honey Paw on Middle Street (Southeast Asian street food, tons of vegetable-forward options, family-friendly chaos). Walk off dinner along the Eastern Promenade, a 2-mile waterfront path with views of Casco Bay and sunset views if timing is right.

Day trip via car (30 minutes) to Sebago Lake State Park. Rent kayaks or paddleboards, or simply swim in the pristine lake—one of Maine's clearest and safest for families. Bring breakfast from Holy Donut (potato-based donuts and excellent coffee) packed from the car.

Return to Portland. Lunch at Eventide's sister restaurant, The Honey Paw, or Local 188 (neighborhood gem, organic-leaning, creative vegetable dishes). Spend afternoon exploring Portland Museum of Art (open until 5 PM; 1.5 hours is enough for families with kids). The contemporary wing and Maine collection are engaging.

Casual dinner at Naturally on Congress Street (health-focused smoothie bowls, grain salads, cold-pressed juices—designed for families). Catch live music or a family-friendly show at Portland Stage Company or simply wander Congress Street's vintage shops and ice cream parlors. Stop at The Gelato Fiasco for authentic Italian gelato.