Wharf St. might be small, but it’s packed with character, history, and a nightlife scene that’s been alive and kicking for over two decades. Just a block away from the working waterfront on Commercial St., this two-block stretch is home to legendary spots like Amigos, where the drinks and tunes have been flowing since the ’70s, and Central Provisions, a local favorite for creative bites. Though it may appear old, the current street was developed from an existing alleyway in 1979, when Portland invested nearly $200,000 to convert it into a pedestrian thoroughfare.

Whether you’re grabbing a pint at Gritty McDuff’s, indulging in a sweet treat from Beal’s Ice Cream, or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Wharf St. is where Old Port truly comes to life. And with Exchange St. right around the corner, you can add a bit of shopping to your adventure. Explore, enjoy, and make a night of it on Wharf St. – the heart of Portland’s Old Port!

But there’s more than just a lively bar scene and eclectic eateries making Wharf St. special. The charm of this cobblestone street pulls you in with an almost gravitational force. Those romantic flickering candles outside restaurants? They wouldn’t quite have the same magic without the cobblestones underfoot. These iconic stones, along with the quarried granite blocks that line both Wharf and Dana Streets, have been central to the street’s vibe for decades.

In fact, Wharf St.’s quaint and “old” appearance is a bit of an illusion. The street’s transformation into what we know today only took shape in the late ’70s and early ’80s, when it transitioned from a simple alleyway to a pedestrian-friendly area. By the ’90s, it had fully embraced its role as a hub for bars, restaurants, and nightlife, becoming a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike.

In January 2020, a fresh redesign for Wharf and Dana Streets was revealed by Aceto Landscape Architecture and Urban Design, aiming to address the street’s age-related wear and tear. While the cobblestones lend an undeniable charm, years of poor drainage, pedestrian traffic, and Portland’s famously unpredictable weather had taken a toll. If you’ve ever walked between Amigos and Gritty McDuff’s, you might be familiar with the infamous “Gri-Migos pond,” a puddle so legendary it even has its own niche Facebook following!

Christopher Branch, Portland’s Public Works Director, highlighted how the redesign was initiated by local businesses hoping to make the area safer for deliveries and more accessible for outdoor dining. The proposed upgrades included ADA-compliant sidewalks and better drainage systems to keep the cobblestones intact while making Wharf St. easier to navigate.

The project hit a speed bump in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic, which delayed progress, but Wharf St.’s timeless appeal remains unshaken. The community is keeping a close eye on the plans for its future, and we’ll keep you posted on the latest updates.

So next time you’re exploring the Old Port, take a stroll down Wharf St. and soak in the history, charm, and cobblestone-clad character that makes this little street so unforgettable. And when you’re ready to rest your head, you know where to find us! Our beautifully appointed apartments are just a click away at portlandmainerentals.com/view-listings.   ️