Plan Your Visit

Though we prefer in-person consultations, we do offer remote consultations under special circumstances. For new clients who are unable to make the trip just for a brief chat and size-up, the option of phone, Skype, or FaceTime is available if your artist thinks it is an option.

Please apply for a consultation just the same from your artists’ page and we will handle it from there.

There are several parking options near Brass & Briar Studios. Street parking is available on India and Commercial Streets.

Spare Spot Parking is located across from the Hampton Inn and is the largest parking lot in the area. Ocean Gateway Garage offers covered parking and is located on Fore Street. (We recommend avoiding Franklin Street if possible.)

If you're looking for a place to stay during your visit to Brass & Briar Studios, there are several options nearby. The Black Elephant Hostel is located just one block away. The Hampton Inn Waterfront is two blocks away, while the AC Hotel on Commercial is three blocks away. The Residence Inn by Marriott is also three blocks away.

If you're traveling from afar to Portland, Maine for your next tattoo or piercing appointment at Brass & Briar Studios, you might be wondering about the best way to get there.

Luckily, Portland has a smaller international airport (locally called the Jetport) located just a few miles from downtown, making it convenient for visitors. There are several airlines that offer direct flights from major cities throughout the mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and Southeast United States. While public transportation and taxis are available, Uber and Lyft are the most popular ways to get around.

However, if you're flying in from the western United States or another country, Boston's Logan Airport is the closest major airport. It’s about a two-hour drive from Portland, depending on traffic (avoid arriving on Friday and/or leaving on Sunday, trust us!) You can also take a 2.5-hour bus ride direct from the airport, or an Amtrak (plus a 45-minute bus/subway ride to get to North Station).

If you plan on staying in Maine for more than a day or two, renting a car is highly recommended so you can explore all that the state has to offer!

Yes, Portland, Maine has Uber and Lyft. It is a great way to get around the city!

However, if you plan on staying for more than a day or two and want to explore all that the state has to offer, we highly recommend renting a car. Maine is known for its scenic drives and breathtaking views, and having a car will allow you to experience everything at your own pace.

Portland, Maine is known for its charming coastal vibe, historic architecture, and abundance of fresh seafood. It's also home to many attractions that visitors will enjoy, such as:

Museums: The Portland Museum of Art, located in downtown Portland, is a must-see for art enthusiasts, as well as the Victoria Mansion. Other museums located outside of downtown include the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath (30 minutes) and the Tate House Museum (15 minutes).

Ferries/Boat trips: Take a scenic ferry ride to Peaks Island or a whale-watching tour directly from the waterfront.

Popular seaside towns: Boothbay Harbor (1 hour), Kennebunkport (30 minutes), Bar Harbor (3.5 hours), and Freeport (20 minutes).

Restaurants: Portland has a thriving food scene with many highly acclaimed restaurants, including Eventide Oyster Co. and Duckfat. Outside of downtown, you can find popular spots like The Lobster Shack at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth (15 minutes), Fore Street in Portland's Old Port (10 minutes), and The Honey Paw in Portland's West End (10 minutes).

Tourist attractions: Don't miss the iconic Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth (20 minutes), the Old Orchard Beach Pier (25 minutes), or the picturesque Nubble Lighthouse in York (50 minutes). The Maine Wildlife Park in Gray (30 minutes) and the Desert of Maine in Freeport (25 minutes) are also unique attractions worth a visit.

Beaches: For a day at the beach, head to nearby towns like Scarborough (20 minutes) or Old Orchard Beach (25 minutes) for miles of sandy shoreline and family-friendly activities.