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The other Portland, in Maine, is a hopping fishing hub, meaning there’s plenty of fresh seafood infusing the culinary scene, and numerous opportunities to head out on your own angling excursion. The city as a whole, particularly Old Port, is a charming historic district with hotels that have deep roots into the past. Eclectic, full of dining and shopping, and with magnificent views, this slice of Maine juts out into the Casco Bay, offering the most beautiful hotels for an amazing vacation.
Portland Harbor Hotel
Located in Old Port, a walkable district in the city, guests can valet park their vehicle for the whole stay—you won’t need it. Great restaurants and eclectic shops are abundant in the areas surrounding Portland Harbor Hotel. Inside is classic, like an elegant Maine Mansion—rooms have traditional wooden floors and clean cut designs. Expect thoughtful amenities like turn down service, which is complete with a little chocolate lobster left on your pillow.
Hampton Inn Portland Downtown-Waterfront
Clean, simple and pleasantly predictable, Hampton Inn Portland still has those touches we love about boutique or historic hotels. Inside and out, it’s lovely, and is in the heart of Old Port as well. An indoor swimming pool with a planked wooden ceiling and modern tile is a wonderful place to lounge anytime, and breakfast is more than sufficient with hot items like eggs, and all the basics. Valet parking is available for a fee, which you might find to be cheaper than looking and paying for a space elsewhere.
The Danforth
An 1800s mansion turned trendy boutique hotel, The Danforth still holds on to the original appeal from when it was built. However restoration and renovation have added relevant touches like a basement billiard room, swanky bar and artistic accents. Breakfast is diverse and the coffee pretty darn amazing, while the fresh cookies add a home touch.
The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection
A historic looking exterior and a modern, artistic driven interior are beloved aspects of this Autograph Collection Hotel. Always beautiful in presentation, the chain has done a wonderful job blending the establishment into Portland, from adding a quirky typewriter focal piece in the commons area, to equipping stunning suite restrooms with a rain shower, glass doors and marble vanities. Formerly home of the Portland Press Herald, the theme is no coincidence, as it pays homage to the building’s past as a bustling 1920s newspaper publisher.
Inn at St. John
Each room is unique, from brick statement walls to era specific wall paper—the inn was built around 120 years ago, and has held tight to its Victorian appeal. While the breakfast area is a bit snug, fresh bagels, pastries and other tasty staples are served, but you could walk to one of the other top rated eateries nearby. Everything on the west end of Portland is a brief stroll away. Another bonus is the substantially lower room rate compared to most in the city.
AC Hotel Portland Downtown/Waterfront by Marriott
With a contemporary look, this hotel has little but significant amenities like plenty of bed side plugs. Being waterfront the views are obviously great—there’s something relaxing about watching boats pull into the harbor.
The Francis
A simple historical inn, guests feel like they are staying in a quaint Portland home rather than a hotel. Wooden banisters, detailed bathroom tile, ornate fireplaces and stained glass windows add to the undeniable allure of this beautiful building. A tiny bar and insanely delicious restaurant are onsite, offering a cozy, convenient place to nab a a tasty beverage. Tandem Bakery is right across the street, serving famous jalapeño cheddar biscuits and sweet scones.
Inn at Diamond Cove
A short boat ride takes guests through Casco Bay, to this beautiful island that once housed military barracks. While still being close to all Portland has to offer, this gem is secluded enough for a completely disconnected getaway. You won’t see cars on the island, only bikes and golf carts, or just people getting around on foot. More than an inn, it’s a refined resort while still feeling down to earth. It’s modern, yet very “New England”, and the relaxing pool is topped off with an attached jacuzzi. Probably some of the most gorgeous beaches sit on the edges of the island, thanks to crystal clear water, sunsets and sparkling sea glass.
Hilton Garden Inn Portland Downtown
Striking harbor views are enough to make the downtown Hilton a great place to stay, but the consistency and solid property amenities mean it’s a safe choice too. Located proximal to shops, restaurants and scenic trails, departure points for many excursions are nearby too. Breakfast is made to order, with options including customized omelets and, of course, fluffy sweet Maine blueberry pancakes.
Pomegranate Inn
If you’re looking for something traditional, but with quirky, cheery flare, this is it. Each room features hand painted designs or other decorative accents that are quite fitting, since the Pomegranate Inn sits close to the art district of Portland. But if plush furnishings and an overall impressive look doesn’t draw you in, the food will. Caprese baked eggs, coconut currant oatmeal and heavenly quiche depict the impressive breakfast selections, and home baked goods like Mexican hot chocolate scones along with caramelized onion and walnut bread topped with bacon jam are up for grabs all day.
Portland Regency Hotel and Spa
Who would’ve thought an old armory would ever become a boutique hotel with a lavish onsite spa? Ironically the structure of the historic building now features a sauna, steam rooms and elegantly tiled hydrotherapy pools. Dine, explore, unwind—come to Portland, Maine.
