When it comes to planning a trip to Portland, Maine, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, Portland has become a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. However, with so many options to choose from, finding the perfect place to stay can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay in Portland, Maine, to help you make an informed decision and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Overview of Portland’s Neighborhoods
Before we dive into our top picks for places to stay, it’s essential to understand the different neighborhoods that make up Portland. Each neighborhood has its unique character, advantages, and disadvantages. From the historic Old Port to the trendy Arts District, each area offers a distinct experience that can greatly impact your trip.
Neighborhoods to Consider
In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Portland’s most popular neighborhoods, including:
- The Old Port: Known for its historic charm, boutique shops, and waterfront restaurants.
- The Arts District: A vibrant area filled with galleries, studios, and trendy bars.
- The West End: A charming neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings, close to the city center.
- East End: A scenic area with stunning waterfront views and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly hostel, we’ll provide you with the insider knowledge you need to find the perfect place to stay in Portland, Maine.
Best Places to Stay in Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine is a charming coastal city known for its rich history, delicious seafood, and vibrant arts scene. When planning a trip to Portland, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many great options to choose from, it can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay in Portland, Maine.
Downtown Portland
Downtown Portland is the heart of the city, with many hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and attractions. Staying in downtown Portland puts you in the midst of the action, with easy access to the waterfront, Old Port, and Arts District.
Hotels
Here are some top-rated hotels in downtown Portland:
- The Press Hotel: A boutique hotel located in the former Portland Press Herald building, offering stylish rooms and a rooftop bar with great city views.
- The Portland Harbor Hotel: A waterfront hotel with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
- Hilton Garden Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront: A modern hotel with spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner.
Inns and Bed and Breakfasts
If you’re looking for a more intimate and personalized experience, consider staying at an inn or bed and breakfast in downtown Portland:
- The Pomegranate Inn: A charming B&B with eight individually decorated rooms, a garden, and a porch.
- The Inn at St. John: A historic B&B with comfortable rooms, a parlor, and a porch.
- The Mercury Inn: A boutique B&B with stylish rooms, a garden, and a hot tub.
The Old Port
The Old Port is a historic waterfront district in Portland, known for its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and restaurants. Staying in the Old Port puts you in the heart of the action, with easy access to the waterfront and downtown Portland. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Northwest Arkansas)
Hotels
Here are some top-rated hotels in the Old Port:
- Hyatt Place Portland-Old Port: A modern hotel with spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center.
- Residence Inn Portland Downtown/Waterfront: An all-suite hotel with kitchen-equipped rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
- Hampton Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront: A comfortable hotel with rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
Inns and Bed and Breakfasts
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience in the Old Port, consider staying at an inn or bed and breakfast:
- The Old Port Inn: A charming B&B with six individually decorated rooms, a parlor, and a porch.
- The Captain Jefferds Inn: A historic B&B with comfortable rooms, a parlor, and a porch.
The Arts District
The Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood in Portland, known for its galleries, museums, and performance venues. Staying in the Arts District puts you in the midst of the city’s cultural scene, with easy access to downtown Portland and the Old Port.
Hotels
Here are some top-rated hotels in the Arts District:
- The AC Hotel Portland Downtown/Waterfront: A modern hotel with stylish rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
- The Hotel Indigo Portland: A boutique hotel with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
Inns and Bed and Breakfasts
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience in the Arts District, consider staying at an inn or bed and breakfast:
- The Blind Tiger Guest House: A charming B&B with six individually decorated rooms, a parlor, and a porch.
- The Morrill Mansion Bed and Breakfast: A historic B&B with comfortable rooms, a parlor, and a porch.
Waterfront
The Waterfront is a scenic area in Portland, with stunning views of the harbor and Casco Bay. Staying in the Waterfront area puts you close to the action, with easy access to downtown Portland and the Old Port.
Hotels
Here are some top-rated hotels in the Waterfront area:
- The Portland Harbor Hotel: A waterfront hotel with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
- The Inn at Longfellow Square: A boutique hotel with stylish rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
Inns and Bed and Breakfasts
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience in the Waterfront area, consider staying at an inn or bed and breakfast: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Alwar)
- The Waterfront Inn: A charming B&B with six individually decorated rooms, a parlor, and a porch.
- The Bayview Inn: A historic B&B with comfortable rooms, a parlor, and a porch.
Neighborhoods to Consider
While downtown Portland, the Old Port, the Arts District, and the Waterfront are all great areas to stay, there are other neighborhoods to consider depending on your preferences and budget:
East End
The East End is a charming neighborhood with a mix of old and new homes, shops, and restaurants. It’s a bit farther from downtown Portland, but still within walking distance.
West End
The West End is a historic neighborhood with beautiful old homes, parks, and a vibrant arts scene. It’s a bit farther from downtown Portland, but has a more laid-back atmosphere.
Deering Center
Deering Center is a neighborhood located just north of downtown Portland, with a mix of old and new homes, shops, and restaurants. It’s a bit farther from the waterfront, but has a more suburban feel.
Tips and Recommendations
Here are some tips and recommendations to keep in mind when choosing where to stay in Portland, Maine:
- Book in advance: Portland is a popular destination, especially during peak season (June to October). Book your accommodations well in advance to ensure availability.
- Consider location: Think about what you want to do and see in Portland, and choose a location that fits your needs.
- Look for amenities: If you have specific needs or preferences, such as a pool or fitness center, look for hotels or inns that offer these amenities.
- Read reviews: Check out reviews from other travelers to get a sense of what to expect from your accommodations.
Recap
In conclusion, Portland, Maine has to offer a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. from downtown hotels to waterfront inns, and from boutique B&Bs to family-friendly resorts. there’s something for everyone in this charming coastal city. By considering your needs and preferences, and doing your research, you can find the perfect place to stay in Portland, Maine.
Remember to book in advance, consider location, look for amenities, and read reviews to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Portland, Maine. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Kihei)
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay in Portland, Maine
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Portland, Maine?
Portland has several unique neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own character. The Old Port is a popular area with plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. The Arts District is great for art lovers, while the West End is a charming neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, consider the East End or Deering Center.
Are there any budget-friendly options for accommodations in Portland?
Yes, Portland has a range of accommodations to fit different budgets. Consider staying at a hostel, such as the Portland Hostel or the Black Elephant Hostel, which offer dorm rooms and private rooms at an affordable price. You can also look into budget-friendly hotels like the Hampton Inn Portland Downtown or the La Quinta Inn & Suites Portland.
What are some popular hotels in Portland with waterfront views?
If you want to wake up to stunning waterfront views, consider staying at the Portland Harbor Hotel, the Hyatt Place Portland-Old Port, or the Residence Inn Portland Downtown/Waterfront. These hotels offer beautiful views of the Fore River and the Portland waterfront.
Are there any pet-friendly hotels in Portland?
Yes, many hotels in Portland are pet-friendly! Some popular options include the Press Hotel, the Pomegranate Inn, and the Inn at St. John. Be sure to check the hotel’s pet policy before booking, as some may have breed or size restrictions.
What’s the best way to get around Portland without a car?
Portland is a very walkable city, and many attractions are within walking distance. You can also use public transportation, such as the Greater Portland Transit District bus system, or hail a taxi or ride-sharing service. Additionally, many hotels offer shuttle services or bike rentals, making it easy to get around without a car.