Image courtesy of Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street
Portland, Maine is quickly becoming one of New England’s most popular destinations, especially for foodies. For those visiting — in search of great food, scenery, shopping and more — there’s an excellent roster of places to stay. The Press Hotel, Longfellow Hotel, Inn by the Sea… the best Portland, Maine hotels capture the city’s laid-back, historical vibe while pampering guests with upscale accommodations.
7 of the best hotels in Portland, Maine
Read on for a breakdown of seven of the best Portland, Maine hotels. However, keep in mind that there are more options both in and near the city. I'll help you find a hotel that best fits your preferences, whether that leads to a quaint cottage-esque resort on the coast or a trendy hotel in Old Port.
The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection
Image courtesy of The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection
Inspired by early 20th-century news offices, The Press Hotel is a unique and thoughtfully designed hotel in Portland. The décor — including a two-story installation of vintage typewriters — pays homage to the craft of writing. And it has a great location to boot.
The hotel’s entrance doubles as an art gallery, featuring the best of the city’s talent. Meanwhile, the Press’s rooms and suites carry the 1920s theme while adopting contemporary amenities. The penthouse suite also offers some of the best views in Portland.
Fora Perks at The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection:
Welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Longfellow Hotel
Longfellow offers a stylish and contemporary take on classic New England charm. As one of the newest hotels in Portland, Maine, it’s a great choice for travelers who prefer a fresh aesthetic and coastal Maine setting. The hotel also features a full spa, café and cocktail lounge.
Fora Perks at Longfellow Hotel:
$100 hotel / resort credit, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Inn by the Sea
Image courtesy of Inn by the Sea
Inn by the Sea is an upscale resort with direct access to the shores of Cape Elizabeth, about 20 minutes south of Portland. Here, you can choose from beach-accessible suites — one- or two-bedroom options — or single-bedroom rooms at the main inn. The best rooms have ocean views, gas fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens. Don’t miss the Sea Glass restaurant, which also has the best wine list in Cape Elizabeth.
Fora Perks at Inn by the Sea:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront
Image courtesy of Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront
Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront embraces the contemporary design of big-city urban retreats. The rooms feature an understated design with pops of color, posh furniture and views of the waterfront. Head to the rooftop local favorite Luna, for tapas. In the lobby, there’s the Salt Yard Cafe & Bar, an up-and-coming restaurant for all-day dining.
While this isn’t the best hotel in Portland, Maine if you’re looking for quaint, New England vibes, Canopy by Hilton is a great choice if you want trendy accommodations.
The Westin Portland Harborview
Just a couple blocks from the Portland Museum of Art in Downtown, The Westin Portland Harborview occupies the same tower that once housed the Eastland Park Hotel, which opened in the late 1920. The Westin underwent extensive modern renovations before it opened; elements of the original structure’s early-20th-century design, like the original landmark’s sign, are intact.
The hotel also features a full-service spa (named after the former proprietor), a classy rooftop bar and a complimentary shuttle service that will take you to Old Port and other attractions.
Blind Tiger Danforth & Carleton
Image courtesy of Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street
Blind Tiger has two locations in Portland’s West End, which has a more residential feel but is conveniently located a five-minute drive from Old Port and downtown. There’s not a dramatic difference in location between the two hotels, which are only a few short blocks from each other. Instead, style and availability — both hotels have only a handful of rooms — are likely to be the determining factors in choosing between the two.
Blind Tiger occupies two historic homes, one on Danforth Street and another on Carleton. The former is a Federal-style mansion from the late 1700s, while the latter is housed within a Victorian home that was built in 1869. Both hotels mostly feature vintage décor and furnishings, along with a boutique vibe.
Portland, Maine FAQs
Is Portland, Maine a good family destination?
Yes! Portland is an exciting town with lots of activities for the kiddos and fantastic scenery for all types of travelers. The restaurant and bar scene are both fantastic, as are the museums and historic streets. Spend a day on the water, hiking a nearby mountain or just strolling the Old Port.
When’s the best time to visit Portland, Maine?
Portland is liveliest in summer, but it’s a fun place to visit year round. Still, a visit to the Old Port in late fall, winter and spring is a good way to avoid the high hotel prices and enjoy access to the best restaurants.
How many days do you need to enjoy the Portland, Maine experience?
You can see many of Portland’s highlights in a couple days. However, foodies may want to spend more time in Portland to enjoy its gastronomy.