Where to Stay in Portland, Maine: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Portland, Maine, but still haven’t decided where to stay? You’re in the right place! 

With its picture-perfect cobblestone streets, busy working waterfront, and incredible food scene, Portland packs quite a lot into a relatively small city. It’s also super walkable, especially if you stay on the peninsula, so you can easily enjoy the most popular neighborhoods without relying on a car.  

To help you find the perfect base for your trip, we’ve put together this guide to the four best areas to stay in Portland, plus our favorite hotels in each.

Ready? Let’s get into it! 

Where to Stay in Portland Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Portland, Maine

Choosing where to stay in Portland, Maine, is less about transport and more about the atmosphere you want outside your hotel. 

Old Port is the classic choice for first-time visitors with its cobblestone streets, waterfront restaurants, shops, and ferry connections. The Arts District is ideal for museums, galleries, and theaters, while the West End offers a quieter, more residential setting lined with beautiful Victorian homes. Then you’ve got the East, which offers some seriously incredible views across Casco Bay.

When it comes to getting around, you can walk between most of these areas in around 15 to 25 minutes, although Portland is hillier than it first appears, so some journeys may feel a little longer on the way back! We definitely recommend using rideshares if you’ve got luggage or when you’re heading home after dinner, although you shouldn’t need a car to get around unless you plan to explore the coast beyond the city. 

In our experience, Portland hotels can be surprisingly expensive during summer and fall foliage season. We recommend booking well in advance if you’re visiting during either period, especially if you want to stay near the waterfront.

Before we get into the details, here’s a quick overview of the four best areas to stay in Portland, Maine:

• Old Port – Best for first-time visitors – This is the quintessential, postcard-perfect Portland neighborhood. Our top pick here is Hyatt Place Portland Downtown-Old Port Square, which has spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a lounge overlooking the city. 

• Arts District – Best for local culture and food – Centered around Congress Street, this lively area is home to the Portland Museum of Art, numerous galleries and theaters, and some of the best cafes and restaurants in the city. Our favorite stay here is The Westin Portland Harborview, a historic hotel with a spa and rooftop bar. 

• West End – Best for a quiet, scenic stay – This leafy residential neighborhood is known for its Victorian homes, peaceful streets, and laid-back local atmosphere, all within walking distance of downtown. Our top pick here is The West End Collection on Pine, which offers a gourmet breakfast and rare complimentary on-site parking just one block from the Western Promenade.

• East End – Best for outdoor activities and waterfront views – Set around Munjoy Hill, this relaxed neighborhood offers easy access to the Eastern Promenade, Casco Bay views, and a growing collection of independent cafes. Our favorite place to stay here is Hampton Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront with its indoor pool, complimentary hot breakfast, and convenient location near the Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal.

Where to Stay in Portland

Old Port

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Walkable waterfront location near ferry terminals, shops, and some of Portland’s best restaurants
• Atmospheric, historic streets and a convenient base for sightseeing

Cons

• One of the most expensive areas for hotels and parking
• Can feel crowded during summer, weekends, and cruise ship days

If you’re visiting Portland for the first time, we always recommend staying in Old Port. This is the city’s historic waterfront district, and it’s packed with red-brick warehouses, cobblestone streets, independent boutiques, and an impressive concentration of restaurants, bars, and breweries. 

Staying here puts you within walking distance of not only the waterfront, but many of Portland’s other central neighborhoods. Commercial Street and the Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal are all nearby, making it easy to explore on foot or take a day trip to the islands. The Arts District and East End are also easy to reach on foot.

Unsurprisingly, all that convenience comes at a price. Old Port is one of the city’s most expensive areas for accommodation, especially in peak season between June and October, and parking fees can add up quickly. It can also get busy during summer weekends and when cruise ships are in port. 

That said, if your budget allows, we think the atmosphere and unbeatable location make Old Port well worth the splurge, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or it’s your very first time visiting. 

The Evalina Hotel – $$$

If you’re visiting Portland with family or friends and want plenty of room to spread out, The Evalina Hotel is definitely worth checking out. This gorgeous hotel is set inside the historic 1854 Granite Block building on Commercial Street, and its spacious suites have full-sized kitchens, laundry facilities, and separate living areas. 

Location-wise, the Casco Bay Lines terminal is just a 6-minute walk away, while Merrill Auditorium and the Portland Museum of Art are both about a 15-minute walk away, making it a super convenient base for seeing Portland without relying on a car. 

You can expect suites here to typically range from $500 to $1,800+ USD per night, but with multiple guests sharing the space, it may be more affordable than booking several separate hotel rooms.

Another upscale apartment-style option is The Docent’s Collection. The lots here feature designer kitchens, in-unit laundry, and locally commissioned art, all just a 2-minute walk from Commercial Street and a 5-minute walk from Casco Bay Lines.

Hyatt Place Portland Downtown-Old Port Square – $$

For our mid-range pick, we always recommend Hyatt Place Portland Downtown-Old Port Square. 

This hotel is especially convenient for families, with spacious layouts that have separate living and sleeping areas, plus an indoor pool, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms. Some suites even have a balcony with views overlooking Casco Bay, which is definitely worth booking if you want to make your stay feel extra special.

As for the location, you’ll be just a 2-minute walk from Commercial Street and the waterfront, with the ferry terminal and Merrill Auditorium also close by. Rooms generally range from $120 to $650 USD per night, although rates vary significantly by season.

Another mid-range option nearby worth checking out is Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront. We love this hotel because they offer free bike rentals and have a fabulous rooftop bar!  

We also really love Portland Regency Hotel & Spa. This restored 19th-century armory has a full-service spa, and best of all, it’s just a 5-minute walk from Commercial Street.

Hilton Garden Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront – $

If location is your top priority, it’s hard to beat Hilton Garden Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront. It sits directly across from the Casco Bay ferry terminal, putting you just a 1-minute walk from the boats and about 5 minutes from the heart of Old Port.

We love that all rooms at this hotel have a microwave and refrigerator, which makes it easy to keep snacks and drinks on hand for busy sightseeing days. There’s also an indoor pool and fitness center, so you can still enjoy a little downtime without leaving the hotel.

Rooms typically range from $150 to $450+ USD per night, which is a bit easier on the budget compared to other options in the area. 

Another budget-friendly option worth checking out is Portland Harbor Hotel. It’s just a 1-minute walk from Commercial Street, and we absolutely love the complimentary pantries on every floor stocked with coffee and snacks! 

Arts District

BEST FOR LOCAL CULTURE AND FOOD

Pros

• Excellent access to museums, galleries, theaters, and the restaurants along Congress Street
• Central and walkable, but generally less hectic than the Old Port waterfront
• Old Port is only around a 10 to 15-minute walk away

Cons

• Not directly on the water or beside ferry terminals
• Some streets quiet down once theaters and galleries close

If museums, live performances, and fantastic food are high on your Portland priorities list, the Arts District is definitely worth considering. This part of the city is centered around Congress Street (near the Portland Museum of Art), and it’s packed with independent galleries, theaters, and music venues, plus an excellent selection of restaurants.

We love this part of the city because it’s urban and lively, without being quite as busy as Old Port. You can spend the morning browsing the museum, stop for lunch along Congress Street, and then catch a show in the evening; all without needing a car. Old Port is also only around a 10- to 15-minute walk away, so you can easily enjoy the waterfront and nightlife before returning to a slightly calmer base.

The main compromise here is that you won’t be staying directly beside the harbor or ferry terminals. Some streets can also feel quiet once the galleries and theaters close for the night. However, if you’re more excited about waking up near museums and creative spaces rather than having waterfront views outside your hotel, we think the Arts District is a fantastic alternative to Old Port.

The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection – $$$

For a luxury stay with plenty of personality, The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection is our top pick in the Arts District. 

Housed in the former headquarters of the Portland Press Herald, it does an amazing job of bringing the building’s journalism history to life through its decor. 

If you stay here, you’ll not only get a luxury hotel with a fascinating story behind it, but you’ll also be in a fantastic position for sightseeing. Merrill Auditorium is just a 2-minute walk away, and you can reach both Commercial Street and the Portland Museum of Art in around 10 minutes on foot.

As for pricing, you can expect rooms to typically range from $250 to $800+ USD per night depending on the room type and season.

The Westin Portland Harborview – $$

For our favorite mid-range stay in the Arts District, it has to be The Westin Portland Harborview. This historic hotel sits just a 2-minute walk from the Portland Museum of Art, while Old Port and Commercial Street are both about a 15-minute walk away. 

The rooms have Westin’s famously comfortable Heavenly Beds, and you’ll also have access to a spa and fitness studio. However, the real highlight is the rooftop lounge, which offers excellent views across the city and Casco Bay. 

Rooms generally range from $130 to $730+ USD per night, with the best rates typically available outside the busy summer season. 

Holiday Inn Portland – $

If you’re looking to keep costs down without sacrificing location, you can’t go wrong with Holiday Inn Portland-By The Bay. This hotel sits directly across from the Portland Museum of Art, and it’s only about a 5- to 10-minute walk from Old Port and Commercial Street.

This hotel has everything you’d expect from a Holiday Inn, including a large heated indoor pool, a sauna and fitness center, and an on-site bar and restaurant. There’s even a free shuttle service to places like the airport and train station, which is so handy if you’re visiting without a car!

Rooms typically range from $110 to $550+ USD per night, which is very reasonable considering the location. 

West End

BEST FOR A QUIET, SCENIC STAY

Pros

• Beautiful Victorian architecture and a peaceful residential atmosphere
• Walkable to museums, historic landmarks, neighborhood cafes, and downtown
• Close to the Western Promenade and its scenic views over the Fore River

Cons

• Farther from the waterfront and ferry terminals than Old Port
• Fewer hotels, restaurants, and late-night options immediately nearby

If you want to experience a quieter, more local side of Portland, the West End should definitely be on your radar. This picturesque residential neighborhood is known for its grand Victorian homes and relaxed atmosphere, giving you a lovely glimpse of local life beyond the busiest tourist areas.

Even though you’ll be staying outside the main tourist hub, there’s still plenty to see nearby. Victoria Mansion, the Portland Museum of Art, and the Western Promenade are all within easy reach, while the many local cafes and restaurants make it easy to enjoy the area without heading downtown. 

When you are ready to venture into the city, Old Port is usually around a 15- to 25-minute walk away, depending on where you stay, so you can still head down for sightseeing, dinner, or drinks without needing to drive.  

The main trade-off of staying in the West End is convenience. You’ll be further away from the ferries, waterfront attractions, and late-night restaurants, and the area has fewer large hotels than central Portland. However, if you don’t mind walking, this is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a relaxed base away from the busiest tourist streets. 

Longfellow Hotel – $$$

If rest and relaxation are high on your Portland wish list, Longfellow Hotel is our top luxury pick in the West End. 

The standout feature here is the full-service spa and wellness center, where you can book a massage, join a yoga session, or unwind in the infrared sauna. You’ll also have access to free bicycles and a complimentary shuttle for local trips, which is such a thoughtful perk! 

Location-wise, the Portland Museum of Art and Western Promenade are both a 10-minute walk away, while Old Port is around 15 to 20 minutes on foot.

As for pricing, rooms typically range from $250 to $800+ USD per night, which is definitely a splurge, but definitely worth it! 

Another luxury hotel we love in the West End is Blind Tiger Portland. This beautiful mansion located on Danforth Street is less than a 10-minute walk from the harbor and serves a lovely American breakfast each morning. 

The West End Collection on Pine – $$

For our mid-range pick in the area, we absolutely love The West End Collection on Pine. 

This boutique hotel is set across two restored red-brick mansions, and it feels so much more personal than a standard city hotel. You’ll not only be treated to a made-to-order breakfast each morning (nothing better!), but you’ll also have access to a snack pantry. There’s also free on-site parking, which is a huge bonus in Portland.  

In terms of location, you’ll be just one block from Western Promenade and about a 10- to 15-minute walk from the Portland Museum of Art. 

Rooms generally range from $235 to $300+ USD per night, which is excellent value considering the location and facilities. 

Another mid-range hotel worth considering is The Francis Hotel. This hotel has an on-site spa and free off-street parking, plus it’s only about a 10-minute walk from the Portland Museum of Art. 

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland DT/Maine Med – $

If you don’t mind staying a short ride from Old Port, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland DT/Maine Med is a super practical, budget-friendly choice. 

This hotel is just a 5- to 7-minute walk from Hadlock Field, and although the immediate area is easy to explore on foot, you’ll want to plan on using a car or rideshare when heading to the waterfront. 

We love this hotel because breakfast is free, and there’s also a seasonal outdoor pool, pet-friendly rooms, and a complimentary shuttle to the airport and transportation center. These are all seriously useful perks for the price, with rooms typically ranging from around $90 to $400+ USD per night depending on the season. 

If the La Quinta is all booked up on your preferred dates, The Inn at St. John is also worth checking! This charming Victorian inn offers free breakfast and parking; just note that some of the cheaper rooms have shared bathrooms. 

Related Read: After you pick out your accommodation, check out our 3-day Portland itinerary for our favorite activities, all planned out for you!

East End

BEST FOR OUTDOORS AND WATERFRONT VIEWS

Pros

• Easy access to the Eastern Promenade, waterfront trails, and beautiful Casco Bay views
• Quieter residential area with cafes, bakeries, and local restaurants
• Old Port is still within walking distance of many parts of the neighborhood

Cons

• Fewer hotel options directly in the neighborhood
• A longer walk to the Arts District and West End

If scenic waterfront walks and quiet, relaxed vibes sound like your idea of a perfect city break, you will absolutely adore Portland’s East End. 

The neighborhood’s biggest draw is the Eastern Promenade, which stretches along the waterfront and offers walking trails, grassy areas, and gorgeous views across Casco Bay. Meanwhile, nearby Munjoy Hill has a growing collection of cafes, bakeries, and neighborhood restaurants, so it’s almost too easy to settle in and feel like a local. 

Although the East End is outside Portland’s busiest tourist areas, you certainly won’t feel cut off from the action. Old Port is still within walking distance of some areas, so you can easily spend the day sightseeing before returning somewhere a little calmer for the evening. Just know that reaching the Arts District and West End will take a little longer to get to, and you’ll probably want to plan on grabbing a rideshare after a busy day.

In our opinion, the East End is especially well suited to couples, repeat visitors, and anyone who loves starting the morning with a scenic walk and a coffee in hand! 

Best Bower – $$$

For our top luxury pick in the East End, we love Best Bower. This boutique guesthouse sits beside the historic Portland Observatory and has just six beautifully curated rooms, so it feels super peaceful and exclusive.

Each room features heated bathroom floors and local artwork, while you’ll also have access to a shared kitchenette and a gorgeous terraced courtyard beneath a huge oak tree.

As for location, East End Beach is about a 15-minute walk away, while Old Port and Commercial Street are around 20 minutes on foot. Rooms typically range from $175 to $650+ USD per night, and with so few available, we recommend booking as early as possible if you’ve got your heart set on staying here! 

Hampton Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront – $$

If you’re looking to stay a little closer to the waterfront, Hampton Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront is a super convenient mid-range pick. It’s just one block from Commercial Street and a 5-minute walk from the Casco Bay Lines terminal, so you’ll have all the shops and restaurants in the Old Port right on your doorstep. 

Rates generally range from $108 to $851 USD per night. Summer stays can be pricey, but you’ll usually find much lower rates during quieter months.

Another fantastic waterfront option is AC Hotel Portland Downtown/Waterfront. It offers some of the best views across Casco Bay and a complimentary airport and local-area shuttle. 

Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port – $

For a modern, budget-friendly stay between Old Port and the East End, check out Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port. 

This hotel is just steps from the working waterfront, about a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal and Merrill Auditorium, and within a 15-minute walk of the Portland Observatory and East End Beach.

What we love most about this hotel, though, is its rooftop bar and restaurant, which is a fabulous spot for dinner or drinks!

Rooms typically range from $150 to $700+ USD per night depending on the season and room type. 

If you’re a solo traveler or simply need an affordable, central place to stay, another budget-friendly option we love is Black Elephant Hostel. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from the Old Port and has a communal kitchen, games room, and shared lounge for socializing. 

Top Activities to do in Portland

Now that you’ve picked out your favorite area and hotel, you can plan the rest of your trip! Portland is such a gem, full of stunning scenery, history, and great food. While there is a lot to do here, we’ve narrowed down our top activities that you can easily add to your itinerary.

• Harbor cruise – Seeing Portland from the water on this harbor cruise is a non-negotiable! Not only does it give you a view of lighthouses, forts, and the stunning coastline, but it’s also lovely being out on the water.

• Visit historic lighthouses – After seeing them from the water, this lighthouse tour is the best way to discover the history up close! Portland is famous for its lighthouses, and honestly, they are really beautiful! Plus, we learned about the local culture and history from our guide, so it was really a two-for-one tour.

• Go on a food tour – Dive into Portland’s legendary food scene on this food tour! Lobster rolls, clam chowder, and local cheese, wine, and craft beer – this tour hits the highlights. For any foodies passing through, you won’t want to miss this experience!

• Vintage fire truck ride – This city sightseeing tour in a vintage fire truck is equally part unique, cool, and informative! We think this is a great option if you’re traveling as a family, but honestly – who doesn’t get excited by fire trucks!

• Bicycle to lighthouses – Looking for a different way to explore? This bicycle tour is a fun and interactive way to experience Portland. After you get your miles in, stop for a local lobster lunch to refuel – yum!

Related Read: Check out our best things to do in Portland, Maine guide for even more sights, tastes, and hidden gems!

Thanks for reading!

Portland, Maine is a pretty compact city, but where you stay can make a big difference! We love that there’s a little bit of something for everyone, whether you want to be in the heart of the action or a bit removed. Either way, you’ll fall in love with Portland, just as we did.

Before you go, check out our other USA blogs! No matter where your travels take you, we have guides to help you plan a memorable trip. Here are a few related posts to get you started. Cheers!

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