Where to Stay in Portland, Maine → 5 BEST Areas for Tourists

Getting ready to visit one of the best cities in Maine? Well, I’m about to embark on a virtual trip to discover all the main sites, art museums, shops, and other cool attractions in Portland! I’m sure that this sounds appealing, so you’re probably planning your upcoming trip and thinking about where to stay in Portland, Maine! 

No worries! I’ve compared all the Portland, Maine neighborhoods and created a list of the ultimate 5 spots for your stay. 

Based on this, I can tell you that the best area to stay in Portland, Maine, is Downtown. In the Downtown Portland area, you’ll come across many historical attractions, amazing architecture, and some stunning hotels! 

To make your choice even simpler, I also handpicked the best Portland, Maine hotels for each recommended area. There are options for each type of traveler and every budget, so I’m sure you’ll find something that meets your preferences. 

Finally, I want to encourage you to book your hotel as quickly as possible. Portland is a popular destination and attracts millions of tourists, and you don’t want to miss your chance to stay at the best hotels! 

Let’s go! 

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s a shortlist of the best hotels in Portland, Maine, all located in the Downtown:

Here’s a map of the 5 best neighborhoods to stay in Portland, Maine, as featured in this post:

NOTE: In this post, I’ll be talking about Portland, the most populous city in the state of Maine. Don’t mix it up with Portland, Oregon – even though the cities have the same name, they are quite different and located on opposite sides of the country!

1. Downtown – where to stay in Portland for first-timers

Downtown Portland consists of cobbled streets, brick-walled buildings, great restaurants, shops, and unique museums – and it’s always bustling with life! One of the best things about Downtown is that it’s extremely walkable, making it the best part of Portland, Maine, to stay if you’re visiting the city for the first time, especially if you’re traveling without a car.

One of the most notable places in Downtown is the Portland Museum of Art, where you can admire art from renowned artists and even attend some fun workshops. If you’re into history, you can’t skip the Maine Historical Society and the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, the home of the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and a museum that houses various exhibitions. 

As you explore the Downtown area, stop by Monument Square (map) – it’s a great place to get a feel of the city’s rhythm. Congress Street (map) is another must while in Portland! This is the main street in Downtown (and in the city) and the spot where you will find the best restaurants and shops in Portland! 

If you’re looking for a spot to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Lincoln Park (map) awaits. It has quiet walking paths and benches where you can sit back and people-watch. And if you want to attend some cultural events and performances, you can check the schedule at the State Theatre! 

Now, let’s see the top-rated hotels in Downtown Portland!

Other options in Downtown

Things to do in Downtown

• Admire the art at the Portland Museum of Art
• Visit the Maine Historical Society and the Wadsworth-Longfellow House
• Stop by Monument Square
• Check out the bars and restaurants along Congress Street
• Spend a relaxing afternoon at Lincoln Park
• See what’s on at the State Theatre

2. Old Port District – where to stay in Portland for nightlife

Located just a 5-min walk South of Downtown Portland, the historic Old Port District overlooks the beautiful Casco Bay and has the most relaxed atmosphere and vibe! Old Port is one of the most fun places to stay in Portland, Maine, especially if you’re a night owl who loves to bar-hop, check out local restaurants, and enjoy lots of drinks! 

PRO TIP: If you want to try a unique dessert, you have to visit The Holy Donut (map). This artisanal dessert shop offers donuts made with potatoes!

I hope you like lobster and other seafood, as there are so many amazing restaurants in the Old Port area that serve it. The Highroller Lobster Co. (map) is one of the most popular lobster restaurants in the area, or if you want a meal with a view, you can head to the waterfront and have dinner on the water at Luke’s Lobster Portland Pier (map). 

FUN FACT: Did you know that Maine produces nearly 90% of the nation’s lobster supply – roughly 40 million pounds annually?

When you want to take a break from partying and drinking at the pubs, you can walk around the historic harbor in the Old Port and admire all the boats! And if you’re in the mood for a road trip, get your car or rent one and explore other local areas, like Cape Elizabeth and the Portland Head Light (map) – it’s just a 20-min drive away! 

COOL FACT: The Portland Head Light is the most photographed lighthouse in the world!

One of the very best things to do in Old Port is hop on a ferry and visit the Casco Bay Islands. Also known as the Calendar Islands, they are located just across the bay from Portland and are a great day trip destination. 

Casco Bay Lines is the main ferry service provider and offers sunset and sunrise cruises, as well as music cruises and tours of Casco Bay on a working mail boat. There are plenty of islands in Casco Bay, but Long Island and Great Diamond Island are some of the most popular ones. 

NOTE: The Old Port District is a popular tourist hub and a bit more upscale than the rest of the areas recommended here. So, you won’t find any cheap hotels in Old Port. Instead, I recommend 2 mid-range options, but if you’re traveling on a budget, you can stay in the nearby West End or in South Portland. 

Other accommodation options in Old Port District

Things to do in the Old Port District

• Get some lobster at The Highroller Lobster Co. or at Luke’s Lobster Portland Pier
• Try the potato donuts at The Holy Donut
• Drive out to Cape Elizabeth and spend the day exploring the area
• Hop on a ferry and take a day trip to the Casco Bay Islands
• Grab a quick meal at Becky’s Diner (map)
• Embark on a guided tour of Portland and see the city’s main highlights

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3. East End – best part of Portland, Maine, to stay with family

In the search for the perfect area for your family trip to Portland? The East End, also known as Munjoy Hill, is a laid-back area situated a 7-min drive East of Downtown and is the best area of Portland, Maine, to stay with kids. 

One of the top attractions that will appeal to the entire family is East End Beach (map). This is the absolute best place to watch the sailboats go by, but it’s also a great spot to try some water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 

Near the beach, you’ll find Fort Allen Park (map), from where you might be able to spot the Casco Bay Peaks Island if you’re lucky! From here, you’ll also have easy access to the Eastern Promenade (map), one of the most popular walking spots in the entire city! Go for a relaxing stroll and enjoy the views of Casco Bay! 

Another attraction that will appeal to kids and adults alike is the Portland Observatory, a wooden signal tower that has been transformed into a museum. During your visit, you’ll learn about the tower’s history and enjoy stunning views of the city and the bay. 

As I mentioned, this is a relaxed, family-friendly area, so there’s not much to do in terms of entertainment. If you’re looking for some cool spots for a night out, head to East Bayside. 

This neighborhood is directly to the West of the East End and is home to numerous breweries, cafes, and restaurants! I recommend checking out Eventide Oyster Co. (map) for their oysters and the Lone Pine Brewing Company (map) for some housemade brews. 

Other accommodation options in East End

Things to do in East End 

• Have a family day on the East End beach 
• Enjoy the views from Fort Allen Park
• Go on a relaxing walk along the Eastern Promenade
• Visit the Portland Observatory and learn about its history
• Dine at Eventide Oyster Co. in East Bayside
• Grab a beer at the Lone Pine Brewing Company 

4. West End – best place to stay in Portland, Maine, to relax

Located just Southwest of Downtown Portland and Old Port, this residential neighborhood is perfect for people who aren’t fans of big crowds and busy areas but still want to be near the city’s top attractions, the best restaurants, and shops. 

West End is a bit more tranquil. You can walk down the street and not expect to bump into tons of tourists waiting to get into the art museums or shopping centers. This area has a unique charm. As you walk along the Western Promenade (map), you’ll notice many beautiful 19th-century local homes.

The Victoria Mansion is the neighborhood’s main landmark! This 19th-century Italian-style villa with impressive interiors offers tours and museum shops. 

FUN FACT: There are over 230 restaurants in Portland, Maine, making it one of the cities with the highest number of restaurants per capita. 

Since this is a residential area, there aren’t too many landmarks or attractions, but there are plenty of good restaurants. I suggest Chaval (map) for French and Spanish cuisine and craft cocktails and Ruski’s (map) for a traditional pub experience. 

NOTE: Harbor View Memorial Park (map), situated in the West End, is home to a homeless encampment. Although it shouldn’t be dangerous, keep this in mind and be vigilant.

Let’s take a look at the best hotels in Portland’s West End: 

Other accommodation options in West End

Things to do in West End

• Take a walk on the Western Promenade 
• Visit the Victoria Mansion
• Enjoy the views of the bay from Harbor View Memorial Park
• Have dinner at Chaval or Ruski’s

5. South Portland – where to stay near the airport

The final area I’m going to recommend in this post is South Portland. This commercial district is situated a bit further away from Downtown (an 11-min drive), but it’s well-connected to the city via the Casco Bay Bridge. If you’re in the city for a short while, this is the best neighborhood for being close to the airport. 

Besides staying near to the Portland International Jetport, this is one of the best places to stay in Portland, Maine, if you’re traveling on a budget. Hotels are more affordable, and there are plenty of free activities in the area. 

Go for a walk with a view on Willard Beach (map), explore Bug Light Park (map), and stop by Fort Preble (map). You should also stop by the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse (map), a small lighthouse that’s open year-round. 

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, The Maine Mall (map) is located right here in South Portland, and if you’re looking for some family fun, you’ll also find the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park. 

And if you’re in need of food recs, check out the Tuscan Table (map), a popular Tuscan restaurant, or Docks Seafood (map), a casual seafood restaurant. 

The South Portland area is a great choice for staying in Portland, but you’ll need to drive. If you didn’t drive to Portland, you should rent a car – this will give you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. Just keep in mind that traffic can get pretty bad during the season, as millions of people visit Maine, and the city becomes overcrowded. 

Other accommodation options in South Portland 

Things to do in South Portland

• Go for a stroll on Willard Beach
• Spend some time in Bug Light Park
• Visit the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
• Go shopping at The Maine Mall
• Take the kids to the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
• Enjoy dinner at Tuscan Table or Docks Seafood

FAQs about where to stay in Portland, Maine

📍 Where is the best place to stay in Portland?

The best place to stay in Portland, ME, is Downtown Portland, home to the Portland Museum of Art, Congress Street, Lincoln Park, and some amazing hotels like The Press Hotel and The Westin. 

🚶 Is Portland, Maine, a walkable city?

Yes, Portland is a walkable city with a compact Downtown area and other great walkable neighborhoods like the Old Port District near the waterfront. 

🚗 Where should I stay in Portland, Maine, without a car? 

You can stay in any of the main neighborhoods without a car. Still, I recommend the Downtown or Old Port neighborhood, as they host the city’s biggest attractions and some great hotels, such as The Press Hotel and the Portland Harbor Hotel. 

📅 How many days should I spend in Portland, Maine?

Spending between 3 to 4 days in Portland, Maine, should give you enough time to visit all the city’s attractions, the art museums, and other places like the Portland Head in Cape Elizabeth on the Southern Maine coast. 

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Where to stay in Portland, Maine with kids?

The best area to stay in Portland with kids is the East End, where you can try watersports at East End Beach, visit the Portland Observatory, and stay in family-friendly hotels like the AC Hotel by Marriott and the Cambria Hotel. 

🏨 What is the best boutique hotel in Portland, Maine?

🛑 What are the bad areas of Portland, Maine?

Most of the areas inside Portland are safe. You should avoid places like Libbytown and NasonsCorner, located just outside of Portland. 

💰 Where to stay in Portland, Maine, on a budget?

One of the best areas to stay in Portland, Maine, on a budget is South Portland. Here, you will find many free activities and good budget-friendly hotels, like the Holiday Inn Express. 

❓ Is Portland, Maine, worth visiting?

Absolutely! Portland, Maine, is definitely worth visiting! With its stunning coastal scenery, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene, it offers a delightful experience for travelers.

Final words on where to stay in Portland, Maine

Wow! Are you as impressed with this location as I am? I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Portland, ME and already picked a hotel. 

This post has so many unique hotels, and I know better than anyone how hard it is to make a decision, so here are my top 2 favorite hotels, both located in Downtown:

• The Press Hotel – a modern hotel that has a restaurant, a fitness center, and amazing city views
• The Westin –  this pet-friendly hotel offers excellent waterfront views from the rooftop bar, private parking, and a spa

Keep in mind that hotels sell out super fast and book yours in advance! It will save you so much time and money, trust me!

And if you have any questions, don’t be too shy to ask me in the comments. I will get back to you as soon as possible! 

Safe Travels, 

Victoria

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