A multi-story floor to ceiling wall stacked with typewriters welcomes guests to the Press Hotel. Once the Portland Herald Press headquarters, the hotel elegantly embeds its journalism history with contemporary and clever twists. Below the lobby, a permanent gallery featuring local Maine artists is a must-see, as is the fully stocked state of the art gym ready for a sweat session on the go. Perhaps the most centrally located hotel in Portland, the Press Hotel is a few steps from just about everything. While the walls are literally inked with wit and wisdom from the past, the hotel is writing a new story rooted in exemplary service and style.
With views of Crescent Beach from every corner and the ocean’s omnipresent scent, Inn by the Sea lives up to its name. Located just 15 minutes from Portland, the pet-friendly resort offers vacationers an idealistic Maine escape with the convenience of exploring both the city and coast. All 61 suites are dressed in playful nautical decors like antique buoys, but still feel sophisticated enough for a longer stay—and are equipped with everything you’d need to do so, from unlimited coffee to lobster crackers. Beyond the spa, heated swimming pool, and lavish outdoor lounge areas, a picturesque boardwalk guides guests through a sea of local wildflowers out to the beach, which is outfitted in matching blue umbrellas and chairs. Surprise summer treats like s’mores, bonfires before sunset, and ice cream socials fit for kids and adults alike make days spent at the Inn that much sweeter.
Where to Eat
Photo: Courtesy of Scales
Sister restaurant to Portland’s iconic Fore Street, Scales serves upscale seafood in an understated, stylish setting on the wharf. The knowledgeable staff is eager to make the local fare fit every craving. While halibut dressed in a buttery hazelnut sauce will change your life, the freshest oysters from across the state are also an absolute must.
Once a highly sought-after food cart stationed at local haunts, The Highroller Lobster Company eventually found a permanent home in the heart of Portland a few years back. Today, there is still a line down the street to order one of the many creative takes on the city’s claim to fame, a lobster roll. Try the gooey lobster grilled cheese or the crispy lobster taco.
At this globally-inspired New England small plates dining destination, chef Mimi Weissenborn serves up locally-sourced ingredients, fresh-caught seafood, fine wines, and craft cocktails in a vibrantly-hued, plant-filled space. Sample it all by opting for the tasting menu, or take your pick of dishes like spruce-smoked Maine sea scallops and Gulf of Maine mussels in coconut curry broth from the a la menu.
Run by James Beard award-winning restaurateurs, the Honey Paw serves an eclectic menu focused on South East Asian cuisine. Try the khao soi with smoked lamb, and their take on a Banh mi (made with chicken liver mousse for the carnivores, tofu for vegetarians). Every Honey Paw meal should be finished with a soft-serve swirl—the flavors rotate seasonally.
