The Press Hotel

The Press Hotel occupies the converted home of the Portland Press Herald, a newspaper that shaped the city's identity for over a century. That history isn't window dressing here - it's woven into the bone of the place. Vintage typewriters, numbered flooring that echoes a print shop's layout, robes hanging like fine cotton in every bathroom. You're staying in a building with a story, designed by people who understood what made that story worth telling.

The location is relentless in its convenience. You're steps from the Old Port's brick streets, galleries, and waterfront, but also far enough that you can sleep without hearing every stumbling couple leaving a bar at midnight. The hotel draws couples (they rate it 9.7/10) and families alike - people who want to walk everywhere and not sacrifice comfort or design.

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The staff goes beyond the script. Guests consistently mention particular team members by name in their reviews, the kind of detail that only happens when a front desk or concierge person has genuinely engaged with you. Early check-ins are granted at no extra cost. One couple arriving during a snowstorm found their room upgraded after the hotel moved them away from noise. Another guest with a dog reported being welcomed warmly, with the staff accommodating the pet as if it were an honored guest.

Union restaurant is a serious reason to stay. One solo traveler ate there three times during a two-night stay - dinner twice, brunch once - and called it "incredible." She specifically cited the wedge salad with seaweed ranch, lobster Benedict, and the fact that portions are generous and the kitchen doesn't skimp on quality. The bar is equally praised; cocktails show care and craft. Yes, breakfast isn't complimentary (a source of mild frustration for some), but the food quality justifies ordering it.

The design rewards attention. The newspaper theme could have felt gimmicky. Instead, guests describe the space as "elegant," "sophisticated," and "classy," with decorative touches that genuinely impress - the lettered floors, the vintage typewriters, the robes that guests mention packing in their memories. Rooms are modern and updated; bathrooms are luxurious with premium finishes and hot water that actually works.

Location enables the Portland you actually want. Eight-minute walk to the water. One block from Old Port's heart. Steps to galleries, live music venues, and restaurants. A free shuttle runs from 3 to 11 p.m., so you can eat out without worrying about parking. For guests who want to walk a city on foot and soak in its energy, this location is nearly perfect.

Practical amenities that matter. Valet parking at $40/night (pricey, but cheaper than most downtown lots and hassle-free). Free Wi-Fi (though you'll need to create a Marriott Bonvoy account, which some guests find unnecessarily cumbersome). Pet-friendly rooms. Bike rentals for guests who want to explore beyond walking distance.

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The hotel occupies a historic building, and the rooms reflect that - modern interiors with the quirks of older bones. Windows vary by room and floor. Some face the street (lively but potentially louder); others face quieter sides. The decor carries the newspaper theme without being heavy-handed; robes are a nice touch that guests actually mention.

• Standard Guest Room, 1 King Bed - The baseline. Comfortable bed (though a handful of guests noted pillows could be more supportive), modern bathroom, city view in many units.
• Standard Guest Room, 2 Double Beds - Better for families or groups who don't want to share.
• Deluxe Guest Room, 1 King Bed - Slightly larger, with upgraded finishes and the same modern amenities.
• Deluxe Guest Room, 2 Double Beds - More space for families; interconnecting rooms are available upon request.

One honest caveat: soundproofing between rooms and corridors is thinner than guests expect at this price point. Multiple reviewers noted hearing neighbors' conversations and hallway traffic. The building's age is partly to blame, but it's worth knowing. Corner rooms or upper floors may offer respite. If silence is essential, ask when booking.

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Restaurant, Bar & Coffee · Union restaurant (breakfast, lunch, dinner) · Full bar with craft cocktails and happy hour · Free coffee available in the downstairs gallery before you leave

Activities & Entertainment · Live music and performances (check the calendar; the hotel hosts rotating events) · Bike rentals for exploring beyond downtown · Walking tours organized through the concierge · Temporary art galleries in the lobby and common areas

Practical Services · 24-hour front desk · Concierge service · Baggage storage · Express check-in/out · Valet parking and parking garage · Free airport shuttle available · Pet-friendly with pet bowls in rooms

Room Comfort & Technology · Air conditioning and heating · Free Wi-Fi (requires Marriott Bonvoy account setup) · Flat-screen TV with cable and streaming services · Room service available · Tea/coffee maker in all rooms · Refrigerator in rooms · Hairdryer, bathrobe, premium toiletries in bathroom

Fitness & Safety · Fitness center · Daily housekeeping · Laundry, dry cleaning, and suit press services · 24-hour security, smoke alarms, fire extinguishers

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Union is the restaurant attached to the hotel, accessible directly from the lobby but also open to the public. The chef has reimagined Maine classics with technique and care. The wedge salad with seaweed ranch is specific enough that a guest mentioned dreaming about it days later. Brunch includes lobster Benedict. Dinner menus change seasonally. Service is friendly; one guest's only critique was minor directional confusion entering from the hotel side.

The bar is a destination. Cocktails are craft-focused, not chain-standard. Happy hour runs daily. This alone gives the hotel an advantage - you're not choosing between the hotel restaurant or walking to find dinner; Union is genuinely worth choosing.

Breakfast is available but not included, a point that draws some criticism. Guests who've eaten it say it's good; guests who've skipped it to explore Portland's excellent café scene have reported no regrets.

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Summer (June–August) - Peak season. Old Port is packed with tourists, restaurants have outdoor seating, the waterfront is alive. Expect higher rates and full restaurants. The city's restaurant scene shines. Perfect for couples and families who don't mind crowds.

Fall (September–November) - Shoulder season at its best. Leaf-peeping brings visitors in October, but you can still walk without navigating crowds. Hotel rates soften after Labor Day. Restaurant scene remains strong. The waterfront is beautiful and less congested.

Winter (December–February) - Off-season but not dead. The hotel offers off-season rates (one group paid significantly less in February). Holiday decorations and quieter streets appeal to couples seeking a romantic getaway. Some guests report construction happening off-season, so ask when booking. Merrill Auditorium hosts winter performances.

Spring (March–May) - Underrated. Locals know this is when Portland wakes up. Rates are lower than summer but the city is opening - patios reappear, farmers' markets start, days lengthen. Easter and spring events draw families. Fewer tourists than summer or fall.

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"Slick and funky. Super modern but not overdone."

• Simon, United States · Couple · 10/10

"Elegant, neo-historical, magical. I ate at the union restaurant 3 times. Their take on food was delicious and unique."

• Michelle, United States · Solo traveler · 10/10

"We loved the proximity to the Old Port. The service was exceptional. The newspaper vibe was well done and classy."

• Morgan, United States · Couple · 10/10

"Great location, friendly staff, quiet and clean. Good restaurant onsite."

• William, United States · Solo traveler · 9/10

"Beautiful place! Great location, super cool hotel - nothing not to love!"

• Betsy, United States · Couple · 10/10

"The staff was very engaging and personable. Great service. Good vibe - everyone was smiling. Would stay again."

• Beth, United States · Couple · 10/10

The one consistent criticism centers on soundproofing (some guests heard neighbors and hallway noise) and, occasionally, Wi-Fi setup friction. A few noted that breakfast - while good - isn't complimentary, which some felt contradicted room rates at a luxury property. Valet-only parking at $40/night is expensive, though guests who've checked local lots find it competitive.

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• Old Port - 1 block. The epicenter of Portland's dining, nightlife, and gallery scene. Brick streets, outdoor seating, street musicians, and water views everywhere.
• Portland Observatory - 0.3 miles. Climb the 1867 tower for 360-degree views of Casco Bay and the islands.
• Portland Museum of Art - 0.2 miles. Strong contemporary and regional holdings, plus rotating exhibitions.
• Congress Street - Walking distance. Downtown Portland's main artery for independent boutiques, bookstores, and cafés.
• Waterfront/Eastern Promenade - 0.3 miles. Paved path along the water, perfect for running or strolling. Picnic tables, kayak rentals, and views of Casco Bay islands.
• Merrill Auditorium - 0.2 miles. Major concert and theater venue; the hotel is ideal if you have tickets.
• Portland Head Light - 7 miles. Maine's oldest lighthouse, in Cape Elizabeth, about 15 minutes by car.
• Midcoast Maine attractions - 30-45 minutes north. Boothbay Harbor, Camden, and Rockland (Farnsworth Museum, lighthouse parks) are easy day trips.

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Is breakfast included? No. Breakfast is available at Union restaurant but costs extra. Many guests explore Portland's excellent café scene instead. A few reviewers noted that the hotel offers complimentary coffee in the downstairs gallery before checkout.

Is there an airport shuttle? Yes. The hotel offers a free shuttle to Portland International Jetport (2.5 miles away), though times are limited. Ask at booking or check availability upon arrival.

Is there parking? Yes, but it's valet-only at $40/night. The hotel uses a valet service in a nearby garage. It's more expensive than street parking isn't available, but it's cheaper than most dedicated downtown lots and eliminates the hassle of finding a spot.

Is the hotel pet-friendly? Yes. Pets are welcome, and rooms include pet bowls. One guest with a dog reported being warmly welcomed and accommodated.

How is the Wi-Fi? Free but requires creating a Marriott Bonvoy account to log on. Some guests find this requirement frustrating compared to properties that simply provide a password.

Is the restaurant good? Yes. Union has earned strong praise for creative Maine-inspired food, generous portions, and skilled service. Reservations are recommended, especially in summer.

Can I hear neighbors through the walls? Yes, soundproofing is minimal. Rooms near the elevator or adjacent to high-traffic corridors may be noisier. Request a quieter location when booking, or consider upper floors.

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