Guide to The Best Hotels, Inns, and Lodging in the Greater Portland and Casco Bay Region
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Maine’s Greater Portland & Casco Bay region blends natural beauty with cultural richness. Portland, the largest city, features the historic Old Port district with cobblestone streets, the Portland Museum of Art, and a vibrant dining scene.
And, South Portland provides beaches and parks, with Bug Light Park offering stunning skyline views. Iconic Maine lighthouses, including Portland Head Light in nearby Cape Elizabeth, add to the charm. Meanwhile, Casco Bay’s islands, like Peaks Island, offer kayaking, biking, and scenic cruises.
Know Your Lodging Options in Greater Portland & Casco Bay Maine
Greater Portland & Casco Bay offer a wide range of lodging options to suit every traveler. These diverse lodging choices ensure that visitors can find the perfect place to stay, whether they seek urban convenience or a rustic, natural setting.
In Portland, the stylish Blind Tiger and the charming Percy Inn provide unique, comfortable stays in the heart of the city. Freeport features distinctive accommodations like Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Camping and the Desert of Maine Campground, ideal for nature enthusiasts. For a peaceful countryside retreat, Bliss Farm Inn in Durham offers a cozy and serene escape.
Lodging specials and packages may be available to make Greater Portland & Casco Bay getaways more budget-friendly.
Featured Greater Portland & Casco Bay Maine Lodging
Getting to Know the Greater Portland & Casco Bay Region
This Southern Maine region offers a perfect blend of urban and natural charm. Explore Portland’s historic Old Port, vibrant arts scene, and diverse dining. Enjoy outdoor adventures on Casco Bay’s scenic islands and visit iconic lighthouses.
Portland | Maine’s Charming, Coastal Gem
Portland Maine is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and culinary delights. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, indulging in the culinary scene, enjoying the arts, or embarking on outdoor adventures, it provides a rich and diverse experience that will leave you wanting to return.
Explore the Historic Old Port
The Old Port district is the heart of Portland, featuring cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, and a bustling waterfront. Visitors can stroll through boutique shops, art galleries, and specialty stores, or enjoy a meal at one of the many acclaimed restaurants and cafes. The area is also home to lively pubs and bars, making it a great spot for nightlife.
Take Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in and around Portland. Casco Bay offers opportunities for kayaking, sailing, and island hopping. Peaks Island, accessible by ferry, is perfect for biking and hiking. The Eastern Promenade, a scenic park overlooking the bay, features walking trails, picnic areas, and a beach. Nearby, the Back Cove Trail provides a picturesque loop around the bay, ideal for jogging or leisurely walks.
Visit Iconic Lighthouses
The area is famous for its picturesque lighthouses, such as Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light. Both towers are in nearby South Portland and offer unique insights into the region’s maritime history.
Enjoy the Arts & Culture
Portland boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. The Portland Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of American, European, and contemporary art. For performing arts, the Merrill Auditorium hosts concerts, ballets, and Broadway shows. Additionally, the city’s many festivals, such as the First Friday Art Walk, celebrate local artists and performers.
Savor the Culinary Scene
Plus, the city is a foodie’s paradise, renowned for its diverse culinary offerings. It’s famous for its fresh seafood, particularly Maine lobster, available at numerous waterfront eateries. Eventide Oyster Co., for instance, offers a modern take on classic New England dishes and is particularly famous for its oysters, lobster rolls, and innovative small plates.
In addition to seafood, Portland’s culinary scene includes farm-to-table restaurants, ethnic cuisine, and a thriving craft beer industry. Brewery tours and tastings are popular activities, with many local breweries offering unique and innovative brews. For example, Allagash Brewing Company offers a variety of innovative and high-quality brews and is famous for its flagship Allagash White, a Belgian-style wheat beer.
Travelers can find a variety of lodging options in Portland Maine to make the most of their visit.
Scarborough & Cape Elizabeth | Scenic Beauty & Coastal Elegance
Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth Maine are picturesque coastal towns known for their stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Just south of Portland, these towns offer a serene escape with beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and charming local attractions.
Enjoy the Pristine Beaches
Scarborough is home to some of Maine’s most beautiful beaches. Scarborough Beach State Park offers expansive sandy shores perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Higgins Beach is a local favorite known for its excellent surfing conditions and charming beachside cottages. For a more secluded experience, Ferry Beach provides a peaceful setting ideal for a quiet day by the sea.
Explore Scenic Parks
Cape Elizabeth boasts several scenic parks that highlight the natural beauty of the Maine coast. Fort Williams Park is a must-visit, featuring the iconic Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. It has walking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking ocean views. Crescent Beach State Park is another gem, with its gentle waves, sandy shores, and opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
More Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth. Scarborough Marsh, the largest salt marsh in Maine, is a haven for birdwatchers and kayakers. Guided tours and rentals are available to explore this unique ecosystem. In Cape Elizabeth, the trails at Robinson Woods offer a peaceful retreat for hiking and wildlife observation. The area’s many parks and beaches provide ample opportunities for biking, fishing, and leisurely walks too.
Discover Historic Landmarks
Both towns are rich in history, with landmarks that tell the story of Maine’s past. Scarborough’s historic Black Point Inn was originally built in 1878 and provides a charming glimpse into the region’s hospitality heritage.
In Cape Elizabeth, the Goddard Mansion within Fort Williams Park offers a glimpse into 19th-century architecture. The town is also home to Two Lights State Park, named for its twin lighthouses that have guided mariners for centuries.
Shop Local
Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth support vibrant local economies with charming shops and markets. In Scarborough, the Scarborough Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. Cape Elizabeth’s local shops feature unique items — from handmade jewelry to locally produced foods. These markets and stores provide perfect opportunities to pick up souvenirs and support local artisans.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
The culinary scenes in Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth reflect Maine’s coastal heritage. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with numerous local restaurants offering dishes featuring lobster, clams, and other ocean delights. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is a beloved spot known for its delicious lobster rolls and spectacular ocean views. For a fine dining experience, The Chart Room at Black Point Inn serves gourmet meals with a focus on local ingredients.
Fantastic lodging options await visitors in Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth Maine.
Freeport | Shopping Haven & Outdoor Adventure Hub
Freeport Maine is a charming town known for its world-class shopping, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Just north of Portland, the town attracts visitors with a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Whether you’re a shopaholic, nature lover, or history buff, Freeport offers a variety of activities and attractions to suit every interest.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Freeport. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park offers miles of hiking trails through forests and along the coastline, with stunning views of Casco Bay and the Harraseeket River. Also, the park is a great spot for birdwatching and picnicking.
For a unique experience, visit the Desert of Maine, a natural phenomenon featuring glacial silt dunes. The site includes a campground, walking trails, and educational exhibits about the area’s geology and history.
Enjoy the Waterfront
Freeport’s location on the coast of Maine provides ample opportunities for waterfront activities. The Harraseeket River is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, and South Freeport Harbor offers scenic boat tours, sailing, and fishing charters. Plus, the waterfront area is home to several seafood restaurants where visitors can enjoy fresh catches while overlooking the picturesque harbor.
Visit Historic Sites
Since the 18th century, Freeport has been developing a rich history. The Freeport Historical Society offers walking tours that highlight the town’s historic architecture and landmarks. For instance, Pettengill Farm, a saltwater farm dating back to the early 1800s, provides a glimpse into the region’s agricultural past. It features a historic saltbox house, nature trails, and educational programs about local history and ecology.
Shop Till You Drop
Freeport is renowned for its shopping, particularly as the home of L.L. Bean’s flagship store, which is open 24/7. The town boasts a variety of outlet stores and boutique shops too — from high-end fashion to unique local crafts. Main Street is a shopping haven where visitors can explore a mix of well-known brands and independent retailers. Also, the annual Freeport Fall Festival provides an excellent opportunity to discover local artisans and their handcrafted goods.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
The culinary scene in Freeport is diverse and delicious with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Lobster shacks, seafood restaurants, and farm-to-table eateries abound. Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster Company in South Freeport is a must-visit for its classic New England seafood dishes and waterfront views.
For a more upscale dining experience, visit the Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro for its wood-fired pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes. The town also hosts several food festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from lobster to blueberries.
To make the most out of visiting Freeport Maine, travelers can find lodging options for every preference and budget.