Best Family Hotels in Portland, ME

Arguably the best place to kick back and read a newspaper, this boutique hotel (which opened in May 2015) draws design inspiration from the newsroom that used to occupy the property. Each of the hotel's 110 guest rooms features decor inspired by a 1920s-era writer's office, including a vintage desk and reeded glass doors. However, several recent guests pointed out that the rooms, while well-appointed, are on the smaller side. But just because this Autograph Collection hotel nods to the past doesn't mean it's taking a step back from the future. Marble bathrooms, minifridges, flat-screen TVs and coffee makers come standard in all accommodations, plus there's a fitness center and on-site bike rentals. The hotel's location in the artsy Old Port district of Portland, Maine, seems to rub off on UNION Restaurant & Lounge, which utilizes farm-to-table techniques to create modern, artisan dishes. Recent guests were charmed by the quirky decor of the property and applauded the superb service of the entire hotel staff. Many travelers strongly suggested taking advantage of the complimentary bikes, noting it's the best way to explore the surrounding Old Port district. Keep in mind that because of this hotel's Marriott affiliation, members of the Marriott Bonvoy program can accrue or redeem points by choosing to stay here.

The Portland Harbor Hotel's unbeatable location and attentive staff received major kudos from recent guests. The property sits in the city's Old Port neighborhood, an area lined with cobblestone streets and 19th-century warehouses. In addition to its charming aesthetics, Old Port is also home to a bevy of restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. If you're in the mood to explore, make use of the hotel's complimentary bicycles – a recommendation from past lodgers. And though you'll be surrounded by plenty of top-notch restaurants, consider dining at the on-site eatery, Eve's at the Garden, which visitors said is a solid choice for happy hour. Reviews for the accommodations were a bit more mixed: Some said their digs were clean and comfortable, while others lamented their small size and recommended booking a room that doesn't overlook the street to avoid disruptive neighborhood noise. Wherever your room is located, you'll find it outfitted with a large soaking tub and glass-enclosed shower, feather pillows and complimentary Wi-Fi access. The Portland Harbor Hotel also offers a small fitness center, complimentary Starbucks coffee on each floor and in the lobby, and complimentary transportation to and from Portland International Jetport and the Amtrak station.