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Travel + Leisure
3 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
This Scenic Road Trip Along Maine's Coast Is Packed With Lobster Shacks, Boutique Hotels, and Classic New England Charm
When people plan a trip to Vacationland, there are the usual suspects: Kennebunkport, Portland, and Bar Harbor. The good news? All of these popular spots sit right off Route One, the coastal alternative road that winds through the state and hugs the Atlantic from the southern border with New Hampshire all the way north to the Canadian border. Not only is the route loaded with some of the best seafood shacks in the state, but it's also studded with antique shops, local makers, and boutique hotels that are worth the trip. Here's how to plan a trip along Maine's Route One. A fishing harbor in Kittery, Maine. Located on the New Hampshire border, Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier is a seasonal gem that's been open since the 1930s. The casual spot is just past Kittery Point on the shore of the river, and regulars come by boat or car to stake out a picnic table on the dock. The menu is simple but classic: think steamed lobsters, clam chowder, and crab rolls. Chauncey Creek is BYOB, so be sure to stop at a nearby package store for one of the state's many locally made craft beers. Take a quick 15-minute detour south to stay in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The small town is a great place to kick off your trip, and there's nowhere better than one of Lark Hotels' properties in the heart of town, The Bow and Hotel Portsmouth. Each boutique hotel has a distinct feel. Hotel Portsmouth's rooms are bright and quirky, while the newly renovated rooms at The Bow have a more serene and subdued ambiance. Both are centrally located in town, putting you a stone's throw from some of the best restaurants in Portsmouth, like Moxy, Black Trumpet, Row 34, and of course, Gilley's Diner for late-night hot dogs. Wander through downtown Kittery, pick up a world-famous cruller at Lil's Cafe, and sip a cocktail at Black Birch. Hit up Bob's for fried clams, shop at the Kittery Outlets, stop by Stonewall Kitchen to stock up on pantry staples like Wild Maine Blueberry Jam, and place an order with Slack Tide Sea Salt—a hand-harvested sea salt made with local ocean water from neighboring York—for an excellent reminder of your trip. The Lighthouse in Kennebunkport, Maine. Many places will force you to choose between steamed or fried seafood, due to slammed kitchens with limited room, but that's not a problem at The Clam Shack in Kennebunkport. Sitting on the bridge and overlooking the Kennebunk River, this small shack has been open since 1968 and offers something for every seafood enthusiast. From boxes of flawlessly fried clam strips to a potentially life-changing lobster roll served in an unassuming burger bun and absolutely stuffed with whole lobster tails, this is a must-visit. If you can't tear yourself away from the sailboat-studded Kennebunk River, don't worry—thanks to the newest accommodations at The White Barn Inn, you won't have to. The Cora Houseboat offers guests the chance to spend the night anchored to the White Barn's private dock in a bespoke 512-square-foot houseboat, complete with a rooftop sun deck. Another ocean-inspired option is the Kennebunkport Captain's Collection, four homes built in the 1800s that once belonged to sea captains and have been renovated into boutique accommodations. Just steps from Dock Square, Michelin Key winner AWOL Kennebunkport offers 17 cabins and suites with firepits, gas fireplaces, and some with Japanese soaking tubs. Stop by Bev's for breakfast or a sandwich for the road; if the pork and broccoli rabe sandwich is on the menu, don't miss it. You can browse the upscale and trendy Bliss Boutique, shop for souvenirs at the incredibly curated Seacraft Vintage, or stroll over to Dock Square and check out shops like Daytrip Society, which stocks goods from small and local makers. And since you'll need to work up an appetite, take a walk alongside the popular Parson's Way, which overlooks the Bush Compound on neighboring Walker's Point. If you're looking to hit the beach, Goose Rocks is a favorite. In this region, Route One is an antiquer's delight—find half a dozen stores, many with deals if you're willing to dig. Antiques USA and Bo-Mar in nearby Wells are favorites. The road leading into Wiscasset, Maine. Danita Delimont/Adobe Stock When you're approaching the bridge in Wiscasset and heading over the Sheepscot River, you'll likely see a long line of people waiting for lobster rolls at Red's. I prefer Sprague's Lobster across the street. Both make fantastic rolls, but I'd rather spend my afternoon stopping around the corner at Jolie Rogers Raw Bar or taking a 15-minute drive north to Glidden Point, an oyster bar overlooking the Damariscotta River. Take a short detour to the Squire Tarbox Inn on Westport Island. The tiny 11-room inn, originally built in 1763, is set on 12 acres of farmland and includes breakfast. Alternatively, head slightly farther north to Boothbay and spend the night at the Linekin Bay Resort. The resort feels like a summer camp, complete with sailing lessons, kayaks, and a saltwater pool overlooking the bay. Choose between oceanfront lodge rooms or cozy, dog-friendly cabins. Explore the 300-acre Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, take a ferry to Cabbage Island for a clam bake, visit horse-powered natural wine producer Oyster River Winegrowers, and stock up on road trip provisions at Morse's Sauerkraut. A red fishing shack in South Thomaston, Maine. There's no doubt that McLoons Lobster Shack is one of the most picturesque places for a meal in the state. 15 minutes south of Route One in Rockland, the red wooden shack on Spruce Head Island faces out to the harbor and looks like it belongs on a postcard. You won't find any fried seafood here, but expect steamed clams, lobster dinners, and rolls—including the extra-large Lobster Rolls Royce. Don't leave without a slice of blueberry pie à la mode. The Midcoast has a range of wonderful hotels to choose from, with something for every type of traveler. If you're a fan of historic properties, opt for a night at The Norumbega. The recently refurbished boutique hotel sits minutes outside of downtown Camden, offering guests unparalleled views of Penobscot Bay. If you're looking to unplug after a couple of days on the road, book a stay at The Samoset, a 178-room resort on 230 acres overlooking Penobscot Bay. Take a walk down the mile-long granite pathway to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse or relax in a chaise by the pool and order piña coladas straight to your seat. If you want to get a head start on the journey ahead, consider Camp DeForest in Lincolnville, one of the Midcoast's newest properties. The completely renovated mid-century motel and cabins capture the spirit of summer camp, complete with s'mores by the campfire, lawn games, and kayak rentals. Take a hike around the Owls Head lighthouse and catch an exhibit at the Center for Maine Contemporary Art in Rockland. And when you've worked up an appetite again, spend some more time exploring Midcoast Maine's food scene. Order pastries at the life-changing The Place Bakery in Camden, stop by Primo in Rockland for Oyster Sunday, grab a table at Sammy's Deluxe for dinner in Rockland—it may be the best meal you'll have in Maine—and visit Long Grain in Camden. Head to First Fig in Camden for a stellar selection of wines by the bottle or the glass, or grab a seat at Lucky Betty's for a cocktail and pizza from local favorites Uproot Pie Co on select nights. Drone view of the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and beautiful fall Lunch is a short drive after you cross the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, the gateway that will lead you to Deer Isle. The family-owned seafood shack won a James Beard Award, named an American Classic in 2008. The riverside restaurant serves larger-than-life slabs of fried haddock sandwiched between buns, lobster rolls dressed with the ideal amount of mayo, and constantly rotating soft serve flavors. Keep heading south, and in about 30 minutes, you'll reach Aragosta. Chef Devin Finigan runs an award-winning restaurant and a collection of nine cottages spread across the 21-acre waterfront property on Goose Cove. If you can't score a table for dinner, try to visit on a Sunday when the deck serves a casual à la carte menu paired with sweeping views of the bay. Take the ferry from Stonington to Isle au Haut, one of Maine's last inhabited and unbridged islands, visit the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, and take a walk around the one-of-a-kind sculpture garden at Nervous Nellie's Jams and Jellies. Stop for a coffee at 44 North, browse for bottles at the Blue Hill Wine Shop, and make a reservation for pizza at Tinder Hearth.
Forbes
24-06-2025
- Forbes
The 5 Best Hotels In Portland, Maine 2025
T he best hotels in Portland, Maine provide prime locations—many historic—in one of America's most exciting coastal destinations. With a bevy of excellent restaurants, independent shops and classic New England charm—think lobster, lighthouses and epic ocean views—the city continues to evolve. Similarly, its hotel scene punches far above its weight. To choose the cream of the crop in accommodations, I used my own personal experience as a frequent visitor to Portland, Maine. My top overall recommendation is Blind Tiger, a stylish stay with a prime location and spacious suites. I also recommend The Longfellow Hotel for high-end amenities and a great social scene, The Francis for a romantic escape and Best Bower for families. Below, the best hotels in Portland, Maine in 2025. Guestroom at Blind Tiger in Portland, Maine. Blind Tiger Portland Who Will Love It: Design lovers seeking a prime location that spotlights locally-sourced products All-Star Amenities: Complimentary toast-bar breakfast; 24/7 complimentary local coffee; curated library What Not To Miss: The locally made chocolates offered at turndown Location: West End Known for its leafy blocks and Victorian architecture, Portland's historic West End is one of the best places to stay in town, and Blind Tiger, opened by the Lark Hotels group in 2020, is a great overall choice for many different travel styles. Spread across two residential, Federalist-style homes, the nine rooms (including two suites) at this design-forward boutique property offer a true sense of place: Every room features a local 'host' who provides a personalized welcome letter, a curated playlist can be heard in public spaces and the complimentary toast-bar breakfast spread includes pastries from local bakeries as well as Maine-made granola and yogurts. Families can request connected rooms, and coffee lovers will appreciate access to the complimentary roasted java available 24/7. Five of Clubs at The Longfellow Hotel. The Longfellow Hotel Who Will Love It: Wellness enthusiasts; luxury lovers; foodies All-Star Amenities: Fitness center; Astraea Spa, including Nordic-inspired private sauna suites and a meditation room; soundproof windows; Grown Alchemist toiletries; soaps by seaweed-based skincare line Voya What Not To Miss: A pre-dinner drink at the lobby bar, Five of Clubs Location: West End Named after famed American poet (and Portland native) Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, The Longfellow Hotel opened in 2024, bringing a splash of luxury to the city—minus the pretension. Its 48 rooms offer floor to ceiling windows with views of the city's West End, high-end toiletries from Grown Alchemist and a curated menu of wellness amenities such as a 'Sleep Tight' package that includes sleep gummies, meditation and sound baths. Most notably, it's home to Astraea, a proprietary spa from Uncommon Hospitality—a unique feature in a city as small as Portland—and its stylish lobby bar, Five of Clubs, is the place to see and be seen on a weekend evening. Read my full review here. Best Boutique Hotel In Portland Maine: The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection Guest room at The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection. The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection Who Will Love It: History buffs; creatives All-Star Amenities: Journalist notebooks and oversized writers' desks in each room; toiletries by C.O. Bigelow What Not To Miss: A pre-dinner drink at Inkwell bar; dinner at Union restaurant Location: Old Port Located in the Old Port neighborhood, just a short walk from the waterfront, The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection is housed in the former home of the Portland Press Herald , Maine's daily newspaper. Several nods to its past life can be found in its décor choices: A collection of vintage typewriters, as well as a mural referencing blocks of letterpress type, can both be found in the lobby. Each of the 110 guest rooms feature oversized writers' desks and notebooks to jot down inspiration, and the aptly named Inkwell bar slings craft cocktails ideal for kicking off the evening. The popular Union restaurant is a stand-out—don't miss the house paella or the Maine lobster bucatini. Best Hotel In Portland, Maine For Couples: The Francis Terrrace King room balcony at The Francis. The Francis The Francis Who Will Love It: Couples seeking an intimate hideaway; art lovers All-Star Amenities: Complimentary breakfast; Malin+Goetz toiletries; in-room pour-over coffee maker What Not To Miss: The curated artworks and photography Location: West End Located in an 1880s mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Francis has no shortage of history. Named after Maine architect Francis Fassett, the property has preserved many elements of its original 1866 build—think high ceilings, stained-glassed windows, parquet floors and a tiled fireplace. Despite its classic look, there are plenty of modern amenities, including an in-room pour-over coffee maker and toiletries by Malin+Goetz. Couples in particular will enjoy the first floor's Terrace King room, which features a residential-style balcony perfect for evenings for two, while art and design lovers can take in the property's custom-built furniture and robust art collection, including many pieces by photographer Nicole Wolf. Best Hotel In Portland, Maine For Families: Best Bower Guest room at Best Bower. Best Bower Best Bower Who Will Love It: Families and groups All-Star Amenities: Shared courtyard; shared kitchenette; heated floors; add-on food packages; Oneka Elements toiletries What Not To Miss: Skylight views of the Portland Observatory (available in three of the six rooms) Location: Munjoy Hill Located in an old schoolhouse, Best Bower features six guest rooms in the heart of Munjoy Hill, one of Portland's most creative neighborhoods. The six rooms—two of which are lofted suites, and all of which feature private entrances—can be booked individually or rented out as a whole, making it an ideal spot for multi-generational families and large group trips. Aside from beautiful displays of restored wood and ironwork, the property's crown jewel is its access to the next-door Portland Observatory, once a signal tower for ships and today a great spot for families that features the city's best views. The property is mostly self-service, but guests can pre-order food packages, such as cheese and charcuterie boards from the nearby Cheese Shop of Portland. Why Trust Forbes Vetted The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe. This story was written by Forbes Vetted's senior travel editor Astrid Taran, an eight-year industry veteran who's traveled to over 40 countries and has traversed the U.S. As a child, she spent every summer in Maine; she later attended school in Maine and has returned to visit friends in Portland multiple times each year. She has written multiple Maine destination guides detailing the best things to do in the state, and most recently visited Portland last spring, to review The Longfellow Hotel. This story was edited by Forbes Vetted's feature director Kim Peiffer, who has been covering travel and lifestyle extensively for nearly two decades. How We Chose The Best Hotels In Portland, Maine We selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research. For this story, Taran used experience from personal stays and spent hours combing through reviews on TripAdvisor, hotel websites and more. We included options for a wide variety of travel styles, including family-friendly properties and more intimate, adult-oriented boutiques. We also included properties across a wide variety of different neighborhoods and price ranges. About Astrid Taran, Your Portland, Maine Guide My name is Astrid Taran and I'm the senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted, where I oversee hotel coverage. I have covered travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor. Along with extensively writing about hotels and airlines, I have also written multiple destination guides as well as long-form features on luxury travel, adventure travel, wellness travel and more. As a child, I spent almost every summer in Maine. I later attended school in the state and returned to visit friends in Portland often; the city remains one of my favorite east coast destinations.
