Where to Stay in Maine - The Crazy Tourist

The state of Maine is the northeasternmost state of the United States of America. Characterised by a rugged coastline and a rich maritime history, there is a lot to love about Maine.

As the 10th least populated state in the USA, Maine is a paradise for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. There are lots of exquisite natural landscapes to explore in Maine and rarely another soul in sight.

For adventurous travelers, Maine is practically a playground. Whether it’s roaming through Acadia National Park or exploring hidden gems like York, there is never a dull moment. Maine is a destination where travelers can satisfy their wanderlust and let their imaginations run wild.

Maine is famous for being the endpoint of the Appalachian Trail, and what an endpoint it is. After a hike of 3,500 kilometres, weary wanderers are met by the magnificent Baxter State Park and the iconic Mount Katahdin. Little do travelers know that when the trail ends, another adventure begins. Maine is at their feet.

Let’s explore where to stay, or rather, where to start explorations, of the most underrated state in the US: Maine.

Portland

For many, when the name Portland is mentioned it is other Portland, in Oregon, that springs to mind.

The often overshadowed city of Portland, Maine, needs to learn to shout its presence from the rooftops. Home to one the most charming ports of the east coast, and a thriving food culture, there is so much to love about Portland.

Many of the warehouses and dock buildings of the Old Port have been renovated and converted into restaurants and shops. What was once a dying area has been rejuvenated and steals the hearts of all who visit. There is an upmarket feel to the Old Port area and there is always something new to discover.

The Old Port is home to some of the best international restaurants in the state, such as Miyake and The Honey Paw.

Other must-visit spots in Portland include Peaks Island. This is a wonderful spot for a late afternoon cycle. Accessible by ferry or by kayak, Peaks Island is Portland’s best-kept secret.

Good For: Active Travelers, Art Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Budding Historians, Budget Backpackers, City Slickers, Couples, Culture Vultures, First Time Visitors, Families, Foodies, Luxury Travellers, Sightseers, Shopaholics, Whistle-Stop Travelers

Neighbourhood Highlights: Old Port, Peaks Island, Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum, Mariners Church, Lincoln Park, Portland Museum of Art Portland Observatory, Fort Allen Park, Casco Bay Community Garden, Western Promenade, Victoria Mansion, Deering Oaks Park, Portland Fire Museum, Portland Museum of Art, Maine Historical Society and the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine

Hotel Recommendations:

La Quinta Inn & Suites Portland – La Quinta Inn & Suites Portland is one of the most popular hotels in Portland. There are an outdoor swimming pool and fitness center which are both open throughout the year. There is a hot breakfast included in most room rates and it is served in buffet style. The rooms are uniform but comfortable.
Pomegranate Inn – Pomegranate Inn is a gorgeous hotel in Portland. With bespoke designer rooms and a boutique feel, guests fall in love with the Pomegranate Inn. A continental breakfast is available every morning. All private bathrooms offer either a bathtub or a shower. There is a hairdryer in every room.
Hyatt Place Portland – Old Port – Hyatt Place Portland – Old Port is great value for money in Portland. There is a free breakfast included in every room rate. Within the hotel, there is a mini-supermarket that is open 24 hours. They sell all sorts of snacks and light meals. All rooms have an ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries.

Bangor

Bangor is a quiet city in Maine that is home to just over 30,000 people. Bangor International Airport receives flights from across the USA and, therefore, makes it a very accessible destination in Maine.

For golfers, Bangor is a world of fun. The Bangor Municipal Golf Course is the biggest in the city. The 27-hole championship golf course is open for non-members to experience too. There is a driving range along with two practice greens. The shop is a must-visit for anyone keen to stock up on their professional gear.

The Maine Discovery Museum is a great place to visit and is the perfect day out for families. There are dozens of hands-on exhibits to interact with and so much to learn. Covering subjects from both the arts and the sciences, the museum is a top pick activity in Bangor.

Kenduskeag Stream Park is a wonderful spot to relax for an afternoon and there are plenty of spots along the stream suitable for a paddle.

Good For: Active Travelers, Art Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Budding Historians, Budget Backpackers, City Slickers, Couples, Culture Vultures, First Time Visitors, Families, Golfers, Sightseers, Shopaholics, Whistle-Stop Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Bangor Municipal Golf Course, Kenduskeag Stream Park, Maine Discovery Museum, University Maine Museum of Art, Penobscot Theatre Company, Bangor Waterfront Park, Brewer Riverwalk, Bangor Historical Society, Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor, Cascade Park

Hotel Recommendations:

Fireside Inn and Suites – Fireside Inn and Suites is a homely hotel in Bangor. Guests have access to free WiFi throughout the hotel. Guests are also welcome to make use of the Fireside Inn and Suites car park for free during their stay. There is a bar and restaurant in-house which is open until late.
Courtyard Bangor – Courtyard Bangor is a top pick hotel in Bangor. They have their own eco-friendly saltwater swimming pool and a 24-hour fitness center. All rooms have air conditioning and free WiFi. There is a work desk in every room and a sofa bed for extra guests. There is free parking.
Country Inn at the Mall – Country Inn at the Mall is an excellent hotel for travelers heading to Bangor. Run by local people the Country Inn at the Mall is quaint and charming. There is a hot breakfast included in most room rates. Guests have access to free WiFi and can benefit from free parking.

Acadia National Park

Arcadia National Park — Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is the pride and joy of the state of Maine. The 47,000-acre park is one of the USA’s best-kept secrets. Rolling thought woodland, rugged granite peaks, and choppy coastal shores there is so much natural beauty in Acadia National Park.

Acadia National Park is perfect for active and adventurous travelers who want to reconnect with nature. The hiking opportunities in Acadia National Park feel never-ending. There is more than enough to keep travelers busy for a week or more.

It is possible to camp in Acadia National Park, but in the cold winter months is it better to book into one of the many hotels and B&Bs that surround the park. There is nothing better than a hot shower after a cold day of hiking through Acadia National Park.

The are many photogenic spots in Acadia National Park. Travelers will surely enjoy the circular hike around Jordan Pond. Jordan Pond House is a cute restaurant that is conveniently located at the pond’s southernmost tip.

Good For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Travellers, Budget Backpackers, Couples, Culture Vultures, First Time Visitors, Families, Happy Campers, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Landscape Photographer, Sightseers, Whistle-Stop Travelers

Neighbourhood Highlights: Acadia National Park, Jordon Pond, Eagle Lake, Jordon Pond House, Seal Cove Auto Museum, Maine State Sea Kayak, Acadia National Park Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Sieur de Monts Nature Cente, George B. Dorr, Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum of Natural History, Bar Island, Argosy Gallery, Abbe Museum

Hotel Recommendations:

Chiltern Inn – Chiltern Inn is a very good hotel in Bar Harbour, just minutes from Acadia National Park. The interior decor incorporates dark wood furniture and deep tones of red for a homely and welcoming feel. The breakfast is wholesome and healthy, not to be missed. Most rooms have a fireplace.
Bar Harbor Inn and Spa – Bar Harbor Inn and Spa is a gorgeous hotel on the border of Acadia National Park. The in-house spa is fantastic. Guests should take the opportunity to take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, then relax in the hot tub. Some rooms have a balcony offering views of Frenchman Bay.
acadia inn – acadia inn is a bestselling hotel in acadia national park. there is a buffet breakfast laid on every morning for guests to enjoy on a complimentary basis. There are an outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub. The rooms are generous in size and feature a private ensuite bathroom.

Millinocket – Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park is another of Maine’s must-visit natural wonders. The closest tourist base to Baxter State Park is the charming town of Millinocket. Baxter State Park marks the endpoint of the world famous Appalachian Trail. Specifically, the trail comes to a close on Mount Katahdin.

The mountain views from Baxter State Park are simply breathtaking. There are dozens of hiking trails to explore. The routes are well signposted and are safe to hike throughout the year. A moderate fitness level is advisable. There is no need to rush, however, as Baxter State Park provides plenty of opportunities to leisurely explore.

The tiny town of Millinocket is home to just over 4,500 people. It makes for a great base for exploring Baxter State Park during daylight hours. Although small, Millinocket has everything travelers could need. There are plenty of dining options, including traveler favorite, the Appalachian Trail Cafe.

Hillcrest Golf Club is a great little golf club that is open daily and non-members are welcome.

Neighborhood Highlights: Baxter State Park, Mount Katahdin, Hillcrest Golf Club, Memories of Maine Gallery, Moose Prints Gallery and Gifts, Little Italy, Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area, Nahmakanta Public Reserved Land, Hamlin Peak, North Brother Peak, Appalachian Mountain Club 100 Mile Wilderness Conservation Area

Hotel Recommendations:

Pamola Motor Lodge – Pamola Motor Lodge is a good option for budget backpackers in Baxter State Park. Perfect for last-minute travelers who are seeking a place to sleep and shower, Pamola Motor Lodge offers unfussy accommodation at affordable rates. The staff are helpful and welcoming. Free parking is available.
Katahdin Inn & Suites – Katahdin Inn & Suites is a top pick in Millinocket. There are a basic fitness center and an indoor swimming pool. There is even a hot tub for guests to use for free. There is a continental breakfast included in the room rate too. Guests have access to free WiFi and free parking.
Baxter Park Inn – Baxter Park Inn is a very good hotel in Millinocket. There is a large number of rooms available and getting a room at the last minute is seldom an issue. There is a welcoming team of staff at Baxter Park Inn who can help with activity arrangements and travel plans.

York

The small, coastal town of York is a hidden gem in Maine. For travelers keen to get off the beaten track, York is an excellent choice.

Boasting a rugged coastline and picturesque views, a visit to York is like stepping back in time. Nubble Lighthouse remains the town’s biggest attraction and stands proudly on Sohier Park Road.

At Sohier Park, travelers can book scuba diving and fishing trips. There is a walking path around the island on which Nubble Lighthouse is located, and around the park itself.

A typical coastal holiday town, there are a number of cute ice cream parlors in York. Dunne’s Ice Cream on Nubble Road is a family favorite. Wicked Good Ice Cream on Main Street provides some tough competition.

York is a wonderful destination for a leisurely, laid-back getaway by the sea. After all the coastal walks, travelers will have worked up an appetite. Luckily there are plenty of dining options in York. Sun & Surf Restaurant is a local favorite that serves classic seafood dishes.

Good For:Active Travelers, Adventurous Travellers, Budget Backpackers, Beach Bums, Couples, First Time Visitors, Families, Happy Campers, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Landscape Photographer, Sightseers, Whistle-Stop Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Sohier Park, Nubble Lighthouse, Dunne’s Ice Cream, Wicked Good Ice Cream, The Animal Forest Park Sanctuary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Fox’s Lobster House, Mimmo’s Italian Restaurant, York’s Wild Kingdom, York Golf & Tennis Club

Hotel Recommendations:

Grand View Inn & Cottages – Grand View Inn & Cottages is a top pick in York. Grand View Inn & Cottages offers guests oceanfront accommodation for a reasonable price. Every single room at Grand View Inn & Cottages offers a view of the sea. There are free WIFI and tea and coffee making facilities in every room.
Stage Neck Inn – Stage Neck Inn is a wonderful hotel in York. Located close to the ocean, Stage Neck Inn is a little gem. Guests are welcome to relax in the expansive garden or enjoy a drink at the bar. There is an express check-in and check-out service and the reception is manned 24-hours a day.
York Harbor Motel and Cottages – York Harbor Motel and Cottages is a good hotel in York. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, York Harbor Motel and Cottages is a top pick for easygoing travelers. Many rooms feature kitchenette facilities and all have access to WiFi. Some premium rooms have a sea view.

Portland

Bangor

Acadia National Park

Millinocket – Baxter State Park

York

Where to Stay in Maine: