Hotel recommendations

Question

We are 2 couples flying into Portland at the end of April and looking for hotel recommendations that is easy to accessible without a car. We will stay a few days in Portland and then hoping to take a ferry to Nova Scotia for a few days. Does the ferry still leave out of Portland?

Answer

Portland is a fantastic city with plenty to offer, especially if you're looking to explore it without a car. It’s a very walkable city, and public transportation and taxis/rideshares make getting around quite easy. There are several great hotels in the downtown area, which will provide you with easy access to restaurants, shops, and the waterfront. Here's a list of some good hotel recommendations for your stay in Portland:

The Press Hotel – Located in the heart of downtown, The Press Hotel is a trendy, boutique hotel with a great location. It’s within walking distance of the Old Port, waterfront, and restaurants. The hotel has a unique artsy vibe, and its location makes it perfect for exploring Portland without a car.
Portland Harbor Hotel – Situated in the Old Port district, this hotel offers a more upscale stay with easy access to shops, restaurants, and the harbor. It’s a great option if you want to be close to the action and enjoy easy walking access to the ferry terminal as well.
Hotel Mudita – A small boutique hotel that’s a bit more laid-back but still centrally located. It’s an excellent choice if you're looking for a cozy and comfortable stay with easy walking access to Portland's attractions.
AC Hotel by Marriott Portland Downtown/Waterfront – This modern hotel is a great choice for those who prefer a newer, sleek style. It’s located right along the waterfront, with easy access to the Old Port, and offers beautiful views of the harbor. You’ll find excellent amenities, and it’s easy to explore Portland’s sights on foot from here.
The Westin Portland Harborview – Just a short walk from the waterfront, this hotel has larger rooms and a rooftop bar with fantastic views. It’s a great choice for those looking for a more traditional, well-known hotel chain that offers quality service and convenient access to the city.

As for the ferry to Nova Scotia, the ferry service from Portland to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, was discontinued in 2020. However, you can still reach Nova Scotia from Portland by taking a drive to a nearby port, such as the ferry terminal in Bar Harbor, ME, which offers a route to Nova Scotia. Alternatively, you can consider flying from Portland to Nova Scotia or taking a bus to another port. There are also ferries from other cities, like Boston, if you're flexible with your departure point.

Overall, Portland offers plenty of great options for your stay, and you should have no trouble getting around the city without a car. For the ferry to Nova Scotia, while it is no longer departing from Portland, you can plan a quick drive or alternative travel to continue your adventure to Nova Scotia!