Summer in Portland, Maine, is all about ocean breezes, scenic beauty, and coastal adventures—and there’s no better place to return to than The Press Hotel. Nestled in a century‑old newspaper building in Old Port, its typewriter‑adorned walls and curated local art offer inspired relaxation after a day exploring the region.
Start your morning with coffee at UNION Restaurant in the hotel, where locally sourced dishes reflect Maine’s culinary bounty. From there, hit the road for unforgettable coastal escapes within an hour or so of the city.
Peaks Island: Tranquil Island Charm
A short 17-minute ferry ride from downtown Portland brings you to Peaks Island—a peaceful escape still full of discovery. For approximately $15 round‑trip, you’ll pass historic landmarks like Fort Gorges and Bug Light before stepping onto a quieter island world. Rent a bicycle, explore Battery Steele’s graffiti‑covered fort, or visit the quirky Umbrella Cover Museum. It’s a delightful blend of art, history, and coastal scenery.
Freeport & Wolfe’s Neck Woods: Nature and Shopping Rolled In
Just a twenty-minute drive north, Freeport beckons with its flagship outlets—think LL Bean and Maine‑made gear—as well as proximity to Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park. Coastal paths lead through dunes and woodland with sweeping views of Casco Bay. The fusion of nature and retail makes it an ideal half‑day escape.
Kennebunkport and Ogunquit: Coastal Elegance
Drive south for roughly 45–60 minutes and discover Kennebunkport, a quaint seaside town of historic estates, boutique galleries, and boat tours—including lobster shacks and trolley rides at the Seashore Trolley Museum. For a classic New England beach day, Ogunquit’s long sandy shores and the scenic Marginal Way coastal walk are perfect—and both destinations offer endless charm.
Sebago Lake and Brunswick: Lakeside Leisure & Arts
For a quieter tone, head inland to Sebago Lake, about an hour away. Whether kayaking, hiking Tractor Hills, or grabbing lobster at a local pound, it’s a serene counterpoint to coastal bustle. Northward lies Brunswick, home of Bowdoin College and its acclaimed art museum—stop by for Maine scenes by Winslow Homer and local galleries downtown.
Camden or Boothbay Harbor: Harbor Views and Mountain Greens
If you’re craving a taste of mid‑Maine’s coastal splendor, Boothbay Harbor sits just over an hour’s drive and offers harbor cruises, wildlife viewing, and waterfront dining. A bit farther north, Camden pairs mountain hikes with scenic bayfront—climb Mount Battie for sweeping harbor views, then explore galleries and seaside eateries in town.
Why The Press Hotel Makes the Day Feel Like Home
Returning to The Press Hotel in the evening feels like stepping into a story. The lobby’s permanent gallery showcases Maine artists, and Inkwell bar invites you into an atmospheric newsroom‑style lounge. After your day trip, enjoy cocktails paired with locally inspired dishes before slipping into typewriter‑themed comfort in your guestroom.
From rocky beaches to wooded trails, seaside towns or island calm, these day trips shine in Maine’s summer light. And after every outing, The Press Hotel welcomes you back with stylish hospitality, literary charm, and quiet luxury in the heart of Portland.