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Portland, Maine, is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, where locally-sourced ingredients take center stage. For guests of The Press Hotel, the city offers a wealth of dining options that celebrate the flavors of the region. Among these, the Union Restaurant stands out as a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Maine.

Union Restaurant: A Celebration of Local Flavors

Located within The Press Hotel, Union Restaurant is dedicated to showcasing the best of Maine’s bounty. The restaurant’s philosophy centers around the idea that food should be simple, fresh, and sourced from the community. Executive Chef Christian Bassett and his team work closely with local farmers, fishermen, and artisans to create a menu that reflects the seasons and the unique character of the region.

The menu at Union Restaurant is ever-evolving, with dishes that highlight the freshest ingredients available. From farm-to-table vegetables to sustainably caught seafood, every dish is crafted with care and respect for the land and sea. Guests can expect to find a range of options, from hearty Maine lobster to innovative vegetarian dishes, all prepared with a commitment to quality and sustainability.

Dining at Union: An Experience for All Senses

Dining at Union is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that engages all the senses. The restaurant’s warm, inviting atmosphere, with its modern yet rustic decor, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. The open kitchen allows guests to watch the chefs at work, creating a connection between the diner and the culinary process.

The Press Hotel’s history as a former newspaper building is reflected in the design of the restaurant, with subtle nods to its past. This blend of old and new creates a unique ambiance that is both sophisticated and comfortable, making Union the perfect place for a casual meal or a special occasion.

Supporting Local: A Commitment to Sustainability

Union Restaurant’s commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients goes beyond just offering delicious food. It’s also about supporting the community and promoting sustainable practices. By working with local farmers and producers, the restaurant helps to strengthen the local economy and reduce its environmental footprint. This dedication to sustainability is evident in everything from the menu to the restaurant’s waste reduction practices.

Guests dining at Union can feel good knowing that their meal is not only delicious but also contributes to a more sustainable food system. Whether you’re enjoying a fresh seafood dish or a seasonal vegetable plate, every bite at Union is a celebration of Maine’s natural abundance.

Explore Portland’s Culinary Scene

While Union Restaurant is a standout, Portland is home to many other locally-sourced dining options worth exploring. The city’s commitment to sustainability and local ingredients is evident in its vibrant food scene, with restaurants, cafes, and markets that offer a taste of Maine’s diverse flavors.

For guests staying at The Press Hotel, Union Restaurant provides a perfect introduction to Portland’s culinary landscape. Its focus on fresh, local ingredients and its dedication to quality make it a must-visit for food lovers. After a day of exploring the city, there’s no better place to relax and enjoy a meal that truly captures the essence of Maine.

Portland, Maine, is a fall lover’s dream, offering a blend of vibrant foliage, coastal beauty, and seasonal festivities. For those planning to explore the region, The Press Hotel is the ideal place to stay, providing luxury accommodations and easy access to the best fall activities in the area.

Leaf Peeping and Scenic Walks

Portland and its surroundings offer stunning opportunities to enjoy fall foliage. Mackworth Island, just a short drive from The Press Hotel, provides a beautiful walking trail along the coast, surrounded by trees that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The Eastern Promenade is another great spot within the city, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Casco Bay framed by fall colors. For those willing to venture a bit further, Bradbury Mountain State Park offers hiking trails with rewarding views of the autumn landscape.

Apple Picking and Farm Visits

Fall in Maine wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a local orchard. Libby & Son U-Picks, located just outside of Portland, is a great family-friendly spot for apple picking. Here, you can enjoy the crisp fall air while selecting from a variety of apples and sampling fresh cider. Another excellent choice is Orchard Ridge Farm, where you can pick apples and enjoy farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other local delicacies.

Fall Festivals and Events

Portland’s fall calendar is packed with events that celebrate the season. The Harvest on the Harbor festival is a highlight, featuring local chefs, brewers, and artisans who come together to showcase the best of Maine’s culinary scene. This event is conveniently located near The Press Hotel, allowing guests to easily enjoy the festivities. Additionally, the Portland Farmers’ Market, which runs through the fall, offers a chance to experience the region’s seasonal produce and handmade goods.

The Press Hotel: Your Fall Retreat

After a day of exploring Portland’s fall offerings, The Press Hotel provides a welcoming retreat. The hotel’s history as a former newspaper building is reflected in its unique decor, which blends modern luxury with vintage charm. The spacious rooms offer a comfortable and stylish place to unwind, with large windows that showcase the city’s fall beauty.

Union Restaurant, located within The Press Hotel, offers a farm-to-table dining experience that celebrates the flavors of the season. Using locally sourced ingredients, the menu features dishes that are both comforting and innovative, perfect for enjoying after a day of autumn adventures.

Experience Fall in Portland at The Press Hotel

Portland, Maine, is the perfect destination for experiencing the beauty and charm of fall. Whether you’re leaf peeping, enjoying a festival, or simply taking in the coastal scenery, The Press Hotel offers the perfect blend of location, luxury, and local flavor. Book your stay today and discover why The Press Hotel is the ultimate choice for experiencing fall in Portland.

Portland, Maine, is a hub of culture, history, and vibrant activity, making it an ideal location for hosting meetings and events. The Press Hotel, located in the heart of the city, offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and historic charm, providing an exceptional venue for any occasion. Here’s a closer look at the outstanding meeting and event spaces available at The Press Hotel.

The Composing Room

The Composing Room is the largest event space at The Press Hotel, accommodating up to 100 guests for receptions or 70 for banquets. This room features large transom windows that flood the space with natural light and beautifully appointed wood paneling showcasing local artwork. It’s a versatile space perfect for corporate meetings, social gatherings, and everything in between. The elegant design and state-of-the-art facilities make the Composing Room an ideal choice for any event.

The Editorial Room

The Editorial Room is perfect for smaller gatherings, accommodating up to 45 guests for receptions or 36 for banquets. The built-in bookcase adds a touch of historic charm, reflecting the building’s past as a newspaper headquarters. This cozy yet sophisticated space is ideal for brainstorming sessions, executive retreats, or intimate dinners. The Editorial Room’s warm ambiance and thoughtful layout ensure a productive and comfortable environment for all attendees.

The Press Room

For more intimate meetings and private conferences, The Press Room is the perfect choice. This space accommodates up to 12 guests and is equipped with state-of-the-art presentation and conferencing technology. Located on the lower level of the hotel, The Press Room provides a quiet and private setting for focused discussions and decision-making. Its intimate size makes it ideal for board meetings, strategy sessions, or confidential consultations.

The News Room

Adjacent to the Inkwell bar and the hotel’s roaring hearth, The News Room offers a unique and inspiring setting for small receptions and intimate dinners. Accommodating up to 20 guests, this space combines the energy of the hotel’s lobby with the privacy needed for productive gatherings. The proximity to the Inkwell bar allows for convenient access to refreshments, making The News Room perfect for social events or informal meetings.

The Art Gallery

The Art Gallery at The Press Hotel is a stunning space that features work by local Maine artists. This 2,350-square-foot venue is perfect for reception-style events, accommodating up to 150 guests. The gallery’s dramatic open staircase and curated artwork create a visually striking backdrop for any event. Whether hosting a cocktail reception, an art exhibit, or a corporate gathering, the Art Gallery provides a unique and memorable setting that celebrates creativity and culture.

The Press Hotel: A Historic and Modern Venue

The Press Hotel combines the historic charm of its building with modern amenities and design, creating a unique venue for meetings and events. Located in the heart of Portland, the hotel offers convenient access to the city’s top attractions, making it an ideal choice for out-of-town guests. The hotel’s dedicated events team works closely with clients to ensure every detail is perfect, from custom menus created by the award-winning culinary team to personalized event setups.

The hotel’s accommodations are equally impressive, with rooms and suites that blend contemporary design with historic elements. Each room is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and convenience, making The Press Hotel a welcoming retreat for event attendees.

For more information on booking your event at The Press Hotel, visit our Meetings & Events page and start planning your next gathering in the heart of Portland.

Portland, Maine, is a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and picturesque coastal views. For visitors seeking a unique and memorable stay, The Press Hotel offers an unparalleled boutique experience. Located in the heart of downtown Portland, this hotel combines modern luxury with historic charm, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.

The Press Hotel: A Unique Experience

Housed in the historic former offices of the Portland Press Herald, The Press Hotel seamlessly blends contemporary design with elements of its storied past. Each of the hotel’s 110 rooms is thoughtfully decorated with custom furnishings and local artwork, reflecting the building’s newspaper heritage. The hotel’s design incorporates typewriters, vintage desks, and other nods to its journalistic roots, creating a unique and sophisticated ambiance.

Luxurious Accommodations

The Press Hotel offers a range of accommodations to suit every guest’s needs. From the stylish and comfortable standard rooms to the spacious and luxurious suites, each room is equipped with modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and plush bedding. The elegant decor and attention to detail ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

Exceptional Dining at Union

Union, the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, offers a farm-to-table dining experience that highlights the best of Maine’s local produce. The menu features a variety of dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, providing a true taste of Portland’s culinary scene. The restaurant’s chic and welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Meeting and Event Spaces

The Press Hotel boasts versatile meeting and event spaces, making it an excellent choice for business meetings, conferences, weddings, and social gatherings. The Composing Room, the largest event space, can accommodate up to 100 guests for receptions or 70 for banquets. For more intimate gatherings, the Editorial Room and the Press Room offer sophisticated settings with all the necessary amenities. The hotel’s dedicated events team ensures that every detail is taken care of, providing a seamless and memorable experience.

Exploring Downtown Portland

Staying at The Press Hotel places you in the heart of downtown Portland, with easy access to the city’s top attractions. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Port district, filled with boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visit the Portland Museum of Art to view an impressive collection of American and European works, or take a stroll along the scenic Eastern Promenade for breathtaking waterfront views. The hotel’s prime location makes it an ideal base for discovering all that Portland has to offer.

The Perfect Blend of History and Modern Luxury

The Press Hotel stands out as one of the best boutique hotels near downtown Portland, ME, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Whether you’re in town for business, a special event, or simply to explore the city, The Press Hotel provides a memorable and comfortable stay. With its exceptional accommodations, award-winning dining, and prime location, it’s no wonder The Press Hotel is a favorite among visitors to Portland.

Labor Day weekend is an excellent opportunity to explore Portland, ME, and there’s no better place to stay than The Press Hotel. Located in the heart of downtown, this luxury hotel offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it the perfect choice for a memorable holiday.

A Historic Gem in Portland

The Press Hotel, housed in the historic Portland Press Herald building, offers a unique ambiance that combines the charm of its storied past with modern luxury. The hotel’s architecture and design pay homage to its origins, with typewriters and vintage journalism artifacts adorning the public spaces and guest rooms. This thematic approach provides a nostalgic yet contemporary atmosphere, making your stay both comfortable and memorable.

Luxurious Accommodations

The Press Hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites, each designed with a blend of vintage and modern furnishings. With plush beds, high-quality linens, and premium amenities, you’ll enjoy a restful and luxurious stay. For an extra special experience, consider the Penthouse Suite, which offers sweeping views of Portland and exquisite furnishings.

Culinary Delights at Union

Dining at The Press Hotel’s Union restaurant is a must. The farm-to-table dining experience features locally sourced ingredients and a seasonally changing menu. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast, brunch, or dinner, the dishes reflect the rich culinary heritage of Portland. From fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses and handcrafted cocktails, every meal is an event.

Exceptional Service

One of the standout features of The Press Hotel is its exceptional service. The staff is dedicated to providing personalized and attentive care, ensuring that every aspect of your stay is perfect. From the moment you check in to the time you depart, you’ll feel welcomed and well-cared for, making your Labor Day weekend truly unforgettable.

Activities for Labor Day Weekend

Portland offers a variety of activities to make your Labor Day weekend unforgettable. Here are some highlights:

Art in the Park: This annual event in South Portland’s Mill Creek Park features over 170 artists displaying their work. Enjoy the beautiful setting and discover unique pieces of art.

Maine Brew Bus Tours: Explore Portland’s thriving craft beer scene with guided tours of local breweries. The Maine Brew Bus offers fun and educational experiences that showcase the best of Maine’s brewing talents.

Eastern Promenade: Spend a day at this scenic waterfront park. With walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of Casco Bay, it’s the perfect spot for outdoor relaxation and activities.

Portland Museum of Art: Visit the largest and oldest public art institution in Maine. The museum offers an impressive collection of American, European, and contemporary art.

Portland Symphony Orchestra: Enjoy a special Labor Day weekend performance. The symphony’s concerts are a treat for music lovers and a great way to experience Portland’s cultural scene.

Experience the Best of Portland at The Press Hotel

For an unparalleled Labor Day weekend in Portland, ME, look no further than The Press Hotel. With its historic charm, luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining, and prime location, it offers everything you need for a memorable and relaxing getaway. Book your stay today and experience the best that Portland has to offer, all from the comfort and elegance of The Press Hotel.

Portland, ME, is a fantastic summer destination, brimming with activities that cater to all interests. From outdoor adventures to cultural explorations, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best summer activities in Portland, followed by why The Press Hotel is the ideal place to stay during your visit.

Top Summer Activities in Portland

Casco Bay Cruises: Experience the stunning beauty of Casco Bay with a variety of cruises. Whether you prefer a relaxing sunset sail or an adventurous island-hopping tour, the views of the coastline and surrounding islands are breathtaking.

Portland Head Light: Visit Maine’s oldest lighthouse at Fort Williams Park. This historic site offers picturesque views, walking trails, and picnic areas, making it perfect for a summer day out.

Old Port District: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and lively nightlife. Enjoy alfresco dining at one of the many restaurants and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Eastern Promenade: This waterfront park provides a perfect setting for outdoor activities. With walking trails, picnic spots, and panoramic views of Casco Bay, it’s great for biking, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water.

Art in the Park: Held annually in South Portland’s Mill Creek Park, this event showcases over 170 artists. It’s an excellent opportunity to appreciate local art in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Portland Museum of Art: As Maine’s largest and oldest public art institution, the museum offers an impressive collection of American, European, and contemporary art. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Maine Brew Bus Tours: Discover Portland’s vibrant craft beer scene with guided tours of local breweries. The Maine Brew Bus offers fun and educational experiences, perfect for beer lovers.

The Press Hotel: Your Ideal Summer Base

After a day of exploring Portland’s summer activities, retreat to The Press Hotel, a luxury hotel located in the historic Portland Press Herald building. This unique hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities, providing a perfect base for your summer adventures.

Historic Charm and Modern Comfort: The Press Hotel features rooms and suites with a blend of vintage and modern furnishings. Enjoy plush beds, high-quality linens, and premium amenities that ensure a restful and luxurious stay. The Penthouse Suite offers an elevated experience with its spacious living area and private terrace.

Culinary Delights at Union: Union, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, offers a farm-to-table dining experience with locally sourced ingredients. From fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses and handcrafted cocktails, dining at Union is an essential part of your stay.

Exceptional Service: The dedicated staff at The Press Hotel provides personalized and attentive care, ensuring every aspect of your stay is perfect. From the moment you check in to the time you depart, you’ll feel welcomed and well-cared for, making your summer getaway truly unforgettable.

Experience the Best of Portland at The Press Hotel

For a summer filled with unforgettable activities and luxurious comfort, The Press Hotel in Portland, ME, is the perfect choice. With its historic charm, exquisite dining, and prime location, it offers everything you need for a memorable getaway. Book your stay today and experience the best that Portland has to offer, all from the elegance and comfort of The Press Hotel.

Portland, Maine, is a cultural epicenter, especially during the summer when the city hosts many renowned music and arts festivals. Staying at The Press Hotel places you in the heart of these vibrant events, allowing you to experience the best of Portland’s creative spirit. Here’s a guide to some of the most anticipated music and arts festivals happening in Portland this summer.

WCLZ Maine Music Festival

Scheduled for August, the WCLZ Maine Music Festival showcases local and regional talent across various genres. This festival is a fantastic way to discover new music and enjoy performances from some of Maine’s best up-and-coming artists. With a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of local food vendors, it’s a must-visit for music lovers.

Portland Chamber Music Festival

Every August, the Portland Chamber Music Festival brings together top-tier musicians from around the world for a series of concerts that highlight the dynamic and expressive qualities of chamber music. Held in intimate venues like Hannaford Hall, this festival provides an immersive experience for classical music aficionados.

First Friday Art Walk

Portland’s First Friday Art Walk is a monthly celebration of the city’s vibrant arts scene. On the first Friday of every month, galleries, studios, and museums in the Arts District open their doors to the public. Street performers, art installations, and food trucks add to the lively atmosphere. Staying at The Press Hotel, you’re just steps away from this cultural extravaganza, making it easy to explore the diverse artistic expressions that Portland has to offer.

The Heart of Portland: The Press Hotel

Located in the heart of Portland’s vibrant Arts District, The Press Hotel offers a unique blend of modern luxury and historic charm. The building’s history as the former home of the Portland Press Herald is thoughtfully reflected in its design, combining contemporary comfort with historic elements.

Luxurious Accommodations

The Press Hotel features stylish rooms and suites with custom furnishings and modern amenities. Each room is designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious retreat, with plush bedding, spacious bathrooms, and stunning views of the city or waterfront.

Dining at UNION

The hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, UNION, focuses on farm-to-table cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients to create seasonal dishes. It’s the perfect place to start your day with a hearty breakfast or unwind with a sophisticated dinner after a day of festival fun. UNION’s menu showcases the best of Maine’s culinary traditions with a modern twist.

Art and Culture at Your Doorstep

Staying at The Press Hotel places you within walking distance of many of Portland’s top cultural attractions. The hotel’s central location means you’re just steps away from galleries, theaters, and music venues, making it easy to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene. The hotel itself hosts an impressive collection of local artwork, providing guests with a taste of Portland’s creative spirit right in the lobby.

Immerse Yourself in Portland’s Summer Festivals

Portland, Maine, offers a rich tapestry of music and arts festivals throughout the summer, providing endless opportunities for cultural enrichment and entertainment. By staying at The Press Hotel, you’ll be perfectly positioned to enjoy all these events while experiencing the best of Portland’s hospitality and charm. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, art lover, or simply looking to explore something new, Portland’s summer festivals promise a memorable and inspiring experience.

The lauded seacoast of Maine—among New England’s defining geographies and America’s classic vacation getaways—is not only about postcard-perfect maritime scenery, charming harbor ports, and picturesque lighthouses. It’s also part of a sumptuous foodshed that draws equally from saltwater farms, orchards, forests, and the superlative fertility of the Gulf of Maine.

The lively little capital of Vacationland, Portland, is the perfect hub from which to explore this foodshed. After all, this is “The Foodiest Small Town in America” and Bon Appétit’s 2018 “Restaurant City of the Year,” with our very own Press Hotel restaurant, UNION, being a marvelous manifestation of that foodie-focused culture.

Along with such eateries—and the varied regional smorgasbord on offer from area farmers’ markets and farmstands to groceries and dockside seafood vendors—you’ve got a plethora of culinary festivals on the Portland-area calendar to take advantage of. And there’s simply no better base of operations for doing so than The Press Hotel!

Annual Portland, ME Culinary Festivals

One fantastic food event here in Portland is just in the rear-view mirror: The Portland Peninsula & Island Parishes, for example, host Saint Peter’s Annual Italian Bazaar (August 9th & 10th this year), the Latino Food Festival (September 7th), and the African Festival (September 28th), while the 22nd annual Greater Portland Festival of Nations—set for July 27th in Deering Oaks Park—includes a globe-spanning array of cuisine among its delights.

And this past April, among the more unique food-and-drink festivals in the country marked its sixth iteration: Seaweed Week, wherein chefs, bakers, brewers, mixologists, and other craftspeople feature that sustainable “superfood” in celebration of Maine’s rich kelp harvest (the largest in the nation).

And mark your calendars now for one of Maine’s great culinary happenings this fall: Portland’s Harvest on the Harbor, taking place October 23rd through the 26th. It’s one huge celebration of Portland’s phenomenal chefs, distillers, brewers, cheesemakers, seafarmers, and other artisans and producers, with highlights including the grand tasting, a Maine distillers’ happy hour, and the crowning of the Best Maine Lobster Chef of the Year.

Other Regional Food & Drink Festivals

The Yarmouth Clam Festival (July 19th through the 21st), has been going strong since 1965 and includes (as you might imagine) some delicious clams among its diverse food offerings, plus live entertainment, a carnival, and much else.

Within day-tripping distance is the famous Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland, a five-day extravaganza landing the first weekend in August. It draws people from all over the world to Mid-Coast Maine to honor the state’s best-known crustacean and iconic seafood export.

An Unbeatable Foodie’s Perch in Portland, ME at The Press Hotel

We’ve only scratched the surface when it comes to culinary festivals and seafood soirées in the Portland area and along the Maine coast, but hopefully you get the picture!

You couldn’t ask for a better home-away-from-home to enjoy it all than The Press Hotel, providing singular Autograph Collection accommodations in the historic Gannett Building and serving some of the best eats in the city at UNION Restaurant. Come stay—and dine—with us this summer!