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At the heart of The Press Hotel in Portland, Maine, UNION Restaurant tells a story of community, craftsmanship, and flavor. As the seasons turn and crisp autumn air fills the Old Port, the dining room comes alive with harvest-inspired dishes and seasonal pairings that celebrate Maine’s bounty. Fall at UNION is more than a menu-it’s an experience where local ingredients, culinary creativity, and the warmth of gathering all converge.

A Celebration of Maine’s Harvest

Autumn in Maine is defined by abundance. From the state’s rolling farms to its working waterfront, the harvest brings a colorful array of produce and flavors. UNION embraces this season wholeheartedly, sourcing the freshest root vegetables, orchard fruits, and wild-foraged ingredients to complement the daily catch from local fishermen. Every plate is a reflection of Maine’s terroir-an edible snapshot of the season.

Dining with a Local Lens

Since opening in 2015, UNION has been known for its commitment to local sourcing. In fall, that dedication shines through in hearty dishes that warm the spirit. This year’s autumn menu highlights starters like burrata with roasted pear, hazelnut, rooftop honey, apple butter, and crispy pork belly, as well as scallop crudo with cranberry, apple, chili oil, buttermilk, and crispy seaweed. Guests can also savor a seasonal favorite-pumpkin bisque with maple crème fraîche, toasted pepitas, and sage oil. Even the smallest details connect back to Maine-like honey harvested from hives on the hotel rooftop. For guests, it’s not just a meal, but a true taste of the place.

Pairings for the Season

A fall dinner at UNION is best enjoyed with the right pairing. The bar team curates cocktails that echo the richness of autumn, often featuring seasonal herbs, ciders, or warming spices. Local breweries contribute craft beers with nutty, roasted notes, while the wine list offers bold reds perfect for cooler evenings. These drinks pair beautifully with entrées such as paella with duck confit, mussels, lobster, squid, roasted pumpkin, fennel, and saffron-cider broth with paella rice. Other highlights include wild mushroom tagliatelle with parmesan cream and black truffle, or braised veal ragout with potato gnocchi, soffritto, tomato, pecorino, and herbs. To finish, a warm apple-cranberry crisp offers the perfect sweet note to close out the evening.

The Atmosphere: Warm and Welcoming

The restaurant’s open kitchen and contemporary design lend a lively, communal energy to fall evenings. Guests gather around tables illuminated by natural light during brunch or by the golden glow of autumn sunsets at dinner. Conversations hum as dishes arrive, each one plated with precision but served with approachability. It’s fine dining without the pretense-where every guest feels like a local and every moment is an invitation to linger.

More Than a Meal: An Autumn Experience

UNION is more than a restaurant-it’s an extension of The Press Hotel’s storytelling spirit. In fall, that story is layered with color, flavor, and community. After dinner, guests can slip upstairs to the lobby for a cocktail at Inkwell, take in local art installations, or wander Portland’s historic streets framed by foliage. A night at UNION doesn’t end with dessert; it continues into the fabric of the city itself.

Savor the Season at UNION

Whether you’re a Portland local seeking your next favorite dish or a traveler experiencing Maine for the first time, UNION offers an autumn dining experience like no other. From burrata with roasted pear to wild mushroom tagliatelle and apple-cranberry crisp, this fall menu brings the season vividly to life. Every visit this fall is a chance to taste the harvest, celebrate the community, and savor the spirit of Maine.

When autumn arrives in Portland, Maine, the city transforms into a story worth printing. Golden leaves frame cobblestone streets, crisp harbor air rolls through the Old Port, and the energy of the season sparks creativity everywhere you turn. At The Press Hotel, once home to the Portland Press Herald, fall is more than just a backdrop-it’s a headline experience waiting to be written.

Rooted in History, Surrounded by Color

Step inside The Press Hotel and you’re immediately connected to Portland’s past. The former headquarters of Maine’s largest newspaper has been thoughtfully reimagined into a boutique hotel that honors the art of storytelling. From vintage typewriters tucked into corners to literary quotes adorning the walls, every detail is a nod to the written word. In autumn, the story extends beyond the lobby-through oversized windows, guests can watch Portland’s tree-lined streets ignite in shades of amber, scarlet, and gold.

A Room with a View (and a Story)

Each of the hotel’s 110 guest rooms and suites is designed like a 1920s writer’s retreat, with herringbone rugs, vintage-inspired desks, and curated local art. The fall light streaming through large windows highlights both the craftsmanship inside and the vibrant foliage outside. For those seeking elevated comfort, the Penthouse Suite offers panoramic views of the city’s fall canopy and a private rooftop patio for soaking in the season.

This autumn, guests can also book the exclusive “Harvest in the City” package, which includes an overnight stay in the room of your choice, a chef-curated welcome amenity, and an autumn-inspired dinner for two at UNION. It’s a seasonal offering designed to celebrate the freshest flavors of Maine’s harvest while providing a cozy, luxurious city escape.

Seasonal Dining at UNION

Fall flavors in Maine are as rich as the scenery, and UNION Restaurant at The Press Hotel brings them to the table. Executive chefs work closely with local farmers, fishermen, and foragers to highlight the best of the harvest season. Think roasted root vegetables, freshly caught seafood, and honey harvested right on the hotel’s rooftop. Pair your meal with a cocktail from Inkwell, the hotel’s bar, where creative mixologists serve drinks as colorful as the autumn leaves.

Exploring Portland in Autumn

Just steps from the hotel, Portland’s Old Port invites guests to wander historic streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafés. In fall, the city comes alive with cultural events, from art walks to seasonal food festivals. Day trips are just as rewarding-nearby coastal trails and Maine’s scenic byways showcase some of New England’s most breathtaking foliage. Whether strolling along the working waterfront or taking a short drive into the countryside, The Press Hotel offers the perfect starting point for an autumn adventure.

Where Creativity and Comfort Meet

Beyond location and design, what sets The Press Hotel apart is its dedication to detail. Guests can recharge in the fitness center (yes, there are Peloton bikes), relax under Frette™ linens, or spark inspiration over a game of Scrabble by the lobby hearth. It’s a place where comfort and creativity meet-where every guest can feel both at home and part of a larger story unfolding in Portland.

Write Your Own Fall Story

For travelers seeking a boutique escape infused with history, art, and the colors of the season, The Press Hotel delivers a city break worth writing home about. This autumn, let the vibrant foliage, local flavors, and creative spirit of Portland be your editor’s choice for a memorable getaway. With the “Harvest in the City” package, autumn at The Press Hotel becomes even more memorable-a perfect pairing of luxury, flavor, and fall foliage.

As the warm days of summer give way to crisp air and golden leaves, Portland, Maine takes on a new kind of magic. Fall here isn’t just a season-it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the local flavors, and soak in the city’s creative energy. Guests of The Press Hotel, located in the heart of the Old Port, are perfectly positioned to experience all that autumn brings to the coast of Maine. From art walks and festivals to seasonal menus and coastal adventures, here’s what to look forward to this fall in Portland.

Celebrate the Arts This Season

Portland has always been a city of makers, and autumn is one of the best times to see that spirit on display. The city’s First Friday Art Walk draws locals and visitors alike to explore galleries, studios, and street performances. Inside The Press Hotel itself, guests can explore a permanent art gallery that highlights the work of Maine-based artists-perfect for a rainy fall afternoon. Combine this with a visit to the Portland Museum of Art, where seasonal exhibitions showcase everything from contemporary works to Maine’s storied artistic past.

Savor Fall Flavors at UNION

The bounty of Maine shines brightest in autumn, when local farms and fisheries deliver their harvest. At UNION Restaurant, located inside The Press Hotel, fall menus feature the freshest seasonal ingredients-from hearty root vegetables to just-harvested apples and crisp coastal seafood. The restaurant’s open kitchen and warm energy make it a destination in itself, while the culinary team works with local purveyors to keep every dish “altogether local.” Pair your meal with a seasonal cocktail at Inkwell, the hotel’s lobby bar, and toast to the perfect fall evening.

Festivals and Community Gatherings

Fall in Portland means festival season. The Harvest on the Harbor Festival is a highlight, bringing together chefs, mixologists, and brewers to showcase the very best of Maine’s food and drink scene. Wine tastings, oyster shucking competitions, and chef demos make this a can’t-miss event for culinary travelers. Shoppers and explorers will also love wandering through the Old Port Festival and smaller neighborhood markets, where local artisans offer everything from handmade crafts to cozy autumn knits.

Coastal Adventures in Cooler Weather

Maine’s coast takes on a different kind of beauty in the fall. Fewer crowds mean quieter walks along the waterfront, where the salty air feels fresh against the crisp seasonal breeze. Scenic drives up the coast to see the foliage, or day trips to Casco Bay islands, are especially breathtaking this time of year. Guests of The Press Hotel can take advantage of the hotel’s central location to access both the city and the surrounding natural escapes with ease.

Cozy Comforts at The Press Hotel

Of course, sometimes the best part of fall is simply leaning into the coziness of the season. At The Press Hotel, guests can retreat to their rooms-each inspired by 1920s writer’s offices with vintage desks, warm wood floors, and oversized windows that frame the autumn light. Frette™ linens, Cuddledown® comforters, and thoughtful amenities make it easy to relax after a day of exploring. Whether you’re soaking in a deep tub in an Executive King or taking in sweeping city views from the Penthouse Suite, every room feels like the perfect fall hideaway.

Make the Most of Autumn in Portland

Whether you’re visiting for the art, the flavors, or the coastal beauty, fall in Portland offers something truly special. And at The Press Hotel, you’ll find yourself at the crossroads of history, creativity, and comfort-steps from the city’s cultural highlights and dining gems. This autumn, discover Portland beyond words, and let The Press Hotel be your home base for an unforgettable seasonal escape.

As autumn deepens in Portland, Maine, the city’s culinary scene turns its focus to the flavors of the late harvest. Farmers bring in the last of the season’s produce, fishermen deliver the freshest coastal catches, and chefs craft menus that highlight the richness of the season. For guests of The Press Hotel, located in the heart of the Old Port, fall is one of the most delicious times to experience Portland’s vibrant food culture. From cozy dinners to innovative seasonal plates, here’s where to savor the season.

UNION: Altogether Local Dining

Right inside The Press Hotel, UNION Restaurant is the perfect place to begin your late harvest dining journey. The restaurant is guided by a simple yet powerful philosophy: “altogether local.” Every dish celebrates Maine’s farmers, fishermen, and foragers, with menus that shift to embrace the freshest seasonal ingredients. In the late harvest season, that means root vegetables, squash, apples, mushrooms, and hearty greens paired with coastal seafood and locally raised meats.

Guests can expect plates that balance creativity with comfort, all in an open kitchen environment that adds warmth and energy to the dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a multi-course dinner or sharing a bottle of wine with friends, UNION delivers flavors that are both distinctly Maine and delightfully modern.

Seasonal Sips at Inkwell

The season isn’t just about food-it’s about the drinks that complement it. In the hotel’s stylish lobby bar, Inkwell, mixologists create seasonal cocktails inspired by the flavors of fall. Think smoked bourbon with hints of maple, spiced ciders, and wines that pair beautifully with hearty harvest meals. After a day of exploring Portland’s cobblestone streets, Inkwell is the perfect spot to relax, sip, and reflect on the flavors of the season.

Portland’s Farm-to-Table Scene

Step outside The Press Hotel, and you’ll find yourself in a city that lives and breathes farm-to-table dining. Restaurants throughout Portland take advantage of the late harvest to craft menus that celebrate the region’s bounty. Local favorites often feature dishes centered on roasted root vegetables, farmstead cheeses, and seafood fresh from Casco Bay. Guests can explore nearby dining spots, but having UNION as a home base ensures that one of the city’s top restaurants is always just downstairs.

Harvest Festivals and Culinary Events

Fall is also festival season in Maine, and food takes center stage. The Harvest on the Harbor Festival brings together chefs, brewers, and vintners for tastings, demonstrations, and competitions that showcase Maine’s culinary excellence. For visitors in October and November, this is a chance to meet the makers behind the meals and enjoy dishes that highlight the very best of the late harvest. Pair your festival experience with a stay at The Press Hotel, and you’ll enjoy both the city’s public celebrations and its private dining gems.

Cozy Dining Experiences

Late harvest dining isn’t only about bold flavors-it’s also about atmosphere. At The Press Hotel, UNION’s contemporary design, natural wood accents, and buzzing open kitchen create a welcoming setting for autumn evenings. Around the city, many restaurants add seasonal décor and menu specials that make each meal feel like a celebration of the season. For travelers, it’s a chance to embrace both the flavors and the spirit of fall in Portland.

A Seasonal Stay Worth Savoring

As Portland shifts into late autumn, dining becomes a true reflection of Maine’s heritage and creativity. Staying at The Press Hotel means you’re at the center of it all-steps away from the city’s best restaurants, and home to UNION, one of the region’s most celebrated dining experiences. This fall, let Portland’s late harvest guide your culinary journey, and savor every moment of the season.

Portland’s spirit flows strong well into late summer—and a stay at The Press Hotel positions you in the heart of it: book-lined walls, vintage typewriters, and the culinary delights of UNION Restaurant and Inkwell set the perfect tone.

Music & Live Performance Highlights

From August 7 through 31, the State Theatre Summer Concert Series at Thompson’s Point offers headliner experiences beneath open skies. Catch The Flaming Lips & Modest Mouse on August 7, Guster’s on the Ocean on August 9–10, and Lake Street Dive on August 16–17. Later in the month, Gregory Alan Isakov performs on August 22, and Leon Bridges takes the stage August 31–September 1.

On August 10, rev up for motorsport excitement at the BitNile.com Grand Prix of Portland, featuring world-class IndyCar drivers racing through the streets of Portland in spectacular fashion.

For lovers of classical refinement, the Portland Chamber Music Festival presents a free Family Concert in August (after the 6th), delivering intimate performances from chamber ensembles at the Abromson Community Education Center—a perfect midday cultural interlude.

Dining, Drinks & Late-Summer Eats

After live shows or city roaming, retreat to Inkwell, the Press Hotel’s atmospheric lobby bar styled like a vintage newsroom. Enjoy cocktails like the Press Martini or try a seasonal creation crafted with ingredients such as the hotel’s rooftop honey. At UNION Restaurant, seasonal menus spotlight Maine’s bounty: think Casco Bay seafood, local produce, and inventive dishes that ever-evolve with the season.

Outdoor Adventures & Waterfront Attractions

While many events wind down by early August, outdoor enjoyment remains vibrant. A stroll or bike from the hotel to the Eastern Promenade reveals coastal paths, kayak rentals, and picnic spots with sweeping bay views. It’s the perfect setting for a quiet sunset or waterside ice cream.

Nearby, L.L. Bean Summer in the Park in Freeport continues daily through August 31, featuring family-friendly activities like live music, yoga, movie nights, and kids’ crafts—ideal for a quick half-day excursion.

Arts, Culture & Old Port Charm

The creative energy of Portland’s Arts District carries on all month. Evenings remain alive with First Friday Art Walks, gallery exhibitions, and programming at venues like SPACE Gallery. The Press Hotel enriches this artistic landscape by showcasing curated works from over 26 Maine artists in its lobby, guestrooms, and gallery spaces.

For a deeper dive, stroll Old Port’s cobblestone streets after your events for boutique shopping, seafood shacks, and harbor views. Local bookstores, artisan shops, and historic piers meld into a walkable neighborhood rich with character.

Why The Press Hotel Is the Ideal Summer Base

Returning after a day of events or exploration, The Press Hotel feels like retreating into a story—where literary décor, vintage typewriters, and curated art spark inspiration. Lobby coffee and comfortable guestrooms give you a warm respite, while Inkwell and UNION ensure your evenings remain vibrant and local-focused.

The hotel’s Old Port location makes walking to waterfront concerts or downtown galleries effortless—no need for parking logistics or long travel. Evening amenities like late-night drinks or rooftop honey‑inspired sweets let you unwind in style. And the boutique rooms offer thoughtful rest before your next summer experience.

When summer sun in Portland turns intense, there’s no need to retreat too far—The Press Hotel, housed in a centenarian newsroom building in Old Port, offers a stylish cool base from which to discover the city’s most refreshing indoor escapes. Whether you crave art, culture, family fun—or just chilled comfort—here’s your guide to staying cool while soaking in the best of Portland.

Escape Into Art & Culture

The Portland Museum of Art, Maine’s oldest and largest public art institution, offers air-conditioned respite among nearly 22,000 works—from Winslow Homer seascapes to Impressionist European paintings by Monet and Picasso. Located a short walk from the hotel in the Arts District, it’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon indoors.

For performance lovers, the historic State Theatre on Congress Street hosts concerts and shows in lush Moorish–Art Deco surroundings. With a seating capacity nearing 1,900, the venue feels grand yet intimate, making any indoor show feel like an event.

In nearby Munjoy Hill, the St. Lawrence Arts Center—housed in a remodeled Romanesque church—hosts theater, music, and community shows in a historic, climate-controlled setting that celebrates the region’s creative spirit.

Family-Friendly Indoor Fun

Families traveling with kids—or those just young at heart—will find interactive delight at the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine. This 30,000‑square‑foot indoor space features an aquarium touch tank, a pretend lobster boat cityscape, and a theater program that brings local stories to life—making it the perfect escape from sweltering heat.

For an offbeat alternative, head to Factory3, a makerspace and community studio offering workshops in weaving, welding, woodwork, and even creative writing. Engaging and entirely indoor, it’s an excellent way to learn something new in Portland’s creative community.

Playful Escapes in Air‑Conditioned Comfort

Looking for active indoor fun? X‑Golf Portland, just blocks from the waterfront, offers state‑of‑the‑art golf simulators, arcade-style games, and a full bar. It’s a fun, climate-controlled spot to tee off without worrying about the humidity or sun exposure.

Arcadia, an adults-only arcade bar downtown, brings classic pinball, skee‑ball, vintage cabinets, and cocktails together in a retro-inspired setting—perfect for a playful and cool evening inside.

Chill Out at The Press Hotel

After venturing into Portland’s indoor scene, return to The Press Hotel and unwind in style. The lobby’s cozy lounges, board games, and a fireplace provide a inviting retreat from the heat. Complement your downtime with complimentary coffee or tea in the lobby or host casual conversations in Inkwell, the lobby bar styled like a vintage newsroom lounge.

Guestrooms boast air conditioning and amenities chosen with comfort in mind—like Frette linens, Keurig coffee makers, mini fridges, Bigelow bath products, and local art prints adorning walls that all echo the building’s journalistic past.

A Cooling Itinerary for Hot Days

Wake up and enjoy breakfast at UNION Restaurant, featuring seasonal Maine ingredients that feel light and fresh. Escape the midday heat with a visit to the Portland Museum of Art or the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine. After that, try a hands-on class at Factory3 or tee up at X‑Golf. Wrap the afternoon with cocktails at Inkwell—perhaps made with the hotel’s own rooftop honey—and a leisurely soak in your guest room’s deep tub.

Evening cooling comes naturally: the hotel’s lobby and lounges remain comfortably chill, ideal for reading, chatting, or playing nostalgic board games. End your day in the air-conditioned sanctuary of your typewriter-themed room, savoring serenity as summer breezes fade outside.

Why The Press Hotel Is Your Ideal Cool Getaway

Located in the heart of Old Port, The Press Hotel places you within walking distance of the city’s top indoor attractions and cultural venues. The thoughtful design, attentive hospitality, and literary ambiance turn every return into a stay-rooted experience. When the heat climbs, the hotel becomes your personal cooling center—inviting, refreshing, and perfectly Portland.

So while the sun blazes, the charm of Portland stays fresh—and your coolest moments are still best found at The Press Hotel.

If you’re planning a Fourth of July escape in Portland, Maine, look no further than The Press Hotel, the city’s premier boutique retreat in a beautifully restored 1920s newspaper building. With its Old Port location, stylish rooms filled with literary nods, on‑site dining at UNION and craft‑cocktails at Inkwell, the hotel is the perfect base for Independence Day festivities and waterfront views.

Morning: Kick Off with the Parade & Harbor Cruise

Start your holiday with Portland’s annual Fourth of July parade winding through downtown streets—think marching bands, floats, and local flair. It’s just steps from the hotel’s front door, making it an easy first stop before breakfast. Then consider setting sail on a scenic Casco Bay cruise—whether aboard a schooner or a sightseeing ferry, you’ll enjoy coastal views and festive energy on the water.

Midday: Explore the Old Port & Breakfast at UNION

Return to The Press Hotel for brunch at UNION Restaurant, where the menu celebrates Maine’s bounty. From lobster‑rich dishes to creative seasonal plates sourced from local farms and fisheries, it’s an excellent way to savor the region before an afternoon of adventures. The hotel’s historic typewriter theme and curated literary touches create a memorable start to your day.

Afternoon: Waterfront Strolls and Art Walks

Stretch your legs along the Eastern Promenade, where grassy lawns meet peninsular views over Casco Bay. Art galleries throughout the Arts District stay open late during the First Friday Art Walk, featuring exhibits in The Press Hotel’s own permanent gallery of Maine artists. Enjoy the lobby’s towering typewriter “swarm” installation, then explore local galleries, shops, and murals.

Early Evening: Cocktails at Inkwell & Pre-Fireworks Vibes

Back at the hotel, head to Inkwell, the intimate lobby bar fashioned like an old newsroom lounge. Sip a house cocktail, perhaps the “Press Martini,” alongside fellow guests and locals. The setting is perfect for activating Fourth of July anticipation before heading out to prime viewing spots nearby—such as East End Beach or Bug Light, both under two miles from your stay.

Nightfall: Waterfront Fireworks Over Casco Bay

Portland’s fireworks usually begin around 9:15 PM at the Eastern Promenade, where crowds gather with blankets, food trucks, and live music like the Casco Bay Wind Symphony to set the mood. For a more curated experience, book a spot on a cruise or water taxi offering front-row views from the harbor. This spark-filled evening is a highlight of Maine summers.

Late Night: Return to Press Hotel for Relaxation

After the show, return to The Press Hotel to unwind in elegant comfort. Guests rave about the plush beds, spacious marble bathrooms, and boutique ambiance—soft lighting, literary décor, and exceptional service create an indulgent retreat after fireworks.

Why The Press Hotel Makes Holiday Weekend Special

Staying at The Press Hotel means beginning and ending your Fourth of July celebration in style. With 110 artistically themed guestrooms inspired by newspaper offices—from Executive King rooms to the opulent Penthouse Suite—you’ll enjoy thoughtful design, modern amenities, and literary charm at every turn. The hotel’s fitness center is open 24 hours and complimentary, perfect for a sunrise stretch before a day of celebrations.

On-site dining at UNION ensures you taste the best of Maine ingredients, while Inkwell’s vibrant lobby bar is ideal for post-parade social time. Between events, you can recharge in stylish lobbies, browse the in‑hotel gallery, or simply relax and read in the evocative press-themed spaces. And when midnight approaches, the comfortable rooms, quiet environment, and nearby valet parking make returning effortless.

Sample Itinerary: A Press Hotel 4th of July Experience

Begin the day with a parade walk to Union for brunch; stroll the waterfront; return for an afternoon art meander or nap; enjoy cocktails in the lobby; head out for fireworks at the Prom; then retreat to typewriter-themed comfort. Each moment underscores The Press Hotel’s unique blend of historic personality and modern luxury.

This Fourth of July, elevate your Portland experience. At The Press Hotel, history, hospitality, and holiday spirit come together to create a celebration that feels both rooted in place and utterly unforgettable.

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.

As June rolls in, Portland, Maine shakes off the last traces of spring and comes to life with energy, color, and coastal charm. With longer days, mild breezes, and the first real wave of summer events, June is the perfect time to experience this creative, culinary, and coastal city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, The Press Hotel places you at the heart of it all-just steps from the action and moments from the sea.

Here’s how to make the most of Portland in June and start your summer with a story worth sharing.

1. Stroll and Shop the Old Port District

Just a short walk from The Press Hotel, Portland’s Old Port is a cobblestone-lined treasure trove of boutiques, galleries, coffee shops, and indie bookstores. In June, shopfronts spill onto the sidewalks, window boxes bloom, and there’s an irresistible buzz in the air. Whether you’re browsing handmade jewelry, rare books, or local art, Old Port captures the spirit of Portland: creative, independent, and endlessly walkable.

Don’t miss the First Friday Art Walk, held monthly, where galleries and studios open their doors to the public. It’s a great way to meet local artists and experience Portland’s vibrant art scene up close.

2. Hit the Water: Casco Bay Cruises and Ferry Rides

Warmer weather brings Portland’s working waterfront back to life, and one of the best ways to take it all in is from the water. Head to the ferry terminal and hop aboard a Casco Bay Lines cruise. Whether you choose a sunset run, a mailboat tour through the islands, or a day trip to Peaks Island, June is ideal for catching sea breezes and panoramic views of the harbor.

If you’re staying at The Press Hotel, the terminal is just a 10-minute walk away, making it easy to spend a morning on the bay and be back in time for happy hour at UNION.

3. Taste Your Way Through the City

Portland’s reputation as a culinary capital isn’t seasonal-it’s year-round. But in June, local ingredients hit their peak and patios fill with the sounds of clinking glasses and fresh-shucked oysters. It’s a perfect time to sample everything from gourmet donuts to innovative seafood dishes.

Start your culinary journey at UNION, The Press Hotel’s own signature restaurant, where seasonal menus highlight the best of the region. Then explore beyond the hotel with local favorites like Eventide Oyster Co., Duckfat, and Belleville for breakfast pastries that border on spirituality.

4. Outdoor Events & Live Music All Month Long

From concerts at Thompson’s Point to pop-up markets and outdoor yoga at Eastern Promenade, June kicks off Portland’s event season in style. Check local calendars for festivals like the Old Port Festival Weekend, Picnic Craft Fair, or Portland Schooner Co.’s sailing excursions.

Back at The Press Hotel, you may also stumble into an impromptu art opening or evening event in the in-house gallery, which features rotating works by Maine-based artists and creatives.

5. Take a Coastal Hike or Beach Break

If you’re looking to get outside the city center, June is an ideal time to explore Maine’s iconic coastal landscapes. Drive just 20 minutes to Two Lights State Park or Fort Williams Park (home of the Portland Head Light), where ocean views, cliff walks, and quiet picnic spots await. The weather is warm, the crowds are light, and the photo ops are endless.

Start Summer Where the Stories Are

Portland in June is a blend of energy and ease-markets and music by day, coastal calm by night. And with its literary roots, thoughtful design, and central location, The Press Hotel is the ideal home base for discovering it all. Whether you’re sailing, sipping, strolling, or simply soaking it all in, your summer story begins here.

Portland, Maine may be small in size, but its culinary reputation reaches far beyond the city limits. With a mix of classic New England fare, cutting-edge innovation, and a deep love for locally sourced ingredients, Portland’s food and drink scene is an experience in itself.

And for guests of The Press Hotel, that experience begins just steps from the lobby. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply hungry for something memorable, here’s your curated guide to Portland’s top culinary stops-all within easy reach of your stay.

Start Onsite: UNION at The Press Hotel

Before you venture into the city, start where you are. UNION, The Press Hotel’s signature restaurant, is a love letter to Maine’s seasonal bounty. With a menu that changes regularly based on what’s fresh and local, it offers elevated dishes that strike a balance between comfort and creativity. Think wild mushroom risotto, butter-poached lobster, and impossibly fresh greens. The ambiance is refined yet relaxed, making it perfect for everything from brunch to a late-night glass of wine.

For Seafood Lovers: Eventide Oyster Co.

Just a 7-minute walk from the hotel, Eventide Oyster Co. is a Portland icon. Known for its pristine oyster selection and inventive small plates, this sleek, modern oyster bar blends traditional New England flavors with global influences. Try the brown butter lobster roll, a fan favorite, and let the raw bar selection introduce you to the best of Maine’s coastal waters. It’s walk-in only, so timing is key-but always worth the wait.

Small Bites & Big Flavor: Central Provisions

Tucked away on Fore Street in a historic brick building, Central Provisions is a standout for those who love small plates and bold flavors. The menu is always changing, but the creativity is constant. Sit at the bar or grab a cozy table upstairs and enjoy dishes like tuna crudo, crispy suckling pig, or house-made ricotta. With its intimate atmosphere and inventive food, it’s ideal for date night or a celebratory dinner.

Where to Grab a Drink: Blyth & Burrows

Portland is just as proud of its cocktail scene as it is of its seafood. Blyth & Burrows, located in the Old Port and a short stroll from The Press, serves up elevated cocktails in a moody, maritime-inspired space. With a speakeasy-style backroom and a menu that balances the classic with the adventurous, this spot is a must for cocktail enthusiasts. Think saffron gin, absinthe mists, and house-made infusions-all with a strong sense of style.

Don’t Miss the Sweet Side: Belleville & The Holy Donut

For early risers, head to Belleville, a Parisian-style bakery near Munjoy Hill known for its expertly laminated croissants and seasonal tarts. If you’re after something more local in spirit, The Holy Donut—famous for its potato-based donuts-offers a Maine twist on a classic treat, with flavors like maple bacon and triple berry glaze.

Both spots are within a 10–15 minute walk from the hotel and offer the kind of morning fuel that makes any day feel indulgent.

Stay Where Flavor Meets Story

Great meals aren’t just about ingredients-they’re about the atmosphere, the storytelling, and the people behind the plate. That’s what makes Portland so special. And when you stay at The Press Hotel, you’re not just close to the city’s best dining-you’re part of a community that lives and breathes creativity, flavor, and connection.