As the chill of November settles over Maine, Portland transforms into a city of golden leaves, glowing windows, and inviting aromas drifting through the cobblestone streets. Thanksgiving week is one of the most heart-warming times to visit-when locals and travelers alike slow down, savor good food, and reconnect with the simple joys of the season. At the center of it all sits The Press Hotel, where history, design, and culinary artistry come together for a downtown Thanksgiving escape that feels both festive and refined.
A Downtown Stay with Character
Housed in the former headquarters of the Portland Press Herald, The Press Hotel balances modern elegance with the spirit of storytelling that defines the city. Its location on Exchange Street places guests steps away from the Old Port’s boutiques, harbor views, and candle-lit restaurants, yet it offers a calm retreat from the bustle outside.
Thanksgiving week here begins slowly-perhaps with coffee by the lobby fireplace, a round of Scrabble before heading out, or a stroll through the crisp autumn air toward the waterfront. Each room feels like a writer’s sanctuary, designed for reflection and comfort. Oversized windows frame the late-fall colors of downtown, while plush bedding and quiet corners encourage rest before a day of discovery or a night of feasting.
Thanksgiving Flavors at UNION
At UNION Restaurant, located just off the hotel’s lobby, the team sets the table for one of Portland’s most anticipated Thanksgiving experiences. Executive Chef Christian Bassett’s seasonal menu captures Maine’s harvest in every detail-think roasted root vegetables, butternut squash, and the aroma of maple and sage drifting from the open kitchen.
Guests can expect a Thanksgiving dinner that blends classic traditions with a local twist: tender turkey with cranberry-apple relish, creamy mashed potatoes touched with Maine butter, and fresh seafood starters honoring the state’s coastal heritage. Those who linger for dessert will be rewarded with spiced pumpkin creations and perhaps a warm apple crisp, crafted from regional orchards.
It’s more than a meal; it’s a celebration of Maine’s autumn bounty and the welcoming spirit that defines UNION’s “altogether local” philosophy.
Exploring Portland Between Courses
Thanksgiving week in Portland offers plenty to do beyond the table. Wander the Old Port’s cobblestone lanes lined with galleries, vintage shops, and artisan bakeries. Visit the Portland Museum of Art, or catch the first of the city’s holiday lights along Commercial Street. On a clear day, a walk to the Eastern Promenade rewards you with sweeping views of Casco Bay, painted in late-autumn hues.
Back at The Press Hotel, the rhythm slows again-perhaps a nightcap at Inkwell, the cozy lobby bar where conversation hums like a printing press of ideas.
A Place to Gather and Give Thanks
What makes Thanksgiving at The Press Hotel truly special is its sense of community. It’s where visiting families meet locals celebrating tradition, where travelers find a place that feels instantly familiar. Whether sharing dinner at UNION or simply reflecting with a glass of wine in your suite, the atmosphere invites connection and gratitude.
Portland in late November glows softly with warmth-a contrast to the crisp air outside. And The Press Hotel, with its timeless charm and attention to every thoughtful detail, offers the perfect place to embrace that warmth fully.
Your Thanksgiving Story Begins Here
This Thanksgiving week, trade kitchen chaos for coastal calm. Stay where hospitality feels like an art form and dinner is served with a local accent. From the flavors of UNION to the quiet comfort of your guestroom, The Press Hotel captures the essence of Portland in one unforgettable holiday stay.
Book your Thanksgiving getaway downtown, and let your story of gratitude begin here-one bite, one memory, and one Maine evening at a time.