Traveling to Portland, Maine

Truly reflective of Portland’s new direction, Canopy boasts modern comfort and style while being directly across from the city’s working waterfront. The rooftop bar, Luna, has quickly become a popular hangout for both tourists and locals alike—as it turns out, the water views are universally appealing. Though it is a Hilton property, Canopy has plenty of unique character, and the clientele runs the gamut from vacationing families to hipster twentysomethings. Someone did their homework before opening, as you will find some of the city’s most exciting art and food featured throughout.  

A hidden gem in the West End, The Pomegranate Inn has a collection of contemporary art in a vivid array of colors. Each piece of furniture in the lobby and guest lounge is different, adding to the eclectic feel of the space. Eight guest rooms further the public areas' contemporary theme, with bright colors and artistic details. We loved Room Eight, which has a private sitting room that's flooded with natural light, muted, soothing pink tones, a gas fireplace with a tiled hearth, and a firm, comfortable bed. In the morning a tapas-style breakfast, included in the room rate, has everything from frittatas to chilled oats to honey-roasted pineapple.

Housed in the former home of the Portland Press Herald (Maine’s biggest newspaper), this eco-minded LEED-certified boutique property plays up its journalism theme and celebrates the art of writing with flourishes like vintage typewriters in the lobby and old news copy blown up on walls. Recent renovations play to both its dedication to the local community and its swish-yet-sustainable ethos, with beautiful plant installations and sumptuous new lobby seating. Though locally owned, the property is a member of Marriott's Autograph Collection. Because it's themed around the written word, the hotel attracts notable authors like Christina Baker Kline and Emma Straub, and since it's steps away from the Merrill Auditorium, plenty of big-name celebs often stay here as they swing through town for their performances. Union is also one of the city's standout restaurants, and hotel guests may make the best use of it by stopping by in the morning for breakfast. Check out the Portland Press Hotel.

Located on scenic Peaks Island in Casco Bay, The Inn on Peaks Island has unbeatable views and vibes, with just six guest rooms as well as a popular pub with items like haddock tacos and lobster sliders. All of the suites are named after other Maine islands; the Great Diamond, for instance, has cathedral-style ceilings, a king canopy bed, a hot tub, and stunning views from the balcony. The experience and the scenery more than justify the 15-minute ferry ride from the mainland. If you're worried you won't have enough to do out on the island, don't: Peaks Island has more activities than other Casco Bay islands, including kayak rentals, sailing charters, and museums to visit.

Hotels not your style? Take a look at the listings on airbnb to see some truly unique homes and apartments available to rent!