Hi, I'm helping my parents plan a trip to Portland, ME (and other parts of ME too). While in the Portland area, would downtown Portland be a good base for their hotel? Any recommendations appreciated.

What time of year? What brings them to Portland?

oops, I'm a last-minute planner. This would be for next week. They'll be driving up the coast to Acadia, of course, but will first check out the Portland area.

In Portland the Eastland Hotel is a good choice. Not really much to do in Portland for tourists with just a day.

If cost is not an issue, look into the Inn By the Sea in nearby Cape Elizabeth. Great place to stay and the weather is usually great this time of year, sunny and mild.

I'd definitely leave Portland and hit the road....see more of the coast or even Sebago Lake.

Jimbo could not be more wrong; there is much to do in Portland, although I think you would have difficulty finding a place to stay on such short notice this time of year. The Regency is a wonderful hotel located in the Old Port; your parents could walk to the museum, the shops, great restaurants.

Okay, right. And you've just give LOADS of examples!

Do not let any one fool you...there is plenty to do in Portland for one day. Museums, Restaurants Shopping. The Eastland is nice has just been renovated. More in the middle of the action is the Regency or Harbor View (Brand New). The "Old Port" is the area they want to be.

I love Portland Maine and agree that there is so much to do there.It is a wonderful town with alot of history,unusual shopping,fabulous eating and nice residents. I do think that you might have a tough time on short notice getting something downtown. If they don't mind being away from downtown-then try any of the hotels around the airport/Maine Mall area as it is less than 10 minutes by car downtown(although parking is difficult). All of the major chains are by the MAINE MALL(Holiday Inn, Sheraton,Coast Inn, Days Inn,etc.) and you will have a better chance getting a place there. It is easy access to hop onto the expressway to go north too.
I would recommend a quick trip to Cape Elizabeth(about 10 minutes south of Portland) and a bite to eat at the Lobster Shack which is located right on the ocean and next to the coast Guard station. Wonderful and reasonable seafood-picnic tables outside with a fabulous view.Their lobster rolls are to die for!!!How long do they have for this trip as there is alot to see and do on the way up the coast to Acadia? I think that they will love this trip-tell them that the lobster,scallops and haddock will make them wish they never had to come home.Good luck!

Portland is microbrewery heaven. If the folks like real good beer. Portland is the place to go. With enough beer, they won't care where they stay.

We sstayed at the Hilton Garden Inn near the airpot this summer. The hotel was great, new, beautiful with very friendly service. Good weekend rates.