Portland, Maine is a great place to visit if you are a seafood lover or looking for something a little off the beaten path. The city is known for its natural wonders and waterfront views, which make it an ideal destination for anyone looking for unparalleled scenery. There is something in Portland, Maine, for just about anyone.
Portland offers several hotels in different price ranges. Furthermore, if you are traveling with animals, you’ll be happy to learn the city also offers pet-friendly hotel options. Though many hotels and lodges market themselves as “pet-friendly,” exercise caution. The term is vague and doesn’t always mean the same thing in every place.
For example, in some cases, visitors are surprised to discover that a hotel’s “pet-friendly” status is not as accommodating to pets as they would have hoped with only bare essentials. So, before we review the best pet-friendly hotels in Portland, Maine, let’s discuss what “pet-friendly” actually means:
What is a Pet-Friendly Hotel?
In short, a pet-friendly hotel aims to provide special accommodations, amenities, and facilities for pets and their owners. Generally, these hotels cater to dog or cat owners, though they can also provide useful amenities for other kinds of domesticated pets.
Here is a basic breakdown of the different types of amenities available at pet-friendly hotels:
- Bedding – While pets can stay in crates or cages, it is not very enjoyable for the animals. Pet owners generally prefer something cozier. Consequently, most pet-friendly hotels offer bedding, like a designated dog or cat bed, to guarantee that the animals have somewhere comfortable to sleep. Some hotels even offer small blankets and pillows for animals.
- Leashes & Collars – Portland has laws that require dog owners to use a leash. Hotels offer extra leashes and collars in case you forgot to bring your own. It is an excellent luxury if a dog owner accidentally leaves a leash at home. Additionally, a collar with identification information attached is extremely useful if your pet gets lost.
- Litter Boxes & Clean-Up Supplies – Most domesticated cats need a litter box to go to the bathroom, which can make it complicated for owners to travel with their cat. Fortunately, some pet-friendly hotels provide litter boxes and extra litter. The hotel may also supply disposable gloves for picking up dog/cat waste.
- Treats – Pet-friendly hotels want animals and their owners to enjoy themselves. Hotels understand that pets love treats, which is why many establishments offer them. Try requesting cat treats, rawhide bones, catnip, or other kinds of edible goodies for your pets.
- Toys – Toys are another terrific way to keep pets satisfied and entertained on your trip. Many pet-friendly hotels provide chew toys, rolling balls, or scratching posts. This way, pets are less likely to get bored and cause damage to hotel furniture by scratching or chewing on it.
- Outdoor Play Pens – Dogs like to go on adventures outside. They also need it to use the restroom. To help with this, many pet-friendly hotels have designated areas for animals to run free. However, pet owners must supervise their animals at all times while they are playing outdoors.
- Pet-Sitting Services – When you’re on vacation, it is not always convenient to take your pet with you to every attraction. Pet-sitting services can provide companionship and supervision when you can’t take a dog or cat with you.
Before you book a room please remember that not every pet-friendly hotel will provide the amenities and services. Some pet-friendly hotels only receive that designation because they allow dogs or cats to stay in the rooms. Therefore no other pet amenities are provided.
Additionally, almost every pet-friendly hotel has limitations when it comes to the kinds of pets allowed in the rooms. Generally, dogs and cats are allowed, but many large or exotic animals are not. Hotels may also have guidelines on the type and size of animals permitted.
You will need to contact the hotel directly at the time of your booking to find out more about the pet policies and restrictions.
Top 5 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Portland
Now that you know more about the different types of pet amenities let’s take a look at five top pet-friendly hotels in Portland, Maine.
1. Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland
The Embassy Suites by Hilton (Portland) is located just outside Portland International Jetport. In addition to its proximity to the runway, the hotel is close to various other points of interest, including:
- South Portland Gardens
- Fore River
- Tate House Museum
- Thompson’s Point
Since it is close to the river, Embassy Suites by Hilton offers amazing waterfront views. Additionally, every room has Wi-Fi and HD TV.
Pets are allowed in every non-premium room, though owners will have to cover a refundable deposit at check-in. Additionally, a pet cannot weigh more than 75 lbs.
2. Portland Harbor Hotel
The impressive 4-star hotel sits in the heart of Downtown Portland, just a few blocks from the Portland Harbor. The Portland Harbor Hotel is also near:
- Merrill Auditorium
- John Ford Statue
- Victoria Mansion
- Harbor View Memorial Park
Guests at the Portland Harbor Hotel will experience luxury and elegance in a relaxed, tasteful atmosphere. Additionally, pet owners will feel right at home, as the hotel allows pets of any size (both dogs and cats) for a non-refundable fee per pet, per night. The property also has a large grassy area for pets to play and go to the bathroom.
3. Inn at St. John
The Inn at St. John is located near Portland’s West End district. The hotel is close to several Portland attractions, including:
- Portland Sea Dogs Stadium
- Portland Fitzpatrick Stadium
- Dougherty Field
- Deering Oaks Park
The Victorian-Era inn has been in operation since 1897, making it the oldest continuously-running hotel in the city. Guests can choose from a variety of options, ranging from “value rooms” to luxury suites.
The Inn at St. John’s is a pet-friendly hotel that allows dogs for a small additional fee per night. However, pet owners cannot leave their dog alone in the room unattended.
4. The Westin Portland Harborview
The Westin Portland Harborview is on the border between Downtown Portland and the West End. There are various attractions nearby, including:
- Portland Museum of Art
- State Theatre
- Bridge Gallery
- Port City Music Hall
The luxurious 4-star hotel has been around since the 1920s, though it has gotten a few facelifts over the years. In addition to the beautiful rooms and friendly staff, Westin Portland Harborview is also pet-friendly. Up to two dogs of any size are allowed per room, though only certain rooms can accommodate animals.
5. Hilton Garden Inn Portland Airport
The Hilton Garden Inn (Portland Airport) is on the southern shore of the Columbia River. It is close to several attractions, including:
- The Riverwalk District
- Blue Lake Regional Park
- Colwood Golf Center
- Portland International Airport
Though it is far from the city center, the Hilton Garden Inn still has plenty to offer guests. The hotel has free parking and Wi-Fi, a fitness center, dining, and an indoor pool.
Additionally, Hilton Garden Inn welcomes up to two pets per room (dogs or cats), as long as each pet weighs no more than 80 lbs. The front desk offers treats for your pet, and there is a grassy area just outside the lobby for animals to play and use the restroom.
Final Thoughts
Portland, Maine, is a noteworthy city in the underappreciated northeastern state. Some of its top attractions include the Portland Head Lighthouse, Old Port, and Peaks Island. Fortunately, you can appreciate many of the best attractions in Portland with your pet right by your side!
The city has several pet-friendly hotels that offer first-rate services and all the amenities necessary to help you feel at home. If it is your first time visiting the city, we recommend considering one of the five best pet-friendly hotels in Portland, Maine.
If you’d like to certify your four-legged companion, consider registering your pet as an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). ESAs are animals that offer support and comfort to help people suffering from mental or emotional conditions. The presence of an ESA can help people deal with issues that might otherwise compromise their quality of life. These issues may include depression, anxiety, phobias, and bipolar disorder. You can register your pet as an ESA with U.S. Service Animals (USSA) today!