Q: How do I get to Portland?

A: Located just two hours from Boston and four hours from New York, Maine transportation makes it easy on travelers coming from any direction. Our Portland ME airport and transportation center are both centrally located. Whether you are flying in from the Portland International Jetport or arriving on the bus or train – you will be just a few minutes from downtown.

Q: What group size can you accommodate?

A: The largest meeting space in Greater Portland is just over 35,000 sq ft. Although we do not have a convention center, there is a combined available square footage of 112,000 sq ft from conference venues in Portland’s downtown district. This means you have the opportunity to host your own small town takeover and utilize multiple corporate meeting facilities to immerse yourself in the city.

Q: What hotel brands are available?

A: Portland has both international hotel chains and independent boutique properties. Whether you are looking for a full-service resort or something more unique like a cabin in the woods – you will find it all in the Greater Portland area.

Q: When is peak season?

A: June-October is considered peak season for Portland. In summer, the tourist season heats up, and in fall cruise ships start sailing in. This means there is no shortage of events and attractions to keep you and your group entertained. For a more budget-friendly meeting, consider our region during the winter season. Our city is a vibrant meetings destination year-round!

Q: Do I need a meeting planner?

A: Our sales team can act as your local liaison while planning your event at no cost to you. From choosing the ideal venue to assisting with vendor referrals, our goal is to provide you with services to make your meeting a success. We can connect you with Maine’s top venues and vendors.

Q: What can my group do for fun in your area?

A: In Greater Portland we have no shortage of activities to keep you and your group entertained. Is your group looking for some solo shopping and time to explore the historic Old Port? How about a one-of-a-kind team-building experience? Your group can sail Casco Bay on a scenic cruise, explore our local lighthouses or beaches, and take in the arts scene at one of our world class attractions – the options are endless! You can also check out our Event Calendar to see what exciting activities await you upon arrival.

Q: Where can I hold a unique offsite event?

A: Portland has an abundance of unique function spaces for your guests to enjoy. Throw your guests an off-site reception in one of Portland’s atmospheric function facilities or a lobster bake at an oceanfront restaurant. Our team is happy to guide you to the perfect spot!

Q: Can you help me market my event and build attendance?

A: Yes! We are happy to help market your event. We can post your meeting’s details to our Events Calendar and use our social media channels to help promote it. Additionally, we provide our printed marketing materials and high resolution destination images and promotional videos.

Q: Do you have gift bags with local products that we can give to our attendees?

A: Our team can provide your guests with our complimentary Visitor’s Guide publication. We are also happy to connect you with local makers that will work with you to craft Maine-made gifts for your swag bag.

Q: Where do we get the best lobster?

A: Maine Lobster is the sweetest, most flavorful lobster you can eat; hand-caught by local fishermen committed to sustainable fishing for generations. Maine lobster is the best lobster. Use our website to check out all the places you can get your authentic Maine lobster dinner.

Q: Where can I have a lobster bake?

A: A Maine lobster bake is part of the local heritage. There are several ways you can host your own lobster bake for your group. You can bring in a local caterer to one of our unique venues, dine at one of Portland’s mouth-watering restaurants, or even take a scenic cruise on Casco Bay as you crack into those lobsters. The choice is yours, and with so many delicious options, you can’t go wrong!