The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection

"Why did this hotel catch your attention?The Press Hotel, housed in the former home of the Portland Press Herald, Maine's biggest newspaper, plays up its journalism theme and celebrates the art of writing with flourishes like typewriters in the lobby and old news copy blown up on the wall. What's the backstory?The Press Hotel, though locally owned, 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. Tell us rooms. Any tips on what to book?Rooms look like modern writers' studies, with sumptuous leathers, vintage desks, textiles from local artist Angela Adams, comfy beds, and modern bathrooms. The penthouse suite has a private rooftop deck. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Wi-Fi comes free. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Union is one of the city's stand out restaurants, though hotel guests may make the best use of it by stopping in the morning for breakfast. Union uses lots of local ingredients (some very local, like the honey that comes from rooftop hives). And the service? It's friendly and well-informed, accommodating needs without being intrusive. Check-in and check-out were seamless, as was the valet service. What about the neighborhood? Hustle and bustle or more relaxing?The hotel is just far enough from the Old Port to avoid heavy traffic—from both cars and tourists. Any other hotel features worth noting?The gym has Peloton equipment—a pleasant surprise. The Inkwell coffee bar opens early if you want something more complicated than what you can whip up in your room. Bottom line: Worth it?The Press has the most character of any Downtown hotel—with service that wouldn't be out of place in a larger city." - Joe Ricchio