155 Riverside St, Portland, Maine, United States | (618) 248-8274
Heated, indoor pool offers swimming year-round
Dining options include two restaurants serving American cuisine
Free airport shuttle that runs 24 hours a day
All rooms have balconies, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs
Family-friendly amenities include a laundry area and a game room
Business center and 12,000 square feet of event space
Pet-friendly
Decor in guest rooms and most common areas are in need of a refresh
Fitness center is small and equipment looks somewhat dated
No free breakfast
Not walking distance to downtown area
Only one elevator; hallways are long
The three-story Ramada Plaza Portland caters to all kinds of travelers looking for a full-service hotel at a good value. Amenities such as a pool and fitness center are nice but standard for a mid-range chain. Despite renovations in 2008, the hotel itself is a bit dated, right down to the rooms and bedding, but overall it's a good deal for the money. All rooms have balconies, while others also have refrigerators, microwaves, and whirlpool baths. The aforementioned common amenities -- as well as two restaurants, an outdoor patio, and a cozy lobby -- offer an incentive not to stay cooped up in the rooms.
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Scene
An affordable, mid-range chain that draws both business and leisure travelers looking for a solid value
Ramada Plaza Portland is geared towards all kinds of tourists and business travelers looking for a mid-range hotel at a good value. The casual atmosphere and cozy lobby -- complete with stone fireplace and contemporary furnishings -- are appealing, even if the hotel's other public spaces (and guest rooms) are somewhat dated. Socializing is made easier with happy hours, karaoke nights, and other special events at the hotel's Seasons Grille & Bar restaurant.
Location
On a busy main road of an industrial area and a 15-minute drive from downtown Portland
Ramada Plaza Portland isn't exactly in the most scenic area, as it is located in an industrial area off I-95 on a main road surrounded by strip malls, restaurants, and fast food joints. The hotel is best suited for those looking for an affordable stay close to downtown Portland, as it is around a 15-minute drive away from that area of the city. It is also less than a 20-minute drive from the Old Port area. Tourists and business travelers who don't mind being on the outskirts of the city may appreciate the convenient location near shops and restaurants.
Rooms
Clean and well-maintained, but decor in need of an update
Though generally clean and fairly spacious, the rooms are definitely on the basic side and in need of a refresh (picture dated floral curtains, worn bedding, and blue-green carpeting). Bathrooms are somewhat tired as well, but functional. Overall, the rooms are well-maintained.All rooms have balconies, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Travelers who want additional amenities can upgrade to a Premiere Room, which includes a refrigerator, microwave, bottled water, and snacks, or a Jacuzzi Room for a whirlpool tub.Since the hotel is located on a busy street, it is best to request a room on the upper floor if looking for a quieter stay.
Features
Solid amenities for business and leisure travelers add to the value
The Ramada Plaza Portland is a full-service hotel that caters to both business and leisure travelers, with some solid amenities for families in particular. Parents may find the laundry area especially useful, while kids may appreciate the game room and the indoor pool with a section roped off for children. There is also a small outdoor patio for catching rays and a tiny gym with weight machines and cardio equipment (albeit somewhat dated). Dining options include two restaurants that serve American cuisine -- one is open for breakfast and lunch, while the other offers dinner and features a bar with regular drink specials. A business center and plenty of meeting room space add to the value for business travelers. The free airport shuttle that runs 24 hours a day is also a nice perk.
