What to expect: The Portland Regency Hotel occupies a handsomely restored 1895 armory in the city's waterfront Old Port district. In front of the hotel is a circular brick-and-cobblestone courtyard with a dolphin statue in the center. Here, valets greet arriving guests and assist them with their luggage. This Portland hotel is completely nonsmoking.

Amenity highlights: The hotel's Regency Health Spa offers a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments, such as European facials, the Cranberry & Pomegranate Salt Glow, the Caviar Manicure, and couples massage. Guests enjoy complimentary use of spa facilities—including the fitness studio, spa tub, steam rooms, saunas, and Vichy showers—even if they don't indulge in a treatment.

The on-site restaurant, Twenty Milk Street, showcases USDA Prime steaks and fresh seafood, while the Armory Lounge is an inviting spot for cocktails and local microbrews.