DETAILS

Portand, Maine

GETTING THERE: United flies nonstop to Portland from Dulles, US Airways flies nonstop from National, and numerous airlines offer connecting service. Round-trip prices generally begin at about $275, although last-minute Web sales sometimes drop fares as low as $200. If you don't buy far in advance, fares can be as high as $600. Consider flying Southwest nonstop from BWI to Manchester, N.H., a drive of about 1 hour 45 minutes from Portland. Round-trip fares begin as low as $108.

WHERE TO STAY: The Portland Harbor Hotel (468 Fore St., 888-798-9090, http://www.portlandharborhotel.com/ ) has Old World charm; rooms have views of Casco Bay, the thriving port area or the hotel's interior garden. Doubles begin at about $245.

Portland Regency Hotel (20 Milk St., 800-727-3436, http://www.theregency.com/ ) is an upscale boutique property in the heart of the Old Port section, with a fitness center and spa and beautifully decorated rooms with flat-screen TVs. A double begins at about $205, or call the hotel and ask if there's a manager's special.

Eastland Park Hotel (157 High St., 888-671-8008, http://www.eastlandparkhotel.com/ ) is a grande dame that opened in 1927 and recently underwent a major facelift. At least a five-minute walk from the Old Port, the hotel is closer to downtown attractions like art galleries. Double rooms, which tend to be unusually large, start at about $159 now but drop to about $110 in the off-season. Hotel includes a fitness room and privileges at a nearby health club.

INFORMATION: Convention and Visitors Bureau of Greater Portland , 207-772-5800, http://www.visitportland.com/ .  -- Cindy Loose