DIRIGO UNION MATCHDAY GUIDE AND RECOMMENDATIONS
A resource for visiting supporters coming to Portland, Maine to see Hearts of Pine at Fitzpatrick Stadium (“Fitzy”)
How to get here
By Air: Portland International Jetport (PWM) is just 10 minutes from downtown.
By Train: Amtrak Downeaster runs from Boston North Station to Portland’s Transportation Center. For trips further south, you will need to take the T or uber from North to South station
By Car/Bus: I-95/295 (Maine Turnpike) connects Portland to Boston (2 hrs) and beyond. Concord Coach Lines runs consistent buses from Boston’s Logan Airport, South Station, and New York City to the Portland Transportation Center, which is a ~10 minute drive to Fitzy
The lay of the land
Portland proper sits on a peninsula sticking out into Casco Bay, ringed in by the 295 Highway which allows easy access to different parts of the state. Many locals refer to this area as just “ on the Peninsula" You will hear people and this guide mention various notable locations such as-
Congress Street
The heart of Downtown Portland. Lots of hotels, restaurants, City hall, and many historic sights.
Commercial Street
The Portland waterfront area. Heavily tourist coded, this area features many restaurants, hotels, retail shops, and sightseeing tour opportunities.
The Old Port
The heart of Portland’s tourist scene. Bordered by Congress, Commercial, High, and Franklin Streets, you’ll find hundreds of restaurants and shops, and many hotels and AirBnBs in this zone.
Munjoy Hill
The Eastern end of Portland, a chic housing district with many fantastic local restaurants.
The West End
High end housing district on the southwestern side of Portland. Known for its stunning colonial era brick buildings, this area may appeal to those who enjoy architecture and urban photography.
Bayside/East Bayside
Semi-redeveloped section of Portland, East Bayside hosts most of Portland’s best breweries, and the Portland Zoo soccer bar.
VISIT PORTLAND MAP
https://www.visitportland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2021-Walking-Map.pdf
A useful guide from the tourism team at City Hall, listing many of the popular local businesses, scenic spots, public parking, and restrooms and hospitals.
Where to stay
EXPECT TO PAY PREMIUM PRICES IN THE SUMMER MONTHS (END OF MAY -> EARLY SEPTEMBER) - Portland is littered with hotels and AirBnBs. The Dirigo Union has partnered with the following hotels.
AC Hotel Portland Downtown Waterfront
158 Fore Street, Portland, Maine 04101
10% off regular rates
Aloft Portland Downtown Waterfront ME
379 Commercial Street, Portland, Maine 04101
20% off regular rates
Residence Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront
145 Fore Street, Portland, Maine 04101
10% off regular rates
Click on the link below to use our discount. This is good for away supporters as well.
Other Hotels in the area
Double Tree By Hilton
South Portland- This is where visiting teams typically stay. Located next to the Maine Mall in South Portland, it is conveniently located near I-95, 295, and the Portland Jetport- 15 minute drive to Fitzpatrick stadium and downtown Portland. No walking options, limited public transportation, rideshares are abundant.
Hilton Garden Inn
Downtown Portland- Located on the Portland waterfront. Across the street from a Metro bus stop and the ferry terminal- 10 minute drive to Fitzpatrick, 35 minute walk through downtown
The Francis Hotel
Historic redbrick hotel located on Congress street, closer to the West End district- 10 minute walk to Fitzpatrick, easy access to downtown Portland
There are also Inns located on Peaks Island, Diamond Cove, and Chebeague Island if you’re looking for a quieter, more unique stay. Travel via the Casco Bay lines Ferries. Reach out to Zach Martins on the USL discord for insider help.
Some teams and fans stayed in Old Orchard Beach/ Saco (30 mins south of Portland) due to cheaper hotel and Airbnb rates last season. Worth a look.
Food and Drink at Fitzy
The Hearts of Pine invite a rotating selection of food trucks to each match, options will change game to game, but typically you can find a wide variety of options catering to different dietary needs. Brickyard Hollow Brewing occupies the main food stand selling full-size pizzas as well as individual slices. Attendees are allowed to bring outside food as long as it fits in a 12x6x12 bag (typical reusable shopping bag.) No outside water or other beverages are allowed. No empty bottles either.