Hotels in Orono

Orono: Where Riverbanks Whisper Stories and Knowledge Thrives

Nestled along the picturesque Penobscot River, Orono, Maine, is a charming university town that seamlessly blends natural beauty with vibrant culture. Home to the University of Maine, the town offers a lively arts scene, highlighted by the stunning Collins Center for the Arts. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby forests, rivers, and trails, perfect for hiking and kayaking. With its quaint downtown filled with local shops and eateries, Orono invites visitors to indulge in its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Orono is an enchanting off-the-beaten-path destination waiting to be discovered.

Discover great hotels in Orono

Orono, Maine, offers a range of hotel accommodations from cozy motels to comfortable inns. Many properties feature inviting rooms with comfortable beds and complimentary breakfast options. With proximity to the University of Maine, visitors can find well-suited lodging for both relaxation and exploration. Here are some of the best hotels in Orono that our travelers love:

1. Hampton Inn BangorOpens in a new window: This inviting 2.5-star hotel caters to leisure travelers seeking a comfortable and welcoming stay. With a range of business amenities, including accessible meeting rooms and a fully equipped business center, it offers a smooth experience for those who might need to mix work with relaxation. The hotel’s LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere enhances its appeal, creating a distinctive environment for all guests. Positive sentiments highlight the welcoming ambiance and the thoughtful design of the space, making it a great choice for those looking for a pleasant retreat.
2. Quality Inn at Bangor MallOpens in a new window: Quality Inn at Bangor Mall is a delightful 2.5-star hotel perfect for leisure travelers in search of a vibrant and engaging experience. The property features an array of family-friendly amenities, such as a free crib service and an arcade game room, but its appeal extends to those interested in creating memorable moments. Guests appreciate the spacious environment and the engaging activities available, ensuring a fun-filled stay. The hotel’s inviting design and accommodating atmosphere contribute to its reputation as a go-to destination for an enjoyable getaway.
3. Country Inn at The MallOpens in a new window: Country Inn at The Mall, a charming 2.0-star hotel, offers a welcoming experience for LGBTQIA travelers. With a focus on creating a comfortable sanctuary, this hotel emphasizes inclusivity and warmth, making it a standout choice for those looking to explore Orono. The property is designed to foster a distinctive and engaging atmosphere, allowing guests to relax and unwind. Positive sentiments center around its inviting environment and the sense of community it cultivates, ensuring a memorable stay for all who visit.

Top locations to stay in Orono

Some of the great areas to stay in when visiting Orono, Maine, are Bangor, Brewer, and Old Town. Bangor offers vibrant live music and cultural events, Brewer is known for its friendly atmosphere and community spirit, while Old Town features unique local attractions. For first-time visitors, Bangor is the best choice due to its lively scene and amenities.

1. BangorOpens in a new window: Bangor is a vibrant city known for its lively cultural scene and friendly atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy a variety of live music events and explore local art galleries that showcase regional talent. The city boasts beautiful parks, making it a great spot for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls. Don’t miss the historic downtown area, where you can shop at unique boutiques and indulge in local cuisine. The nearby Penobscot River also offers picturesque views and opportunities for exploration, making Bangor an ideal base for your Maine adventures.
2. BrewerOpens in a new window: Brewer is a charming city that offers a warm, welcoming vibe, perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy a slower pace. It features friendly people and a tight-knit community feel, making it a great place to connect with locals. While here, you can explore scenic riverside parks and enjoy peaceful walks along the waterfront. Brewer’s proximity to Bangor ensures easy access to additional shopping and dining experiences, providing a balanced mix of tranquility and excitement.
3. Old TownOpens in a new window: Old Town is a quaint area that captures the essence of small-town Maine. Known for its friendly atmosphere, this community offers a unique blend of historical charm and outdoor beauty. You can take a leisurely walk along the Penobscot River or explore local trails that showcase the stunning natural landscape. While it may be smaller, Old Town is a great base for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still being close to the amenities of nearby Bangor and Brewer.

Things to do in Orono

Nestled by a scenic river and surrounded by lush forests, Orono offers a delightful mix of outdoor exploration and vibrant community life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along picturesque trails, partake in lively festivals, and savor live music. With opportunities for boating and hiking, this charming destination is perfect for a refreshing getaway.

• Chamberlain Freedom ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Chamberlain Freedom Park, where you can take in the natural beauty of the landscape. It's a great spot to unwind, have a picnic, or simply relax by the river while surrounded by lush greenery.
• Maine Forest and Logging MuseumOpens in a new window – Delve into the rich history of Maine’s forestry and logging industry at the Maine Forest and Logging Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the tools and techniques used by loggers, and learn about the vital role this industry played in shaping the state.
• Waterfront ParkOpens in a new window – Visit Waterfront Park for a scenic escape along the river. With its beautiful walking paths, this urban park is ideal for a refreshing jog or a peaceful walk while enjoying views of the water and the vibrant surroundings.
• Paul Bunyan StatueOpens in a new window – Snap a photo with the iconic Paul Bunyan Statue, a beloved landmark celebrating this legendary lumberjack. Standing tall, it’s a fun spot to learn about local folklore and capture a memorable moment during your visit.
• Cascade ParkOpens in a new window – Head over to Cascade Park, where you can enjoy scenic trails and picturesque waterfalls. This urban park offers a serene environment for hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the tranquil sounds of nature.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Orono

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Orono is during January, February, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those interested in exploring the city’s historical and cultural sites, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This timeframe allows for visits to notable landmarks like the university, as well as enjoying local festivals, family-friendly activities, live music, and various shopping and dining options. Visitors can also take leisurely walks along the river and discover unique attractions such as the cathedral and artisanal cheese shops. With plenty of budget-friendly options available, Orono offers great value for money for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore last-minute deals to Orono, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, maximizing your chances of securing the best hotel deal. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare room rates and amenities, helping you make informed choices. This way, if prices drop or rooms become available, you'll be among the first to know for your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at an Orono hotel. If you're seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and might offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates that could help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Orono's excellent public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well-connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, there’s often great value to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations can lead to a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join for free and start booking your next stay in Orono! Enjoy savings on over 100,000 hotels globally with exclusive member pricing. As a member, you can easily climb through the tiers and access fantastic perks, including complimentary room upgrades when available and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on these great benefits—sign up today!

Best time to go to Orono

Orono experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 20.3°F (-6.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.5°F (20.3°C). October are typically the wettest months. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Orono, April, July, and August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.