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Top 24 Hotels Near Kaplan University-Maine Campus
265 Western Ave South Portland, ME 4106
Germaine Inn South Portland
When the primary destination in South Portland is Kaplan University-Maine Campus, Germaine Inn South Portland's location a short drive away allows the focus to remain on the visit.
At Germaine Inn South Portland, arrivals may include a simple check-in desk, self-serve coffee, and accessible parking for predictable guest routines. Each guest room typically highlights tasteful décor, climate control, and in-room coffee, creating a practical yet polished stay. Shared spaces may include guest laundries, vending access, and breakfast rooms that help travelers manage daily routines effectively.
Accommodations often present Wi-Fi, guest laundries, modest breakfast, and vending access, maintaining straightforward guest routines.
Best Western Merry Manor Inn
In South Portland, Best Western Merry Manor Inn has a commuter-friendly location relative to Kaplan University-Maine Campus, letting guests easily transition from their room to the event.
With labeled meeting points and corridor arrows, Best Western helps groups reunite after check-in, keeping movements organized and predictable. Each suite supports fast Wi-Fi, HDMI-friendly TVs, and plentiful outlets, so presentations or media sharing stay smooth without setup delays. Outdoor seating zones near entries may include heaters or umbrellas, providing casual regroup space that doesn’t pull guests off schedule.
Between in-room coffee, microwaves, mini-fridges, and Wi-Fi, first hours run smoothly as messages refresh and quick meals fit tight starts.
Quality Inn & Suites South Portland
The short drive from Quality Inn & Suites South Portland to Kaplan University-Maine Campus in South Portland ensures guests have a pleasant preamble to their day's main activities.
When guests arrive Quality Inn the desk footprint is scaled to keep lines moving while allowing brief personal engagement with staff. Guest rooms place easily reachable bedside reading lights, simple lamp switches, and nearby outlets to make late-night routines frictionless. Lobby cafés turn out espresso and light bites quickly, creating a sensible stop before meetings, transit, or early departures from the hotel.
Lobby markets and vending corners stock essentials—snacks, toiletries, batteries—so late arrivals secure what they need without leaving site.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Maine
This easy commute to Kaplan University-Maine Campus permits Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Maine to be a convenient anchor before the on-site experience starts.
Evening Receptions at Embassy Suites serve complimentary snacks and drinks, offering a nightly social pause that eases transitions after travel. Every guest room offers ergonomic desks, wireless internet, and ample charging ports, keeping business travelers productive with ease. Atrium areas featuring lounge seating and curated décor create welcoming shared hubs, easing transitions and encouraging conversation.
EV charging, fitness areas, breakfast service, free internet, and business centers simplify routines so guests focus on comfort and ease.
Hilton Garden Inn Portland Airport
This practical drive to Kaplan University-Maine Campus from Hilton Garden Inn Portland Airport is a defining feature, because it frames a stay built around efficiency.
Lobby coffee and tea service at Hilton Garden Inn provides simple courtesy, offering guests warmth and familiarity during their transition. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh with a touch of comfort and care. Breakfast rooms with coffee service, self-serve counters, and buffet selections create clarity, letting mornings begin seamlessly.
Concierge services, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pools, Wi-Fi, and fitness studios simplify travel while enhancing everyday balance.
Clarion Hotel Portland Airport ME
Within South Portland, Clarion Hotel Portland Airport ME is a simple drive from Kaplan University-Maine Campus, a fact that offers a sense of connection to the place.
Clarion's front desk can coordinate local ride pickups where offered, aligning timing so guests move smoothly from lobby to plans. Standard guest rooms organize the desk, chair, and bedside outlets together, enabling laptop time while confirmations and tickets finalize. Meeting suites divide into breakout sections with rolling boards and extra chairs, making workshops or small reunions straightforward to run.
From free Wi-Fi and a business center to guest laundry and meeting space, small tasks wrap quickly while evenings remain unhurried and calm.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland DT / Maine Med
The brief drive from La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland DT / Maine Med to Kaplan University-Maine Campus in South Portland means guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
La Quinta welcomes guests with complimentary tea and coffee in its lobbies, offering courtesy touches that reinforce dependable care. Guest rooms highlight Bright Morning Beds®, blackout curtains, and climate systems, creating restful spaces for consistent nightly comfort. Fitness rooms containing cardio gear, weights, and stretching areas let travelers maintain health habits and energy on the go.
Pet accommodations, Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast align with laundry and pools, providing clarity and care for families daily.
Casco Bay Hotel Portland Airport - Maine Mall an Ascend Collection Hotel
Reaching Kaplan University-Maine Campus from Casco Bay Hotel Portland Airport - Maine Mall an Ascend Collection Hotel is a quick drive, a quality that weaves simplicity into the guest's daily routine.
At Casco Bay Hotel Portland Airport - Maine Mall an Ascend Collection Hotel, arrivals may highlight cozy seating, boutique details, and staff offering tailored service for each guest. Guest rooms typically include plush bedding, curated amenities, and bathrooms with stylish finishes for a polished impression. Facilities often present co-working nooks, intimate lounges, and art-focused décor that create a polished and boutique-driven atmosphere.
A stay may include EV charging, complimentary coffee, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities, offering boutique practicality for longer visits.
Longfellow Hotel
The journey from Longfellow Hotel to Kaplan University-Maine Campus is a simple drive, a perk that contributes to a well-rounded and convenient stay.
Longfellow Hotel often presents a polished reception experience with professional staff, luggage assistance, and stylish interiors. Rooms typically offer stylish interiors, plush linens, and spa-style bathrooms that highlight a polished and sophisticated impression. Amenities typically include polished lounges, upscale dining, and wellness facilities that create a refined and luxury impression.
A visit often highlights refined interiors, wellness areas, EV charging, and Wi-Fi, offering guests a polished sense of rhythm and balance.
Long Creek Hotel by IHG
The hotel's spot a straightforward drive from Kaplan University-Maine Campus gives Long Creek Hotel by IHG guests a easy option for their daily commute.
Guests at Long Creek Hotel by IHG may encounter efficient reception, vending machines, and on-site parking designed for practical convenience. Guest rooms may include blackout curtains, plush bedding, and hardwood finishes, offering privacy and comfort for restful overnight stays. Public areas often highlight modest lobbies, vending corners, and seating areas that reinforce straightforward guest experiences.
A visit may feature Wi-Fi, compact breakfast counters, vending machines, and laundry access, supporting daily travel balance reliably.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Portland Airport
Because Home2 Suites by Hilton Portland Airport is a straightforward drive from Kaplan University-Maine Campus, guests can opt to start their day with a moment of quiet reflection.
Home2 Suites positions its Home2 Market next to reception, ensuring travelers find snacks and essentials without delay or disruption. Guest rooms deliver coffee makers, USB charging, and plush bedding, allowing routines of comfort and productivity to remain intact. The breakfast space offers cereals, hot items, and pastries daily, ensuring guests maintain consistent morning rituals across locations.
Guests benefit from laundry access, outdoor grills, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi, maintaining daily balance with consistent reliability.
Comfort Inn South Portland Airport
Kaplan University-Maine Campus is a quick drive from Comfort Inn South Portland Airport, a layout that ensures the pre-event journey is always a speedy one.
Comfort Inn frames arrival with clear directions to shuttle or transit pickup points so onward travel connections stay predictable and visible. All guest rooms supply a hair dryer, toiletries, and towels so short stays remain low-maintenance and packing lists shorter. Indoor pools provide lap lanes, loungers, and towel pickup so short swims or family dips fit neatly into travel and meeting days.
Grab-and-go shelves, lobby cafés, fitness centers, pools, and laundry options let short recharges and errands happen without leaving site.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Portland Airport ME
Guests at TownePlace Suites by Marriott Portland Airport ME can leverage being a straightforward drive from Kaplan University-Maine Campus, a perk that adds a relaxing touch to the stay.
At TownePlace Suites, lobby breakfast and pantry access sustain guest routines, giving arrivals simple continuity that builds immediate ease. Suites merge refrigerator zones and desk space, sustaining guests’ meal and productivity routines over longer stays without compromise. Patio area is equipped with benches and view-framed landscaping, offering relaxing vantage points into guest and neighborhood energies.
Outdoor pool, business center, and lobby coffee combine amenity, workflow, and comfort, shaping multi-dimensional stay rhythms with ease.
The Westin Portland Harborview
From The Westin Portland Harborview, Kaplan University-Maine Campus is a straightforward drive, a choice that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
With wellness drinks, airy lobbies, and curated décor, Westin provides arrivals that balance care, clarity, and consistency daily. Every suite offers rainfall showers, plush robes, and spa-quality amenities, highlighting luxury details that refresh and restore. In the lobby, airy layouts, bright finishes, and modular seating create first impressions that encourage ease and social connection.
With valet parking, Club Lounges, wellness studios, and complimentary breakfast, routines remain smooth and consistently supported.
Holiday Inn Portland-By the Bay by IHG
This practical drive to Kaplan University-Maine Campus from Holiday Inn Portland-By the Bay by IHG is a central aspect, since it facilitates a smooth and easy visit.
Concierge desks within Holiday Inn & Suites lobbies provide immediate reassurance, helping guests with orientation and local guidance. Guest rooms provide flat-screen HDTVs, bedside outlets, and ergonomic chairs, balancing entertainment ease with everyday convenience. Meeting rooms designed with lighting control, AV setups, and flexible seating ensure professional gatherings run smoothly.
Complimentary breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi combine with fitness centers and pools, making routines consistent across every trip.
Aloft Portland Downtown Waterfront ME
When plans in South Portland depend on a quick drive to Kaplan University-Maine Campus, Aloft Portland Downtown Waterfront ME's location a short drive away is a core asset.
The W XYZ Bar at Aloft sets a dependable tone for evenings, giving guests a social hub that signals energy and connection at first impression. All suites include mini-fridges, coffee makers, and compact work surfaces, giving guests the tools to manage snacks, drinks, and daily needs. W XYZ Bar hosts cocktails, bar seating, and occasional live sets, giving travelers a social anchor that turns downtime into memorable connection.
Amenities like 24/7 Market snacks, splash pool towels, Wi-Fi connectivity, and business centers simplify travel and ensure dependable convenience.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland
In South Portland, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland provides a location that is a short drive from Kaplan University-Maine Campus, letting the stay begin on a positive and convenient note.
DoubleTree grab-and-go markets support travelers with immediate food and beverage solutions, making arrival smoother and more practical. Suites provide separate dining areas in some properties, giving travelers space for meals without leaving the comfort of their rooms. Lobby lounges connect to bars with communal tables, creating orientation hubs where travelers socialize comfortably before rooms.
Free Wi-Fi, buffet breakfast, meeting spaces, valet, and transport support create clarity and balance for both business and leisure.
Tru by Hilton Portland Airport Area
The short drive from Tru by Hilton Portland Airport Area to Kaplan University-Maine Campus in South Portland makes travel between the two uncomplicated and efficient.
Tru situates community tables and chairs in the Hive lobby, creating flexible zones that support both relaxation and conversation. At the game zone, foosball tables, shuffleboard, and board games encourage casual fun that sparks social connection among travelers. In the play area, foosball tables, board games, and lounge chairs create a fun space that sparks social interaction between guests.
Guests access breakfast, parking, Wi-Fi, and business spaces, making it easy to stay productive while enjoying consistent routines.
The Weldon Hotel
The hotel's location is a key link to Kaplan University-Maine Campus, which is a short drive away, contributing to a well-planned visit.
Guests arriving at The Weldon Hotel may encounter elegant lobby seating, professional concierge guidance, and a refined check-in atmosphere. Guest rooms may showcase upscale décor, premium bedding, and in-room coffee or tea service that provides added convenience for guests. Shared spaces may feature elegant cocktail bars, refined dining venues, and spa-style areas that support a sophisticated guest stay.
Accommodations may include elegant dining, spa lounges, valet services, and Wi-Fi, combining indulgence, wellness, and convenience.
Courtyard Portland Downtown / Waterfront
This easy drive to Kaplan University-Maine Campus helps Courtyard Portland Downtown / Waterfront guests get like they are part of the local South Portland scene without a major commute.
Courtyard greets travelers with its 24/7 Market adjacent to reception, ensuring snacks and essentials are always within easy reach. Guest rooms feature smart TVs, blackout drapes, and coffee makers, combining entertainment and comfort for reliable nightly routines. In the fitness center, ellipticals, bikes, and weights keep wellness-focused travelers consistent with daily health goals.
Amenities such as business lounges, valet parking, breakfast service, and 24/7 markets sustain productivity and simplify routines.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites South Portland by IHG
Within South Portland, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites South Portland by IHG is a simple drive from Kaplan University-Maine Campus, a fact that highlights its convenient placement.
Bright lighting and modern finishes across Holiday Inn Express lobbies create dependable arrival impressions and reinforce consistency. Suites come with sofa beds, lounge space, and ergonomic chairs, providing flexible accommodations for families or longer stays. Pools with indoor facilities, loungers, and towel racks offer reliable spaces for relaxation and recreation for varied traveler needs.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly rooms align with laundry and parking, creating dependable care for longer visits.
Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront
The benefit of a short drive to Kaplan University-Maine Campus turns Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
In Canopy arrivals, barista counters and comfortable seating provide dependable rituals that help guests transition smoothly from travel. Guest rooms include blackout curtains, plush pillows, and adjustable lighting, helping travelers enjoy restful nights across visits. Guests visiting evening tastings enjoy wine flights, casual conversation, and comfortable seating, signaling hospitality and care.
Guests benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi, valet parking, meeting facilities, and breakfast spreads, ensuring reliable convenience daily.
LivAway Suites Portland-Scarborough
Reaching Kaplan University-Maine Campus from LivAway Suites Portland-Scarborough is a quick drive, a quality that allows for a more flexible daily schedule.
LivAway Suites Portland-Scarborough typically features basic desk service, complimentary parking, and compact lobby space that support routine guest arrivals. Accommodations often provide streaming-enabled TVs, climate control, and compact seating, balancing entertainment with guest comfort. Facilities typically present compact breakfast rooms, guest laundries, and vending access that create balance for traveling visitors.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, guest laundry, and parking, reflecting the functional style of budget accommodations.
Spark by Hilton Portland Airport Maine Mall
For guests in South Portland, Spark by Hilton Portland Airport Maine Mall is a quick drive from Kaplan University-Maine Campus, a location that supports a relaxed and easy schedule.
Guests visiting Hilton encounter polished marble floors, chandeliers, and bright finishes, producing reliable first impressions daily. Guest rooms feature plush bedding, blackout curtains, and adjustable thermostats, giving travelers restful comfort each evening. The concierge counter with polished desks, signage, and attentive staff helps orient guests and ensure arrivals remain stress-free.
With meeting facilities, valet parking, pet policies, and complimentary breakfast, Hilton covers diverse guest needs with ease.
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Kaplan University-Maine Campus Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Kaplan University-Maine Campus area in South Portland, Maine. This guide is designed to help students, faculty, visiting families, and curious locals navigate the surroundings, understand local rhythms, and make the most of their time here. We'll cover everything from daily logistics and nearby amenities to dining and local attractions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience in this vibrant part of Southern Maine.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Kaplan University-Maine Campus (South Portland, ME)
Kaplan University's Maine Campus is strategically located in South Portland, a bustling city directly across the Fore River from Portland proper. Situated along Western Avenue, a significant artery, the campus benefits from excellent connectivity. Major routes like Interstate 295 and the Maine Turnpike (I-95) are easily accessible, making travel throughout the greater Portland area and beyond straightforward. This proximity to major highways is crucial for those commuting or traveling to and from the campus. Parking is primarily available on campus, with additional street parking options nearby, though it can become more competitive during peak academic periods. Portland International Jetport (PWM) is the nearest airport, typically a short 10-15 minute drive from the campus, depending on traffic conditions. Public transportation is also an option, with several bus routes serving Western Avenue and connecting to downtown Portland and surrounding towns, providing a viable alternative to driving for many residents and students. Planning your arrival, especially during the morning or afternoon commute hours, is key to avoiding traffic delays on routes like Western Avenue and the connecting bridges.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Kaplan University-Maine Campus
The area around Kaplan University-Maine Campus offers a mix of residential streets and commercial corridors, with a growing number of housing options catering to students and faculty. While the campus itself has parking, many students opt to live within a short drive or a manageable bus ride. The closest hotel clusters are found in South Portland, particularly near the airport and along the main commercial routes, and across the bridge in downtown Portland, which offers a wider range of accommodations. Many students and visiting families find it convenient to book accommodations in South Portland for closer proximity to campus, while others prefer the more vibrant atmosphere and dining options of downtown Portland. Booking accommodations well in advance is highly recommended, especially during the academic year, admission events, or any major university functions, as rooms can fill up quickly. Utilizing map filters to search for hotels within a 2-5 mile radius of the campus, or specifically in South Portland neighborhoods near Western Avenue, can help identify suitable options.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Portland International Jetport (PWM) is the closest airport, offering a 10-15 minute drive.
- Utilize campus parking or explore nearby street parking; consider bus routes during peak times.
- A great walkable hangout is the nearby Mill Creek neighborhood, offering shops and cafes.
- For a rainy-day fallback, the Maine Mall offers extensive indoor shopping and dining options.
- Regroup zone for groups is the campus common area or a nearby cafe in Mill Creek.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive with ample time, especially if attending an event or orientation, as parking can fill up. Familiarize yourself with campus parking zones beforehand to navigate efficiently upon arrival. Consider the time of day for your arrival; morning and late afternoon can see increased local traffic on Western Avenue and surrounding streets. Early arrivals can use the time to settle in, grab a coffee, or explore the immediate campus surroundings before your event begins.
During the Event
If attending classes or a specific university function, ensure you know the room or building location prior to the event. Take advantage of any scheduled breaks to familiarize yourself with campus facilities or to connect with others. Staying aware of your surroundings and any campus announcements is helpful for a smooth experience. Hydration and snacks are readily available from vending machines or campus cafes if your event permits.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting the campus during peak times may involve minor traffic delays, so exercise patience. If you utilized street parking, be mindful of any local parking restrictions that may apply after a certain hour. For those relying on public transport, check bus schedules in advance to coordinate your departure. Consider a brief stop at a local eatery or amenity after your event to allow traffic to dissipate and to decompress.
Things to Do Near Kaplan University-Maine Campus
Walkable
Mill Creek Park
Mill Creek Park offers a pleasant green space for a break from studies or visiting campus. It's a well-maintained urban park with walking paths, open fields, and seating areas, providing a tranquil environment amidst the bustling South Portland landscape. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a quiet moment of reflection, or even a light outdoor activity. The park is easily accessible from the Kaplan University campus, making it a convenient destination for a quick escape. Its proximity and relaxed atmosphere make it a local favorite for students and residents alike seeking a bit of nature.
South Portland, ME · 0.8 miSouth Portland Historical Society Museum
Delve into the rich past of South Portland at its local historical society museum. This charming institution preserves and showcases artifacts and stories that illuminate the city's maritime heritage, industrial development, and community life. It offers a quiet, educational experience for those interested in understanding the area's evolution. Visitors can learn about the shipyards, the distinct neighborhoods, and the people who shaped South Portland into the city it is today. It’s a brief excursion that provides valuable context to your surroundings.
South Portland, ME · 1.2 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Ferry Village
Ferry Village is a dynamic neighborhood in South Portland, known for its revitalized waterfront and community feel. Here, you can find a mix of artisan shops, local eateries, and public spaces like Bug Light Park. Bug Light Park offers stunning panoramic views of the Portland skyline, Casco Bay, and the islands, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation. The area also features the iconic Bug Light lighthouse, a smaller but picturesque beacon. It’s a great place to walk, enjoy the sea breeze, and experience a more local side of South Portland.
South Portland, ME · 2.5 miPortland Head Light
A short drive south of South Portland brings you to one of Maine's most iconic and photographed lighthouses, Portland Head Light. Located within Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, this historic landmark stands majestically on a rocky promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding park offers expansive lawns, walking trails, and picnic areas, making it a perfect destination for an afternoon outing. Visitors can explore the keeper's house, which now serves as a museum, and learn about the lighthouse's long and storied history. The dramatic coastal scenery and the lighthouse's grandeur make it an essential visit.
Cape Elizabeth, ME · 5.2 miBeyond the Event: For those looking for more urban exploration, downtown Portland is just a bridge-crossing away, offering a wealth of cultural attractions, shopping, and a renowned culinary scene. Further afield, the scenic coastal towns south of Portland, like Kennebunkport, provide charming New England village experiences, while inland explorations can lead to hiking trails and natural beauty in state parks.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Kaplan University-Maine Campus
Inside & Adjacent
Starbucks
Conveniently located near the campus, this Starbucks offers a familiar array of coffee beverages, teas, and light snacks. It serves as a reliable spot for students and faculty needing a quick caffeine fix or a casual meeting place. Its proximity makes it an easy choice for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon study break without venturing far from academic activities. Expect the usual quick service and comfortable atmosphere associated with the global coffee chain.
South Portland, ME · 0.3 miTaco Bell
For a fast and casual dining option, Taco Bell provides a range of Mexican-inspired fast food. It's a go-to for budget-conscious students looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Located on a main thoroughfare, it offers convenient drive-thru service and indoor seating for those wishing to dine in. This establishment caters to cravings for burritos, tacos, and other popular items, serving as a straightforward choice for a speedy meal.
South Portland, ME · 0.4 miNearby Gathering Spots
The Rack - Backyard BBQ & Bar
The Rack offers a casual and lively atmosphere with a focus on barbecue. It's a popular spot for groups looking for hearty meals, including ribs, pulled pork, and other smoked favorites, often accompanied by classic sides. The vibe is relaxed, making it suitable for informal gatherings, post-event meals, or simply enjoying good food and company. Their bar selection complements the food well, making it a well-rounded choice for a relaxed dining experience.
South Portland, ME · 1.6 miSea Dog Brewing Company
Situated with views of the water, Sea Dog Brewing Company is a brewpub offering a selection of house-brewed beers alongside a diverse menu. Their offerings range from pub fare like burgers and sandwiches to more substantial entrees. It’s a great place to gather with friends or colleagues, enjoy local craft beers, and take in the coastal surroundings. The atmosphere is typically energetic, especially during evenings and weekends, making it a solid choice for a social outing.
South Portland, ME · 2.1 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Eventide Oyster Co.
A renowned establishment in Portland's culinary scene, Eventide Oyster Co. is celebrated for its fresh, expertly shucked oysters and innovative seafood dishes. Their brown butter lobster roll is a local legend, and the small plates are perfect for sharing. The restaurant has a lively, stylish ambiance and is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Expect a wait, especially during peak hours, as it is a very popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a quintessential Portland dining experience.
Portland, ME · 3.1 miFore Street Restaurant
Fore Street is an acclaimed restaurant in Portland focusing on wood-fired cooking and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect the best available produce and seafood, offering a dynamic and sophisticated dining experience. Known for its intimate atmosphere and exceptional service, it’s an ideal choice for a special occasion or a memorable meal. Reservations are highly recommended, often far in advance, due to its popularity and limited seating.
Portland, ME · 3.3 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Western Avenue and the connecting bridges can experience significant congestion during weekday commute hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM).
- Parking near campus can be challenging; familiarize yourself with designated zones and meters.
- The Maine Mall offers a comprehensive retail experience, especially useful for shopping for necessities or entertainment on a rainy day.
- Public bus routes servicing Western Avenue are a practical alternative for avoiding traffic and parking hassles.
- Downtown Portland's Old Port area is best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes.
Weather & Seasons at Kaplan University-Maine Campus
- Winter: Winters in South Portland are typically cold, with average temperatures hovering in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common, which can impact travel and outdoor plans, so driving conditions and public transit schedules should be monitored closely. Visitors should pack heavy coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof footwear to stay warm and comfortable. Indoor activities and venues become more attractive during this season.
- Spring & early summer: Spring often brings a gradual warming trend but can remain cool and damp, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit. Layering clothing is recommended. Outdoor activities begin to re-emerge, though persistent rain is possible. Early summer offers pleasant conditions, with temperatures typically in the 60s and 70s, making it ideal for exploring the coast and city before the peak heat.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer (July and August) is the warmest period, with average temperatures in the 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit. Humidity can increase, making some days feel warmer. This is prime time for enjoying beaches, boat tours, and outdoor dining, but also the most crowded season. Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and hats are essential for comfort during daytime excursions.
- Fall season: Fall brings crisp air and beautiful foliage, with temperatures gradually cooling from the 60s into the 40s Fahrenheit. This season offers excellent opportunities for scenic drives and exploring local attractions without the summer crowds. Packing layers, including sweaters and a light jacket, is advisable. The transition to colder weather means preparing for cooler evenings.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible year-round, but more frequent in spring and fall. Snow is a winter concern, potentially causing disruptions to travel and outdoor events. Visitors should always check weather forecasts before and during their stay. Carrying an umbrella or rain jacket is prudent, and waterproof boots are essential if traveling during the wetter or snowier months.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary institution: Kaplan University-Maine Campus
- Neighborhood: Westbrook/Mill Creek Area
- Nearest airport: Portland International Jetport (PWM)
- Parking: Campus lots and limited street parking
- Walkable district: Mill Creek neighborhood
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Local supermarkets and general stores
- Pharmacy: Various chain pharmacies nearby
- Urgent care: South Portland Urgent Care
- Downtime: Mill Creek Park or nearby cafes
- Pro tip: Utilize the bus system for convenient travel to Portland's Old Port.

