A mid-rise, the Portland Motor Lodge was a precursor to modern highway hotels. Although the complex featured an A-frame or "T-layout" Restaurant clad with Orange Porcelain Enamel Roof Tiles, the site never included a Gate Lodge. While the Motor Lodge incredibly retained its Howard Johnson brand well into the latter 2000s, the site was stuccoed and laden with embellishments during the early part of the decade.

Above: Note the original HoJo stone still visible to the left of the lobby's entrance.

Lower: The site counted an indoor heated swimming pool among its many modern amenities. Interestingly the pool area featured a large stone fireplace.

Even though Portland was a mid-rise, it was a standardized Howard Johnson's in every respect. By the time of Bob Venditti's visit, the site had been renovated several times since its original outfitting. Bob described Portland as "a very nice mid-rise, well-kept and properly stocked with amenities." He added that it "was pricey but worth it."

Below & Lower: Bob's single room had been extensively wallpapered, but still maintained the feel of a HoJo's--even better it still had its Pamper Panel!