The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in Portland, Maine [2023] (2024)

Portland can be found on a peninsula in the state of Maine. The Old Port waterfront and the Western Promenade are scenic areas full of history, shaped by the fishing industry that continues to rule the area.

Despite its small size, Portland has several luxurious boutique hotels to offer travelers venturing there.

The Best Boutique Hotels in Portland

Blind Tiger

Price: From $303

Blind Tiger opened in 2020, but it was soon uncovered as the hidden gem that it is. Located between Portland’s Old Port and the West End, Blind Tiger has convenient access to the best attractions in town — everything is only a few steps away.

For those who don’t feel like going out, the hotel has everything you need on-site to feel truly pampered. The hotel has several common areas perfect for socializing, including a lounge with fireplaces, a billiards table, a cozy living room, and a bar.

Blind Tiger is at home in a 19th-century building. The current design is inspired by tradition and by the future, too. The beautiful rooms include blackout shades, an LED flat-screen smart TV, wine glasses, and a spacious walk-in shower to go with the waffle kimono robes.

The Francis

Price: From $188

In 2017, The Francis was opened after an extensive restoration project undertaken by a local family. The original building dated back to the 1880s and was done in the Italianate style.

The current location preserves much of that exterior charm while providing plenty of elegant and modern luxury on the inside. There is now also an on-site hotel that focuses on New England farm-to-table cuisine.

Historic accents that have been lovingly preserved can be found everywhere. There are tiled fireplaces, stained glass windows, and restored parquet floors.

Each room at The Francis includes luxurious Frette robes, a Matouk blanket, a Cuddledown duvet and pillow set, bath products provided by Malin + Goetz, and a minibar full of local treats. Wi-Fi access is free, and concierge services are available at any time of day.

Inn at Diamond Cove

Price: From $199

Inn at Diamond Cove can be found just off the Portland coastline, with easy access via the Casco Bay ferry. It is a luxurious retreat that feels extremely private, thanks to being on an island.

Some of the rooms have a balcony, while others have a kitchenette. Each room has a microwave and a minifridge, along with custom-made furnishings and soft pillow-topped mattresses.

Accommodation options include deluxe, living room, and luxury condos. Some of the parlor suites add a fireplace that could provide the perfect atmosphere for a romantic getaway.

The amazing oceanfront views at the inn contribute to the great stay. The property also has tennis courts, an indoor basketball court, a heated outdoor pool, a game room, a hot tub, a cabana bar, and a yoga studio.

Portland Harbor Hotel

Price: From $215

The Portland Harbor Hotel can be found in one of the most exclusive locations in Old Port, right next to the waterfront. After opening in 2002, the Portland Harbor Hotel recently underwent an extensive renovation that added even more sophistication and cutting-edge technology to the hotel. Local artists and artisans were heavily involved with this restoration, and the end result is a magnificent local experience.

Hotel amenities include complimentary Starbucks coffee, access to the fitness center, accessible features, and outdoor dining. An outdoor fire pit is also available.

Guest rooms and suites at the Portland Harbor Hotel include the signature bed, a make-up mirror, a granite-top vanity, and a large soaking tub.

The junior suite adds a separate sitting area. The Whirlpool Spa Suite provides the most extensive pampering session through the whirlpool tub in the opulent bathroom. Executive suites add hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and double-sided fireplaces.

The Press Hotel

Price: From $229

Located in the former Gannett Building that was headquarters to the Portland Press Herald, The Press Hotel has been extensively redesigned but still pays in-depth homage to its roots. There are typewriters everywhere, as well as typesetting accents that recall the hum of the printing presses.

Quotes from Maine writers adorn the hotel and are immediately immersive for the newly arrived guest. All the rooms and suites at The Press Hotel take inspiration from the offices that writers had in the 1920s.

There is a vintage journalist desk in every room, as well as wooden floors, plenty of local artwork, and herringbone rugs. Oversized windows in each room allow each space to be bathed in light and the scent of the ocean.

Room amenities also include an HDTV with premium cable, a stereo system with Bluetooth capability, bath products from Bigelow, a Keurig coffee maker, a minifridge, and a safe.

Hot Tip: Marriott Bonvoy members can earn points at The Press Hotel as it is part of the Autograph Collection!

Final Thoughts

Portland in Maine is full of New England charm and authenticity. This remarkable gem is becoming more and more popular with tourists thanks to its quality lodging across the peninsula. Its tight-knit community made a huge difference in the spread of its current popularity.