Your Guide to The Best Maine HISTORIC Inns
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Maine’s historic inns are more than just old buildings. These historical landmarks have a story to tell and a legacy to uphold. When you stay at one of these properties, you become part of a story where people from all over the world and of all ages and unique backgrounds have shared memories.
Many of Maine’s historic inns are on the National Register of Historic Landmarks, selected for their timeless architecture and original detail. After extensive refurbishing, these historic lodgings provide a place to enjoy a Maine vacation with a sense of purpose — a shared feeling of refreshment and legacy.
Be sure to consider staying at a historic inn in Maine during your travels. This directory has been provided for those with a hankering to learn and experience Maine history firsthand.
Featured Maine Historic Inns
Greenwood Manor Inn is a timeless, romantic, secluded bed and breakfast located in the beautiful Lakes and Mountains of Harrison, Maine, about 40 miles west of Portland. The quiet surroundings allow you to enjoy the natural tranquility here. Nestled on 25 acres, the property's outdoor amenities are here for you to explore. Stroll the vibrant gardens, hike through the wooded acreage, or venture onto Long Lake with a paddleboard or kayak. We cannot wait to make you feel at home. Learn More
Located in the heart in Kennebunkport’s historic district, the Captains Collection is comprised of some of the most significant historic ship captain's homes in Kennebunkport. Previously known individually as Captain Lord Mansion, Captain Fairfield Inn, Captain Jefferds Inn, and Maine Stay Inn, under the new collection name, the inns are now managed as a resort-style single entity, embodying the nautical charm of the town with the design and amenities to satisfy the desires of today’s discerning traveler. From private cottages to spacious suites and cozy rooms, the collection offers something for everyone. Enjoy landscaped grounds, warm hospitality, and professional concierge services. Learn More
Bluebird Ocean Point Inn is an idyllic coastal Maine summer getaway. Perched on the rocky shoreline and backed by pine forests and rolling hills, the summer village of Ocean Point is about relaxing outdoors. Ocean Point's accommodations are comfortable, laid-back, and quaintly charming. A variety of cottages, rooms, and suites make this a popular destination for families, couples, and groups. Learn More
A Rockland Maine Bed and Breakfast offering a True Maine Experience and one of the Top Best Bed and Breakfasts in the US. The inn is considered one of the area’s premier luxury Maine coast inns. Guests enjoy the elegance and grandeur of the Victorian era; with the luxury and modern conveniences today’s travelers expect. Relax with our exceptional warm and gracious hospitality without any pretense. Located in a historic residential area just a few miles south of Camden. Learn More
A historic piece of Portland's vibrant West End, our guest house is designed to make you feel like a true Portlander. Located in the heart of one of the country’s most happening cities, Blind Tiger offers an easygoing style and creative design in an intimate setting, for an experience that embodies the spirit of Portland. Learn More
Enjoy luxury accommodations in a historic Sea Captain’s home. Step back in time and enjoy one of our nine guest rooms as if you were a guest of Captain Nickels himself. Upgrade your stay with one of our suites, both offer stunning views from their decks of our six-acre lawn and Penobscot Bay. Awaken to the smell of our chef’s choice breakfast served each morning in our dining room or solarium. Unwind from a whirlwind day of exploring Maine’s MidCoast in one of our two parlors. Take a stroll to the water and enjoy classic Adirondack chairs on the bay’s edge. Learn More
AWOL KPT is your new retreat in Kennebunkport. Located in a pine grove and tucked into a quiet neighborhood, AWOL KPT is just a short walk to the harbor and all that is happening in Kennebunkport's Dock Square. It's a juxtaposition just like Maine—serenity amidst activity. Private but with plenty of opportunity to interact with other travelers. Isolated but central. AWOL KPT accommodations offer something perfect for whoever you are. Check out our fireplace cabin suites—some dog-friendly—or our luxurious, paired-back main house suites with various unique layouts to allow for your own expression. Learn More
Casually elegant seacoast B&B amidst woodlands, gardens and fountains, once a York Historical Society Decorator Show House. Enjoy bold ocean views along the Cliff Walk or relax upon York’s beaches just a stroll away; cuddle up in our hammock or by a crackling fire; then slip into luxurious queen beds in air-conditioned rooms with updated private baths. Surrounded by the scent of sea air, you'll savor breakfast on our veranda. Just an hour from Boston. Open year-round. Learn More
Authentic 1806 New England Colonial and a fine example of preservation and restoration. A short walk to the harbor, shops, restaurants, and activities in downtown Camden. All guest rooms have their own private bath, flat-screen cable TV, WiFi, USB charging stations, irons/ironing boards, hair dryers, luxurious towels, and fine linens. All rooms feature individually controlled AC/Heat and gas fireplaces. Guest pantry is available 24/7 with small refrigerator, a variety of individually-wrapped snacks, and Keurig beverage station. Learn More
Comfortably familiar and welcoming, elegant and classic, down to the tiniest detail, while still offering every convenience the modern traveler expects. Welcome to the Lady Mary Inn. Surround yourself in Victorian romance. Experience the grandeur of this 25-room mansion while you enjoy all the Southern Maine Seacoast Region has to offer! Stretch out in one of our spacious guest rooms with beautiful private baths. Full gourmet breakfasts are artfully served. Conveniently located in North Berwick, Maine, just 6 miles from I-95 and 15 minutes from miles of white sandy beaches. Learn More
Elegant, historic Inn steps from downtown Camden's stunning harbor, fine dining and shops. Newly updated, the Belmont Inn offers fine accommodations and superb comfort. Prepare to be pampered by our gourmet, three-course breakfast, relaxing wrap-around porch and extensive perennial gardens. Six well-appointed guestrooms, including one suite, all with private bathrooms; a living room and adjoining room both with fireplaces, and a lovely dining area, all provide ample areas to relax and unwind after a day of exploring all that mid-coast Maine has to offer! Learn More
Casual elegance. Stylish guest rooms. Thoughtful amenities. Exceptional guest service. These are a few of the highlights guests rave about during their stay at the Kennebunkport Inn, the only hotel located in the heart of Kennebunkport, Maine. Perched in the heart of the village center, the inn’s vista overlooks the downtown shops, restaurants, galleries, and even the Kennebunk River, making it an optimal choice for guests who prefer to walk to the most popular destinations in town. Learn More
Upon arriving at our quintessential waterfront bed and breakfast you will immediately be transported back to a time when romance and gracious living were a way of life. Choose an Inn room with an outside deck or common deck access for scenic views of the charming village or picturesque waterfront. Our luxurious modern Penthouse is spacious and sleeps four in luxury. Enjoy a full breakfast with our compliments. Fresh coffee, great food and good cheer. Learn More
Luxurious Historic Oceanfront Inn that has been featured on the Travel Channels "Great Country Inns" and as Country Living Magazines "Inn of the Month." Many rooms with fireplaces, Jacuzzi spa tubs, decks and ocean vistas. Award winning ocean view dining with a bistro menu in 1637 plus dining and entertainment in our Ships Cellar Pub. Outdoor hot tub open year round. Complete conference facilities. Open year round. See website for last minute Internet Specials, Innkeeper and other packages. Free WiFi. Learn More
Family friendly waterfront resort in Kennebunkport, just 90 minutes from Boston, with 109 beautifully appointed guestrooms, a full family activities program, heated pool with bar and grill on the water’s edge. Lobster boat, sailing, and sport fishing tours leave daily from the resort’s marina. Perfectly located just a half mile from the shopping and restaurants and beach. Complimentary shuttle for hotel guests. On-site restaurants, including Latitudes and Heckmans, offer fresh Maine seafood, creative coastal cuisine, waterfront views, and live entertainment. Named “The Best Resort in Maine for Couples.” Come learn why guests rave about the staff and their genuine Maine hospitality.
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Built in 1906, this beautiful Inn has received a complete transformation in recent years. Original wood floors were restored. New furnishings, plush mattresses, and linens compliment the 16 newly renovated guestrooms, complete with private baths, AC, flat-screen TV’s and WiFi. Relax in our great room with the original stone fireplace or on our expansive covered porch overlooking Long Lake and the new causeway. Short walk to a variety of restaurants, shops, marinas, and water activities. Minutes to Sebago Lake State Park. Full homemade breakfast included. Learn More
The Camden Maine Stay Inn is a historic bed-and-breakfast inn located in Camden, the most beautiful seaside village in Maine. The Inn is well known and appreciated for its elegant, romantic accommodations, extensive collections of fine art and books, spacious garden and year-round stream, delicious gourmet breakfasts, and relaxed, friendly atmosphere. From the Inn it is a four-minute stroll to Camden’s gorgeous harbor and quaint downtown with its fine shops and excellent restaurants. Learn More
The Tipsy Butler Bed & Breakfast is located in a beautifully renovated historic home in Newcastle, Maine. Featuring 4 guest rooms with private baths, luxurious bedding, mini-fridge, Nespresso machines, and L.L. Bean bathrobes, your stay includes a delicious home-cooked two course breakfast each morning made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests enjoy the cedar wood-fired sauna and expansive lawn for games and campfires. It is a short walk into Damariscotta for easy access to shops and restaurants. Learn More
Great location, steps from Main St. and Camden Harbor, our 1864 Greek revival bed and breakfast begins each day with a fresh two course breakfast. Newly renovated gardens, decks and firepit create a private retreat, with mountain views and hiking trail access, all within walking distance to area dining, shopping, hiking, sailing, kayaking, skiing and lobsters. Eight well-appointed, meticulously clean, air conditioned en-suite guest rooms, with free wi-fi and large smart tvs, some featuring private entrances and decks, gas fireplaces and soaking tubs. 24 hour complimentary guest pantry. Book direct and save! Learn More
Built in 1772, The Bliss Farm Inn is a year-round bed and breakfast that allows guests to take a step back in time without sacrificing any of today's modern luxuries. Located just 10 minutes from Freeport and 15 from Brunswick, Durham is set in the rolling hills and farmland adjacent to the Androscoggin River. Bliss Farm Inn is a special place providing guests true farm-to-table breakfasts, 24 hour snacks and beverages, and all of the simple charms and romance of a historic hideaway! Learn More
Relax and vacation at The Blue Hill Inn (est. 1840). Visit a quiet town on the picturesque Maine coast. Sail, cruise or kayak past the lighthouses of Penobscot Bay or shop for antiques and visit galleries. Sample food from farmers and fishermen at one of the local restaurants. Then return to a romantic, historic inn complete with fireplaces and a hearty breakfast, drinks and hors d'oeuvres which are always served with extraordinary hospitality. Learn More
Historic Bed and Breakfast which is romantic, peaceful, relaxing & delicious breakfast included. Various rooms all with private in-room bathroom, microwave, mini fridge, smart TVs and excellent free Wi-Fi. Some rooms have a fireplace. Honeymoon Suite has a fireplace and huge air tub. Central location makes it easy to get to the coast or mountains in less than an hour. National Register of Historic Places. Formerly a Maine Governor and U.S. Senator’s family home. Learn More
Gracious hospitality, exceptional lodging, and a cozy pub and wine bar await you. This award winning Queen Anne Victorian inn overlooks the picture perfect village and harbor of Castine. Take one of the inn bikes to Dyce Head lighthouse, hike Witherle Woods or relax at the Backshore beach. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Maine coast with kayaking and sailing tours around the harbor and Penobscot Bay. Pub open to the public for libations and small plates. Summer Jazz on the Porch, Tuesdays, July-September. Learn More
Stay in the heart of historic Camden at Abigail’s Inn. Built in 1849 and recently restored, our B&B is just steps to town and the harbor. Relax in one of our 4 spacious guest rooms, and enjoy beautiful grounds and warm, inviting common areas. Plan your day in one of the cozy parlors by a fireplace. Kick up your feet on the front porch after a day of sightseeing. Our stone patio is a great place to enjoy your breakfast, an afternoon beverage or simply soak up the sun. Learn More
The Story Behind Historic Inns in Maine
Legends of Maine sea captains and their ships lost at sea explain the “widow’s walks” that grace so many Victorian mansions still standing majestically by the sea. Today’s bed and breakfasts were once grand summer homes for families and their servants escaping the heat and swelter of the city for months at a time. They would relax and take in the health benefits of the fresh sea air in Maine.
Grand seaside inns speak to the social season that Maine summers at the turn of the century were famed for — featuring lavish parties, yacht club galas, festivals, and even casinos with ballrooms and big bands. Still, these historic homes recall the luxury of a bygone era with the pleasantry of warm hospitality, charming decor, and homemade meals for romantic getaways or relaxing vacations.
Also in Maine’s heyday, summer theaters were staples on the Southern Maine Coast, while today, a few great summer stock playhouses remain, continuing the off-Broadway plays and productions.
Staying in Historic Inns During Your Maine Getaway
Maine innkeepers add to your vacation by providing local knowledge and tips on what to do during your Maine stay and what’s going on in their Maine town. Innkeepers also take great pride in the history, architecture, and legacy of their inns. Because of that, they love to tell about the previous residents, folklore, and even haunted stories.
With recent refurbishments, visitors of Maine’s historic inns can relive the lavish lifestyles of previous residents but with today’s modern amenities. Enjoy unmatched accommodations, often with hot tubs, daily homemade breakfasts, and afternoon tea and wine in the parlor.
Take in the natural beauty of Maine’s coastal towns at a grand Victorian home perched along the ocean, or behold the splendor of the lakes and mountains in a cozy inn. By staying at a historical Maine inn on the coast or a charming bed and breakfast, you have the chance to experience the timeless beauty and tradition of a seaside vacation.
Thank you the list. Will want to visit Maine this month. I believe I would love to stay at a lovely inn.