The Francis Hotel
Hotel · Portland ·
Historic 1881 boutique hotel blending charm, modern touches, and local art.
Historic 1881 boutique hotel blending charm, modern touches, and local art.
"Housed in a historic 1881 building with just 15 uniquely appointed rooms, The Francis blends classic West End charm with modern touches: understated decor that nods to the building’s architectural history, custom-built furniture, and art by photographer Nicole Wolf. I found the linens and bedding soft and comfortable, with Malin + Goetz products in the rooms, and appreciated that it sits close to the city’s best restaurants while being just far enough from the Old Port crowds." - Alexandra Hall, Joe Ricchio
"A historic mansion in Portland, Maine, that showcases period character and charm typical of boutique properties, offering an intimate, locally rooted stay rather than a cookie‑cutter hotel experience." - Nora Zelevansky
"Why did this hotel catch your attention?One of Portland's newest boutique hotels is housed in a historic 1881 building. With only 15 rooms, each with a character all its own, the Francis has been beautifully restored to combine classic West End charm with more modern touches. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?Room décor is understated and reflective of the history of the building as a home built by one of the city's leading 19th century architects. Each room features custom-built furniture and art by acclaimed photographer Nicole Wolf. Linens and bedding are soft and comfortable, products are from Malin + Goetz. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Wi-Fi comes free. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Flood’s Restaurant, run by the same successful team behind Palace Diner in Biddeford, has the casual feel of a supper club. Standouts on the menu include the mussels and clams on toast, chicken schnitzel, and the burger—one of the best in the city. And the service?Service is efficient, but not overly involved. What about the neighborhood? What else is near the hotel?Portland’s West End is close enough to most of the city's best restaurants that an uber will take just a few minutes, yet it's just removed enough from the touristy Old Port to avoid the crush of visitors, especially during the summer. Any other hotel features worth noting?Even though the hotel is quite small, there's still a spa right onsite. Bottom line: Worth it?Definitely. The Francis is a boutique hotel with historic flair." - Joe Ricchio
"A small, 15-room hotel housed in a historic Victorian mansion that feels cozy and old-fashioned; the junior suite is a favorite, the lobby fireplace invites an evening old-fashioned, and its location directly across from a top bakery is a practical perk." - ByAndrew Knowlton
"We look for places with character, great staff, and a walkable neighborhood, and The Francis delivers on all three — it's right at the intersection of Downtown, Parkside, and the West End with so many great spots nearby, including the Wayside Tavern downstairs and Tandem Coffee & Bakery across the street." - Coolstuff Team