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The Francis Hotel in Maine: A Luxurious Getaway in the Heart of Portland

The Francis Hotel in Maine is a locally-owned boutique hotel that offers a unique and comfortable stay in the heart of Portland. The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored historic mansion that dates back to the late 1800s. The Francis Hotel is known for its personalized service, modern amenities, and comfortable rooms that boast plenty of character.

The hotel pays tribute to the man who helped design a new Portland in the late 1800s. His 1881 masterpiece at 747 Congress Street had been abandoned for over a decade and was badly in need of repair until the hotel's owners took over and restored it to its former glory. The Francis Hotel offers an experience that combines the charm and character of a historic mansion with the modern amenities and comforts that travelers expect.

Key Takeaways

The Francis Hotel in Maine is a locally-owned boutique hotel that offers a unique and comfortable stay in the heart of Portland.
The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored historic mansion that dates back to the late 1800s and pays tribute to the man who helped design a new Portland.
The hotel offers personalized service, modern amenities, and comfortable rooms that boast plenty of character, providing an experience that combines the charm of a historic mansion with the modern comforts of a boutique hotel.

Historical Background

The Francis Hotel in Portland, Maine, is a historic mansion that was designed by Francis Fassett in 1881. Fassett was a prominent local architect who is credited with designing many outstanding Victorian-era residences in Portland after the Great Fire of 1866.

Originally built as a single-family residence for a wealthy dry goods purveyor, Mellen E. Bolster, the building was later converted into a boutique hotel in 2015. The Francis Hotel is a tribute to Francis Fassett, who helped design a new Portland in the late 1800s.

The historic mansion had been abandoned for over a decade and was badly in need of repair when the current owners purchased it. They worked tirelessly to restore the building to its former glory, preserving its original slate roofs, stained glass windows, and towering ceilings.

Today, The Francis Hotel is a unique blend of history and modern amenities. The hotel features 15 luxurious guest rooms, each with its own unique character and charm. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a fully stocked bar.

The Francis Hotel is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and luxury accommodations. Its rich history and elegant design make it a true gem of Portland, Maine.

Location and Neighborhood

The Francis Hotel & Spa is located at 747 Congress Street in Portland, Maine. The hotel is situated in the historic Mellen E. Bolster House, which has been beautifully restored to offer guests a unique and memorable experience. The hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it easy to explore all that Portland has to offer.

The hotel is within walking distance of many of Portland's top attractions, including the Old Port, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. One Longfellow Square, a neighborhood favorite for live music and events, is just a few blocks away. The Merchant Company, a local boutique that sells handmade goods and gifts, is also nearby.

Guests who are looking for something sweet will want to check out Chocolats Passion, a local chocolate shop that offers handmade chocolates and truffles. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, which was once home to poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The Goddard Mansion, a historic mansion that dates back to the 18th century, is also worth a visit.

For guests who are looking to explore the outdoors, Fort Gorges is just a short drive away. This historic fort is located on an island in Casco Bay and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Whether guests are looking to explore the city or relax and unwind, The Francis Hotel & Spa is the perfect home base for their Maine adventure.

Accommodations and Room Amenities

The Francis Hotel in Maine offers 15 uniquely designed guest rooms, each with its own character and charm. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including king rooms and reduced mobility rooms.

Guest Rooms

All guest rooms at The Francis Hotel come equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. In-room safes are also provided for added security. Guests can relax in Cuddledown duvets and pillows and Turkish Towel Company robes. In-room art by local photographer Nicole Wolf adds a touch of local flair.

The hotel also offers 24-hour text concierge services and complimentary WiFi to ensure guests have everything they need for a comfortable stay.

Pet-Friendly Rooms

For guests traveling with furry friends, The Francis Hotel offers pet-friendly rooms. These rooms are equipped with the same amenities as other guest rooms, but with added pet-friendly touches. Guests can request pet beds and bowls, as well as information on local pet-friendly activities.

Overall, The Francis Hotel offers comfortable and stylish accommodations with modern amenities and personalized touches.

Hotel Amenities and Services

On-Site Facilities

The Francis Hotel offers a range of modern amenities and facilities to make its guests' stay comfortable and convenient. The hotel features a four-story elevator, making it easily accessible for guests with disabilities. The hotel also has a spa, where guests can enjoy a relaxing massage or other treatments. The spa at The Francis is a perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after a long day of exploring the city.

The hotel has a terrace where guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the city while sipping on a drink from the bar. The on-site restaurant offers a variety of delicious dishes, making it a perfect place for guests to enjoy a meal without having to leave the hotel.

Additional Services

The Francis Hotel provides a range of additional services to ensure its guests' satisfaction. The hotel offers free on-site parking, making it easy for guests to park their cars without having to worry about finding a parking spot. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected with their loved ones or work while they are away.

The hotel's concierge is available to assist guests with any requests or needs they may have during their stay. The hotel also offers complimentary tea to its guests, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.

The Francis Hotel is a pet-friendly hotel, allowing guests to bring their furry friends along with them. The hotel provides facilities for disabled guests, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay comfortably.

Overall, The Francis Hotel offers a range of amenities and services to ensure its guests' satisfaction. From the modern facilities to the additional services, the hotel strives to provide its guests with a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Dining and Cuisine

On-Site Restaurant

The Francis Hotel features an on-site restaurant, Bolster, Snow & Co., which offers fresh, seasonal, and approachable dishes. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday starting at 5 pm. Guests can enjoy a variety of crostini and bread, including housemade golden flax bread, lobster, and avocado. The restaurant also features a selection of entrees, sides, and desserts. The menu is designed to showcase the best of Maine's local ingredients and culinary traditions.

For guests who prefer to dine in the comfort of their rooms, The Francis Hotel offers a mini-bar stocked with locally made treats. Guests can enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages, including chips, nuts, chocolates, and locally brewed beer.

Nearby Eateries

The Francis Hotel is located in the heart of Portland, Maine, surrounded by some of the city's best bakeries, bars, and restaurants. Guests can start their day with a delicious breakfast at Tandem Bakery, which is known for its English and French pastries, as well as its famous buttermilk biscuits with strawberry jam.

For lunch or dinner, guests can explore the nearby eateries, including Wayside Tavern, which is a neighborhood restaurant and bar located next to The Francis Hotel. Wayside Tavern offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu of classic American dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

Other nearby eateries include Hot Suppa, which offers southern-style comfort food, and The Holy Donut - Park Ave, which is known for its unique and delicious potato donuts. Guests can also explore Boda, which offers a menu of Thai street food and a selection of craft cocktails.

Overall, The Francis Hotel and its surrounding area offer guests a variety of dining options to savor the incredible culinary delights of this seaside city.

Check-In and Special Requests

Check-in at The Francis Hotel is from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. If guests plan to arrive outside of these hours, they should contact the hotel in advance to make arrangements.

Upon check-in, guests are required to present a valid photo ID and credit card. The credit card must be in the same name as the reservation. The hotel will authorize the credit card for the full amount of the stay plus an additional amount for incidentals. The authorization will be released at check-out if there are no charges to the room.

The Francis Hotel welcomes special requests and will do its best to accommodate them. Guests can make requests during the booking process or by contacting the hotel directly. Some common special requests include:

Early check-in or late check-out
Room location preferences
Additional amenities such as extra towels or pillows
Dietary restrictions for the hotel restaurant

The hotel staff is knowledgeable and confident in handling special requests and will make every effort to fulfill them. However, please note that special requests are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.

Overall, The Francis Hotel strives to provide a neutral and clear check-in process, while also being accommodating to guests' special requests.

Team and Character

The Francis Hotel in Maine boasts a welcoming and dedicated team that provides personalized service to guests. The team is knowledgeable about the local area and can provide recommendations for activities and dining options. They are also attentive to guests' needs and strive to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

The hotel's character is reflected in its unique and beautifully restored historic mansion, which features 15 guest rooms with plenty of character. Each room is uniquely designed with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. Guests can also enjoy complimentary drinks on arrival and access to a small spa.

The hotel's owners, Nate, Tony, and Jake DeLois, along with Jeff Harder, purchased the property in 2015 and initiated plans to convert it into a boutique hotel and spa. They named the hotel The Francis, in honor of one of its designers, and the restaurant Bolster, Snow & Co. The owners' attention to detail and commitment to preserving the historic character of the mansion is evident throughout the property.

Overall, The Francis Hotel in Maine offers a unique and personalized experience for guests, with a welcoming team and charming character.

Drinks and Cocktails

The Francis Hotel offers a variety of drinks and cocktails to its guests. Upon arrival, guests can enjoy complimentary drinks. The hotel's bar offers a selection of classic cocktails, as well as unique creations. The bartenders are knowledgeable and can recommend a drink based on guests' preferences.

The hotel's wine list features a selection of local and international wines. The list is curated to complement the hotel's menu and offers something for every taste. Guests can choose from red, white, and sparkling wines by the glass or bottle.

In addition to cocktails and wine, the hotel's bar also serves beer and non-alcoholic beverages. The beer selection includes local and regional craft beers, as well as some international favorites.

Guests can enjoy their drinks in the hotel's cozy bar or in the outdoor courtyard. The courtyard is a popular spot during the summer months and offers a relaxing atmosphere.

Overall, The Francis Hotel's drink and cocktail selection is impressive. The knowledgeable staff and cozy atmosphere make it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring Portland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the amenities offered at The Francis Hotel in Maine?

The Francis Hotel offers a variety of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Some of the amenities include complimentary drinks on arrival, modern amenities, free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms with plenty of character, a small spa, and a welcoming, dedicated team.

Can you recommend any nearby restaurants to The Francis Hotel?

There are many great restaurants near The Francis Hotel in Portland, Maine. Some of the recommended restaurants include Eventide Oyster Co., Duckfat, Central Provisions, and Fore Street.

What is the price range for a room at The Francis Hotel in Maine?

The price range for a room at The Francis Hotel in Maine varies depending on the season and the type of room you choose. The prices range from $148 to $325 per night.

Are there any spa services available at The Francis Hotel?

Yes, The Francis Hotel has a small spa that offers a variety of services, including massages, facials, and body treatments.

What is the check-in and check-out time at The Francis Hotel?

The check-in time at The Francis Hotel is 3:00 PM, and the check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Can you provide directions to The Francis Hotel in Portland, Maine?

The Francis Hotel is located at 747 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102. If you are driving from the Portland International Jetport, take I-95 North to Exit 44 and turn right onto Westbrook St. Turn left onto Brighton Ave and then turn right onto Congress St. The Francis Hotel will be on your left.