Federal speakeasy hideaway
Communal spaces evoke a private club, where guests gather beside parlor fireplaces, shoot pool in the basement, or catch sunset from the cupola.
“each room is different, complete with a theme that comes from a local ‘host’ who has added their own touches to the personalized welcome letters.”
Where it shines
Notable
Eclectic interiors by Lark Hotels blend mid-century furnishings, rich jewel tones, bold artwork, and working wood-burning fireplaces.
Notable
An 1823 Federal-style mansion in the West End with preserved brickwork, period moldings, and a former speakeasy basement.
Listed
Boutique comforts include four-poster king beds, kimono-style waffle bathrobes, bespoke bath products, and on-call innkeeper service.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
The house’s nine rooms retain 19th-century architectural elements, and are updated with contemporary colors and artwork; almost all of them come with wood-burning fireplaces.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Stately brick architecture defines the quiet West End, placing Victoria Mansion two blocks away and the Old Port within a ten-minute walk.
The rooms
Quarters pair original moldings and modern art with four-poster beds, vintage lounge seating, and working wood-burning hearths.
The movement studio
A dedicated movement studio has Peloton bikes, and in-room sauna blankets can be arranged in advance.
At the table
Breakfast is set out on the sunporch with artisan breads and pastries, and the pantry stays open around the clock.
Today, its nine rooms are uniquely furnished with a mix of contemporary European pieces and Asian influences, as well as nearly a million dollars’ worth of modern art.
How it began
Built in 1823 by author Joseph Holt Ingraham, the mansion later hosted an illicit Prohibition drinking den known as Social Corners.
Good to know
Stay here
Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.