Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street

For those seeking a truly distinctive and memorable lodging experience under the "Hotels Near Of Me" category in Portland, Maine, the Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street offers an enchanting and sophisticated escape. Located at 163 Danforth St, Portland, ME 04102, USA, this property is not just a hotel; it's a meticulously restored 19th-century Federal-style mansion that blends historic charm with thoughtfully curated modern luxuries, providing an intimate and unique stay.

Environment and Ambiance: Historic Charm in a Quiet Urban Setting

The Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street is nestled in a tranquil residential neighborhood within Portland's historic West End. This location offers a peaceful retreat while still providing easy access to the city's vibrant heart. The bustling Old Port, with its renowned culinary scene, unique shops, and lively cultural attractions, is within comfortable walking distance, allowing guests to experience the best of Portland without being in the midst of constant noise. The nearby Commercial Street, known for its waterfront activities, is also readily accessible.

The hotel itself is a testament to exquisite design and historical preservation. As a former Prohibition-era speakeasy, it carries a fascinating past that subtly influences its ambiance. The interior is characterized by a blend of Victorian elegance and mid-century modern design, adorned with local artwork, unique decorative objects, and original architectural features like beautiful old windows and wood shutters. The common areas are a significant highlight, described as "cozy," "relaxing," and "inviting." These spaces often feature working fireplaces, comfortable seating, and a "well curated selection of soft drinks and snacks" in a self-service pantry. The atmosphere is one of refined comfort and intimacy, encouraging guests to relax and unwind in beautifully appointed surroundings. There's also an enclosed garden and a sun terrace for outdoor enjoyment.

Exceptional Services and Personalized Hospitality: A Truly Welcoming Stay

The Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street, part of the Lark Hotels collection, is celebrated for its "incredibly kind and welcoming" team and "attentive" service. Guests consistently praise the "warmth" of the staff, emphasizing that every "little detail felt so thoughtfully curated" and contributing to a "memorable" trip. This personalized approach to hospitality is a hallmark of the Blind Tiger experience.

While it operates as a refined inn or guesthouse rather than a large hotel, it offers key services designed to enhance comfort and convenience:

• Complimentary Breakfast: A highlight for many guests, a "delicious breakfast each morning" is provided. This often includes a self-service breakfast bar with options like toast, oatmeal, yogurt, granola, fruit, and sweet treats, along with "bottomless espresso, lattes, drip coffee, teas, and more."
• Concierge Services: The team is available to assist with recommendations, reservations, and local insights, helping guests make the most of their Portland visit.
• Complimentary High-Speed Wi-Fi: Available throughout the property and in all guest rooms.
• Self-Service Pantry: A "free-for-all pantry" with a curated selection of snacks and beverages available throughout the day is a much-appreciated amenity.
• Common Areas and Social Spaces: Beyond the lobby, guests can enjoy a wood-paneled billiards room (a nod to its speakeasy past), a library filled with books and board games, and various "nooks to get comfy," even a skyline-surveying cupola.
• Housekeeping: Available on request, ensuring rooms are kept tidy.
• On-Site Parking: Free self-parking is available on-site, a valuable amenity in downtown Portland. Limited on-site parking is first-come, first-served.
• In-Room Amenities: Each room includes bathrobes, slippers, designer toiletries (e.g., Lather bath products), hair dryers, and wine glasses and corkscrews.
• Climate Control: Air conditioning and heating are provided for guest comfort.
• Private Check-in/Check-out: Guests receive detailed instructions for self-check-in, allowing for a seamless arrival.
• Wellness Options: While there's no full spa, the hotel can arrange sauna blankets and in-room massages with advance notice for an additional fee.

It is important to note that due to the historic nature of the building, there are no elevators, and all guest rooms require at least one flight of stairs to access, making it less suitable for guests with reduced mobility.

Unique Features and Thoughtfully Appointed Rooms: An Experience in Detail

The Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street offers nine individually furnished and decorated air-conditioned accommodations, including rooms and suites. The property's defining feature is its "thoughtfully curated" aesthetic and the luxurious comfort embedded in every detail:

• Individual Design: Each room is unique, featuring a mix of mid-century furnishings, vintage pieces, local artwork, and original architectural details.
• Working Fireplaces: A significant highlight, many rooms feature a working fireplace, providing a "cozy" and romantic ambiance, transforming the room into a "wonderful retreat." Common areas also feature fireplaces.
• Spacious and Well-Appointed Rooms: Guests consistently praise the spaciousness of the rooms and suites, which often include a "full size coach" or comfortable seating areas.
• Premium Bedding: Beds feature "premium bedding," "Egyptian cotton sheets," "down duvets," and are described as "so comfortable," ensuring a restful night's sleep.
• Flat-screen Televisions: Equipped with cable channels for entertainment.
• Beautiful Bathrooms: Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers, designer toiletries, and complimentary toiletries.
• "Hall of Mirrors": The property includes quirky and interesting touches like a "hall of mirrors," origami, and various art installations, adding to the unique charm.

Some specific rooms, like "Baxter" with its broad bay windows and four-poster bed, or "Bon Viveur" with its private furnished terrace, offer particularly unique experiences. While the design is generally excellent, some reviews have noted that certain bathrooms might be "quite small" or that soundproofing between rooms could be an issue in an older building.

Promotional Information and Ideal Guest Experience: Your Romantic Portland Getaway

The Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street is particularly well-suited for travelers seeking an intimate, luxurious, and uniquely charming experience. It is an ideal choice for:

• Romantic Getaways: The cozy ambiance, fireplaces, and thoughtful details make it perfect for couples.
• Leisure Travelers: Those who appreciate boutique accommodations, historic charm, and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Solo Travelers: Looking for a quiet and comfortable base to explore Portland.
• Art and Design Enthusiasts: Will appreciate the curated artwork and interior aesthetics.
• Travelers Seeking a "Home Away From Home" Feel: Without the bustle of a large, impersonal hotel.

The hotel offers various special offers, which are typically found on the Lark Hotels website or by contacting the hotel directly. Examples of past or recurring promotions include:

• Day Passes: Allowing non-guests to access the common areas, including the DIY toast bar, bottomless coffee, pantry, billiards room, and Peloton studio during daytime hours (Monday-Friday).
• Pride Elopement Days: Offering free, intimate ceremonies for couples in their garden during Pride month.
• Wellness Services: Such as sauna blanket and in-room massage bookings.
• Military and First Responder Discounts: Offering 10% off their Best Available Rate for eligible personnel.

For the most up-to-date rates, availability, and specific promotional packages, it is highly recommended to visit the official Lark Hotels website for Blind Tiger Portland or contact them directly at (207) 879-8755 or +1 207-879-8755. Given its boutique nature and popularity, booking well in advance, especially for weekend or peak season stays, is advisable. The Blind Tiger Portland – Danforth Street promises an "outstanding" and "elevated" stay that will leave a lasting impression as one of the finest "Hotels Near Of Me" experiences in Portland.