The Federal

Located at 10 Water St, Brunswick, ME 04011, USA, The Federal stands as a distinctive and highly recommended option within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category for those seeking a sophisticated yet welcoming experience in Midcoast Maine. This boutique hotel brilliantly fuses the elegance of a reimagined 19th-century historic home and inn with modern comforts, offering a truly unique stay in the heart of Brunswick.

The Federal boasts an exceptional location that is consistently praised by guests. It is situated on Water Street, just "less than five minutes’ walk to Maine Street," Brunswick's vibrant main thoroughfare. This prime position means guests have immediate access to "everything" that Brunswick has to offer: a diverse array of restaurants, a great organic market, numerous charming boutiques, and various stores. The pedestrian-friendly nature of downtown Brunswick makes exploring a delight.

Brunswick itself is a quintessential New England college town, home to Bowdoin College, which is a short walk from the hotel. This lends a lively yet refined atmosphere to the area, with cultural institutions like the Bowdoin College Museum of Art and the Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum within easy reach. The Federal is also conveniently located for exploring the broader Midcoast Maine region. Scenic coastal areas like Orr's Island and Bailey Island are a short, picturesque drive away, offering stunning views and outdoor activities. Freeport, renowned for L.L. Bean's flagship store and outlet shopping, is approximately a 10-minute drive south, while the vibrant city of Portland, with its acclaimed culinary scene and arts district, is less than an hour away (around 37 minutes to Portland International Jetport, 30 miles away). The hotel is also relatively close to the Amtrak Downeaster train station (about 30 minutes away by car).

The hotel building itself exudes a sense of history and charm, with an interior that is "beautifully decorated" and features "tremendous attention to detail." Guests enjoy various "different sitting areas on the first and second floor," providing comfortable and inviting spaces for relaxation or informal meetings. The ambiance successfully blends cosmopolitan sophistication with the warmth of a traditional inn, creating a refreshingly different hotel experience.

The Federal is committed to providing a high level of service and a comprehensive array of amenities, enhancing the guest experience:

• Accommodations: The hotel offers 30 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, designed to provide both comfort and style. Rooms typically feature comfortable beds with premium bedding and down comforters, a large work desk and ergonomic chair (which guests found comfortable for work), and modern flat-screen TVs with streaming services. In-room amenities often include bathrobes, hair dryers, and an iron/ironing board. While one guest noted their wife found a bed hard, the hotel was highly accommodating, providing extra comforters to ensure comfort, demonstrating their attentiveness to guest needs. Daily housekeeping services are provided, with flexibility for guests who prefer not to have their room cleaned during their stay but still need fresh towels or tissues. Rooms come with air conditioning and private bathrooms with showers or bathtubs. Complimentary toiletries are also provided.
• Dining: A significant highlight of The Federal is its on-site restaurant, 555 North. This establishment brings the culinary philosophy of award-winning Chef Steve Corry and his wife Michelle (of the formerly acclaimed 555 restaurant in Portland) to Brunswick. The menu is rooted in New England's farms and waters, showcasing locally sourced, fresh ingredients prepared simply. Selections change seasonally, featuring fresh seafood, classic recipes with a twist, and popular signature dishes. The kitchen at 555 North is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with the bar open until 10:00 PM (closed on Mondays). Guests have described the food as "surprisingly pretty good" and praised the friendly bartenders who make "good drinks." While a full cooked-to-order breakfast is not typically included in the standard rate, guests often praise the "impressive continental breakfast" available.
• Health and Wellness: The hotel provides a fitness room and a yoga room, allowing guests to maintain their wellness routines while traveling. These amenities contribute to a well-rounded and rejuvenating stay.
• Connectivity and Business: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, both in public areas and guest rooms, with a reported speed of 100+ Mbps, suitable for 1-2 people or up to 6 devices. The internet service is generally described as sufficient. Rooms include laptop-friendly workspaces. The hotel also features meeting/banquet facilities, including three meeting rooms.
• Guest Services: The Federal prides itself on its exceptionally attentive and accommodating staff. The 24-hour front desk ensures assistance is always available. Guests consistently praise individual staff members by name, such as Adam, Ryan, Leah, Liz, and Taylor, for their professionalism, helpfulness, and friendly demeanor. From seamless check-ins to accommodating changes and providing local suggestions, the staff goes above and beyond to make guests feel valued and well-cared for. Luggage storage is also available.
• Parking: Free uncovered on-site self-parking is available, including wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking, adding to the convenience for guests traveling by car.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The Federal welcomes four-legged friends in its pet-friendly rooms. A non-refundable fee of $50 per pet, per night is required at booking. Upon arrival, pets are welcomed with a special treat. The Federal is conveniently located near an extensive walking path with a fenced-in dog park, and there are multiple pet-friendly outdoor options along Maine Street and downtown. Just outside the hotel's door is a designated area for leashed pets with views of the historic Androscoggin River. For the safety of staff, housekeeping services are not provided if a pet is in the room unless scheduled with the front desk. Pets are welcome in the lobby but state law prohibits them from the restaurant. The hotel reserves the right to require immediate removal of any pet that displays dangerous or unacceptable behavior or causes damage/disturbance to other guests.

The Federal's distinguishing features lie in its blend of historic charm, contemporary elegance, and highly personalized service. The hotel's "tremendous attention to detail in how it is decorated and operated" creates a memorable and sophisticated atmosphere. The different sitting areas throughout the hotel are a unique amenity, fostering a relaxed and inviting environment for guests to socialize or simply unwind. The on-site 555 North restaurant is a significant draw, offering a high-quality dining experience rooted in local ingredients without needing to leave the hotel. However, the most consistent and powerful feature highlighted by real customers is the exemplary staff. Their attentiveness, accommodating nature, and willingness to assist with everything from reservations to local information significantly elevate the guest experience, making guests feel valued and eager to return. The hotel's prime location, combining downtown Brunswick's walkable charm with easy access to coastal attractions and larger cities like Portland, is also a major selling point. It provides a perfect base for a "getaway weekend" or a longer exploration of Midcoast Maine.

The Federal regularly offers special promotions to enhance guests' stays. These offers are typically available directly through their official website () or by contacting the hotel via phone at (207) 481-4066 or +1 207-481-4066. While specific promotions can change, common offers might include:

• Two-Night Getaway: This offer often provides a discount on the second night (e.g., 50% off) for guests with flexible travel schedules.
• Three is a Charm: An extended stay offer where the third night might be complimentary when booking a three-night stay.

It's important to note that these offers usually require payment at the time of booking and are non-refundable, with arrival dates varying and blackout dates applying. Guests should always check the hotel's official website for the most up-to-date promotional details and booking terms. Prices for rooms can vary, but staying in January or checking in on a Sunday might offer lower rates. The consistent positive reviews and strong word-of-mouth about the hotel's beauty, comfort, and exceptional staff serve as a powerful endorsement for future visitors looking for a premium experience in Brunswick.