Each of the 26 units at The Docent’s Collection features uniquely charming characteristics—from breathtaking arched windows to your private elevator arriving at select lofts, The Docent’s Collections offers a taste of living large in Portland. The lofts merge the energy of living in a private luxury residence with the convenience and flexibility of a hotel stay while preserving the city’s history. Stay for a few nights, or enjoy the flexible long-term stays at Docent’s.
About The Docent’s Collection
The collection consists of three buildings in the historic Old Port neighborhood of Portland, Maine. The first of The Docent’s Collection was introduced in 2019. Due to the demand for the lofts, The Docent’s will add a third property to their collection come 2025.
115 Middle Street, also known as Robinson Block, is a 1914 20th Century Victorian building with two lofts perfect for larger groups. The largest three bedroom lofts are 2,000-square-feet and come equipped with a private elevator so you can channel your inner Bruce Wayne.
Next door, you’ll find the historic Thompson Block at 121 Middle Street. Above is a picture from modern day, but here’s a look at Thompson Block nearly two centuries ago:
It was then an 1867 Printing Press and boys clothing manufacturer.
Today, the building houses 24 one to three bedroom lofts perfect for a quick trip or extended stay over several months in Portland.
The hotel accommodates both short-term and extended stays. Rates for The Docent’s Collection vary based on duration of stay and the season but currently have an average starting rate of $152 nightly pre-tax. Explore and reserve your dreamy loft online.
Living at The Docent’s
Each loft offers ample space and amenities to settle in. Enjoy the privacy of your own space, with a full electric stove, at home coffee machine with grounds from local coffee shop, Coffee By Design, a dual rainforest and hose shower, a plethora of closet and storage space, plus the comfiest lounging nooks and bedrooms.
Lofts all have slightly different architecture that speak to the building’s history. Find breathtaking arched windows, brick walls, iron beams, or wood slats, with unique art created by local Mainers, vintage boardgames, and local books to tie it all together.
The Docent’s does a commendable job of preserving the history of Portland within its doors, while seamlessly blending it with minimalist modern design.
The privacy is paired with the relaxed comforts of a boutique hotel— all The Docent’s Collection guests are welcomed with a tray of local Maine treats like Fiore olive oil, cheddar popcorn, and Bar Harbor teas. Housekeeping and a 24/7 concierge are at your service as frequently or minimally as you desire.
Portland like a true Mainer
While to qualify as an official Mainer you “technically” need to be born there (there’s no way around it, trust us, we asked!) you’ll certainly feel like one— living in a loft at the heart of the city. The Docent’s Collection neighbors some of Portland’s best restaurants, waterfront and ferries, charming basalt alleys and Downeaster for an easy trip from Boston.
Enjoy the Eastern Promenade, or as locals call it “prom.” The 3.5 mile route travels along the ocean with a small beach, waterfront garden, pickleball courts and more. There’s even food trucks to enjoy some lobster or falafel on the water. On a sunny day, go for a boat ride with Portland Schooner. On a rainy day, enjoy access to the local gym as a Docent’s guest, complete with a sauna and steam room and don’t skip the nearby Portland Art Museum!
Taste of Old Port
Set on Middle Street, The Docent’s Collection resides in the historic Old Port neighborhood, where the fire of 1866 wiped out the city. It was rebuilt quickly after with some of the “most authentic Victorian architecture in America,” according to Ross, the leading tour guide at Maine Day Ventures.
Portland is an architecture and food enthusiasts city! There are more restaurants per capita in this city of 67,000 than in all of San Francisco. The 400+ downtown restaurants brim with James-Beard award winners and offer just about every cuisine you can imagine. Locals will guide you to Highroller Lobster Company or Bite Into Maine for the best lobster rolls in the state.
Visit the original Luke’s Lobster, that is wildly different than the one in Downtown Crossing or Back Bay. Enjoy a lobster roll flight while watching seals swimming in Casco Bay to unlock a new core memory.
Switch things up and check out Bar Futo or Paper Tiger for exceptional Japanese or Asian fusion cuisine. Stop by Central Provisions for James-Beard award winning eats and keep the night going with brown butter, green chile, parmesan popcorn The Portland Hunt and Alpine Club.
For dinner, the fishermen and farm-to-table Fore Street is just steps from The Docent’s and offers an unforgettable meal in a cozy rustic setting. Bring back some fresh bread from their bakery, Standard Baking Co., to enjoy with the complimentary Fiore olive oil in your loft. All of Portland’s most coveted food spots are at your footsteps with the prominent location of The Docent’s. You just might be a Mainer!
Find The Docent’s Collection at:
115 and 121 Middle Street, Portland, Maine