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From199US$ /night
Check-in
26Feb2026Select date
Check-out
27Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

55 Oak Street, Boothbay Harbor, Maine, United States, 4538
-
Close to Boothbay Harbor
Great
8.8
7.4
/10
4.2
/5

Accommodations

The Thistle Inn offers six uniquely designed suites, ranging from a spacious two-bedroom suite called Crow's Nest to the tranquil queen-bed room, Heritage. Each suite provides a combination of historic charm and contemporary conveniences, making them comfortable and inviting. The hotel ensures stimulating views with original arched windows and private bathrooms for enhanced guest privacy.

Dining

Dining at The Thistle Inn Restaurant provides a culinary journey showcasing coastal cuisine with fresh, locally-sourced seafood. This long-standing restaurant has catered to visitors and locals alike since 1960, making it a vibrant part of Boothbay Harbor's dining scene. Guests can enjoy casual meals or romantic dinners in a welcoming atmosphere just steps from their accommodations.

Location

The Thistle Inn is positioned at the gateway to Boothbay Harbor, providing easy access to local attractions, shops, and art galleries. Guests can stroll to the town center and visit the acclaimed Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens or take a short trip to Monhegan Island for scenic views. The hotel serves as a central hub for exploring the rich maritime history of the area.

Historic Significance

Established in 1861, The Thistle Inn was originally a sea captain's residence and became a noteworthy hospitality landmark in 1960. This historic background adds a layer of charm and character to the guest experience, as every stay contributes to a continuing narrative. The transformation from a vibrant gathering place to a serene accommodation exemplifies the locale's rich heritage.

Nearby Attractions

Boothbay Harbor is home to numerous attractions such as the Maine Maritime Museum and Boothbay Railway Village. Guests can explore historical sites, stunning lighthouses, and engaging marine life at the Maine State Aquarium just a short drive away. Outdoor enthusiasts can also discover over 30 miles of trails at the Boothbay Region Land Trust for hiking and nature photography.

Highlights

Location: Gateway to Boothbay Harbor's attractions

Dining: Coastal cuisine at Thistle Inn Restaurant

History: Inn originally a grand sea captain's residence

Rooms: Six uniquely designed suites

Must-do experiences

  • Savor lobster rolls at the iconic Boothbay Lobster Wharf.
  • Stroll through the Coastal Botanical Gardens for stunning scenery.
  • Take a scenic boat tour to see the elusive puffins and seals.
  • Visit the Boothbay Region Historical Society for local history.
  • Enjoy fresh produce at the Boothbay Farmers' Market on Saturdays.
View all

Select your room type

The Thistle Inn offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Double Room Extra Bed
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The Thistle Inn offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
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Dining Onsite

The Thistle Inn invites guests to immerse themselves in a delightful dining experience across its four intimate and uniquely themed dining rooms, each embodying charm and character. Perfect for any occasion, these venues showcase seasonal inspirations and local ingredients throughout the year.
The Thistle Inn Boothbay Harbor Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Local cuisine with seasonal inspirations
Ambiance
Charming and cozy setting with intimate dining rooms
Key Offerings
Signature dishes highlight local flavors; ideal for intimate gatherings and special occasions
Reservation
Reservations recommended
Hours vary

The Thistle Inn Location

55 Oak Street, Boothbay Harbor, Maine, United States, 4538
Map view
55 Oak Street, Boothbay Harbor, Maine, United States, 4538
Nearby
Gallery
Ed Brown's Wharfside Gallery
1900 ft
86 Townsend Ave
Pythian Opera House
400 ft
Restaurants
Wannawaf
2000 ft
31 Granary Way
Downeast Ice Cream
2100 ft
1 By Way
Pier One Pizza
2100 ft
15 Wharf St
Harbor General Store
2200 ft
24 Commercial St
Finn McCool's
2200 ft
22 Commercial St
Brisetto's Second Cup
2300 ft
41 Commercial St
Sarah's Scoops
2100 ft
206 Townsend Ave
Explore Boothbay Harbor
Explore Boothbay Harbor
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
McFarland Island
10 minutes' walk
Birdwatching and scenic views define McFarland Island. Accessible by kayak during the summer, it's perfect for nature lovers.
Boothbay Region Art Foundation
Boothbay Region Art Foundation
10 minutes' walk
Art exhibits and local art displays characterize this community hub, showcasing talented artists and frequent workshops.
Penny Lake Preserve
10 minutes' walk
A peaceful retreat with over six miles of trails for hiking and birdwatching. Ideal for families and nature exploration.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
9 minutes' drive
A stunning collection of gardens set amidst coastal landscapes, featuring seasonal events and beautiful walking paths.
Kayaking
10 minutes' walk
Kayak rentals are available nearby for exploring the shoreline and enjoying the scenic views of Boothbay Harbor.
Hiking at Barrett Park
17 minutes' walk
Trails through scenic woodlands lead to stunning harbor views, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Yoga Classes
5 minutes' drive
Multiple studios in the area offer relaxing yoga sessions for all skill levels, promoting wellness and tranquility.
Finn McCool's
Finn McCool's
8 minutes' walk
Casual dining spot known for seafood and burgers, with a friendly atmosphere and outdoor seating available.
Harbor General Store
Harbor General Store
8 minutes' walk
A quaint shop offering local specialties and delicious sandwiches. Perfect for a quick bite or picnic essentials.
Pier One Pizza
Pier One Pizza
8 minutes' walk
A family-friendly pizza place featuring various toppings and a relaxed environment suited for casual dining.
Downeast Ice Cream
Downeast Ice Cream
8 minutes' walk
Famous for unique flavors of homemade ice cream, this spot is perfect for a sweet treat after a day of activities.
Pythian Opera House
5 minutes' walk
A historic venue featuring live performances, including music and comedy shows, catering to diverse entertainment tastes.
Ed Brown's Wharfside Gallery
Ed Brown's Wharfside Gallery
10 minutes' walk
An art gallery showcasing local artists, offering a unique look at Boothbay Harbor's culture and creativity.
Local Bars and Live Music Venues
10 minutes' walk
Enjoy vibrant nightlife with local bars featuring live music. Check schedules for weekly events and open mic nights.
Getting around
City Centre
Boothbay Harbor5 min  ·  1400 ft
Airports
Augusta State Airport (AUG)91 min  ·  37.7 mi
Knox County Regional Airport (RKD)111 min  ·  45.9 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
6

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Thistle Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 57 verified reviews
7.0/10
Very good
56%
Recommend
Cleanliness
7.2/10
Comfort
7.6/10
Facilities
6.3/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
8.1/10
Staff
5.3/10
Value for money
6.3/10
Guest reviews
based on 50 reviews
8.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About The Thistle Inn
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Thistle Inn?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is The Thistle Inn from Augusta State Airport?
The Thistle Inn is 59 km from Augusta State Airport.
What dining options are available at The Thistle Inn?
The Thistle Inn features an on-site restaurant showcasing locally sourced seafood and regional cuisine.
Does The Thistle Inn offer free parking?
Free private parking is available for guests.
What room amenities are provided at The Thistle Inn?
Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a work desk, coffee/tea making equipment, and free toiletries.
Is there Wi-Fi available at The Thistle Inn?
Free Wi-Fi is provided in all rooms.
What is the distance from The Thistle Inn to Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens?
The Thistle Inn is located 3 km from Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.
Where can I find nearby restaurants from The Thistle Inn?
Nearby dining options include Ports Pizzeria (0.5 km), Pinkham's Gourmet Market (0.5 km), and Boathouse Bistro Tapas Lounge & Restaurant (0.5 km).
What accessibility features does The Thistle Inn offer?
The Thistle Inn is fully non-smoking and has a cozy atmosphere created by attentive innkeepers.
What can guests expect from the ambiance at The Thistle Inn's bar/lounge area?
The bar/lounge area provides a relaxed space for casual gatherings in a cozy setting.

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