About Blind Tiger Portland Carleton

Blind Tiger on Carleton is located in Portland’s famed West End neighborhood and occupies an 1869 Victorian town house. The guest house design is inspired by the city and its spirit of passionate entrepreneurship and creativity. Gathering spaces are rich in texture and color, vibrant areas for hosting friends or a casual event. When you’re ready to venture out, local tastemakers offer exclusive guides to Portlanders’ favorite haunts.

Beyond exploring the city, Blind Tiger Carleton is a place to slow down. A peaceful garden and screen-free rooms offer space to recharge, and sleep stations and fitness amenities support a stay built around wellness. Guests also receive discounts on local wellness experiences, including fitness at Reframe, spa treatments at Health Resonates, and acupuncture at West End Acupuncture. Private tours and private chef experiences can be arranged.

Portland is extremely walkable, and Blind Tiger Carleton gives you access to the city’s art, music, food, and shopping. When you stay with us, you’ll feel like you’re staying with a well-connected friend, inspired to explore everything that makes Portland one of New England’s most spirited cities.

Carleton Street living room with a fireplace and stylish furniture at Blind Tiger Portland, ME

Blind Tiger Carleton Amenities

Invisible service model with self check-in and check-out
Arrival instructions sent on the day of your stay
24/7 text-line concierge for support whenever you need it
Complimentary daily housekeeping services
Free high-speed WiFi
Picnic blankets and baskets to borrow for your own adventure
Bath amenities from First Hand Supply and Apotheke
Waffle kimono robes
Room essentials, including wine glasses, corkscrews, irons, and hairdryers
Nighttime tea, pillow mist, and a sound machine to ease the transition to sleep
Eye masks and ear plugs for guests who want full dark and quiet
Screen-free environment for digital detox and relaxation
Peaceful garden for unwinding
Discounts on local wellness experiences, including fitness at Reframe, spa treatments at Health Resonates, and treatments at West End Acupuncture
Healthy breakfast with a daily wellness shot, served each morning from 8am to 10am on the first floor
24/7 coffee and tea are available in the dining room
Complimentary guest pantry with snacks, games & books
Prime location between Portland’s West End and Arts District
Limited off-street parking for small vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis
Close to top dining and nightlife spots like Cantina Calafia, Chaval, Wayside Tavern, and Bramhall

Norumbega Chairs at Blind Tiger Portland, ME

Stovall Sofa View at Blind Tiger Portland, ME

History

The building at Carleton Street was constructed in 1869, just three years after the Great Fire leveled much of Portland and left the city determined to rebuild in grander fashion. The West End, largely spared from the flames, became the neighborhood of choice for Portland's merchant class. The four-story brick townhouse that rose here reflected that ambition: granite entry stairs, eleven-foot ceilings, and an entryway adorned with trompe l'oeil paintings by Portland artist Charles Schumacher that survive to this day, still fooling the eye after 150 years. The house passed through many hands over the decades, its brick facade and original woodwork faithfully maintained by those who understood what they had.

Leading up to national Prohibition, Maine was the first state to pass laws that banned the sale of alcohol. But illicit establishments (including a private club housed in our own building’s cellar) continued to offer places for people to gather over a drink. A “blind tiger” was, in that era, common slang for an illegal spot where you could find a stiff drink. Today, Blind Tiger honors this spirit with a unique take on the urban guesthouse and plenty of space to gather and celebrate in your own way.