Black Elephant Hostel, Portland ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2025

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Key details

About the Hotel

33 Hampshire Street, Portland, Maine, United States, ME 04101

Steps from the Portland Arts District

Perfect

9.0

/10

4.7

Loved by guests

Friendly staff
Clean rooms
Great location
Cozy atmosphere
Free coffee

"It is right in the center of Old Port, so the best places in Portland are all within blocks."

Page Proctor from United States

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"The hostel itself has a funky and eclectic vibe and is decorated beautifully."

zthetravelbug from Canada

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"The rooms come with ensuite bathrooms, which is very practical."

Eliza from Switzerland

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Rooms for all

Black Elephant Hostel provides accommodations for various group sizes, including female-only and co-ed dorms. Room options range from a single bed in a shared room to private rooms with full-size beds. Select rooms include en suite bathrooms, while others have access to private-style hall bathrooms. The Enterprise room, located on the ground floor, features full-size bunk beds and an ADA-compliant bathroom with roll-in shower.

Dining and more

The property features a communal kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, kitchenware, microwave, and tea/coffee maker. Guests can prepare meals in the kitchen to save on restaurant costs. Portland Pottery Cafe, located on Portland's East End, provides meals, baked goods, and sandwiches, with options for gluten-free and vegan diets. The property offers café with mellow, Eastern vibe offering global specialty teas and vegetarian/vegan light bites

Activities and features

The hostel creates an atmosphere conducive to collaboration. Guests have access to a shared lounge with books, games, and musical instruments. The hostel includes free Wi-Fi. A chalkboard wall spans from the ground floor to the fourth floor for guest artwork. A garden area with seating is available for relaxation. The State Theatre, one of Portland's largest concert halls, is nearby. Black Elephant Hostel is nestled in the heart of the Portland Arts District, home to Maine's oldest/largest public art institution, founded in 1882.

Location details

The Black Elephant Hostel is located in the India Street Neighborhood of Portland, one block from the Old Port. The hostel is near eateries, shopping, and entertainment. It is a short walk to the Casco Bay ferry terminal, offering access to harbor cruises and the local islands. The Ocean Gateway lot at 2 Commercial Street provides parking for $15 per day. Portland International Jetport is 10 km from the hostel.

Essential Services

The hostel offers free luggage storage. Check-in begins at 3 PM. The lobby door is accessible via a code sent 24 hours before arrival. Limited parking is available on Friday and Saturday nights between April and December. Guests can store bicycles in the walled garden. The property maintains 70 miles of hiking, walking, and biking trails throughout Greater Portland

“This spot feels like a stylish hideaway right in the heart of everything. I appreciate its uncommon combination of prime location near Old Port with a surprisingly serene atmosphere. The decor is uniquely cool, a place where you'll enjoy exploring every nook, and the garden is a real treat.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Quadruple Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

2 Double beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Budget Triple Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Double Room Private Bathroom

2 persons

90 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Family Room Bathroom

2 persons

140 sq. feet

6 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

Non-smoking rooms
Free Wi-Fi
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Guest Parking

Shared kitchen
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Housekeeping

Children

Board games
Game room

Spa & Leisure

Garden area
Leisure/ TV room

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Sink

Self-catering

Shared kitchen
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Location

33 Hampshire Street, Portland, Maine, United States, ME 04101

Map view

33 Hampshire Street, Portland, Maine, United States, ME 04101

City landmarks

Museum

Portland Museum of Art

4200 ft

Museum

Portland Observatory

2600 ft

Museum

Victoria Mansion

4700 ft

Museum

Wadsworth-Longfellow House

2800 ft

Museum

Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine

4200 ft

Landmark

Commercial Street

2400 ft

Landmark

Cumberland County Civic Center

2700 ft

Museum

Museum of African Culture

2700 ft

Marina

DiMillo's Old Port Marina

2800 ft

Park

Eastern Promenade

1.4 mi

Museum

Portland Fire Museum

4500 ft

Landmark

Hilltop Superette

2100 ft

Library

Portland Public Library

2100 ft

Landmark

Fort Allen Park

4100 ft

Park

Deering Oaks Park

1.2 mi

Lighthouse

Bug Light Park

3.8 mi

Nearby

Commercial St

Old Port

1400 ft

Church

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

800 ft

Gorhams Corner

John Ford

1400 ft

267 Congress St (top of India St)

Maine Jewish Museum

1200 ft

312 Fore St

United States Custom House

1200 ft

Cemetery

Eastern Cemetery

1700 ft

Maine State Pier

1400 ft

Portland

Market Street

1500 ft

Island

Casco Bay Islands

1900 ft

9 Custom House Wharf

Harbor Fish Market

1900 ft

Public Building

Portland City Hall

1600 ft

Portland

Ram Island Ledge Light

1800 ft

Congress St & Pearl St

Lincoln Park

800 ft

Spa Centre

Nine Stones Spa

1000 ft

Restaurants

Tomaso's Canteen

300 ft

18 Hampshire Street

Amato's Sandwich Shops

500 ft

71 India St

Crema Coffee Company

1500 ft

9 Commercial St

Anthony's Italian Kitchen

1300 ft

151 Middle St Ste 5

Banh Appetit

1300 ft

171 Cumberland Ave

Crooked Mile

1600 ft

8 Milk St

Gorgeous Gelato

2300 ft

434 Fore Street

Lincolns

1400 ft

36 Market St

The Thirsty Pig

1800 ft

37 Exchange St

Explore Portland

Local Highlights

Portland Museum of Art

16 minutes' walk

Art collection featuring American, European, and contemporary pieces. Highlights include rotating exhibits and free admission on Fridays.

Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine

16 minutes' walk

Interactive exhibits for children that promote learning through play. Offers family-friendly shows and occasional free admission days.

Victoria Mansion

18 minutes' walk

Historic home showcasing exquisite Victorian architecture and period furnishings. Guided tours highlight its rich history.

Old Port

5 minutes' walk

Historic waterfront district known for its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere. Perfect for strolls or dining.

Kayaking in Casco Bay

10 minutes' drive

Rent kayaks for a thrilling adventure on the water, exploring nearby islands and scenic views. Rentals available seasonally.

Yoga on the Beach

30 minutes' drive

Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions held at East End Beach, promoting well-being with ocean views. Classes generally run during summer.

Tomaso's Canteen

1 minute' walk

Casual eatery with a menu featuring pizza, pasta, and local brews. Family-friendly with a welcoming atmosphere.

Anthony's Italian Kitchen

5 minutes' walk

Warm Italian ambiance with homemade pasta and fresh seafood specialties. Reservations recommended for busy evenings.

Banh Appetit

5 minutes' walk

Vietnamese cuisine focusing on banh mi sandwiches and pho, offering vegetarian options. Cozy, casual dining space.

Cumberland County Civic Center

10 minutes' walk

Venue hosting concerts, sports events, and community gatherings. Check the schedule for exciting upcoming performances.

Maine Jewish Museum

5 minutes' walk

Exhibits celebrating Jewish culture and history. Notable community events frequently held. Perfect for family-friendly outings.

Getting around

City Centre

Portland5 min · 1400 ft

Airports

Portland International Jetport (PWM)12 min · 4.7 mi

Augusta State Airport (AUG)132 min · 54.4 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-20:00

Check-out

from 04:00-10:00

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

is available in for free.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Questions of the users

About Black Elephant Hostel

What are the nearby parking options for guests staying at Black Elephant Hostel?

10 October 2024

Free city street parking is available around the building, with a 1 or 2 hour limit between 9 AM and 5 PM. The Ocean Gateway Lot, just a 3-minute walk away, offers parking for $15 for 24 hours during the summer season. Outside those months, the County Courthouse Garage nearby is another option, costing $18 for 24 hours.

Are late check-ins allowed, and what is the fee if I arrive after hours?

12 March 2025

A late check-in fee of $10 applies for those booking a dorm bed and arriving after 10 PM.

Does every accommodation have its own bathroom, or are there shared facilities?

22 September 2024

Not all accommodations feature private bathrooms. The ratio is about 1 bathroom for every 5 guests, and the bathrooms are private with one shower, toilet, and sink each.

What's the best way to reach Portland International Airport from the hostel early in the morning?

05 November 2024

Using a taxi or rideshare service like Lyft or Uber is recommended for timely arrival at the airport. Portland Airport Express Cab is a good option to consider.

Is it necessary to bring a lock for the lockers provided at the hostel?

20 August 2025

No need to bring a lock; the hostel provides locks and keys for the lockers.

How far is Black Elephant Hostel from the Portland Amtrak Station, and what transportation options are available?

15 February 2025

The Portland Amtrak Station is approximately 5.5 kilometers away, about a 10-15 minute drive or 35 minutes by bus. Walking may take around an hour.

Is parking available nearby for guests, and what are the associated costs?

30 April 2025

Limited parking is available for $10 per night. Additionally, nearby public lots charge around $15 per day, and street parking is free from 4 PM to 10 AM.

Are there organized events or activities for guests during their stay?

09 January 2025

Yes, the hostel hosts movie nights and various events for guests to enjoy.

Are there female-only accommodations available for those traveling solo?

25 July 2024

An all-female dorm, named 'Hey Ladies', is available. If fully booked, co-ed dorms are the alternative option.

Do you provide storage for luggage before check-in or after check-out?

18 December 2024

Yes, complimentary luggage storage is offered for in-house guests or those checking in later in the day.