Topside Inn occupies the summit of McKown Hill in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, at an elevation that delivers panoramic views over the harbor, outer islands, and surrounding woodlands from nearly every room and outdoor space on the property. The original structure is an 1873 sea captain's home that has been expanded with a secondary house and a set of perennial garden cottages at varying positions on the hillside. Main inn rooms retain historical character with period details; cottage rooms offer more contemporary styling and additional privacy. A full hot breakfast is included each morning and served in the harborview dining room—a genuinely valued amenity in coastal Maine, where nearby casual breakfast options are often limited to seasonal operations with variable hours. The property's hillside gardens, with well-maintained perennial borders and stone terraces, are a distinctive feature in Boothbay Harbor's crowded lodging market. Boothbay Harbor's village center—with whale-watching boats, gallery walks, summer theater, and the Maine State Aquarium—is a 10-minute walk downhill or a short drive. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, the largest botanical garden in New England, are approximately five miles from the inn and represent an excellent half-day excursion. Free on-site parking is a notable convenience in Boothbay Harbor, where the village streets are narrow and summer parking is competitive. Topside Inn is a seasonal property operating typically from late May through mid-October. July and August dates fill quickly and require early reservation; shoulder months offer quieter conditions and more available rooms at reduced rates.
Room types
- Inn rooms from $109/night
- Cottage rooms from $149/night
- Commander Suite from $279/night
Amenities
- panoramic harbor views
- full breakfast included
- free wifi
- free parking
- gardens
Location
60 McKown Street, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
43.8510, -69.6270 View on map
Highlights
- Panoramic 360-degree harbor and island views from the summit of McKown Hill above Boothbay Harbor
- 1873 sea captain's home expanded with garden cottages set among perennial borders and stone terraces
- Full hot breakfast included each morning in a harborview dining room
- 10-minute walk downhill to Boothbay Harbor village for whale-watching, galleries, and the Maine State Aquarium
- Five miles from the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens—the largest botanical garden in New England
Tips for visiting
- Request a room or cottage facing the harbor; hilltop units have superior views over lower terrace rooms
- Arrive at breakfast early to secure a window table—the harbor views from the dining room are exceptional
- The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens warrant a full morning visit; go on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds
- The village's whale-watching boats typically depart at 10 a.m.; book a day ahead in summer to secure space
- September through early October offers quieter conditions, fall foliage, and lower rates
When to visit
Late June through September for full season operations and the most activity in Boothbay Harbor village. September and early October offer fewer crowds, fall foliage, and open whale-watching and garden access.
Accessibility
Topside Inn sits on a sloped hill site with buildings and cottages at different elevations connected by garden paths. There is no elevator on the property. Accessibility for guests with significant mobility limitations is constrained; contact the inn to assess ground-level room options.
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Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is Topside Inn located in Boothbay Harbor?
The inn sits at the top of McKown Hill, accessible from the village via McKown Street. The elevated position above the harbor provides the panoramic views that define the property.
Is breakfast included at Topside Inn?
Yes—a full hot breakfast is included in all room rates and served each morning in the harborview dining room at no additional charge.
Is Topside Inn open year-round?
Topside Inn is a seasonal property, typically open from late May through mid-October. It is closed during winter months; confirm the season calendar when booking.
How far is Topside Inn from the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens?
The gardens are approximately five miles from the inn—about a 10-minute drive. They are the largest botanical garden in New England and a recommended half-day excursion.