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  • The Guest Parlor
    The Breakfast Room
    Waldo Emerson Inn - Quilt Shop in the Carriage House at the Inn
    The Yellow Room
    Blue Room (3)
    Red Room (4)
    Green (twin) Room
    Waldo (alternate) Room
    Ralph's Library (alternate) Room

    • Address 108 Summer Street
      Kennebunk, ME 04043-2126
      USA
    • Phone+1-207-985-4250
    • Mobile+1-207-332-1991
    • Toll free+1-877-521-8776
    • EmailContact Innkeeper
    Inn's website

    A restored shipbuilders manse located next to the Kennebunk river with all the latest amenities including working fireplaces for a relaxing romantic getaway. Let us pamper you with a terrific Dutch breakfast and afternoon tea in the Inn's historic parlor or in the shade of our large oak trees. The Inn has had several famous owners. The original Dutch grambrel was constructed by one Waldo Emerson in 1753. It is the oldest remaining house in Kennebunk. Waldo, great-uncle of Ralph Waldo Emerson, the poet/essayist, made a tidy profit building clipper ships on the river behind the house. It was inherited, through marriage, by Theodore Lyman, who made a fortune building ships on the site and added the enormous addition in 1784, as a wedding gift for his second wife. Theodore sold the home in 1804, to build the now-famous Lyman Estate and Greenhouses in Waltham, Mass. The house was purchased by John Bourne, father of 15 children, one of whom was George Washington Bourne, the builder of the famous "Wedding Cake House" next door. The inn is a wonderful recollection of the past. You enter directly into the 252-year-old keeping room, with its hand-hewn oak timbers hung with dried flowers, pewter, and copper. During your stay, please stop by Mainely Quilts and gift shop, located in the carriage house next to the Inn. You'll find the latest local creations. Heirloom quality quilts and wallhangings, often taking hundreds of hours to create, grace homes all over the world. You also will find a wide selection of fabrics, quilting supplies and novelties. The Inn is open year round.

    Professionally Inspected

    Diamond Collection Inspected and Certified

    Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 47 Reviews

    4.6 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  4
    • Services  5
    • Value  5
    • Cleanliness  5
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    5 out of 5
     

    Best stay ever!

    March 07, 2013

    My fiance and I stayed with John, Kathy, and their very sweet pup Waldo this past weekend, and it was wonderful! The room was immaculate, with a wonderful working fireplace (a nice touch during a Maine winter!), comfortable bed, wonderfully maintained. In the morning, John puts out a homemade, fresh, filling, and downright delicious breakfast! Fresh fruit and house made granola are always on the table. Our first morning we had big waffles with berries on top, and the following morning we had eggs bennedict with home fries. The best thing about the stay for us, though, was the overwhelmingly welcoming feeling. It felt much more like visiting old family friends than staying in a regular inn or hotel. John and Kathy are both quite warm, happy to talk and tell stories, and full of great information!! We will absolutely be back! In the meantime, give Waldo a bit of sausage for us, he love it! :-)

    5 out of 5
     

    A Wonderful stay!

    February 22, 2013

    My finacee and I stayed two nights, Feb 17-18, and thoroughly enjoyed our stay there. John and Kathy were extremely attentive, helping us find places to eat, places to visit. Our room was simply beautiful, comfortable, and clean, and the breakfasts were outstanding! We truly intend to stay there again, and recommend the Waldo Emerson Inn without hesitation.

    4.6 out of 5
     

    Lovely, quaint place to stay!

    October 15, 2012

    My husband and I stayed there one night. John and Kathy made us feel SO right at home, from the very start. VERY, very, VERY nice people (did I say how NICE they are?) :)...the hospitality was some of the BEST we've ever experienced!! The room we stayed in, and bathroom, were each quite smallish, (if that's something that would matter to you)...yet at the same time it was very cozy, clean, and still quite lovely. The metal headboard of the bed, when sitting up against it, does wobble back, but I just took it as part of the old-time quaintness of the place (befitting the historical nature of the home). It also sits fairly close off the road, where traffic can be heard, if that might matter to someone. However, it wasn't overwhelming in any sense of the word...just could be heard to some degree...yet certainly nothing obnoxious at all, or that would keep one awake, or awaken one, unless they were the very lightest of sleepers. Overall, the pluses of the inn more than make it a recommended place to stay!! Beautiful, SWEET inn with lots of history... I would recommend this B&B to anyone. The breakfast was outstanding...they really outdo themselves with all that they serve!! Overall, we give this inn an A+ rating...definitely a place where we would wish to stay at again!! THANK you, John & Kathy, for a WONDERFUL time at your BEAUTIFUL inn!!

    4.8 out of 5
     

    great experience

    October 10, 2012

    We enjoyed the hospitality, location and wonderful breakfasts


    Location

    Innkeeper Information

    Innkeeper(s)

    John Daamen and Kathy Daamen

    Innkeepers Description:

    Ralph Waldo Emerson readings, hiking, nature walks, biking, snow shoeing, soaring. Just to name a few

    The innkeepers speak:

    • Dutch

    • English

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  • Rooms & Rates

    • Nightly Rate $105 - $195

    Yellow Room

    The handsome pumpkin pine floor planks are 24" wide "Kings Pine". This room is a favorite for honeymooners. A large working fireplace, original folk art paintings, sculpture and AC. $20 per guest over double occupancy. Room rate is $125.00, rate with fireplace $140.00. Winter rates are in effect from November 1 until May 31 except for holidays. Occupancy rates are subject to change. State and local taxes may apply. Check in time is 3:00pm and Check out time is 10:30am.

    • Maximum Capacity: 3
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Red Room

    A large, airy room with a queen size cast iron bed, dresser, lazy slider chair, rocker and chest. Original folk art and sculpture, Kings Pine floors and large working fireplace with lawn and garden views. Private bath with shower. $20 per guest over double occupancy. Room rate is $125.00, rate with fireplace $140.00. Winter rates are in effect from November 1 until May 31 except for holidays. Occupancy rates are subject to change. State and local taxes may apply. Check in time is 3:00pm and Check out time is 10:30am

    • Maximum Capacity: 3
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Green Room

    A sweet old fashioned room with twin beds...homemade quilts, of course. Original folk art and sculpture, antique oak dresser, armoire and rocker, King Pine floors. This room looks out over the lawn and flower gardens. Private bath with shower. $20 per guest over double occupancy. Room rate is $125.00. Winter rates are in effect from November 1 until May 31 except for holidays. Occupancy rates are subject to change. State and local taxes may apply.

    • Maximum Capacity: 3
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 2 Twin

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Blue Room

    Queen size cast iron bed with handmade quilt, antique oak dresser, love seat, rocker, table, AC and a large working fireplace with a mantlepiece board of 32" wide (Kings) pine the largest known plank in the inn. Full private bath with tub/shower and heated marbel floor. $20 per guest over double occupancy. Room rate is $125.00, rate with fireplace $140.00. Winter rates are in effect from November 1 until May 31 except for holidays. Occupancy rates are subject to change. State and local taxes may apply. Check in time is 3:00pm and Check out time is 10:30am.

    • Maximum Capacity: 3
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Waldo Emerson

    This is an alternate room. It is the original master bedroom of the Emersons. Great period decor and furnished with a Queen Sleigh bed, a twin, a window cubby single, rocker, AC and Cable TV. This room is ideal for the small traveling family. Here is where history was made. $20 per guest over double occupancy. Room rate is $125.00. Winter rates are in effect from November 1 until May 31 except for holidays. Occupancy rates are subject to change. State and local taxes may apply. Check in time is 3:00pm and Check out time is 10:30am.

    • Maximum Capacity: 4
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen, 2 Twin

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Ralph's Library

    Ralph's (favorite) Library - This alternate room is located on the 1st floor, fully redone, a queen size bed, seating area and a large fireplace, AC, handmade quilts and private bath. $20 per guest over double occupancy. Room rate is $125.00, rate with fireplace is $140.00. Winter rates are in effect from November 1 until May 31 except for holidays. Occupancy rates are subject to change. State and local taxes may apply.

    • Maximum Capacity: 3
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Policy

    Reservation Policy

    • Check In: 3:00pm    Check Out: 10:30am

    • Minimum Stay: Applicable on certain weekends

    • Deposit Amount Required: First day (or 50% for multiple days) by check or money order or a credit card will secure your reservation.

    • Cancellations: You are responsible only for a $15.00 processing fee if you cancel more than ten (10) days prior to the scheduled arrival. For cancellations received ten (10) days or less before your schedule arrival, you will be responsible for the full stay minus the days we are able to re-book your room and a $15.00 processing fee.

    • Open All Year Round: Yes


    General Policies

    • Smoking Allowed: Limited

    • Guest Pets Allowed: No

    • Drinking Allowed: Yes

    • Drinking Description: B.Y.O.B.

    • Drinks Available: No

    • Children Allowed: Ages 6 and above (Waldo Emerson's Room - no restrictions)

    • Suitable For Children: Limited

    • Childcare Provided: Limited


    Discount Type

    • Serene Season three day special starting Nov. 1st
      Percent Off: 30% Days Required: 3

    • Serene Season two day special starting Nov. 1st
      Percent Off: 20% Days Required: 2

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  • Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 47 Reviews

    4.6 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  4
    • Services  4
    • Value  4
    • Cleanliness  4
    • Dining  4

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    5 out of 5
     

    Best stay ever!

    March 07, 2013

    My fiance and I stayed with John, Kathy, and their very sweet pup Waldo this past weekend, and it was wonderful! The room was immaculate, with a wonderful working fireplace (a nice touch during a Maine winter!), comfortable bed, wonderfully maintained. In the morning, John puts out a homemade, fresh, filling, and downright delicious breakfast! Fresh fruit and house made granola are always on the table. Our first morning we had big waffles with berries on top, and the following morning we had eggs bennedict with home fries. The best thing about the stay for us, though, was the overwhelmingly welcoming feeling. It felt much more like visiting old family friends than staying in a regular inn or hotel. John and Kathy are both quite warm, happy to talk and tell stories, and full of great information!! We will absolutely be back! In the meantime, give Waldo a bit of sausage for us, he love it! :-)

    5 out of 5
     

    A Wonderful stay!

    February 22, 2013

    My finacee and I stayed two nights, Feb 17-18, and thoroughly enjoyed our stay there. John and Kathy were extremely attentive, helping us find places to eat, places to visit. Our room was simply beautiful, comfortable, and clean, and the breakfasts were outstanding! We truly intend to stay there again, and recommend the Waldo Emerson Inn without hesitation.

    4.6 out of 5
     

    Lovely, quaint place to stay!

    October 15, 2012

    My husband and I stayed there one night. John and Kathy made us feel SO right at home, from the very start. VERY, very, VERY nice people (did I say how NICE they are?) :)...the hospitality was some of the BEST we've ever experienced!! The room we stayed in, and bathroom, were each quite smallish, (if that's something that would matter to you)...yet at the same time it was very cozy, clean, and still quite lovely. The metal headboard of the bed, when sitting up against it, does wobble back, but I just took it as part of the old-time quaintness of the place (befitting the historical nature of the home). It also sits fairly close off the road, where traffic can be heard, if that might matter to someone. However, it wasn't overwhelming in any sense of the word...just could be heard to some degree...yet certainly nothing obnoxious at all, or that would keep one awake, or awaken one, unless they were the very lightest of sleepers. Overall, the pluses of the inn more than make it a recommended place to stay!! Beautiful, SWEET inn with lots of history... I would recommend this B&B to anyone. The breakfast was outstanding...they really outdo themselves with all that they serve!! Overall, we give this inn an A+ rating...definitely a place where we would wish to stay at again!! THANK you, John & Kathy, for a WONDERFUL time at your BEAUTIFUL inn!!

    4.8 out of 5
     

    great experience

    October 10, 2012

    We enjoyed the hospitality, location and wonderful breakfasts

    4.8 out of 5
     

    A Wonderful Gem!

    October 06, 2012

    This B&B is not to be missed. The history of the Waldo Emerson house is fascinating. John and Kathy are so knowledgeable about every aspect of it. The rooms are beautiful and very clean. The house is decorated beautifully, especially the dining room where the table is set with fine china. They serve an incredible breakfast to you on that china which makes you feel pampered and treated like royalty. As for things to do and local attractions, John gives his honest and informed suggestions about what to see and where to eat. He helps to steer you away from tourist traps. Overall, the place is wonderful and we wish we had more time there!

    4.6 out of 5
     

    Charming and Friendly

    September 20, 2012

    John and Kathy hospitality are outstanding. The breakfast was delightful. The historical house and rooms are beautiful, although not in all details perfect. Doesn't this make it charming ? The conversation at breakfast with the other guests and John were special (Dutch hospitality ?). John's recommendation for the best lobster restaurant in town were excellent. We will come back.

    5 out of 5
     

    Sweet 15th Anniversary

    September 11, 2012

    Such a sweet place and incredibly kind and knowledgable hosts. The Inn Keepers were very welcoming to all the diverse guests we met during our stay. Was a very busy weekend and yet they made each of us feel special and comfortable. The breakfasts each morning (we stayed three nights) were absolutely stellar, very fresh, unique, and from the heart. Thank you for everything John and Kathy Daamen, for making our 15th Anniversary so memorable. We highly recommend this B&B!

    4.6 out of 5
     

    Delightful

    September 03, 2012

    We had a wonderful stay with charming and knowledgeable innkeepers. The food was amazing and the history of the inn colorful and well-shared. They were so accommodating! And Maine is gorgeous!


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  • Location Type

    • CVNewEng.org

    • Classical Voice of New England

    • Famous Wedding Cake House

    • Ogunquit Play House

    • Walker's Point

    • Airport

    • Beachside

    • City

    • Countryside

    • Downtown

    • Island

    • Mountains

    • Oceanside

    • Small town

    • Suburban

    • Village

    City - Boston

    • Distance to city: 42 miles

    • Directions to property:
      From the general Boston direction take Route 95 North. After the Maine Toll Booth, take exit #3 to Kennibunk/Kennibunkport on Route 35. After passing through downtown Kennebunk continue to follow Route 35 turn left at the second traffic light to Kennebunkport. You are now on Summer Street / Route 35. After approximately 1.8 miles, you will see the "Wedding Cake House" on the left side. We are the first drive way past the Wedding Cake House on the left. You will see the Carriage House, home of the Mainely Quilts shop, in front of you with the Inn on the right side of the driveway.

    Airport

    • Portland, ME (PWM-Intl. Jet Port) 27 miles

    • Directions to property:
      Use 95 South. Exit at #3 and take Route 35 to Kennibunk/Kennibunkport. After passing through downtown Kennebunk continue to follow Route 35 turn left at the second traffic light to Kennebunkport. You are now on Summer Street / Route 35. After approximately 1.8 miles, you will see the "Wedding Cake House" on the left side. We are the first drive way past the Wedding Cake House on the left. You will see the Carriage House, home of the Mainely Quilts shop, in front of you with the Inn on the right side of the driveway.


    Area Attractions

    • Amusement Park

    • Antique Shopping

    • Art Galleries

    • Beach

    • Concert venue

    • Gourmet/Fine Dining

    • Historical interests

    • Lake

    • Live Music

    • Movie Theater

    • Museum

    • National/State parks

    • Nature area

    • Ocean

    • 3 Mls to fantastic Beaches - Great Surfing

    • 3 Mls from Dock Square with its distinctive shops

    • Hiking and Bike Trails - lots of Antique Shops

    • Brick Store and Trolley Museums

    • Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge, Laudholm Farm

    • Franciscan Monastery

    • Outlet Stores

    • Performing Theater

    • Picnic area

    • Religious Services

    • River

    • Ski area

    • Bicycle rental

    • Bicycle riding trails

    • Bicycles

    • Bird watching

    • Boating

    • Canoeing

    • Cross-country ski trails

    • Downhill Skiing

    • Fishing

    • Golfing

    • Hiking trails

    • Horseback riding

    • Horseshoes

    • Hunting

    • Kayaking

    • Mountain Bike trails

    • That special Wedding? At the Wedding Cake House

    • Farmers markets, Brick Store Museum

    • Two large Factory Outlet Malls nearby

    • Cross Country and Down Hill Skiing

    • Deep Sea Fishing & Whale Watching

    • Light Houses and Whale Watching

    • Sailing

    • Shopping

    • Sight-seeing

    • Ski rentals

    • Snow shoe rental

    • Snow shoe trails

    • Swimming

    • Swimming pool

    • Tennis courts

    • Tennis racket rental

    • Water sports

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  • Amenities

    Type:

    • Bed and Breakfast

    • Historic Inn

    Property highlights

    • Hand quilting seminars & retreats

    • John Bourne and Henry Kingsbury joint venture

    • John Bourne, Ship Builder & Wedding Cake House

    • Lean for Life coaching

    • Ralph Waldo Emerson's Writings

    • Underground Railroad

    • Antiques/decor

    • Business travel

    • Christian Travel

    • Excellent views

    • Family Travel

    • Gourmet food

    • Group events

    • Honeymoons

    • Luxury

    • Nature

    • Peaceful getaway

    • Romantic escape

    • Weddings

    On-site

    • BBQ grill

    • Board games

    • Computer

    • Conference Rooms

    • Copier

    • Desk

    • Fax Machine

    • Library

    • Piano

    • Secretarial services

    • TV Video games

    • Telephone

    • VCR

    • Videos

    • Washer/dryer

    • Wedding Facilities

    • Wet bar

    Guest room(s)

    • Air conditioning

    • Alarm clock

    • Amenities Basket

    • Bath robes

    • CD player

    • DVD Player

    • In-room internet

    • Fireplace

    • Fridge

    • Hairdryer

    • Internet Service

    • Microwave

    • Private entrance

    • Radio

    • Satellite/Cable TV

    • TV

    • Turndown Service

    • Wi-Fi

    Other

    • Guest refrigerator available in hall

    • Complementary use of some nice touring bikes

    • Day Trip guide

    • Complementary beach parking passes

    • Wireless Broadband (802.11b, g and N) at no charge

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  • Breakfast

    • Type: Full

    • Time Served: 8:30 am - 9:30 am

    • Serving Location: Breakfast Room,Breakfast/dining area

    Complimentary Perks

    • Afternoon Tea

    • Fruit

    • Non-alcoholic Beverages

    Signature Dish

    Belgium Toast & Dutch Apple Flapjes
    Ingredients - serve 6 Maple Syrup 4 Tbl Spoons, Butter 7 Tbl Spoons, Brown Sugar 1 cup, Eggs 4, Milk 1.5 cups, Vanilla 1 dash, Cinnamon Swirl Bread Slices. Preheat oven to, 300-325 Degree (Convection) -In a small saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar and maple syrup. Mix together on medium heat until it just begins to bubble uniformly; -Stir well and quickly pour into the metal baking pan(s), cover bottom evenly. -Place first layer of cinnamon bread slices onto the glaze in the baking pan(s). (Adding cream cheese/blueberry to 2nd layer is optional). -Mix two parts of Whipped Cream Cheese with one part of Blueberry jam. Spread on the second layer of cinnamon bread. Place cinnamon slices with blueberry/cream cheese face down on top of the 1st layer -Whisk the eggs, milk and vanilla together and pour over bread evenly. Let sit until fully absorbed (about 30 minutes if bread is frozen). -Bake for 30 minutes, cover loosely with foil and set oven on warm. -To serve, remove (after loosening the edges) one slice at the time from the pan, flip it over on the center of a plate with the glazed side up. Just before serving, add a heaping table spoon of vanilla yogurt on top of the slice and dust with cinnamon. Add an orange slice and strawberry slice.

    Special meal options

    • Low fat

    • Restrictive

    • Vegetarian

    Additional food services

    • Coffee, Tea and soft drinks

    • complementary Poland Spring Water

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