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Maine Brewery Tours

Thursday, March 11th, 2010

Maine may be known for its bed and breakfasts, beaches, and beautiful antique shops, but it is also home to a plethora of breweries.  In fact, there are about thirty different breweries throughout the state, with a high concentration in Southern Maine.  Kennebunkport, or Lower Village Kennebunk, is home to one – Federal Jack’s/Kennebunkport Brewing Company.  KBC, the original home of Shipyard Ale (with it’s own brewery in Portland), brews seven different blends, all of which get pumped directly to the bar at Federal Jack’s Brew Pub.  Can’t get fresher than that!  And while you’re in town, be sure not to miss a tour of the brewery.  Tours require reservations – let the Maine Stay make them for you!

Kennebunkport and the Maine Stay Inn is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the Maine Beer Trail.  Just a short drive from the Maine Stay is the Run of The Mill Public House and Brewery, located in Saco, Maine.  Continue traveling up the coast along scenic Route 1 to Scarborough for your next stop at the Sebago Brewing Company.  Next up – the breweries of Portland!  While it is home to several small brewing companies, Allagash Brewing, DL Geary Brewing, Gritty McDuff’s, and Sebago Brewing, it is also the current home of Shipyard Ale – the Shipyard Brewing Company.  And at just 30 miles from the Maine Stay, it’s not to be missed!

If you have any steam left, head north toward Freeport – home of the famous L.L.Bean, but also to two breweries!  Leave the ladies (if they’re at all like me) in your life for an afternoon of shopping, and hit the pub – you can’t go wrong at Gritty McDuff’s (a microbewery and brew pub) or at stop at Freeport Brewing Company.

Of course, there are oodles more breweries to visit on the “Maine Beer Trail,” so book your reservation and ask the Maine Stay Innkeepers today to help plan your Maine Brewery Tour.

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Summer Vacation in Kennebunkport

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010

Before moving to Kennebunkport to pursue innkeeping at the Maine Stay Inn, I had visited Kennebunkport Maine only twice before.  Neither was during the summer.  In fact, it snowed both times.  But after two summers I fully understand what makes Kennebunkport the perfect spot for a summer vacation (okay, I realized it a long time ago, but now I finally feel ready to share).

First off, it’s easy to get to.  Kennebunkport is just 86 miles from Boston and 35 miles from Portland.  That mean’s it’s accessible to everyone.  There’s no worrying about ferry schedules (hello, Martha’s Vineyard!) or twisting mountainous roads (can you say “White Mountains?”).  You can leave Boston after work and get to the Maine Stay before dinner. Or fly into Portland (possibly the world’s most navigable airport) and bite into our famous chocolate chip cookies in under 40 minutes.

Second, dining options abound.  If you’re a regular Maine Stay Inn blog reader, you know how much I love good food!  Kennebunkport offers amazing options for all kinds of eaters of all ages, and most within easy walking distance of the Maine Stay.  That means that you don’t have to venture far from the inn or beach for a wonderful meal.

Which brings me to reason number three – the beaches.  The beaches of the Kennebunks are fantastic.  I mean truly spectacular.  And there are so many options!  If you visit with kids, head to the Kennebunk beaches for easy access and minimal schlepping of beach toys.  For avid runners and walkers, the small beaches and coves along Ocean Avenue are not to be missed.  Those bringing or renting bicycles should head to Parson’s beach, a treasure with impossible parking.  And couples looking for peace and quiet along the shore should hit up Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport.

An explanation of the appeal of Kennebunkport would not be complete without mentioning the incredible shops of Dock Square, the spectacular galleries dotted throughout town, or the plethora of outdoor activities, like kayaking and canoeing, running and biking, whale watching and sailing, and golf.  But the part I have most trouble explaining is Kennebunkport’s charm.  This town is so quaint and endearing, with just the right amount of history and architectural appeal, but also the pop of spectacular sands and edible creations.

My words just don’t do Kennebunkport justice, so come to the Maine Stay Inn to see all that Kennebunkport has to offer and find out why Kennebunkport is the perfect summer vacation destination.

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Posted in Cuisine, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport recreation, Maine Summer Vacation, maine inn, maine inns, seasons | No Comments »

Early Booking – A Traveler’s Best Friend

Saturday, February 27th, 2010

With the advent online reservations, TripAdvisor, and Expedia, it has gotten easier and easier for travelers to book last-minute vacations and weekend getaways.  And while it may be getting easier, it certainly isn’t getting better.  Yes, you can sometimes find “deals,” but most often this is to the detriment of the traveler.  Hands down, the best values can be had by booking early, often, and over the phone.  Here’s why:

  • The best rooms go first (how many innkeepers have their best booking room available for Valentine’s Weekend on the Saturday before?).  And “best” can mean most expensive, but always means the room that packs the best value (maybe it’s the only room with its own porch in the summer, but the smallest room with a jacuzzi and fireplace in the winter; or maybe it just got renovated and the new pictures aren’t online yet).  And at a time when everyone is traveling smarter, those best value rooms are a must!
  • When you book early and over the phone, innkeepers have the opportunity to get to know you and your needs.  That’s because when you’re booking a summer reservation in March, they have the time to talk to you and figure out which room or suite is going to suit you perfectly.  Not to mention that that “perfect” room is probably available.  Booking early means you won’t have to compromise on the amenities that are essential to giving you the best vacation possible.  Not to mention, they may feel more inclined to throw in something special for that anniversary, birthday, or honeymoon celebration.
  • Booking repeatedly at one place makes you special.  You become a guest that we look forward to sharing our renovations with, that we think about when telling stories about favorite guests, and a guest that we check in with throughout the year. But as a repeat guest, you get the inside scoop on special packages, promotions, and steep discounts throughout the year.  Don’t delete our newsletter now, you hear?

So while it may seem passe, pick up the phone for your next reservation, talk to the innkeepers, and let us make sure that your next getaway is absolutely perfect.  And call early to make sure that you get the best bang for your buck and best experience imaginable in Kennebunkport.  Because at the Maine Stay Inn we strive to make your getaway exceed all your expectations!

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Kennebunkport as a “Designated Destination”

Tuesday, February 16th, 2010

Last weekend, the Maine Stay Inn and neighboring historic inns of Kennebunkport debuted a trial run of its restaurant shuttle service.  Guests enjoyed a complimentary shuttle to area restaurants on the evening of Saturday, February 13th, allowing those enjoying a romantic Valentine’s celebration to wine and dine without the worry of navigating in the dark.  Overall, it was a great success!  Participating guests were thrilled with the service and didn’t mind waiting a few minutes for the shuttle to arrive at their destinations.  Although this February has been warmer and decidedly less snowy than usual, our guests were delighted to step into a warm van and to avoid the worry of parking and navigating in unfamiliar territory.

Stay tuned for further updates on the future of the “Designated Destination” Shuttle!

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Kennebunkport Promotes Safe Driving

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010

Kennebunkport is your Valentine’s Weekend “Designated Destination”

Beginning Saturday night February 13th, guests arriving for a weekend stay at one of the Historic Inns of Kennebunkport have the opportunity to enjoy a complimentary ride to dinner and a worry-free return home afterwards as the group launches it “DesignatedValentines in Kennebunkport MaineDestination” shuttle service. This first of its kind guest service on the Maine seacoast gives visiting guests the opportunity to celebrate the Valentine’s weekend without the stress of driving after dark, in poor weather, or after enjoying a romantic bottle of wine or two.

Developing Kennebunkport as a “Designated Destination” is a much needed solution for both visiting guests and local inns and restaurants. Creating an opportunity for guests to plan – and enjoy – a wonderful evening out at one the excellent local restaurants without worrying about the dark, the weather, or their consumption was the motivation that drove Finn MacDonald of the Captain Fairfield Inn to propose the idea to the group. “This is a win, win, win,” MacDonald says, “This is a unique service that can help my guests enjoy their evening out here. If our guests appreciate this service, that will help my business. And this service really benefits the restaurants because guests can have a worry-free evening knowing the Designated Destination shuttle will take care of getting them back to one of the inns. The service is scheduled for the evenings of Saturday February 13th and Sunday February 14th. For more information, please contact a participating historic inn on the www.kportinns.com website.

The Maine Stay Inn is, of course, thrilled to be jointly debuting this program, as we continually strive for our guests to have the best experience possible.  Winter driving on dark, unfamiliar streets can sometimes deter guests from enjoying certain culinary delights during their stay and the ability to offer this service to our guests is a tremendous step forward. So this Valentine’s Day, crack open your bottle of wine and let the Maine Stay take care of the rest!

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The Maine Stay Helps Habitat for Humanity

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010

The Maine Stay Inn and Cottages Supports ‘Hospitality for Habitat’ with Deeply Discounted Rates for Visiting Guests

Maine Stay Inn Teams up with Maine Innkeeper Association program to raise funds for Habitat for HumanityHospitality for Habitat

Kennebunkport, ME – February 2010 – Kennebunkport’s Maine Stay Inn will offer guests 50% off weekend room rates Monday through Thursday between April 26th through May 28th 2010 in support of ‘Hospitality for Habitat’, a Maine Innkeepers Association program, originally designed to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity projects in Maine. This year, after the devastating earth quake in Haiti, part of the funds raised will also be distributed to help support Habitat for Humanity projects in Haiti.

Visitors to the Maine Stay Inn and Cottages will receive the deeply discounted room rates in exchange for a $35 donation check written out to Habitat for Humanity.

“With today’s challenging economy we are delighted to offer guests the opportunity to experience a wonderful Maine getaway at half the regular room rate,” said Judith Hauer, owner/innkeeper of the Maine Stay. We appreciate

this opportunity to partner with our guests in support of such a worthy cause.”

The Maine Stay Inn will join participating members of The Maine Innkeepers Association all across the state to help build homes for deserving families.  In 2009 Hospitality for Habitat raised over $16,000 for Habitat for Humanity, and the Association has raised over $30,000 since the program began in 2004.

To enjoy a 50% reduction in room rates between April 26th and May 28th 2010, and be part of Hospitality for Habitat,  please make reservations in advance and acknowledge your intention to participate. Your tax deductible donation for $35 should be made out to Habitat for Humanity in the form of a check and given to the innkeeper. For more information, or to make a reservation in support of Habitat for Humanity please go to www.mainestayinn.com or call 207.967.2117.

For a complete, and constantly updated list of participating properties, visit The Maine Innkeeper Association’s web site at www.maineinns.com and click on the “Hospitality for Humanity” logo. Direct Links to each property will provide information on specific room rates, availability, and restrictions.

About Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity International, based in Americus, Ga., is an ecumenical Christian ministry dedicated to eliminating poverty housing. Habitat has built more than 300,000 houses around the world, providing more than 1.5 million people in more than 3,000 communities with safe, decent, affordable shelter, they helped build and had bought with the assistance of no-profit, zero-interest mortgages. More information can be found online at www.habitat.org.

About the Maine Innkeepers Association

The Maine Innkeepers Association, a leading provider of tourism information to both Maine’s lodging industry and its visitors, represents nearly 700 B&Bs, camps, cottages, hotels, inns, motels and resorts across Maine, and their suppliers. Through communication, education, promotion and government affairs, the Association helps its members achieve prosperity and deliver a quality product to the consumer. Maine Innkeepers Association is located in Freeport, ME and can also be found at www.maineinns.com.

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Top 10: Kennebunkport in the Winter

Thursday, January 28th, 2010

Kennebunkport is known as a fantastic New England summertime and fall foliage destination, but it is a fantastic wintertime getaway.  At the Maine Stay Inn and Cottages,

Kennebunkport winter

Snowy Path at Laudholm Trust

we love all that Kennebunkport and Southern Maine has to offer during the winter months. Here are our top 10 reasons to visit Kennebunkport in the winter!

10 – Cozy, romantic rooms at the Maine Stay Inn with gas fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and unlimited cups of steaming tea and coffee for chilly nights

9 – Walks through snowy, tree-lined, quintessential New England streets and Kennebunkport beaches, and the peaceful solitude they offer

8 – Indulgent spa services at our on-site spa (now you can get pampered without ever leaving the Maine Stay property)

7 – Charming horse-drawn sleigh rides

6 – Steep discounts at Kennebunkport’s fine shops and desolate antique shops

5 – Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities at Laudholm farm and other scenic venuesKennebunk Beach winter

4 – Deserted beaches and incredible photo opportunities of winter surf

3 – Shorter or non-existent waits at the best restaurants (and only the best stay open in the wintertime)

2 – Great prices and special promotions (check out the Maine Stay’s current specials!)

1 – Even more attention from the Maine Stay Innkeepers and staff to make sure that your getaway is absolutely perfect!

We hope you’ll enjoy the restful environment that only a winter visit to Kennebunkport and the Maine Stay Inn can provide.  We hope to welcome you soon!

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A Day Trip to Laudholm Trust

Friday, January 8th, 2010

After the guests went home and Christmas decorations were put away, the Maine Stay Inn got a fresh heaping of snow – pretty typical for Maine in January.  We just couldn’t resist Laudholm Farm Wellsgoing outside to play.  As you probably know, the coastline is constantly changing and the ocean’s color during and after a big winter storm is dark and brooding, its incredible power fully evident.  A trip to the beach was in order! Instead of heading to our favorite winter escape, Parson’s beach, we decided to check out unfamiliar territory in Wells, the Laudholm Trust.

It was a snowy morning, and upon driving into the parking lot, we found one lonely car sitting there.  A few deep footprints disappeared into the woods, so we followed, on our way to Laudholm Beach.  A good trek, knee deep in powder, through snow covered thickets and past an icy salt marsh, led us to the sea.  I can’t say beach, because there was nothing left!  Maine Stay Inn snowmanThe surf was so high it crashed over the steps leading down to what would have been a spectacular stretch of shoreline. Instead, we watched the icy water crash over sea walls and into small mountains of rock, and, when the wind left us chilled to the core, turned inland to explore untrodden paths leading to overlooks of the coastal marshland. On our walk we encountered only one gentleman, clearly a comic artist, leaving snow sculptures for others to enjoy.

As we trudged through the thick powder, we read about the watershed, native wildlife and invasive species.  The unspoiled snow provided a glorious canvas for animal tracks, little and big alike.  While we didn’t catch a glimpse of any moose, their tracks were fully evident.  Desperate for a sighting in Maine?  Head to Laudholm for the best chances of a wild glimpse.

Laudholm Beach MaineLaudholm Trust was formed in 1982 to protect historic Laudholm farm, settled in 1642. This property was occupied by only 4 families in the ensuing centuries, and in the 1960s 199 acres were sold to the Maine Department of Conservation. Later, to prevent the remaining land’s sale to developers, neighbors joined together to protect the area. Eventually the trustees joined with the state of Maine, the owners of Laudholm Beach, to get National protection for the estuaries and marshes, and the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve was born.

Wells Maine BeachThe day was nothing short of spectacular, as were the land and the views.  We are so privileged that these 1600 acres have been preserved for wildlife – and for our enjoyment.  Make sure not to miss a visit to Laudholm Trust, less than 5 miles from the Maine Stay Inn, your Kennebunkport bed and breakfast inn.

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Winter Dining In Kennebunkport

Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009

Winter doesn’t really start in the Kennebunks until after Christmas Prelude, so now it’s time to address where visitors (and locals alike!) can eat in the area. Our philosophy at the Maine Stay is that, generally speaking, if they stay open in the winter, they’re good.  Of course, that’s not to say that there aren’t excellent eateries in the area that close for the winter.  In fact, there are quite a few that we hate to see close their doors once the cold weather sets in.  Here are some of our favorites that brave Maine’s blustery winters:

Kennebunkport:

  • Alisson’s Restaurant (a good staple for American cuisine in a casual atmosphere)
  • Bandaloop (incredible modern food with a Bohemian chic vibe)
  • Cape Arundel Inn (fine dining overlooking the Atlantic)
  • Federal Jack’s (a local brew pub serving homemade beer on tap)
  • Hurricane (waterfront dining in the port) – but it closes January 3rd!
  • Kennebunkport Inn (now specializing in small plates)
  • Pier 77 and the Ramp (fine dining restaurant and local sports bar with great eats in Cape Porpoise)
  • Stripers (riverfront dining)

Kennebunk:

  • Grissini (oven fired pizza and Tuscan style Italian food)
  • Kennebunk Inn (great food in a casual but hip setting)
  • Mekong Thai (for those needing a change of pace)
  • Old Vines (classy new wine bar with small bites and desserts)
  • On the Marsh (fine dining in Lower Village)
  • Thai Rose (intimate Thai in downtown Kennebunk)
  • White Barn Inn (five star dining in an elegant converted barn)

Wells:

  • Joshua’s (incredible food with a local flair)

Ogunquit

  • Arrow’s Restaurant (five star cuisine off the beaten path)

Clearly Kennebunkport’s famous dining continues even in the winter.  Take advantage of the quiet streets and Peaceful Season Rates at the Maine Stay this winter to do some incredible eating.  Bon appetit!

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Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport

Wednesday, December 9th, 2009
Dock Square Christmas Tree

Dock Square Christmas Tree

Now that the throngs of people have cleared out of Dock Square, the remaining hardy souls can enjoy a beautifully lit Christmas tree, complete with buoys and lobster topper.  The first weekend of Christmas Prelude has drawn to a close, and the Maine Stay Inn is looking forward to round two!  This coming weekend is sure to be a blast, especially now that we have a little snow on the ground!

Here is a sneak peak at this weekend’s festivities:

Friday, December 11, 2009

  • Holiday Shopping at all sponsoring shops and galleries (think candy canes and cocoa)
  • Hot beverages and treats around a roaring fire at Port Bakery
  • Live music at Federal Jack’s!
  • Festive food and entertainment at local businesses

Saturday, December 12, 2009

  • Winter Warmers Open House, featuring Cape Porpoise Kitchen’s cider, cookies, and cocoa
  • Prelude Open House of the Historic Nott House
  • Historic Trolley Rides through snowy woods while enjoying warm drinks and snacks
  • Wandering Christmas Minstrel
  • Historic Area Guided Walking Tours100_1004
  • Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair at the Nonantum
  • Historic Inns Open House
  • Patriot Fire and Drum Duo through Dock Square
  • Kids Cookie Decorating at Port Bakery
  • A Cappella Performance
  • Christmas Choral at the Village Baptist Church
  • New England Ringers
  • Holiday Concert
  • Live music at Federal Jack’s
  • Closing fire and warm drinks

Sunday, December 13, 2009

  • Open religious services
  • Breakfast with Santa
  • Holiday Shopping
  • Historic trolley rides
  • Santa arrives by fire engine in Cape Porpoise
  • Cookie Decorating
  • Holiday Tea at the Brick Store Museum
  • Closing fire at Port Bakery

We look forward to seeing you this year and hope you will choose the Maine Stay Inn for your Christmas Prelude reservations in 2010!

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