Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast News and Blog

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Kennebunkport Maine

March 5th, 2013 by mainestayinn

Our local Irish Pub, Ryan’s Corner House, is perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Kennebunkport Maine!

While Valentine’s Day seems like just yesterday, St. Patrick’s Day is rapidly approaching, and fortunately there are great places to enjoy the luck of the Irish in Kennebunkport Maine. Just around the corner from the Maine Stay Inn is a local favorite (and not just at this time of year!) – Ryan’s Corner House. This authentic Irish pub opened just two years ago, just in time for St. Paddy’s Day. In addition to some amazing brews, they offer fantastic Irish fare, as well as some more conventionally American options, just in case. But who can resist an amazing corned beef and cabbage right about now? But if you’re exploring southern Maine, you can check out their new location a few towns south in Ogunquit. It’s the perfect spot for a warm-up after a winter walk along the Marginal Way!

But Kennebunkport Maine is lucky to have another great option for St. Patrick’s Day pub crawling – which really is just lingering over indulgent meals for me! A few minutes up the road on Route 1 is Feile Restaurant and Pub, which also offers great music and entertainment. We’re so lucky to have three great places to enjoy authentic Irish food and beverages for this holiday (and throughout the year), but now we’re busy turning our attention to crafting a fun, festive, and delicious menu for St. Patrick’s Day. And thank goodness for Pinterest because we are accumulating lots of great ideas. But if you have any suggestions or favorite Irish recipes, we’d love suggestions!

Tags: Holidays in Kennebunkport Maine, Kennebunkport restaurants
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A Romantic Evening in Kennebunkport Maine

February 27th, 2013 by mainestayinn

On a blustery evening like tonight, there is nothing better than a cozy, romantic dinner before settling in for the night, and fortunately for everyone, Kennebunkport Maine has some great destinations that fit the bill perfectly! Now, I have to admit that sometimes on wintry nights like this one, visitors choose to bring their dinners in, to enjoy before the living room fire (yep, I’ve certainly been known to do this myself!), because it is just oh-so-tempting to hop into bed or slide into a hot bath without having to brave the elements. But when you’re hankering for a romantic dinner out, consider checking out one of these great nearby restaurants that score a perfect 10 for setting the mood.

Just a moment’s drive from the Maine Stay Inn, you’ll find Grissini, an Italian restaurant with an upscale main floor and a more casual lower level, known as the Grotto. And on a snowy winter evening, there is
Enjoy a romantic dinner on a snowy winter night!

nothing more romantic than sipping a glass of your favorite wines in front of their roaring fireplace.
Want a spot that sets the mood that’s close enough to walk to - even in the snow? The fireside lounge style dining and cozy bar area at One Dock is a great choice. Plus, with great gluten free options, it’s a personal fave.
Just a few minutes down the road on the Wells border, you’ll find Joshua’s Restaurant. Set in a colonial farmhouse, you’ll find an intimate dining atmosphere (and yes, it has fireplaces – plural!) with positively incredible concoctions.
But if you are looking for fine dining a little closer to home, On the Marsh Bistro is always a hit. There you’ll enjoy a stellar meal by candlelight with attentive, never oppressive service. And since it’s located about two minutes from your Kennebunkport Maine bed and breakfast, you’ll hardly have time to feel the winter chill before snuggling into bed!

So even though Valentine’s Day has passed, there are plenty of great ways to celebrate the ones you love, and enjoying a romantic dinner on a classic winter evening in Kennebunkport Maine seems tops the list.

Tags: Kennebunkport restaurants, romantic getaways, winter getaways
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A Walk in the Woods, Kennebunkport Style!

February 25th, 2013 by mainestayinn

While much of the state of Maine is heavily wooded and home to some big critters like moose and bears, those of us in Kennebunkport are fortunate to be able to easily enjoy an old-school “walk in the woods” without venturing from the perks of a delightful seaside village studded with awesome restaurants, art galleries, and great shopping. And frankly, I just love that! I mean, what could be better than exploring the great outdoors, cleaning up in a luxurious bathroom, and heading out to a great dinner? But, as usual, I digress. We already know about how much I love the

Enjoy a winter walk in the woods!

Kennebunkport restaurants, but the recent dusting of snow inspired me to get out and explore some of my other favorite places – the natural kind!

So if you are looking for a spot to reconnect with mother nature, you certainly don’t have to venture far from our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast. After a fresh coat of powder, I love to admire the way bare tree limbs catch the snow, and the best place to do so is at the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust‘s Smith Preserve. Just a few minutes drive from the inn, it’s easy to zip past the parking lot, especially because it is usually empty. Seriously, this is a hidden gem! And with no charge to enjoy the winding loops of trails through the woods, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy some solace in the great outdoors.

Feel like you’d be missing out by not walking along the ocean? The Wells Reserve at Laudholm Farm is just over the town line, but with over 7 miles of trails (yes, some are wooded!) and a protected strip of coastline, it is a must-visit destination during every season. But if you’re looking for a little elevation, head just a few miles to our south, where you can hike to your heart’s content at Mount Agamenticus. Especially during the winter months, the terrain is stunning (and yes, you can see the ocean from the top), and your trip down Route 1 is easy peasy. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the amazing outdoor opportunities in Kennebunkport.

Tags: Kennebunkport activities, Kennebunkport winter, outdoor activities, seasons in Kennebunkport
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Sneak Peek at Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast Renovations

February 19th, 2013 by mainestayinn

Now this might sound crazy, but one of my personal favorite things about wintertime at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast is the chance to work on renovation and redesign projects. That probably sounds crazy, planning a new look is a ton of fun (although watching guests’ expressions when they walk into a room they love is definitely better)!

A sneak peek at our renovation!

We love that each one of our rooms and suites has a distinct personality – you certainly won’t find that at a hotel! But even more fun is sharing our vision with visitors before we carry out the plan, and often they shed great light on things that would enhance their stay. Sometimes their suggestions are simple as adding extra shelves or hooks, and sometimes they help us with bigger things like bed placement, but it’s always helpful! And this winter has been no exception. A little less than a year ago, I stumbled across a wallpaper pattern that I thought was the perfect union of modern geometric patterns and traditional styling, which seemed like an ideal fit for an update on Cottage Suite 3 at our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast. I filed that away, and during December we started searching in earnest. After bringing more than a few wallpaper books back to the inn, we narrowed down it down to two, but after the input from friends, family, Maine Stay staff, and guests, the one we picked out so long ago won out!

Fast forward a few months and the renovation in Suite 3 is nearing completion, and although we are waiting on a few final touches on the bathroom, the delivery of a new love seat, and a chandelier (yes, a chandelier!), we’ll be ready for visitors at the end of the week. This room has seen an incredible transformation in a short period of time, and we can’t wait to share the pictures with you once the photographer comes at the end of the month. But we couldn’t keep you in suspense, so we’ll give you a peek at the wallpaper that inspired the entire transformation. We hope you love it as much as we do!

Tags: Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast renovations, romantic cottages
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Romantic Getaways to Maine Bed and Breakfasts

February 13th, 2013 by mainestayinn

Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is upon us and that means it is the perfect time for planning romantic getaways, and what better place than to Maine bed and breakfasts?! With the landscape rejuvenated by the recent snowfall, the scene is set for an idyllic wintertime escape, so this Valentine’s Day, skip the flowers and chocolate and trade up to something extra special for the one you love and plan a getaway to take advantage of the incredible beauty of the season. For many people, the idea of Maine bed and breakfasts conjures up images of doilies and lace, fake flowers and teddy bears, which doesn’t exactly scream “romance.” But the truth is that the B&Bs of today offer amenities that are perfect for setting the mood, so it’s time to banish the idea of creaky beds and and nosy neighbors! Here are some of the things visitors enjoy during their romantic getaways:

Say bye-bye to those kitchy patterns, because the Maine Stay Inn offers modern, contemporary, and transitional decor, as
Dessert by the fire? Yes, please!

well as updated and simplified decor that brings the main house’s Victorian identity into the 21st century! And along with it comes technology to match, with flat screen televisions and iPad/iPod docking stations.
What could be better than snuggling up with your special someone in front of a glowing fire? Only one that you don’t have to stoke yourself! So take advantage of the ambience of the warm gas fireplaces in most rooms and suites. But if your chosen spot doesn’t offer a gas one, we’ve got electric fireplaces for that very purpose. Not to mention the fact that every visitor is always welcome to enjoy the warmth of the living room fire!
No more shared bathrooms like Maine bed and breakfasts of the olden days, my friends, because every room and suite at the Maine Stay offers private baths, many with those features that set the scene for your romantic getaways. Yes, you’ll find showers built for two and even double whirlpool tubs!
But romantic getaways wouldn’t be complete without breakfast in bed, and guess what? You can even find that in our cottage suites and deluxe fireplace suite 12 in the main house.

There’s no question about it – Maine bed and breakfasts really are the the spot for your next escape, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect reason to get away!

Tags: romantic cottages, romantic getaways, romantic weekend, Valentine's Day getaways
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Kennebunkport Maine Found Nemo!

February 10th, 2013 by mainestayinn

Now that snow storm Nemo has come and gone in Kennebunkport Maine, we are reflecting on one of the largest snowfalls ever and enjoying the beautiful scenery that comes with it! Just 86 miles to our south, Boston received 24.9 inches of the white stuff, making it the 5th largest snowfall total from a single storm, and nearby Portland, ME broke all time records with their 31.9 inches of snow.

Sledding in Kennebunkport Maine

While we didn’t get quite that much, there is plenty of snow around! Fortunately, Kennebunkport Maine does an astounding job at snow removal, so things are up and running smoothly in town. Now, I may be a little biased, but I have never seen anything more beautiful!

Wintertime activities abound, so folks are out and about, taking advantage of the bright blue skies and sparkling snow (don’t forget your sunscreen!), with snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and sledding. Even before the sun came out yesterday, adults and kids alike could be found taking advantage of the great sledding conditions, so you can be sure that the slopes are going to be well utilized today! But even those who aren’t snow bunnies are enjoying the scenes, taking leisurely drives along the coast and Instagram-ing the heck out of it. Back at the Maine Stay Inn, though, cocoa, coffee, and tea is flowing as visitors are enjoying cozying up by the fireplace in the living room and in the privacy of their rooms and suites. We can’t imagine a more romantic and relaxing way to spend a few days, and with Valentine’s Day just days away it just seems so appropriate. So if you haven’t planned your romantic getaway yet, make sure you take advantage of the idyllic scene set by Nemo!

Tags: Kennebunkport winter, seasons in Kennebunkport, winter getaway maine
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Snow Day fun at a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast

February 7th, 2013 by mainestayinn

Many folks around New England are going to enjoy an unexpected snow day tomorrow, but we think the best way to spend a day is at a Kennebunkport bed and breakfast! Honestly, what could be better than playing in some fresh powder? Yes, we’re forecasted to get all white stuff, unlike the southern coastlines of New England, and we’re excited and raring to go! Fortunately for us, Kennebunkport is tops when it comes to snow removal, which means that even in some of the most challenging storms, driving around town is no sweat – or stress (but we always recommend exercising caution on the road!). But the idea of celebrating a much needed snow day in town got me thinking about some of my favorite ways to enjoy a fresh coating of snow, so here are some of my

Snow meets the beach in Kennebunkport!

top picks!

Grab your snowshoes and go exploring one one of the great golf courses or amazing nature preserves in the area! With thousands of acres of land to explore a stone’s throw from our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast. Not to fret – if you forgotyours at home or have never given them a try, Harris Farm in Dayton has rentals of snowshoes and cross country skis to use on their miles of groomed trails. Plus, you can warm up with hot cocoa in their warming hut afterwards!
Sometimes a snowstorm is the perfect excuse to catch up on your favorite films with a trip to the movie theater. And at nearby Smitty’s Cinema, you can stay all day, because not only can you order real food (delivered to your table in the theater), but their oversized leather recliners mean that you’ll be comfortable flick after flick! Not willing to change out of your jammies? Borrow a movie or two from our collection and enjoy them in the privacy of your room or suite and you’ll have control over stop and start!
Lace up your boots and stroll along the coast, because there is absolutely nothing more stunning than the waves lashing the coastline, so enjoy it. Or Instagram it.
Snuggle! No seriously, I just love cozying up on a comfy couch with a good book, reveling in the heat of a glowing fire, and staring out the window as snow quietly falls around me. And for a change of scenery, you can grab freshly baked cookies at teatime and hop in the tub for a leisurely soak. No sore shoveling muscles for you, because the Maine Stay Inn is taking care of it!

So get ready for a snow day like no other, because spending it at a Kennebunkport bed and breakfast is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy wintertime in New England. Let the snow begin, because once it’s over you can enjoy winter wonderland fun in the sun!

Tags: Kennebunkport winter, Things to do in Kennebunkport, winter getaway maine
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Kennebunkport’s Heating Up this February

January 31st, 2013 by mainestayinn

It’s hard to believe that February is already up on us, and while Old Man Winter is definitely still hanging around, things are heating up in Kennebunkport in anticipation of Valentine’s Day! Unlike some vacation communities, Kennebunkport doesn’t go into

Cocoa in front of the fire – what a treat!

hibernation during the winter months, and while restaurants, shops, and galleries usually take little breaks at some point during the season for things like renovations, family time, and staff training, little of that happens during February. And that’s because February is for Lovers! Seriously, though, the businesses of Kennebunkport have teamed up each year to make sure that you’ll have the ideal romantic getaway in town and enjoy the great shopping, dining, and recreation that you have come to expect. And with Third Night Free specials at the Maine Stay Inn, you can enjoy a much-needed respite and stay on budget.

So it’s time to get crackin’ and start planning that getaway with your special someone, because what could be better than escaping the stressors of daily life and cuddling by a glowing fire? Maybe just doing so with a steaming cup of cocoa and gooey fresh-out-of-the-oven cookies! And yep, we’ve got that. We’re also happy to help you figure out which restaurants will best fit the mood of your vay-cay and where to find your favorite wintertime activities. Just looking to snuggle and play things by ear? No problem! We’ll happily deliver a gourmet breakfast to the door of your cottage suite, so you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast in bed. And when (or if) you decide to venture out for some exploring, we’ll having afternoon cookies and hot beverages waiting for your return (mmmm… that’s making me hungry!). This February, don’t miss out on spending some quality time with your special someone in Kennebunkport Maine.

Tags: romantic getaways, Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day Maine
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Kennebunkport Innkeeper Heads to Las Vegas Conference

January 28th, 2013 by mainestayinn

One of the Maine Stay Inn and Cottage’s innkeepers has just touched down in Las Vegas for the annual PAII conference. And, no, that’s no euphemism – she really is attending courses, seminars, and meetings! The Professional Association of Innkeepers International holds a terrific conference once a year in different cities throughout the nation, and we never miss out on a chance to

Kennebunkport meets Las Vegas at the 2013 Innkeeping Conference

learn about the ever changing hospitality industry. So while Walter’s feeling a little jealous that Judi is skipping out on him and some light snow showers this week, he knows that she always gets a tremendous amount of information out of the meetings. And what is she busy learning about, you might ask? With dozens of classes ranging from cooking and social media to photography and software, there are more options than one person can take advantage of during the week. We’ll certainly fill you in on all of the great things she’ll learn this year, but we’ll have to wait until she comes back to Kennebunkport on Friday for that!

Each year we learn about changes in technology that impact hospitality, in our office, on the web, and in guest rooms and then have the opportunity to check out some great solutions in the trade show (oh hey, iPad docking stations in our rooms). But one of the best things is getting to meet and work with vendors that specialize in working with bed and breakfasts like ours. Ever wonder where we find our linens? At the PAII conference! I mean who could buy towels without getting to feel them first?! Or how about our awesome hand-thrown mugs that you can microwave? Yep, we found those from Deneen Pottery, one of the sponsors of the PAII conference! So while all of us in Kennebunkport are missing Judi this week, we know that she’s working hard to bring back awesome ideas and products to the Maine Stay Inn!

Tags: innkeeping, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast
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Coffee Roasters of the Kennebunks Opens in Lower Village

January 22nd, 2013 by mainestayinn

A great new shop has joined the ranks of quaint shops and boutiques in Kennebunkport and Lower Village, Coffee Roasters of the Kennebunks. Just a stone’s throw from the Maine Stay Inn, this adorable new store is a combination specialty beverage shop and gift store, and with its adorable new facade, you just can’t help but go in! For the past several years, we’ve watched the transformation of

Now open – Coffee Roasters of the Kennebunks!

a historic property on Port Road in the heart of Lower Village, and the attached carriage house has finally morphed into an inviting new spot that’s quickly becoming a new fave. Not only do they stock oodles of loose teas, coffee beans, and brewing devices, but the actually roast the beans right on site! So take a scoop of your favorite blends and sip easy, knowing that you’ve purchased the highest quality, locally produced beans. And best of all, the aroma of beans roasting just inside is positively incredible – it just pulls you inside. To be honest, I’m more of a tea kind of gal, but the smell is what really drew me inside, because where can you find freshly roasted beans these days?!

But the selection of great gifts also sets Coffee Roasters of the Kennebunks apart from other beverage retailers, as well as the other unique shops in town. You can find inventive cards, small gifts, sweets and dried fruits, and even fun personal accessories (yep, I love the scarf I scored there!), and any kind of host/hostess gift you could imagine. We’re so lucky that this great establishment has opened in Kennebunk/Kennebunkport and can’t wait for you to experience it for yourself!

Tags: Shopping in Kennebunkport, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Welcome to Maine Stay Inn, a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast Inn and Cottages.