There's no time like the present to go hike Mount Agamenticus, the little bump on the horizon!

and now it’s Presidents’ Day.  Vacation week is here!  And even if school vacation week isn’t something you get off from work, the weather we’re expecting this week warrants playing hooky.  Honestly, though, who would expect it to reach into the 50s on three consecutive days in February?  So pack your bags and head to our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast!

But since I promised to include some ideas for how to spend your time this week, here goes:

• Take a walk on one of the amazing beaches that dot the coastline in and around Kennebunkport Maine.
• Hike Mt. Agamenticus in York – there’s no snow, so the trails should be clear and quiet.
• Peek into one of the galleries in town or the community arts center, River Tree Arts.
• Enjoy a long lunch in town and watch the boats slowly meander up the river.  Or try an afternoon in Cape Porpoise, and you’ll surely catch more than just a glimpse of the lobsterers bringing in their hauls.
• Shop ’til you drop – there are crazy deals to be had at both the Kittery and Freeport Outlet stores.  But don’t forget to “shop local” in Kennebunkport, because not only is it great for the American economy, but they have some of the best deals around!
• Just relax!  Visiting our Maine Bed and Breakfast might be just what you need – quiet time to read or nap, watch movies or play board games.  Take a soak in one of our jacuzzi tubs or just lounge in front of a fire – not that you’ll need it much this week!

So when considering what to do with your time off this week, think twice about flying south and head to Kennebunkport for a February Vacation Week that is just what the doctor ordered!

What a view! Thank you to one of our very special guests for use of this photo taken during her visit to Kennebunkport, ME

Presidents!  So for those of you who didn’t realize that the Bush Family compound is located just 2 miles from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, you’re not alone.  And for those of you who think you might find another first family here, you’ll find Camelot about three hours to our south – not too far for a day trip!

While the Bush family is not in Kennebunkport, ME at this time of year, their estate still sits pretty atop a rocky peninsula just down the street.  No matter the time of year, it’s a great walk out there for some sightseeing and gawking at the incredible “cottages” that flank our coastline.  And Parson’s Way, a path along our famous Ocean Avenue, boasts some of the prettiest stretches of Maine Coastline around (that’s my opinion, folks).  So it’s time to get in the spirit of Presidents’ Day week by dining in style at some of the Bush family’s favorite digs.  For a casual lunch, the seniors have often been spotted at The Ramp, a Kennebunkport, ME version of a “sports bar” – but it’s excellent, though eclectic, cuisine would lead you to think that description might not be accurate.  Guests have also reported that Barbara enjoys a fun, fresh dinner at Bandaloop, usually with girlfriends in tow – sorry, George, we’ve gotta have girl time!  But most frequently we hear of Presidential sightings at Cape Arundel Inn’s fine dining restaurant, which is no surprise given its location.  The open and airy dining room overlooks the inlet and entire Bush compound, plus it’s just around the corner – they could walk if the secret service let them.  But just like you, the former first family likes to lie low during their visits to Kennebunkport, ME, so this week, kick up your heels and relax at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast.

A view of Kennebunkport Maine from Federal Jack's - it just what I needed!

think about why exactly I enjoy eating in restaurants and narrowed it down to three main reasons.

• Eating out gives me a chance to try some different foods, or ones I just can’t make at home.  Now, we can all whip up a pot of pasta and marinara sauce, but there’s more to Italian cuisine than graces the shelves of your local supermarket.  We are lucky enough to have Grissini within walking distance of our Maine Bed and Breakfast.  Although they advertise themselves as being located in Kennebunkport Maine, they’re actually just over the border in Kennebunk, so keep that in mind when you’re out walking.  Anyhow, their thin crust stone hearth pizza is honestly the best I have ever had.  There’s no way that I could make that at home without an awesome stone pizza oven, so it’s a real treat!  Plus, their beef Carpaccio is a delicacy most wouldn’t dare to try at home.
• Another reason that I test drive different restaurants is for the chef.  In the case of Academe Brasserie, it’s two famous chefs!  This participating restaurant, Brian and Shanna O’Hea, has been featured on the food network and received lots of accolades in the industry lately, so while it’s a personal fave that we patronize regularly, I regularly try establishments for their reputations.  Plus, they often have gluten free soups available, which is great for our family.
• Finally, I also sometimes just need to gaze at the water, dreaming of the upcoming summer (I can’t believe how fast it’s approaching!).  If you’re in the same boat, you can enjoy the view of Kennebunkport Maine from the dining room of Federal Jack’s – it’s a perfect choice for “deluxe” pub food.  And their selection of handcrafted beers is terrific, especially the “Old Thumper.”

So whatever your reasons for indulging in an evening of dining out, this March 1-10 is the perfect time to explore!  Each of the participating restaurants offers three course lunch and/or dinner for just $20.12, $30.12, or $40.12!  That just can’t be beat!  Plus, with three great restaurants in Kennebunkport Maine, and some extra cash in your pocket from these great savings, you can indulge in a Maine Stay getaway and we’ll throw the third night in for free! (*Please note, the least expensive night will be at no charge, even if it isn’t your third evening.)

Especially for Valentine's Day - don't you?!

Love was certainly in the air this Valentine’s Day in Kennebunkport Maine, and the Maine Stay was no exception!  We started off the day with a festive breakfast, dishing up our signature crustless quiche with steaming raspberry muffins and homemade cranberry applesauce, though I must admit that my attempts to form it into little hearts was a bit of a flop.  Couples gathered around the table in our Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast, and they all really seemed to hit it off, even sharing how long they’ve been together (of course I’ll spill the beans – they ranged from still dating to married for well over 3o years).  But while some chose to be social, others preferred to spend Valentine’s Day enjoying breakfast in bed (and considering the chilly temps this morning, I was a little envious!).  To banish the cold after a long afternoon walk, guests shared their “excess” candy (does such a thing actually exist?) and we enjoyed steaming mugs of cocoa with whipped cream shaped into hearts – can you tell I love Valentine’s?

In my mind, however, the best part is helping visitors figure out what Kennebunkport Maine Restaurant is going to make their evening exactly as they imagined.  This year, though, people really were planners, and, quite surprisingly, many dining reservations had already been made.  So it was easy to tell that the big winners today were Bandaloop, 50Local, and On the Marsh.  Now, there’s no judgement there – those were just the most popular one guests selected for dining tonight.  This might actually be the first time that none of our Valentine’s diners chose to head to the White Barn Inn, and instead opted for one of the lower key establishments that make Kennebunkport Maine what it is.  Later, however, when I looked into dinner reservations for myself, I was pleased to find quite a few places were fully booked.  Just another reason to book your Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast reservations early!  But as Valentine’s Day draws to a close, the guests are discovering the allure of our whirlpool tubs and romance of our many glowing gas fireplaces.  Happy Valentine’s Day from Kennebunkport Maine!

Because sometimes this just won't do!

handles easily, but my favorite part of their store is the wall of windows and door that allow you to look into their cooler and create your own floral arrangements.  With convenient delivery options, this shop is a favorite of lots of locals.

Most often, though, a change of pace is required and a truly spectacular display of unique flowers and inventive vegetative accents is needed (or just desired), and for that we turn to Calluna Fine Flowers located in Ogunquit Maine. Unfortunately for us and guests of the Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, she does operate seasonally, which means that for some of the winter period (though Valentine’s is usually an exception), Calluna’s incredible arrangements are unavailable.  But the hidden perk of an extended hiatus means that anticipation for her creations builds throughout the winter, leading up to a joyful springtime reopening.  And when you’re looking for just a little pop of color to brighten up your table, try one of our local farms.  During the summer months, the plethora of small farms in the area allows for creative folks to assemble their own bouquets with locally grown flowers and support community agriculture.  In fact, at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, we often participate in CSA flower programs to help keep these farms going strong!  So with all these options, don’t let Valentine’s Day craziness paralyze your flower-shopping attempts, because there are so many great places to find just the right arrangement in Kennebunkport Maine!

• The White Barn Inn is basically the epitome of “wining and dining” in Kennebunkport Maine.  Their wine list is more than extensive and their prix fixe menu offers a wine pairing option.  The atmosphere, while very formal, is certainly intimate
  

  Luscious lamb chops at Joshua's!

  with cozy tables, low lights, deep colors, and lots of candles.  But gents, if you aren’t comfortable in a jacket, pass on this one, as they are required.

• On the Marsh Bistro is an excellent option for visitors looking for romantic Kennebunkport Maine restaurants, but at about half the price of their aforementioned competitor.  The charming dining rooms here overlook the marsh and feature endless nooks for enjoying your evening out with your other half without being distracted by other diners.  If the ocean calls, consider the Cape Arundel Inn, whose vibe is much more airy, but equally as impressive.
• Joshua’s Restaurant is another wonderful choice, providing some of the freshest cuisine around.  They utilize lots of local and organic ingredients, but the setting in an antique farmhouse with wide plank floors and open hearths make this a no-brainer for romantic dining.
• Sometimes, though, your evening for two just means a night out with excellent food and an atmosphere conducive for eye-gazing and quiet whispering.  If that’s the case, check out Bandaloop Restaurant and Grissini (where I am particularly fond of the atmosphere in their lower level) – plus, both are just a hop, skip, and a jump from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast.
• Don’t want the night to end?  Consider capping it off with a stop at Old Vines Wine Bar, which offers delectable tapas style dishes and an extensive wine list.  The vibe is amazing and definitely right on the mark when it comes to setting the mood for a romantic getaway.

While any one of these incredible Kennebunkport Maine Restaurants would be ideal for a romantic evening, this list was certainly not exhaustive.  So get out and explore the awesome options in the area and get crackin’ on your Valentine’s getaway plans!

Imagine breakfast delivered to your door!

So here’s the reality of this Maine Bed and Breakfast: all private baths and no one breathing down your neck.  We’re very lucky that some phenomenal shipbuilders crafted our house, because the walls are very thick.  Now, if you’ve been inside the Maine Stay, you know that the kitchen and front office are right next to one another and that both are teeny tiny.  But when I’m in the kitchen, there is no way on earth I could hear someone in the office.  It’s only a bad thing when someone’s waiting in the hall and are too bashful to poke their heads into the kitchen to ask for help!  Fortunately for you (and for us) that’s not an exception.  So cross noise off your silly “Reasons I don’t do B&Bs” list.  I can almost guarantee that you’ll hear more of your neighbors in a hotel than a Maine Bed and Breakfast where everyone dedicates themselves to making your stay to be perfect.

Often, however, people worry about being pestered by Auntie Sue, leaving room for the holy ghost, or finding her missing cat.  That’s about as far from our reality as you can get.  While we do greet every guest personally (unless they have made arrangements for a late check-in), we take our cues from you.  Some people wants lots of time to socialize and get to know the staff, while others want just the basics and to be on their way.  Either is A-okay with us!  Honestly!  If you want help finding the perfect place to eat, hike, antique, and sightsee while relaxing over a cup of tea – any of us are more than happy to oblige.  If you’d rather just snag the WiFi password and head to your abode, that’s fine too!

But if you’re still feeling anxious, a good way to test the waters is in one of our Cottage Suites.  Not only can you have breakfast delivered and not worry about making small talk across the dining room table (though we’d happily set extra seats for you or help arrange a quieter time to eat if you want to stay in the main house), but you can enjoy it in bed if you want!  Plus here there’s never anyone in a room above or below you, and could only have one (or two if you are in Cottage Suite 2) neighbor.  And you’ll never be headboard-to-headboard with any other space – how great is that?  So now there’s no excuse – it’s time to plan your getaway to a Maine Bed and Breakfast and experience just how private and relaxing they can be!

A Kennebunkport ME staple for sports-watching!

skins, and wings galore), both Federal Jack’s and Alisson’s are close enough that you can walk home after enjoying a few brewskis or to relocate back to the comfort of your room during commercial breaks without missing a moment of playing time.  Or, if you are anything like me, make it back without missing any of the commercials!  But these big guys aren’t the only Kennebunkport ME restaurants to catch the game.  Both Pedro’s and The Ramp have great bars for watching sports on television, but the food offerings here, while less characteristic of your neighbor’s Superbowl party, are truly excellent.  Plus, who wouldn’t want a great margarita while watching the Patriots (or insert your favorite local team here)? Despite the plethora of viewing venues available, most of our guests chose to lie low, watching the game in the comfort and privacy of their own room, where they cracked open a bottle of wine and noshed on cheese and crackers (talk about a step up from Uncle Stew’s Superbowl Sunday party).  Needless to say, we weren’t exactly overrun with riots like some New England communities and our comfy sitting areas just seemed to win out!  So next year, when the Pats find themselves gunning for glory, don’t fret because our Kennebunkport ME bed and breakfast and the surrounding community offer tons of great spots to watch!

Snuggle by the fire!

If you upgrade to a room or suite with a fireplace or jacuzzi tub, that special someone will surely be delighted.  And if she’s been working long hours or doing double duty at home, I’d venture to guess that the option of sleeping in and having breakfast delivered right to your door would sound really good.  If you think so too, consider choosing one of our Cottage Suites.  It’s a unique attribute of our Maine Bed and Breakfast, and ensures you more space, an added sense of privacy, and our version of room service.  So if you’re hesitant about the idea of staying at your first Maine Bed and Breakfast, don’t stress – the Cottage Suitesare the ideal way to test the waters!

If someone were taking me away for a romantic getaway, it would be even more special if it meant sneaking away for an extra day (yay for playing hookey from work!).  But it doesn’t have to break the bank, because we are offering a Third Night Free special, which means that you can enjoy a three night escape, but only pay the price of two!  And don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone about your bargain find!  Sometimes, though, you can only sneak away for a night, so consider celebrating on Valentine’s Day itself.  Sure, ducking out of work can be a challenge, but the revitalization you’ll feel is unimaginable! Just think – it’ll sure be a short week.

But sometimes, though, you’ve got to pull out a few extra surprises to make your romantic getaway especially memorable.  You could go the more traditional route with flowers, champagne, or lavish dinners.  Instead, you could surprise her by setting the mood with flameless candles, romantic music, and chocolately treats.  Or, you might know something that would mean the world to your partner.  But whatever the request, we’re here to help you make this Valentine’s getaway one for the record books!

Sweet tooth satiated!

stopping there is a requirement – for sodas and snacks, you will feed the family’s munchies for less than a ticket of admission.  Thank goodness for oversized purses to carry this “contraband” into the theater.  But you really can’t beat the buttery goodness of movie theater popcorn, so with the cash we all save by bringing your own sweets, supersize that popcorn!  Plus, that way you won’t feel guilty about not following the “no outside food or drink allowed” policy.  But nutritional aficionados out there, don’t stress – there are plenty of excellent restaurants nearby that offer healthy options to fuel your furnace before or after the show.

If you can’t find the film you want in Wells, head north from Kennebunkport, ME to Smitty’s Cinema in Biddeford, where it is almost a requirement to enter hungry.  Unlike any other chain of movie theaters I have visited, Smitty’s features smaller venues dotted with long tables and oversized easy chairs.  And instead of ushers, they have servers, who bring menus to patrons and deliver lunch, dinner, or snacks throughout the film.  What’s better than a burger and a beer with your movie?  Salad and milkshakes, of course! (Well, certainly for someone with a gluten allergy!)  Surprisingly, though, it’s not a distraction, and the smaller theaters mean that there are fewer cell phones to interrupt or noisy commentators to annoy patrons.

While neither of these theaters offer the assortment and sparkle of a big cinema, it really contributes to their charm.  However, Cinemagic in Saco boasts the glitz and glam of modern theaters.  And it even offers IMAX shows!  Granted it’s a little farther from our Maine Bed and Breakfast, it is sometimes worth the trip – especially if you are headed to one of the area water parks and mother nature throws you a curve ball.  Yes, it has happened!  So the next time you find yourself hankering for some big screen fun near Kennebunkport, ME, don’t worry – there are lots of great options!