There are two types of people in this world. Those that are looking for move-in ready, turnkey opportunities and those that see the potential in a fixer-upper and are keen to bring their vision to life. 

Owner and operator, Katrina Peterson, is the latter. After moving to Winterport, Maine she fell in love with that notorious old building with the FOR SALE sign she quickly spotted on Main Street.

Last used as a music store, the building had originally been built as a church in the 1800s. Katrina saw the vision for the old-world space in the charming town to become a one-of-a-kind community and events center; a space to bring families and communities together. 

She made the investment and named her new property Crooked Steeple Hall. It would take a lot of time, effort, money, and energy to bring the vision to life but luckily, renovation projects are Katrina’s creative outlet and she was up to the challenge. 

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Katrina was determined to preserve the historical elegance of Crooked Steeple Hall’s original steeple, tin walls, ceilings, and bell, while adding modern amenities necessary to make the unique space perfect for weddings, community events, and special occasions. 

Katrina was not afraid to get dirty with the renovations either. As most entrepreneurs know, sweat equity is part of the game when starting up. Katrina has done a lot of the work herself, pulling up floorboards and painting with the help of friends and local volunteers. Renovations are scheduled to be completed in summer 2021. 

Crooked Steeple Hall has an open, flexible floor plan, an onsite bridal suite, kitchen facilities, and separate cocktail and after-party spaces. Couples can create their wedding vision for up to 200 guests and nonprofits can use the space for their events with no rental fee. 

It’s exciting to see Katrina’s vision of using Crooked Steeple Hall to bring the community together, to support local business, and help revitalize Winterport, come to life. Through her work with the hall, Katrina is helping to introduce Maine to guests from around the country and the world. 

As an advocate of women in business, Katrina has also brought together a team of enterprising women to help build the Crooked Steeple Hall brand. Meet the team here. 

Crooked Steeple Hall is already taking reservations for events being held from January 2022. We would love to discuss bringing the vision for your wedding or event to life. 

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Moxie Falls

With over 3000 miles of rugged coastline, mountains, and thousands of lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, Maine is teeming with options for active nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers to see and explore. 

Whether you’re looking for an easy hike to do with kids (or beginners) or one that will challenge your physical and mental fitness, here are a few of the best places for hiking in Maine, approved by trusted locals and yours truly!

Moxie Falls Trail

DIFFICULTY: Easy

Moxie Falls is a jaw-dropping 100ft waterfall in central Maine. But best of all, this beauty can be found at the end of an easy 1.7 mile, mostly flat trail. Note that there are some steps to descend if you want better views of the Falls, and things can get a little slippery. Just take your time. Trust us… it’s worth it. 

Don’t forget your camera. 

Shoreline Trail

DIFFICULTY: Easy

Shoreline Trail is another family-friendly hiking trail in Maine’s Lily Bay State Park. The 2-mile trail is mostly flat and runs along Moosehead Lake creating a beautiful scene for this waterfront hike. If you’re lucky you might even spot a moose!

Moxie Falls

Jordan Pond Loop Trail

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

The Jordan Pond Loop Trail lies somewhere between easy to moderate. The roughly 3.5 mile trail is mostly flat and loops around Acadia National Park’s second-largest lake.

The popularity of this trail means that you’re likely to share it with lots of other hikers but on the plus side, leashed dogs are allowed. And if you’re really lucky, you might see a beaver in his lodge on the lake. 

Mount Katahdin via the Abol Trail

DIFFICULTY: Challenging

Towering at 5269 feet, Mt. Katahdin is Maine’s highest peak and the Abol Trail is one of the harder routes to the summit. With gains of up to 4000ft. this 7.3 mile (roundtrip) trail is no walk in the park. Expect plenty of steep inclines and rock scrambling to test your mental and physical strength.

Your reward? Views that simply cannot be beaten and the complete and utter satisfaction of knowing that you, my friend, conquered Mt Katahdin.

Mt Katahdin

Mt Katahdin via Saddle Trail

DIFFICULTY: Moderate to Challenging

If you want to summit Mt Katahdin but want a (slightly) easier route, consider the Saddle Trail. It’s a bit longer at 10.4 miles but a fair chunk of it is moderate. The closer you get to the peak the more challenging it gets, so make sure you gauge your comfort level as you venture up.

These are a few of. my favorite hiking trails near me. Have you been on any hikes in Maine? Where do you think are the best places to go hiking in Maine?

As travel restrictions continue to loosen, we are so excited that hiking season is upon us and we can not wait to greet travelers from all around again. If you are looking to book later in the year, check out our previous blog filled with Winter activities to indulge in while visiting Maine.

Our accommodations allow for an intimate party of two all the way up to a traveling group of 20! View our listings below and feel free to reach out with any questions.

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It takes a village of amazing vendors to execute a wedding vision just right. We’re lucky to have a hub of great vendors near us at Crooked Steeple Hall. 

As a wedding venue in Maine with an onsite concierge, we have plenty of experience with wedding vendors and suppliers. You can see our full list of preferred vendors here. 

But today on the blog, we’re highlighting three awesome vendors - a wedding planner, a florist, and a baker. These three smart, talented ladies will help you to execute your unique wedding vision for an event you and your guests will always remember. 

Wedding Planning: E Grace Designs

Look no further than the lovely Elishia Townsend, owner of E Grace Designs. E Grace Designs is Crooked Steeple’s exclusive wedding planner. Elishia is graceful and creative, with an eye for design. She and her team bring your wedding vision to life. 

The E Grace team takes care of all the details of your big day, while you focus on celebrating your big day. 

In addition to wedding planning, E Grace also does elegant floral design and cake design. 

Florist: Jennfier Neal

Jennifer Neal Floral Designs is a top floral designer based in Maine. She is creative and attentive and loves helping brides bring their ideas to life. Whether it’s a floral backdrop concept for photos, floral accents, or your bouquet, Jennifer’s eye for design will reflect exactly the theme you envision.

E Grace Design

Cakes: Ahimsa Custom Cakes

Ahimsa Custom Cakes by Kristi is one of Maine’s finest cake artists. But the most interesting thing about Ahmisa’s is that all their cakes are vegan… but don’t let the vegan label fool you. 

Ahimsa’s cakes are award-winning and loved by non-vegans and vegans alike. 

Skeptical? The proof is in the pudding... Ahimsa won Wedding Wire’s Bride & Couples Choice Awards in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2017. 

We are currently booking weddings for 2022 and can not wait to start working with our favorite vendors again. When you book your wedding with us, you get exclusive use of the venue from Thursday - Sunday along with an on-site venue manager and a travel concierge for you and your guests. Connect with us to learn more about how we can help you plan the perfect Maine wedding.

We'll see you in 2022!

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Your wedding is supposed to be one of the most memorable days of your life… but lurking under the idyllic venue, perfect decor and delectable food is often a pressure that many brides and grooms do not anticipate. It’s the pressure that sometimes transforms the normally easy-going couple into bridezilla and groomzilla.

Even small weddings can be a huge undertaking. Whether you’re having a big or small wedding, there are a few things you can do to reduce your stress levels and avoid wedding planning panic attacks. These tips will ensure that you and your love can truly enjoy the magic of the day with your family and friends.

DELEGATE

Yes, I know you want every little detail to be perfect. And nobody can tie a bow quite like you. But you’ll run yourself ragged if you have to manage all aspects of your wedding by yourself. Whether you hire a wedding coordinator or you recruit family and friends, enlist help to run errands and handle whatever bits you can’t.

Be sure you explain clearly what you need then… resist the urge to micromanage.

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

I hate to break it to you but something always goes wrong on the event day. Remember the best wedding you ever attended? I’m willing to bet that something went wrong somewhere. You probably didn’t even notice and it did not take away from your experience.

You’ve done the best to plan and organize but Murphy’s Law will likely crash your wedding too. Have contingencies in place and then enjoy the day, imperfections and all. Even if the neighbor’s toddler starts stripping in the aisle or Uncle John refuses to tuck his shirt in for a photo.

These are annoying but not worth stressing over. Remember the purpose of the day and focus on that. Have a great time!

Choose a Go-To Person that’s Not You

On your wedding day, you need someone to be your stand-in when people have questions that you simply won’t be able to answer. Your stand-in should have just as much knowledge about the wedding as you do. This is a person you’ll feel comfortable giving your phone to on that day. The person who will run interference between you and guests who have questions while also being able to gather missing family members for photos.

Plan Your Wedding Timeline

Enlist the help of your wedding coordinator or photographer if you don’t have a wedding coordinator to develop a realistic timeline for your wedding. Create a realistic play-by-play of all activities and be sure to include some buffer time for potential issues that may arise.

Trial and Prep Hair, Makeup, Dress, and Shoes

Don’t go blindly into hair and makeup on the day of your wedding. Schedule a trial hair and makeup look in advance so you know exactly what you’ll look like on your wedding day.

When it comes to wardrobe, be sure to break-in your shoes before the wedding so you’re comfortable on the day of. Stray pins from alterations can be hiding, be sure to try on your wedding dress a few days before to scout out any issues.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Try to avoid scheduling your rehearsal dinner the night before your wedding. Get it out of the way at least two nights before. You need a good quality night’s rest before your wedding so you could be fresh, glowing, and alert on your special day.

At Crooked Steeple Hall, we not only provide a one-of-a-kind venue for your unforgettable wedding but we’ve also helped lots of couples plan and enjoy their dream weddings. Our wedding packages include a venue manager and travel concierge for those who are staying in the area. We’re happy to help recommend trusted and reliable vendors for all your wedding needs.

We’re currently taking bookings for weddings in 2022 and beyond. Connect with us here so we can start chatting about creating your unique wedding vision.

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We want to share some wonderful news we received recently from our state’s governor as we head into the spring tourist season! 

Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island have been added to the list of states that are exempt from testing and quarantine along with New Hampshire and Vermont. 

Visitors from any state who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as well as those recently recovered from COVID-19, regardless of their state of origin are also exempt from testing and quarantining. 

And From May 1st, all states will join the exemption list, unless otherwise stated by Maine CDC.

One of our favorite things about running a short-term rental is welcoming non-Maine residents to our quaint culture here in Winterport. We are thrilled to help you create some new memories in 2021. 

From March 26th, all Maine bars and tasting rooms are also set to reopen. And the capacity limits on indoor and outdoor gatherings will increase to 50% and 70% respectively. We love getting outdoors for a good hike and some fresh air, but did you know that Bangor is a foodie city? We want our guests to enjoy all of the amazing things that Maine has to offer and that includes breweries, cafes, and the rare and unique food you will find in and around the city. 

We are incredibly happy that we can start sharing the beauty of Maine with more visitors again, as our COVID-19 figures continue to fall and our vaccinations against COVID-19 increase. 

We have several blog posts highlighting some of our favorite things to do in Maine whether you’re looking for an outdoor experience or a place to grab a warm cup of joe, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at our accommodations and book your next travel experience with us soon!

Built in 1812 but upgraded with all your essential amenities, our home in Winterport, Maine is a blend of modern convenience and historical charm. If you need a place to stay for 2 or up to 20 persons, check us out at HERE.

For a quiet getaway, consider a stay at Crooked Steeple Hall. With accommodations for two, Crooked Steeple offers the perfect blend of intimacy and serenity to help you recharge. Learn more about the space by clicking HERE or contacting us below. 

Check Out These Blogs: Foodie Maine | Local Cafes | Outdoor Winter Activities

Be sure to check the most recent updates on how to keep both yourself and Maine safe before your visit by visiting https://www.maine.gov/covid19/keepmainehealthy-2020

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Microbreweries and craft beer are all the rage these days, and Maine is definitely on-trend with dozens of breweries across the state. And we’re very proud of our beer diversity too. You’ll find all types, styles, and flavors of beer at our breweries. 

If you like beer, travel, and trying new things, might we suggest adding an evening (or daytime… we’re not judging since you’re on vacation) beer crawl to your itinerary? We’ve even picked out a few breweries near Winterport for you to visit. There are many great spots around but we think these are some of the best breweries in Maine. 

Penobscot Bay Brewery

We’re not listing this first because we’re playing favorites or because this brewery is located right here in Winterport (OK, maybe we are but it’s well-deserved). Penobscot Bay Brewery serves awesome small-batch beers like smoked ales, blonde ales, brown ales, stouts, IPA, and more. At the top of our list to try?

• Chocolate Milk Stout

• Lager with Honey and Ginger

Bangor Beer Co

Somewhere north of ordinary in Bangor, Maine you’ll find Bangor Beer Co. It’s not business as usual here… Bangor Beer loves to experiment with new styles, hops, and ingredients. You’ll find their beers in stores, restaurants, and bars all across Maine. 

But don’t let that stop you from visiting their taprooms to try new limited releases, small-batch, and surprise brews. 

The ones on our must-try list are:

• Walty - Salty beer? This Gose is salted with local Maine sea salt. 

• Killed by Death - What a name! This imperial stout features aromas of coffee, bittersweet chocolate, and a touch of vanilla. 

Bangor Beer Co.

Penobscot Bay Brewery

Sea Dog Brewing Company

Sea Dog has five branches in Maine, including one in Bangor and another in Camden. The Bangor branch is located on the waterfront, along the Penobscot River, and they offer daily tours of their brewery. 

The Sea Dog beers to try on our list are:

• Hazelnut Porter - 4 types of malted barley and a hint of hazelnut

• Pumpkin - beer with notes of pumpkin spice; available only during fall

We also recommend trying Sea Dog’s hard seltzers!

Mason’s Brewing Company

Brewing is not just a hobby over at Mason’s Brewing Company where science meets passion. The company is devoted to creating the perfect beer with “precision, hard work, and quality ingredients.” 

Two beers to try: 

• I Was Winning - Beer with notes of banana cream pie? Sign me up!

• Alice - Double IPA-brewed with hemp seeds 

This is just a glimpse of the list of the best breweries in Maine. Other breweries to check out:

• Orono Brewing Company

• 2 Feet Brewing

• Marsh Island Brewing

• Black Beer Brewing

• Blank Canvas Brewery

• Geaghan’s Brothers Brewing Tap Room

Need help planning your itinerary for your Maine vacation? Book your stay with us to enjoy our concierge service. Connect with us to learn more!

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Love is lovely. That’s why we love to host couples and weddings at Crooked Steeple Hall. 

Couples visiting with us often ask about things to do in the area and we’re always delighted to point them to our favorite romantic spots in Maine. Coincidentally, most of them are in the nearby towns surrounding Winterport. 

Sunset Sail In Maine

Few things are as simply romantic as enjoying the view of the evening sun dipping under the horizon with someone special. Add a sunset sail to your itinerary and book a trip to sail along the Maine coast with your love. 

There are a few providers of this service in the area.

• Windjammer Cruises

Choose from either the Margaret Todd Schooner or the Bailey Loiuse Todd Sunset Sail, both of which depart from Bar Harbor. 

Wine and beer are available for purchase on board… so all you need to do to up the ante is pick up a charcuterie board or make your own with some local cheeses, fruit, preserves and crackers or fill up your picnic basket with some fresh lobster rolls.

• Schooner Olad and Cutting Owl Cruises

These schooners depart from Camden and are BYOB (bring-your-own-bottle). You can also pack your own picnic basket or request catering if you don’t want the hassle of sourcing your own eats. 

Romantic Garden Stroll

If dry land is more up your alley, clock some steps together as you stroll through any of the well-tended gardens on this list:

• Fay Hyland Botanical Garden - University of Maine, Orono Campus

• Merryspring Nature Center - Camden & Rockport

• Asticou Azalea Garden - Northeast Harbor

• Thuya Garden - Northeast Harbor  

Canoeing or Kayaking

Pack a picnic basket with lots of water and head out for a day of adventure. You can rent paddles and canoes at many parks including Hirundo Wildlife Refuge, or pick up your paddles in Old Town, Belfast, Camden, Stockton Springs, Bar Harbour… you have plenty of options for this affordable and fun activity. 

Scenic Flights of Acadia

Theater

If you’re looking for a less active or nighttime activity, what’s more classic than dinner and the theater? Click on any of the nearby theatres below to see what’s currently playing or take it really old school and catch a movie at the Bangor Drive-in Theater. 

The Grand in Ellsworth

Penobscot Theater in Bangor

Colonial Theater in Belfast

Scenic Flight for Two

Looking for a bird’s eye view of Maine? If you two are adventure junkies you might enjoy a scenic flight for two on a Cessna aircraft… maybe one of you might even want to co-pilot the trip. That’s an option too, with Scenic Flights of Acadia. 

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find it here in Maine. If you want more help planning your romantic getaway to Maine, we’d be happy to help.  In fact, when you stay with us you will receive the expertise and our travel concierge, Armanda! She knows all the best spots and will have suggestions for any type of travel. check out her blog, Mainley Armanda, for more local tips.

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If you judge a town by the quality of its coffee, you can rest assured that Winterport, Maine won’t disappoint. Our local cafes exude authentic New England charm, transporting you from the fast pace of the daily grind to an oasis for your senses. 

Savor the flavor of locally roasted fair trade coffee beans from around the world. Taste the difference that locally grown, in-season produce makes in every bite of food you indulge. As you plan your trip to Maine, you’ll definitely want to include at least one of these cafes on your Winterport itinerary. 

Wicked Brew Cafe

Living up to its name, Wicked Brew serves Greek and Turkish coffees made to order over an open flame. Their specialities include espresso made from organic, fair-trade beans, cold-brewed coffee and tea and a sensually spicy housemade chai masala tea. 

Go for the coffee but stay for breakfast or lunch. Wicked Brew features a special kid menu, build-your-own oatmeal options, a selection of baked goods, sandwiches, soups, and salads. 

With its chill music and comfy seating, one customer review aptly described this family-owned, full-service coffee bar in downtown Bangor as “homey without trying too hard.” 

Wicked Brew Cafe in Bangor, Maine

Tea Maineia

Are you crazy about Tea? The tea-obsessed will find asylum at Tea Maineia, a small, family-owned tea shop and lounge. Tea Maineia serves up its variety of loose leaf teas alongside locally made products that pair well with tea. 

They offer free daily samples, and after enjoying a cuppa on their outdoor terrace, you can browse the tea shop to take home your favorite teas and accessories. 

Fork & Spoon in Bangor, Maine

Bagel Central

Located in downtown Bangor, Bagel Central boasts 18 varieties of bagels plus vegan and gluten-free bagel options, with just as many toppings. They also serve a variety of freshly baked bread. 

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Bagel Central’s menu includes your typical breakfast fare, sandwiches, soups, salads and pastries (including gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan). 

Heading to Bagel Central for breakfast? We recommend the Egg, Lox and Onion Bagelwich with a cup of coffee to start your day off just right. 

Fork & Spoon

Fork & Spoon invites guests to sit with them and enjoy a variety of salads, soups, sandwiches, coffee, juice, smoothies, ice cream and baked goods. 

The espresso bar features a variety of coffee, including nitro cold brews and frappes, as well as a range of teas, including chai and matcha. 

Feeling adventurous? Try the BBQ Jackfruit sandwich for lunch. This vegetarian meal is made from jackfruit… an actual fruit that when prepared has the taste and texture of meat!

Pair your sandwich with a cold-pressed fruit and vegetable juice blend or treat yourself to an ice-cream from Morton’s Moo, a creamery in neighboring Ellsworth. 

Fork & Spoon is open for breakfast and lunch from Tuesday to Saturday but closed on Sunday and Monday so plan your visit accordingly. 

Need somewhere to stay during your vacation in Maine? With several options to choose from, view our property options to see what may work best for you!

Traveling with a big group? 1812 Pierce House is our home that accomodates 20 guests and boasts a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

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Weddings

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There are two types of people: Those who like watching the snow fall through the window with a cup of hot cocoa while the fire blazes, and those who like to immerse themselves in the outdoors and get their adrenaline pumping in the snow. 

We welcome both types of folks to our quintessential winter wonderland getaway with us at Crooked Steeple Hall. However, this blog is dedicated to those looking for fun, outdoor, winter activities while enjoying their stay. Read on for our top winter activity picks in and around Winterport, Maine.

Pro Tip: If you’re like me, you dread the cold but love the outdoor fun. Layers are your friend! Dressing in layers will keep you nice and toasty so you can get in on the outdoor winter fun too. 

Dog Sledding

It’s a centuries-old mode of winter transportation and definitely one to check off your bucket list this winter. Sled dogs are bred for their speed, endurance and leadership qualities, all of which are important for the job of pulling. 

Calling it a "job" might give the wrong impression though, as these beloved canines truly embody the expression, “love what you do, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” So make a team of doggies happy and book a dog sledding trip. 

Acadia National Park is a great option for your dog sledding experience. 

Snow Tubing

Imagine flying down a 600ft slope in a tube leaving a trail of snow exhaust in your wake. Sounds like fun? It is! And it’s great for young children and the less-athletic. Many places allow snow tubers as young as three years old to participate (with an adult of course) in this thrill ride so it’s something the entire family can enjoy together. 

At New Hermon Mountain, you won’t even have to break a sweat. A lift will take you up the mountain to begin your fast and furious descent in the tube.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is essentially hiking but with special shoes designed for optimal maneuverability in the snow. It takes more effort to walk through snow than on the dry ground so you’ll get a nice workout, even if you choose a leisurely trail with little to no incline in a designated snowshoeing area.

But if you’re up for a bigger challenge, there are also tougher trails with steeper inclines to test your endurance as you break new snow. 

The Bangor City Forest Trail system features both easy and moderate trails for you to explore in your new (or rented) snowshoes. 

Skiing

When I think of winter sports, the first thing that comes to mind is skiing. I mean, is there a more classic winter activity? There are a variety of slopes near Winterport for every level of expertise. Some companies even offer beginner skiing lessons and refresher classes. 

If you don’t have your own equipment, most skiing facilities rent equipment. New Hermon Mountain has some awesome trails for skiing.

Some other outdoor winter activities you can enjoy on your vacation are ice skating, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, tobogganing, and ice fishing. Family-friendly activities like snowball fights and building a snowman are always a fun winter activity staple.

What are your favorite outdoor winter activities? Whichever ones you plan to enjoy, be sure to check the local weather advisories before heading out. 

Stay safe and have fun in the snow!

- Katrina -

Stay safe and have fun in the snow!

Nowhere does farm-to-table dining like Maine. You might think we’re biased but the proof is in the pudding. For centuries, Maine has been an important American breadbasket and it shows in our local cuisine offerings. 

We’ve been practicing the farm-to-table concept long before it became the thing to do. Many of our local restaurants source their produce and meat supplies from either their own farms and gardens or from farmers around the state, ensuring that only the freshest, in-season food make it to your plate.  

This week on the blog, we’re sharing three of our favorite farm-to-table restaurants within the Winterport environs. Add these local restaurants to your list for your next visit to Maine. We guarantee that any one of these restaurants would satisfy the palate of the most discerning foodie. 

The Fiddlehead Restaurant

A fine dining, farm-to-table dinner experience awaits you at The Fiddlehead Restaurant, which is serviced by its very own farm, Fiddlehead Farm. You can find Fiddlehead not far from your stay in Winterport and is located in Bango, Maine.

Fiddlehead Farm provides the restaurant with fresh in-season produce, complemented by meat and poultry from neighboring farms. Almost every other input is sustainably sourced and local within Maine and New England, including cheeses, honey, and of course, seafood.

Fiddlehead’s menu is fresh yet comforting, familiar yet elevated. Whether you choose specialty options like the crab toast and chicken fried duck or try the Fiddlehead twist on classics like mac & cheese or the double cheeseburger, Fiddlehead delivers on its promise - quality without pretense or price. And they are extremely accommodating to dietary restrictions. 

In keeping with its theme of sustainability, Fiddlehead offers a full bar with cocktails made fresh to order. Its extensive wine list favors lesser-known vintners and regions that employ sustainable, organic farming practices.  

The Fiddlehead Restaurant is open for in-house dining, Tuesday through Sunday from 5pm - 9pm. 

Fun Fact: Chef and co-owner Melissa Chaiken recently showed off her culinary skills on a socially-distanced episode of Chopped: Comfort Food Feud. 

Primo 

Located in Rockland, Maine, Primo's dining is in a restored, old Victorian house situated on the edge of a five-acre sustainable farm which supplies most of its produce. 

What the Primo farm doesn’t produce, proprietor, executive chef, and two-time James Beard Foundation Award winner, Melissa Kelly sources from neighboring farms. 

As a result, this farm-to-table restaurant’s menu changes from season to season, utilizing the produce supplied by the farm on a daily basis. Some current main course favorites include porcini-rubbed bistro steak, grilled moulard duck breast, and pistachio and parsley crusted first of the season local halibut.

The restaurant has an extensive international wine list that perfectly complements its yummy food.

Primo’s features both fine dining and a more casual dining experience and offers take out too. It is open for dining by reservation only from Thursday to Sunday, 5pm - 9pm. 

Blaze

If it’s mouthwatering, casual, comfort food you’re looking for, your taste buds will be delighted at Blaze Restaurant.

As with the other restaurants on this list, Blaze is committed to using fresh, sustainable, food sources and the restaurant’s menu features 100% all-natural grass-fed beef and organic chicken from its own farm. 

The restaurant’s extensive menu includes favorites like tacos, oak-fired burgers, sandwiches, and brick-oven pizzas. And what pairs best with these foods? In addition to brewing its own beer at the Blaze Brewery, the beer list is even more extensive than the menu, with almost 50 options from around the country. 

Owned by Maine restauranteur Matt Haskell, Blaze has four branches - one each in Bangor, Bar Harbor, Camden, and Bideford. Blaze is open Monday to Saturday from 11:30 am for lunch and dinner and on Sundays from 10 am for brunch.

Bon apetito!

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere we go”… in Winterport, Maine. A different, more socially distanced holiday, for sure, but our beautiful town is as picturesque as ever this year.

Christmas in Maine is always a beehive of community activities, with something for everyone to enjoy. Despite the cancellation of some of the usual activities on our calendar due to the Grinch, aka COVID-19, there is still plenty going on to keep your spirits bright during your Christmas vacation in Maine. 

We’ve compiled a list of five of our favorite holiday events for you to check out. Some of them are virtual… so even if COVID-19 has you missing Christmas in Maine this year, you can still celebrate virtually from wherever you are. 

Deck The Balls

Virtual Event, Dec 10 - 27

This ADULTS-ONLY live virtual improv promises to “warm your frosty chestnuts and tickle your funny bone!” 

The show is produced by ImprovAcadia, a super popular comedy club in Bar Harbor, Maine. ImproveAcadia is normally sold out every night of the season so being able to join virtually is a real treat. And I know we all need the extra laughs this season.

The show runs from Dec 10-27 so pick your date, gather your crew, and don’t be late. Tickets are $60 per household and $55 for subscribers. Once purchased, you will receive a Zoom link for your performance date. 

They’ve even put together a special cocktail recipe for you to mix at home and enjoy during the show. 

Find tickets and the recipe here. 

A Christmas Carol 

Virtual Event, Dec 12 - 27

Dicken’s Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol is on our watch list every year. And this long-running adaptation by Ken Stack has enjoyed 13 seasons on the Penobscot Theatre Company stage for good reason - it’s awesome!

This year, it’s going virtual but Stack still brings the story to life with puppetry and animation as a stop-motion feature film.  

Tickets are $40 per household. When you purchase, you will receive a link to view the pre-recorded film. You can watch it as many times as you would like during the release period. 

Make sure to stir up the suggested A Christmas Carol-inspired Christmas Sangria, to enjoy while you watch the film. 

Get your tickets and the drink recipe here. 

Mystery of the Christmas Star

December 20, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Have you ever wondered whether Jesus was REALLY born on December 25th, 2000 years ago? What made the wise men follow a star across the desert from Babylon to Bethlehem? Is there a scientific explanation for such a celestial phenomenon? 

Journey back to Bethelemen and join the Versant Power Astronomy Center and Maynard Jordan Planetarium at the University of Maine in seeking to discover a scientific explanation for the Christmas Star that the wise men followed to find baby Jesus. 

Tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for children and must be purchased in advance online, by phone, or at the ticket box office. Get all the details here. Astronomy lovers especially will love this event. 

Let it Snow

December 20, 5:00pm - 6:00pm

This family-friendly music show is made special by its visually enhanced thematic animation set in the Versant Astronomy Power Center Planetarium. Enjoy festive classics from Frank Sinatra, Chuck Berry, Burl Ives, and Brenda Lee with a spectacular multi-media presentation by the Trans Siberian Orchestra. 

Tickets are $8 and can be purchased online, at the box office, or via the phone. Get all the details here.   

Create Your Own Christmas Light Driving Tour

Winterport is a beautiful winter wonderland at this time of year and some neighborhoods really go all out with the lights and decorations. We love travel blogger Armanda Davis’ suggestion to dress cozily, jump in your rental, and drive through the town to catch all the beautiful lights. 

Complete the evening with a stop at a local cafe for hot cocoa with marshmallows (mmm… sooo good).

Is there an event that we forgot to mention? Let us know!

My partner and I loved staying here. A great location, a lovely house. Thank you for inviting us into your home!

Paul, New York, N

Oct 16 2020

My wife and I stayed with our dog, and the house is beautiful with a lot of character! Katrina was quick to respond and very accommodating. I would highly recommend.

Joshua, Westerly, RI

Oct 09 2020

Thank you for letting us stay in your beautiful home! We loved our stay and felt so welcome and comfortable.

All the best
Diana, Gege, Allison

Sept 27 2020

Beautiful house and very neat history behind it. Katrina was an outstanding host. Booked last minute after a week long of car camping and it was everything my pup Sophie and I needed. The stroll through the town, the backyard amenities. Not to mention great conversations if you're into interacting with your host. Highly recommend.

Brittany, Cincinnati, OH

Sept 10 2020

Beautiful house and very neat history behind it. Katrina was an outstanding host. Booked last minute after a week long of car camping and it was everything my pup Sophie and I needed. The stroll through the town, the backyard amenities. Not to mention great conversations if you're into interacting with your host. Highly recommend.

Brittany, Cincinnati, OH

Sept 07 2020

Thnak you! This home was so adorable and just what Sophie and I needed! Your kindness is soo much appreciated!

Bulley & Sophie
Sept 1 2020

Thanks for the the great stay! We all loved the place! Thanks for being a great host, and it was a pleasure meeting you and your family!

All the best,
Rob, Joey, Isabel, & Franky

Aug 23 2020

Katrina was a wonderful host! She thought of everything you might need! The bed was comfortable and the room spacious and clean! She provided fans on a hot night and local tips! The bonus of doing laundry after a week of travel was so welcome! There’s a cute winery right near her place that’s worth checking out too!

Joanna, Bridgeport, CT

Aug 19 2020

Dear Katrina and Family,
Thanks so much for welcoming us into your cozy home and all the treats.

Joyce, Monci

Aug 13 2020