Showing posts with label portland maine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label portland maine. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

The Best Places to Take in the Fall Foliage of New England






A vacation in New England is best spent in the Autumn.  People from around the world visit New England to marvel over the beauty of the fall foliage. From the end of August right up until October the leaves on the trees display a spectacular array of colors.  It is no wonder that Fall is one of the busiest tourist seasons in New England.  Find out what all the “peepers” are going to see.


See Fall Foliage Peak Times map for New England near the end of this article



New England is home to a multitude of different landscapes.  You can find mountains and coastline, forests and vineyards all contained in this quaint and tiny area of the country.  New England experiences all four of the seasons completely.  In the summer the beaches are a warm sandy paradise.  In the winter the mountains offer skiing at its finest.  And of course, the fall offers beautiful nature walks in the orange and gold beauty of the forests.

While there are six states in New England, we focus on four of them here and the popular places in those states to enjoy all autumn has to offer when visiting them.


New Hampshire


Cabins in White Mountains Region of New Hampshire

One of the first areas of New England to be developed for tourism, the White Mountains region in New Hampshire once boasted a large choice of grand resorts.

Omni Mount Washington Resort

Today just a few of the resorts remain but the spectacular views and wide-open spaces are still a magnet for those seeking to discover places off-the-beaten path, and explore the peace and quiet of the northern woods. Spectacular scenic drives and mountain villages dot the valleys and invite a stop to admire a covered bridge or take a walk to a waterfall and a picnic lunch together.




The fall foliage in this area is considered some of the best viewing in New England and makes an ideal time for a romantic getaway to one of the inns in North Conway, Jackson or Bartlett Village or any number of hideaways nestled in Mount Washington Valley.

North Conway, located in the heart of the White Mountains region of New Hampshire offers a wide array of lodging choices which include hotels, motels, vacation resorts, campgrounds and some of the most charming and elegant bed and breakfasts and Inns in all of New England!


White Mountain Hotel and Resort, North Conway, NH

Top resorts and hotels in the North Conway area include:

  • North Conway Grand Hotel, family hotel in with outdoor pool and indoor pool. Address: 72 Common Court, North Conway, NH, 03860, United States of America, 888-950-5062.
  • The Red Jacket Mountain View Resort and Indoor Water Park in North Conway is definitely a favorite for the kids. This hotel is a 3-minute walk from Kahuna Laguna, northern New England’s first indoor water park with its 40,000 square feet of water park family fun!
Red Jacket Mountain View Resort, North Conway, NH


While in the area visitors can shop at the North Conway Settlers’ Green Outlet Village, local hand-craft, antique and gift shops, see a play at one of the area playhouses, ride one of the area’s scenic train rides, take a scenic ride and a dip in the cool mountain waters along the Kancamagus Highway, visit Diana’s Baths water falls, Story Land or one of the many area family attractions that North Conway and the Mount Washington Valley has to offer.



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Maine


Some of the State of Maine's most beautiful art isn't man-made at all. Driving one of Maine's scenic byways, surrounded by the dappled reds, oranges and yellows of the fall foliage will make you feel like you're in the middle of an Impressionist painting. Maine's blueberry season may be over, but it's prime apple-picking time, so be sure to pull over at an orchard or two on your drive for some fresh cider and a slice of pie.



Maine's beaches may be too chilly for surfing, but that doesn't mean there isn't still plenty to see. In early fall, there's still whale-watching to be had, and the lighthouses of Maine are always standing tall, no matter what time of year you visit. The perfect way to see them and the coast's beautiful fall foliage? A windjammer cruise.

Stonington, Maine

If you're looking for a romantic weekend getaway in Maine, DownEast, Maine is the place. There's plenty to see and do in Bar Harbor as well as on Deer Isle, Stonington, Maine (located on the southern portion of Deer Isle.) and Boothbay Harbor. You'll find plenty of resorts, seaside inns and bed and breakfasts where you can lay your head.

Bar Harbor, Maine


Further south, there's Portland, Freeport and the Casco Bay region. Portland's dining, nightlife and craft beer scenes set a bar that would be hard for most cities to reach. Freeport is known for its great shopping, including outlets stores from L.L. Bean and more. Fall's a great time to get clearance deals and stock up for winter.


The Old Port, Portland, Maine

From Kennebunk to Bangor, there are plenty of Maine attractions to see in fall. Probably too many for one trip. So, you'll be very tempted to go back again.

Salem, Massachusetts


Located just 16 miles north of Boston, Salem, Massachusetts is a great day trip for residents of New England and an even better weekend getaway for people looking to do something different with their time.




Autumn in Salem, Massachusetts

It offers a variety of activities to do and places to visit that represent early American society in the New England region. There is a wealth of history contained in the town and its tour guides, artists, musicians, and other characters bring it to life for visitors and residents alike.

Salem Witch House


Halloween is always a good time of the year to visit and see everything that Salem has to offer. During the month of October Salem plays host to over 140 events known as "Haunted Happenings". It is fun for all ages. They have everything from guided tours of historical sites in the town, a psychic fair and witchcraft expo, ghost tours, art exhibits, book readings, festivals, fairs, and concerts, to beer tastings of local ales and brews.


Salem Witch Museum
The Salem Witch Museum takes visitors back to the summer of 1692 and the infamous trial that resulted in the execution of 20 people accused of activities inspired by the devil.

Visitors who really want to study this chapter of history can use the museum as an educational starting point, then spend hours, days or weeks traveling through the region touring homes, historical markets, tombs and other sites related relics witchcraft hysteria.




To help you get in the right mood for the modern witch hunt, check out the museum's website www.salemwitchmuseum.com for more information, including suggestions for readings before arriving.

Planning to stay over in Salem?

Salem Inn, 7 Summer Street.

On the National Register of Historic Places, the Salem Innis located in the heart of Salem, MA and is actually three historic homes going back to the early 1800's but restored with care and style
True the 40 guest rooms don't have elevators and bellboys but they have class and quality service and even some sweet finches to welcome guests, a big family favorite

If you dare, ask for a room with a ghost.


Hawthorne Hotel, 18 Washington Square West.

Located  in the heart of historic Salem, Massachusetts, Hawthorne Hotel has a rich history which began in 1925 and has welcomed numerous leisure travelers as well as dignitaries and celebrities. Over the years, the Hawthorne Hotel has hosted well-known personalities including newsman Walter Cronkite, actress Bette Davis, General Colin Powell, and both President George Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush.

Episodes of iconic shows including Bewitched , What Not to Wear  and Ghost Hunters  have all been filmed on this historic property. In 1984, Vanessa Redgrave called the hotel home for a month while making Three Sovereigns for Sarah , a public television movie about the Salem witch trials.

This historic hotel is said to host some ghosts along with guests!


Stephen Daniels Bed and Breakfast, 1 Daniels St.

 If you're looking for a historical bed & breakfast to spend your vacation days with the whole family this is one of the oldest Bed & Breakfasts in the United States.. The house was built in 1667 by Stephan Daniels, and was the private home of the Daniels family descendants for over 300 years!



Plymouth, Massachusetts


Plymouth, Massachusetts is a small city 40 miles south of Boston. Authentic yet entertaining the two attractions are links to the past and the 102 passengers that survived the journey across the stormy Atlantic seas.




Plimoth Plantation and the Mayflower II ship are illuminating exhibits on a major event in early American history. Both are places to stir the imagination and entertain your knowledge cells.


Mayflower II Autumn

At the Mayflower II you’ll discover first-hand all about the voyage the pilgrims endured, and then barely a few miles away you’ll experience the early and struggling years of settlement.


Plimoth Plantation

Enjoy your day at Plimoth Plantation and the Mayflower II. They’re entertaining reminders of our history and a link back to a monumental place in our history. Check their website for hours www.plimoth.org


Plimoth Plantation


If you happen to be staying in Boston, Isango.com offers a tour (Plimoth Plantation Living Museum Tour) of Plymouth by bus from Boston. You will be picked up from your hotel in Boston and taken in an air-conditioned coach for a sightseeing tour to the historic Plimoth Plantation.



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Rhode Island



Rhode Island has the unique distinction of being the smallest state in the United States.  It is only forty eight miles long and thirty seven miles wide.  Even though it is tiny in size it has over four hundred miles of beautiful New England coast.  From the mansions of Newport to the stunning landscape, Rhode Island is a picturesque New England state.




Providence is the capital of Rhode Island and has gone through some changes in the 1990’s.  Brown University is located in Providence and is considered one of the top universities in New England.  The mile of history, located on Benefit street is filled with gorgeous 18th century houses.  Marvel at the architecture as you walk down the historic street.  There are shopping malls in the downtown area that will fill your days.  You will also find many small quaint New England shops for your shopping pleasure.

Federal Hill is a wonderful place to experience world class dining.  Rhode Island offers the culture and mansions in Newport alongside the history of Providence.  One gets to experience both when Rhode Island is your vacation destination.

Fall Foliage Peak Times in New England



You won’t be disappointed with an Autumn New England vacation.  Find out what all the fuss is about and be amazed by the beauty of the changing fall colors.  You will need nothing more than a walk in the woods to know why everyone makes the trip.







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Monday, August 31, 2020

Top Seafood Restaurants in Maine (recommended by the locals)






Maine is well known for its lobster shacks and fried fish joints. Here's a list of the 17 must try coastal gems which are a mix of sit-down restaurants and take-out shacks and are the most recommended by the locals and Maine natives.

The first four seafood restaurants mentioned are located in Scarborough, Maine near the Old Orchard Beach area; Ken's Place, Bayley's Seafood Restaurant, The Clambake, Salty Bay and in Saco Maine Huot's Seafood restaurant.


Ken's Place

Ken's Place - 207 Pine Point Rd, Scarborough, ME 04074 - Phone: (207) 883-6611

Located on the way to Old Orchard Beach on Pine Point Rd in Scarborough, Maine just beyond Bayley's Seafood Restaurant and before the Clambake this seafood spot offers everything from fish, steamed lobster to steamed and fried clams, lobster rolls, deep-fried scallops and a raw bar. When it comes to fried clams, Ken’s gets it right. It's no wonder, this place has been frying clams since 1927, and has generations of Mainers as devotees. Ken's daily selects the best-grade fish, right off the boat.



While the whole belly clams are most popular fried in batter, fried clams are also available in crumbs. Ken's made-to-order clam cakes that are the biggest sellers while their seafood platter feeds two.



Website: https://www.facebook.com/KensPlace1927/




Bayley's Seafood Restaurant

Bayley's Seafood Restaurant - 165 Pine Point Rd, Scarborough, ME 04074 - Phone: (207) 885-9754

For a fast pit stop for Maine seafood, like steamed lobsters & clams, clam chowder, clam cakes, crab cakes, fried haddock dinners that included french fries, cole slaw, and a dinner roll, at picnic tables or inside.

Lobster Roll and Fries


Website (menu): http://www.bayleysseafood.com/index_htm_files/Bayleys%20Menu.pdf




Clambake Seafood Restaurant

Clambake Seafood Restaurant - 354 Pine Point Rd, Scarborough, ME 04074 - Phone: (207) 883-4871


With portions are just as good as the food, this place is considered by many to be one of the best seafood restaurants around.  You wont leave disappointed or hungry! The Clambake specializes in Maine seafood dishes and overlooks the salt marsh and has 4 dining rooms!



Website (menu): https://www.theclambake.com/menus/





Salty Bay Seafood Take-Out

Salty Bay Seafood Take-Out - 68 Jones Creek Dr, Scarborough, ME 04074 - Phone: (207) 883-9717

Just beyond the Clambake heading south on Pine Point Road, make a left at the intersection on to Jones Creek Drive and up a bit on the left and you will find this typical New England fried seafood shack. This place is definitely worth getting a little off the Old Orchard Beach Grid and trying out next time you are in the mood for seafood. Order at the window, wait for your number to be called and eat either in your car or on one of the picnic tables out back along the marsh. This place is known for its clam cakes, fried clams, fried scallops, clam chowder, lobster rolls, fish,  and they make a great pepperburger as well!


Huot's Seafood Restaurant

Huot's Seafood Restaurant - 29 Eastern Avenue, Camp Ellis Beach, Saco, ME - Phone: (207) 282-1642

Located in Saco just south of Old Orchard Beach and along the water, this Family-run venue has been offering New England seafood classics, plus a takeout window, since 1935! Located conveniently by Camp Ellis, Huot's attracts many tourists, visitors as well as locals looking to fill their craving of Maine seafood.



Huot's offers two options: you can either order from the outside and take your food to the beach or the car, or you can dine inside. Whether you enjoy scallops, clams, haddock or combo, this is the place to go. You must try their clam chowder and freshly made clam cakes. They're out of this world!

Website: http://huotsseafoodrestaurant.com/index.html




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The Lobster Shack at Two Lights

The Lobster Shack - 225 Two Lights Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107 - Phone: (207) 799-1677



 Perched above the rocks at the end of Two Lights Road on the rocky shores of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, this lobster-&-fried-seafood spot has the commanding ocean & lighthouse views. There are few places that compare to The Lobster Shack at Two Lights for both delicious seafood fare and surrounding scenery.



The Lobster Shack is an award-winning restaurant that has been a local landmark since the 1920s, but when it comes to the view nothing compares with The Lobster Shack at Two Lights. Here vacationers, especially, are in abundance at The Lobster Shack during the summer season. Families can be seen enjoying their meal ocean-side on the picnic tables, perched just above the crashing waves, below the lighthouse and next to the fog horn. Or for a more intimate dining experience stay in the cozy dining room, where you can watch the ships entering Portland Harbor and the local fishermen haul up their daily catch.



 The favorites here include the Lobster Roll, Lobster Dinner, Haddock Plate and Shrimp Plate. The Lobster Stew and Clam Chowder are both thick and hearty with lobster and clams in every bite.




Website: http://www.lobstershacktwolights.com/menu.html




DiMillo’s on the Waterfront

DiMillos's On The Water - 25 Long Wharf, Portland, ME 04101 - Phone: (207) 772-2216
DiMillo's On The Water is an upscale seafood restaurant directly on the water in a huge former New York City ferry nicely renovated. DiMillo's  features seafood, steaks, local Maine Seafood with nautical decor & harbor views.

25 Long Wharf, Portland, ME 04101 - Phone: (207) 772-2216

Landmark floating seafood restaurant. “The clams you eat here today slept last night in Casco Bay.”




Website: https://www.dimillos.com/



Js Oyster

5 Portland Pier, Portland, ME 04101 - Phone: (207) 772-4828

Nicknamed "the pearl of the waterfront", J's Oyster is a small seafood restaurant by the dock which has been a local favorite since 1977. You want a local Portland Maine lobster roll - this is your place. J's also has a full bar and some non seafood menu items.

This place will be full of regulars, local fishermen as well as airline personnel and tourists. You can even spot business people here during the lunch hour. It's decor and atmosphere is like that you'd see in a New England fishing town drama or television show which seems to add to the whole experience of the meal. You'll no doubt feel like you are living and eating like the local dockworkers and fishermen do, even if it is just for an hour or so.

Website: http://jsoysterportland.com/menu/


Boone's Fish House & Oyster Room



Rustic, historic setting. Country-chic 2-story seafood venue with wood-grilled entrees, a raw bar & waterfront views. This place has patio seating on both levels. If the bar downstairs is crowded, try heading to the second floor for more seating. They are known for their baked stuffed lobster but will see just about every typical Maine seafood dish on their menu.






Website: https://www.boonesfishhouse.com/


The Porthole Restaurant & Pub

Porthole Restaurant - 20 Custom House Wharf, Portland, ME 04101 - Phone: (207) 773-4653
This place is an authentic Maine experience and another favorite of the locals. The Porthole offers seafood and diner type food at decent prices and huge portions. You would swear the fish is so fresh that they were swimming in the Atlantic just this morning. And probably were! You can't beat the outdoor deck/patio. For one, it's huge and facing the ocean! There are two bars on the back patio facing the water and a few picnic tables for seating. There is almost always live music playing and it's just a great spot to hang out. Drinks are cheap and the lines are not long. Service is friendly inside and outside. If you're looking for fresh seafood such as mussels, lobster rolls, fish and chips, scallops, swordfish, haddock just to mention a few, the Porthole is the place to be.






Website: http://portholemaine.com/menu


Gilberts Chowder House

Gilbert's Chowder House - 92 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101 - Phone: (207) 871-5636
Great little place on the waterfront in Portland. The staff is friendly and the food is great. This place has the best chowders in a bread bowl. Definitely check it out if you're in town.





Website: http://www.gilbertschowderhouse.com/




Susan's Fish-n-Chips

Susan's Fish-N-Chips - 1135 Forest Ave, Portland, ME 04103 - Phone: (207) 878-3240
Hefty portions of deep-fried fish, clams, lobster & ice cream sundaes in a nautically-themed garage-like space.



This garage-turned-fish shack evokes the sea, from the mermaids and fish painted on the exterior to the netting hanging over the counter inside. But don’t expect a fishy odor, Susan’s is clean, efficient, and dishes out some of Portland’s best and cheapest fried seafood. Owner Susan Eklund makes sure Susan’s delivers on its motto: “Our fish is so fresh, you’ll want to slap it.” Big portions, low prices, crispy flavorful fish and daily specials reel in the locals. Open year round.






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Bull N' Claw






The Bull and Claw in Wells, Maine is a popular old-school surf 'n' turf eatery & watering hole, featuring a soup-&-salad bar.  Th Bull N' Claw offers the highest quality seafood and steaks at the reasonable prices with portions that will make you smile. Open all year round, the Bull N' Claw is a favorite destination for locals and visitors to Maine  to who enjoy deliciously fresh and authentic Maine seafood. 



Service options: Fireplace · Private dining room · Great cocktails


Try the Bull N' Claw's "2-FOOTER", Maine's (possibly the World's)
Largest Lobster Roll measuring at 2 feet long with the meat of 3 lobsters!













Bay Haven Lobster Pound

Bay Haven Lobster Pound - 101 Maple St, Cornish, ME 04020 - Phone: (207) 625-7303

A drive inland and away from the coast you will find the Bay Haven in Cornish, Maine. This place is definitely a favorite of the locals and native Mainers from as far away as Portland. If you're craving seafood this is the place to go! The seafood is fresh, hot and the portions are huge! You'll hear more of the Maine accent here as this is where local farmers and families from the surrounding towns come to enjoy their seafood. Very few tourists here but the seafood here is hard to match.


Website: https://www.bayhavenlobsterpound.com/


Warren's Lobster House

Warren's Lobster House - 11 Water St, Kittery, ME 03904 - Phone: (207) 439-1630
Coming into Maine from New Hampshire Warren's Lobster House has made a name for itself by the quality of seafood it's been serving over the many years it's been in business. It's also known very well for its salad bar which is genuinely impressive. If you're headed into Maine for seafood but cannot wait until you get to some of the above mentioned seafood restaurants, you certainly cannot go wrong stopping at Warren's Lobster House in Kittery near the Maine / New Hampshire border.

Warren's Lobster House Salad bar




The Clam Shack

The Clam Shack - 2 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043 - Phone: (207) 967-3321

The lobster roll here has an interesting take - circular bun but still remains very honest to the ingredients - the lobster is king and no mayo or sauce getting in the way.  When they tell you it's the meat of a 1.25 pound lobster in your lobster roll, they really are serious. The meat is basically each portion of the lobster (tail, claw, etc) simply cut in half, as opposed to diced up.




Website: http://www.theclamshack.net/menu



Red's Eats

Red's Eats - 41 Water St, Wiscasset, ME 04578 - Phone: (207) 882-6128
Very well known for their award winning lobster roll, there are literally people who have driven from as far away as New York City to get a lobster roll at Red's Eats. The lobster roll at Red's Eats comes on a perfectly toasted bun where it's crunchy on the outside and warm and soft on the inside. They top it off with a generous amount of lobster.

Red's Eats infamous Lobster Roll




Website: http://www.redseatsmaine.com/





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