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With a state slogan like VACATIONLAND you know that Lola likes Maine. Kennebunkport is an hour and half north of Boston in Southern Maine. A perfect place to go for a ‘One Day Stay’. Here you will find arts & entertainment and pristine beaches plus fun places to shop, dine and drink.
DROP YOUR BAG
Captain Fairfield Inn, a cool 9 guest room boutique bed and breakfast, is located in the heart of historic Kennebunkport, Maine. In a quiet neighborhood overlooking the river green and one block from the Kennebunk River and lively Kennebunkport harbor, this beautiful home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Captain Fairfield Inn was built in 1813 and will celebrate its 200th anniversary this year. One of the things I love most about this inn is its mindfulness to the historic charm of this Federal mansion yet breathing NEW LIFE into it with a modern twist in decor. Lark Hotels, the innovative hotel company that owns Captain Fairfield, also just launched a unique partnership with lifestyle brand, Vineyard Vines. They are collaborating together to create designer suites within the Lark Hotels group. Captain Fairfield has the very first of these suites now available. The idea is to infuse a mix of coastal preppy chic with modern & playful touches. I can’t wait to return so I can experience this one-of-a-kind VV beach vibe! Complete with deluxe amenities, a fantastic locally sourced gourmet breakfast & a wine tasting room, Captain Fairfield Inn would satisfy any discerning traveler. LOLA APPROVED all the way!
DO
You can’t go to coastal Maine and not mention the beaches. The Southern Maine Coast is unique for having many long sandy beaches unlike the rest of Maine where the coast is mostly rocky. If you’d like some seclusion, Parson’s Beach is for you or perhaps you prefer to be in the middle of the action at Kennebunk Beach. No matter what, Kennebunkport has a perfect spot for you to spend a sunny summer day at the shore. This beach bunny likes that!
During my quick visit I discovered a great little wine shop, Down East Wine, located in the lower village of Kennebunk – a short walk from downtown Kennebunkport. Dedicated to the discovery and enjoyment of unique wines, Down East Wine’s tagline is affordable quality. LOVE THIS! They were hosting a little wine tasting this particular Saturday and I’d like to think this a somewhat regular occurrence to help you discover delicious, well priced bottles.
DRINK
Always in search of a good local watering hole for yummy drink, my visit to Kennebunkport was no different. I was recommended a couple of spots, Bandaloop and Pilot House, but decided on Old Vines Wine Bar as I heard stories about their legendary bartenders. With a name like Old Vines you can be sure they offer many incredible wines by the glass. Coming from dinner where I was enjoying a Negroni cocktail, I just wanted to stick with the same. Ben made me their version ‘Old Vingroni’ which is made with gin, Aperol instead of Campari & dash of rhubarb bitters. OUTSTANDING!
DINE
Forever seeking out the hip & happening, Lola was recommended 50 Local to try for this One Day Stay. Located in buzzing Kennebunk, as soon as I walked in I knew I was going to like this spot. Using the best of the area’s resources working with local farms & fisheries, 50 Local is downtown Kennebunk’s newest neighborhood establishment. I enjoyed oysters from the Bagaduce River and a pork chop from local Breezy Hill Farm. UNBELIEVABLE! 50 Local offers traditional French Bistro dishes with an American twist, all served in a friendly atmosphere.
PS – Kennebunkport is SO GOOD I actually have three honorable mentions.
1) Alisson’s for its award-winning famous lobster roll and bacon bloody mary. Perfect for a lunch option. MMMM
2) Daytrip Society for its eclectic offerings in gifts & home decor. I could have literally spent hours in this store finding all kinds of treasures. It certainly inspires the adventure of travel.
3) Kennebunkport Inn for its fun renovation of their common rooms creating vibrant social spaces. You’ll wish to sit down and relax in this salty, sea captain environment inspired by Kennebunkport’s fishing & shipbuilding history. PLUS they offer a Big Girls’ Slumber Party package including cocktails, chick flicks and a four course dinner. All you need to add are your BFFs – adore it!
