May 25, 2009

Local-ly Picked Top 3 Chill Out Spots in Vacationland

Over the weekend I was helping a friend plan a "Thelma and Louise-style" New England road trip and it reminded me that my home state, Maine, is a pretty awesome and versatile vacation destination.

There's something for everyone in Maine -- especially expecting or new parents looking to rest and relax at an inn that offers a wonderful sense of place. Here are three of my favorite places to chill out in Vacationland:

1. Chebeague Island Inn: Beautifully-restored 1920's inn on a lovely little island along the Southern coast of Maine. Dinner on the porch is a must.
2. The Inns at Ullikana: Further up the coast is one of the country's most visited and IMHO most beautiful national parks -- Acadia. As a kid my family always camped at Acadia but I hear The Inns at Ullikana -- ideally situated in Bar Harbor-- are a choice stylish retreat.
3. Kawanhee Inn: The coast of Maine gets a lot of attention but a trip off the beaten path to the Western Mountains can be equally (if not more!) rewarding. If you're really looking for a true Maine experience, check out Weld, Maine's Kawanhee Inn on Webb Lake (near Mount Blue State Park). About twenty minutes from where I grew up, this is my absolute favorite spot in Western Maine.

This list could probably go on forever -- Maine's a pretty chilled out state -- so I invite my fellow Maine-iacs to add their favorite spot in the comments.

Photo credit: www.chebeagueislandinn.com

3 comments:

Ruth Jacobs said...

Wings Hill Inn, in Belgrade Lakes. The setting is beautiful, the town is quaint, but more importantly, the cuisine is phenomenal. Five course prix-fixe menu, lots of local, organic ingredients cooked to perfection -- and bring your own wine with no corkage fee. Stay overnight, rent a boat and cruise the lakes, or go hiking in the nearby Kennebec Highlands (kid-friendly).

Dennis Fortier said...

Can't miss the Lobsta Shack at Portland Headlight...if it's still there.

Angie Woodhead said...

Two thumbs up for Chebeague Island Inn. The island is also a great place for family friendly biking! Bring your own bikes via the ferry or rent when you get on the island!