Spring, Summer, Fall & Winter: If you are a Maine lobster fan but are looking to try some new options in seafood, don’t forget the haddock! Nothing beats Gulf of Maine haddock, mild, white and flaky and it can be enjoyed so many ways. Many restaurants in the state offer it fried, baked, stuffed or even in milky white chowder. Whichever way you choose you certainly will not be disappointed. An even more traditional way to enjoy haddock is the famous fried haddock sandwich with cheese and tartar sauce on a roll. You can’t beat the Sea Basket’s on Route 1 in Wiscasset. The haddock is deep fried to golden perfection and it’s usually fresh off the boat. Another place just down the road is Red Eats, known for their lobster rolls which are definitely recommended, Red’s also has great fried haddock sandwiches. Another traditional way to enjoy haddock in Maine is in fish chowder. This is a savory-milk based soup that is made sometimes with or without potatoes but, always with only the freshest haddock. A great place to enjoy some of the best haddock chowder is Hattie’s Chowder House in the heart of Hallowell. Hattie’s has some of the best haddock chowder around. Hot, creamy and loaded with fresh Maine haddock, you just can’t beat it! So the next time you go out for seafood, don’t forget the haddock!
Tag: Winter
Animal Farms: Get Dirty On A Maine Farm
Spring, Summer, Fall & Winter : Most people don’t think of Maine as “farm country” but, you would be surprised at how many working farms we have in our beautiful state. One way to spend a day on an animal farm and see what goes on behind the scene is to visit one of Maine’s family working farms. In Rockport there is a great farm that you can do just this called Aldermere Farm. You will know you are close because as you approach the farm you will begin to see pastures filled with the most unusual cows called belted galloways. If you have never seen one these cows look as if they have a white band that that goes completely around the middle section of their bodies. The farm is a wonderful place to visit besides seeing these distinguished bovine. This farm offers a big variety of season tours and programs. Another great animal farm to visit is Blueberry Hills Farm in Jefferson. They have a whole range of animals from cattle, Shetland ponies, pigs, goats and chickens. They also have some of the finest fresh organic produce and even produce their own syrup by tapping their maples each spring. The apple orchards are always busy in the fall so year round you will find something going on at this family run farm. Many of the working farms in Maine also double as bed and breakfasts so you can literally stay and “play” for however long your heart desires. Check out these great animal farms where you really can become part of the action.
A Real Maine Adventure: Reny’s Discount Store
Fall,Winter,Spring & Summer: Reny’s discount store is a real “Maine Adventure”. If you have never been there to do some real shopping there is no better time than the present especially with the holidays right around the corner! For locals Reny’s is right up there with blueberry pie and lobster, it’s like a Maine staple. You never know just what you may find and you are always sure to find whatever it may be at a discount price which makes it that much sweeter. Reny’s was one of the first stores to offer the famous Early Bird sale in November. You can find anything there from home goods to Carharts and with stores from Bath to Wells you probably won’t have to drive far to get there. This chain of discount stores is owned and operated by a Maine family that believed in the value of the dollar and thought that offering brand name merchandise at discount prices may be a smart venture. Almost 60 years later and still going strong, I think they may be on to something.
The Polar Express: Take A Ride To The North Pole
Winter: The Polar Express comes to life on the Maine Eastern Railroad. As part of the trip riders enjoy the train ride while all read along with the story and the train makes it’s way to the North Pole [Rockland to Thomaston]. Once riders reach their destination and the elves all come out to meet the travelers everyone gets to unload and they are all off to meet Santa and of course sing Christmas carols. In true Polar Express tradition, riders get to enjoyhot cocoa, as rich as melted chocolate bars and the first gift of Christmas with a special gift for each child. Riders of the Polar Express are encouraged to wear their pajamas which makes the trip even more realistic for young riders. The Maine Eastern Railroad is located at 4 Union Street in Rockland. There are a couple trips per evening starting in November through December. If you have never read the Polar Express, this is a great way to make a book come alive for your children. Who knows, you just may hear that tiny silver bell jingle for the first time in years!
Art & Craft Sales: Shopping For The Perfect Gift
Winter: If you are going to be in the Mid-coast region and are looking for some great art and craft fairs to hit up for your gift list than you should stop in and check out the Bradbury Mountain Arts 9TH Annual Show and sale. Held at Mallett Hall on Route 9 in Pownal, the art show runs for through the weekend. With the works of 12 artists the show features ceramics, textiles, paintings, prints, photography, turned wood, jewelry, sail cloth totes and duffles, wreaths and garlands, sculpture and pottery, raffle basket and refreshments. After you are done, head over to the Bowdoinham Guild OF Arts Exhibit and sale held annually at the Town Hall in Bowdoinham. This is another fantastic Holiday art exhibit and sale. During the art show live music plays for all shoppers to enjoy. The Guild includes furniture makers, photographers, potters, painters, fabric artists, jewelry makers, collage artists. Both of these shows offer high quality gifts and your recipients will be thankful for your thoughtfulness.