Rick's Restaurant Raves - Part 4

Joshua's Restaurant, Wells, Maine

A well-known food writer recently praised Joshua's Restaurant as "Worthy of a long drive." fortunately, this award-winning restaurant is just a short drive south from the Captain Lord Mansion, Kennebunkport, on Route 1 in nearby Wells.

The 1774 dark brown Colonial may look austere on the outside, but as the day's shadows lengthen, the warm glow from the restaurant's many windows is promise of a wonderful dining experience that awaits you inside.

A private home until Joshua Mather and his parents Mort and Barbara purchased it in March 2004, it has been lovingly remodeled to provide state-of-the-art kitchen facilities and an engaging dining experience, without sacrificing any of the building's original charm.

What in colonial times would have been the "birthing room" is now the reception area; the parlor is a warm and cozy bar. The original "keeping room," where meals were prepared over an open hearth, is one dining room; the house's original dining room is the other. History aside, however, the real star here is the food.

Joshua was brought up on his family's nearby farm, and because of that, has created a fine dining experience built on his personal mantra of "fresh, organic, and Maine-grown." He describes his menu as "good, honest food, not fussy food." But what he does with that good, honest food is noting short of genius!

For instance, fresh artichoke hearts are lightly fried and served with a chipotle aioli that has just a little kick! A confit of fresh mushrooms is topped with a smooth, herbed, truffle butter that melts in the mouth. Roast chick is elevated to royalty — stuffed with a magical blend of basil, prosciutto, provolone cheese, and lemon zest. All dinners are served with fresh, seasonal vegetables (most from their own farm!) and bread baked daily on the premisis. For a tasty New England dessert, try the decadent Maple Walnut Pie with a generous scoop of their own homemade vanilla ice cream.

Bev and I love Joshua's. And when Bev had a "significant" birthday recently, our whole family decided t his would be the perfect place to celebrate. Bev chose the Atlantic Haddock with caramelized onion crust, chive oil, and wild mushroom risotto. She proclaimed it perfect! I love anything pork, so I went with the roast tenderloin, brushed with a sauce of apple cider reduction, ambrosial mashed potatoes, and an unusual and delicious fresh chutney. The well-trained and attentive waitstaff provided impeccable service all evening. We agreed that this was a very special way to honor a very special lady!

Whether you're a seafood lover or a meat-and-potatoes type, Joshua's Restaurant has a menu that's sure to please. And there's always an imaginative vegetarian selection, s well.

Joshua's is a "slow food" restaurant. So settle in, relax and prepare yourself for a truly memorable evening! The restaurant is open for dinner daily — let the Captain Lord Mansion make a reservation for you. You'll enjoy every minute — and every delicious bite!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

Rick's Restaurant Raves - Part 3

Pier 77 and the Ramp, Cape Porpoise

If you'd love a dining experience where the view rivals the food for "spectacular," head just a few miles east of Kennebunkport, out Route 9, to the tiny, picture-postcard village of Cape Porpoise.

At the very end of the Pier Road, you'll find Pier 77 Restaurant, overlooking picturesque Cape Porpoise Harbor and the working lobster boats that daily ply its waters. On occasion, you might even spy former President George Bush zipping in, in his sleek cigarette boat, to pick up lobsters for a cookout at his nearby Walker Point compound!

Three Restaurants In One

Pier 77 Restaurant, on the street level, seats 80 in a handsome, contemporary setting. Large windows provide stunning of the Harbor and Goat Island Light in the distance. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily from June 1 to September 30; Thursday to Monday the rest of the year. Reservations are advised for dinner, and the Captain Lord Mansion would be happy to make one for you.

The inventive menu includes many regional favorites such as Maine Crab Cakes, Crab Sandwich on French bread, Seafood Mixed Grill, and of curse, mouth-watering Steamed Lobster with all the fixings! Bev and I judge the quality of a restaurant by the quality of the bread it serves. Well, Pier 77 offers you two delicious, freshly-baked breads to start your meal. Their olive bread, when dipped in their pure virgin olive oil seasoned with freshly-ground pepper is scrumptious! Recently, while watching the sun set over peaceful Cape Porpoise Harbor, we both enjoyed the Pan Roasted Haddock with Ricotta Gnocchi, Portabello Mushrooms and Fried Baby Artichokes. End your satisfying meal with a Warm Blueberry Crumble (it wouldn't be Maine without blueberries!). For a liquid dessert (which we didn't have!), Pier 77 offers the World's Greatest Hot Beverage — Bailey's, Bushmill's and coffee! For added enjoyment, a pianist tinkled the ivories throughout our dinner. He plays every evening in season; weekends in the off-season.

The Ramp Bar and Grill, on the lower level, has a cozy, pub-like atmosphere and serves a casual bar menu all day. Their Fish and Chips and overstuffed Lobster Roll are legendary! Bev and I love their huge (and delicious) burgers, too! The Ramp is the place to rub shoulders with locals who know where to find great tasting, well-prepared food.

The Lighthouse Room, on the top floor, welcomes intimate, private parties of 10 to 25 people. Bev and I often see small wedding parties enjoying rehearsal dinners in the Lighthouse Room. The room's name indicates the terrific view of the Goat Island Lighthouse that can be seen from the room's expansive windows.

Bev and I enthusiastically recommend Pier 77 and The Ramp to anyone looking for a quintessential New England experience. With its superb regional food and outstanding water views, it's one of Kennebunkport's "must" experiences!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

Rick's Restaurant Reviews - Part 2

Hurricane Restaurant, Dock Square, Kennebunkport

All shopped out? Time for a break? You're in luck — right in the middle of Dock Square, Hurricane Restaurant serves innovative and delicious American cuisine with a magnificent view overlooking the tranquil Kennebunk River. It's open for lunch and dinner year round, except for a short hiatus in January. And it's just a short walk back to the Mansion.

As a young man, co-owner Brooks MacDonald discovered his passion for food while working in this very same kitchen, when it was the old Riverview Restaurant. Now he and wife Luanne have created a casual-chic spot that is popular with visitors and locals alike.

Come on in, have a seat, order a glass from their extensive and award-winning wine list, and prepare for a culinary adventure —

For Starters —
How about a Five Onion Soup with flaky Bruyere cheese crust. Or crispy Maine Crab Cakes and Coconut Shrimp with wasabi coleslaw. Prince Edward Island Mussels are flown in fresh and seamed in white wine and garlic. And of course, there's always their house specialty, Maine Lobster Chowder.

Not Your Ordinary Lunch —
Choose Maine Crab-meat and Havarti Cheese on grilled sourdough bread, a grilled Yellow-fin Tuna Burger, or the biggest, best Maine Lobster Roll you'll find anywhere around!

Dinner With a Delicious Difference —
For seafood lovers, try the Seafood Stew, bursting with Maine lobster, shrimp, scallops and mussels. Meat-and-potato types will love the grilled Beef Tenderloin with garlic mashed potatoes and buttermilk onion rings. Vegetarians aren't left out, either. The Wild Mushroom Ravioli in a vodka tomato sauce is heavenly!

End on a Sweet Note —
So much to choose from, but here are two stars: the Chocolate Hurricane — chocolate mousse with Godiva Creme Anglais, and a Blueberry-White Chocolate Bread Pudding, made with our delicious, tiny Maine wild blueberries.

If you want to stick to the tried-and-true, of course you can always get a magnificent, half-pound Bar Burger or a crispy-fresh Caesar Salad. Drop in for lunch from 11:30AM on, or let the Captain Lord Mansion make you a reservation for dinner.

Gosh, all this talk about food reminds me that it's lunchtime. I think I'll get Bev and head on down to Hurricane. I need a lobster roll "fix"!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

Rick's Restaurant Raves

Sensational Dining Experiences: Part 1

On The Marsh

"One of the very best restaurant experiences I've had in years!" one of our recent guests enthusiastically exclaimed. And we couldn't agree more. The food, the service, and the ambience are superb in this chic, year-round gem.

Housed in an 1800s converted farmhouse and barn on 3 1/2 acres of gorgeous plantings and a tidal salt marsh, it's located about a mile south of dock Square on Rte. 7 — just minutes from the Captain Lord Mansion.

Step inside, and you're immediately made to feel at home. Owner Denise Rubin has brought her interior design expertise to creating "a feast for the eyes as well as the palate." Tables on two floors are draped in white cloths over floor-length cloths in "raspberry sorbet" — her favorite color. The padded chairs are incredibly comfortable. And all the artwork and most of the antiques are available for purchase. But the food — ah, the food!

Enjoy 3 Fabulous Dining Options:

1 The Dining Room. Enjoy exquisite dining on two floors. You might start off with crunchy tiger shrimp and
leeks, or tasty lobster ravioli. Main courses can include such succulent delights as grilled swordfish with
fennel and orange relish, roasted breast of duck, or seared scallops in orange sauce with lobster garnish.
End this delicious repast with a smooth creme brulee or dark chocolate pate.

2 The Adventuresome. This is your chance to see what goes on "behind the scenes." Two or four people can dine right in the kitchen, and see how each dish is lovingly created. Plan to dress down for this!

3 The Owner's Table. You'll be really pampered, as you sample Executive Chef Jeff Savage's exclusive "Tasting Menu" — eight small entrees, paired with appropriate wines.

Or, you could just relax with friends and a favorite beverage at the comfortable bar.

Bev and I love sending guests to On The Marsh. We know the experience that lies ahead. But even more, we love the look on their faces and the stories they tell when they return. Let us make a reservation for you on your next visit — you'll have an evening you'll talk about for a very long time!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

What is Your Lobster IQ?

Everything you ever wanted to know about lobster! (Or almost everything!)

Today, many people consider lobster a delicacy.  In fact, you have to pay dearly for a really good lobster feast.  However, lobsters were once so plentiful that Native Americans used them as fertilizer and fish bait!  Also, in Colonial times they were considered poverty food and served to children and indentured servants.  Stories have been told that children who brought lobster sandwiches to school were considered the poor kids.

Lobsters are not fish, nor mammal, but rather they are arthropods, closely related to insects! Lobsters, like insects, belong to the invertebrate family.  These two-clawed marine creatures have one claw that  is called the pincer and the other is called the crusher.  An interesting fact about claws: lobsters, like humans, can be right or left handed, depending on whether its crusher claw is on the right or left side of its body. Most live lobsters are greenish.  Lobsters are not red until cooked. All pigment that make up a lobster shell are destroyed by the heat when cooked, except the red.   

Lobster is healthy for you.  it contains iron, zinc, calcium and iodine, as well as vitamins A, B and B6.  It has no saturated fat and is low in cholesterol and calories.  Now that you know lobsters are good for you, call the Captain Lord Mansion to make an early spring reservation and plan a lobster feast vacation!  With winter over and lobster prices coming down, Bev and I are looking forward to sampling some of this delicacy real soon!  Rick Litchfield, your innkeeper

The ABCs of A Summer Vacation in Kennebunkport!

Summer Vacation in Kennebunkport offers you activities to entertain, educate and expand your horizons!

Activities include Art Galleries, Beaches, Bicycling, Canoeing, Carriage Rides, Day Trips, Fishing, Food, Golf, History, Kyaking, Lighthouses, Lobsters, Museums, Sailing, Shopping, Spas, Summer White House (Bush 41), Theater and Whale Watches.

Bev and I enjoy summer in Maine and especially Kennebunkport because there is so much to do.  There is hardly time to fit it all in!  Call the Captain Lord Mansion today to discuss your vacation plans and how we may assist you in planning the perfect vacation.  Your innkeeper, Rick Litchfield.

Three Reasons to Take A Southern Maine Coast Lighthouse Tour!

The Captain Lord Mansion of Kennebunkport, which is located on the southern coast of Maine has several itineraries to assist you with a self-guided tour of lighthouses located from Nubble Light  in York to Portland Head Light in Portland.  The first reason is that these historical buildings are situated along the coast only a short drive from our B&B.  Second, they offer you a great opportunity to tour the picturesque rocky southern coast of Maine for terrific sight-seeing and picture-taking.  Pictured here is the famous Nubble light located in York, ME.  Third, we offer a picnic lunch package to accompany your tour.  Bev and I enjoy visiting these lighthouses and their adjacent parks ourselves.  Last fall we had  delightful day exploring Fort Williams Park where Portland Head light is located.  There were many families enjoying picnicking, relaxing, and flying kites in the brisk breezes flowing off Casco Bay.  When you come to Maine, we encourage you to avail yourself of one of these tours.  Rick Litchfield, your innkeeper.

What is "Certified Maine Lobster"?

If it’s not certified,it just might not be authentic Maine Lobster.   

The Maine Lobster Promotion Council developed the Certified Maine Lobster(TM) program so that customers can be sure they are getting the authentic Maine Lobster that they want.  If customers don't see the Certified Maine Lobster(TM) brand on their lobster, they can't be sure of what they are receiving. 

The criteria for a Certified Maine Lobster(TM) are:

• Harvested off the Maine coast by licensed Maine lobstermen who adhere to strict conservation methods
• Sold by licensed Maine lobster dealers
• Processed by Maine seafood companies and distributors

At the Captain Lord Mansion, we recommend  several different types of restaurants that serve these succulent Maine lobsters.  Whether dining elegant or casual, on your next visit, allow us to recommend one of Kennebunkport's great restaurants.  We and our staff are pleased to share our favorites with you. Rick Litchfield, your innkeeper

Where Can You Rent Kayaks in Kennebunkport?

Captain Lord Mansion staff goes for a "Sunset Paddle" at Goose Rocks Beach!

Sunday evening, July 22, 2007 several of our staff together with Bev and I gathered on the beautiful white sands of Goose Rocks Beach.  We felt excited and eagerly anticipated our "Sunset Paddle" with Seth Kenneway, the owner of a new business in Kennebunkport, "Port Paddle", which is associated with Cape Able Bike Shop.

Seth was accompanied by his wife Alison and their two young children.  They were responsible for making the campfire we were to enjoy after our kayaking tour of the harbor.

Seth is a registered Maine Guide who has worked for the famous Maine outdoor outfitter, L.L. Bean.  Seth brought us his brand new sea kayaks together with carbon fiber paddles, as in very light!  There were seven of us sharing two double and three single craft.  Bev and I do not paddle together, so she paddled with someone else, while I had a single kayak!  Double kayaks are known as divorce boats!

Before dragging each of our kayaks into the water to begin our paddle, Seth spent time instructing us in the fine points of kayak paddling.  Our actual 2 hour kayaking tour followed the curved lines of the beach about 200 to 300 yards off-shore.  Before completing our trip, we paddled into the "Little" river which flows into the harbor on the north end of the beach.  It was fun sort of surfing the swells into the river!  As we headed back to our take-out point opposite the Tides Inn, we marveled at the beautiful sunset of pinks, roses and purples.  The photos accompanying this blog are by Robert Dennis.

At the completion of our paddle tour, we dragged the kayaks up the beach and gathered around the campfire for fellowship, fruit shortcake, smores and sharing stories about our adventure.  As darkness descended, we headed home feeling tired, but refreshed and  grateful for having had the opportunity for such an enjoyable adventure.

If you are coming to Kennebunkport, we sincerely recommend taking this sunset tour with Seth.  Rick Litchfield, you innkeeper

Fun for Foodies Vacations at The Captain Lord Mansion & Other Select Registry Inns

Select Registry Fun for Foodies Vacations; What Are They?

Are you looking for a food-related vacation? 

One of the notable qualities you'll find at Select Registry inns is the innkeeper's passion for providing exceptional cuisine.

Therefore, the Select Registry is proud to introduce you to
Fun for Foodies Vacations of New England.

The innkeepers of these fine properties share an appreciation for all things food & wine related, and they have put together unique, regional culinary experiences for your enjoyment.

These fun, educational, hands-on experiences promise a gastronomic good time!

Culinary enthusiasts can plan a Fun for Foodies Vacation at just one inn or all six.

Each participating inn will stamp your Fun for Foodies Trail Map along the way.

Visit at least three participating inns to receive a free insulated wine bag with the Fun for Foodies logo; visit all six and you'll receive a Select Registry Gift Certificate for $150 to use at the Select Registry inn of your choice!

Bev and I are proud to offer several Fun For Foodies Packages for your consideration while vacationing in Kennebunkport.  Our Lobster Boat Cruise & Shore Dinner Package is a favorite during the summer months. Additionally, guests love to do the Lighthouse Tour and Deluxe Picnic.  When coming to Kennebunkport to visit us at The Captain Lord Mansion, we are pleased to help you plan a Fun For Foodies experience.  Just call us in advance of your arrival to schedule your package.  Your innkeeper, Rick Litchfield

"Wind Sculptures" come to the Maine Art Gallery in Kennebunkport

"Wind Sculptures" TM by Lyman Whitaker

"The undulating movements of theses sculptures reflect the mood of the wind.  In groupings large or small, the sculptures dance to the rhythms of nature.  Captivating and magical, these fine sculptures will be enjoyed for generations"  Bev and I have to agree with this statement from the brochure accompanying the printed announcement of this show by Maine Art Gallery.  We were captivated by the beautiful display of sculptures as we drove by the Maine Art Gallery which is located on Route 9 as you arrive into Kennebunkport.  We are seriously considering adding a piece to our garden area at The Captain Lord Mansion.  If you are visiting us this summer, we heartily encourage you to experience this wonderful display of visual art.

4 Reasons to take a Scenic Sailing Trip on the Schooner Eleanor in Kennebunkport

1. The Schooner Eleanor, launched in May 1999, was built in Kennebunkport by Captain Rich Woodman and a crew of local craftsmen to the lines of L. F. Herreschoff's 1935 Mobjack design. You'll experience local craftsmanship!
2. Although her hull was constructed using modern techniques, Eleanor is in every other way a traditional gaff rigged schooner. Spruce spars, mahogany transom, locust rails and hand carved trail boards all contribute to the beauty of this vessel. Flying four sails, with a large teak cockpit and spacious cushioned cabin tops to stretch out on, Eleanor will give you the feel of yachting in the 1930's. You'll have an authentic "Maine Wind-Jammer" experience!
3. My trips on the Eleanor have been some of the most relaxing and enjoyable times spent on the waters off Kennebunkport.  Fortunately, the trips leave from The Arundel Wharf Restaurant which is located only a block away from The Captain Lord Mansion.  You'll experience relaxation and convenience! 
4. This is one of my favorite summertime experiences.  I know you will enjoy it also.  Rick Litchfield

Intimate Weddings at The Captain Lord Mansion

Allison looks pretty as a picture in this recent photo taken in the Captain Lord Mansion cupola.  Couples choose the Mansion for small intimate weddings and to renew vows. 

Michelle, our wedding coordinator, helps couples secure the "Justice of the Peace", flowers, cakes, music, photographers and can arrange for a romantic carriage ride after the ceremony to travel to dinner.  The ceremony is usually held in our large "Gathering Room" in front of a crackling fire.  As you personal coordinator, Michelle arranges the room with select flowers, candelabra and a silver service and glasses for the champagne toast. If this sounds like the kind of small service you desire, please give Michelle a call at 800-522-3141.  There is a minimum charge of $250.00 for coordination services. 

The photographer for Allison and Mark's pictures was Sea Glass Photography.  Also, I was priviledged to offer the toast for this young couple, wishing them much happiness.  Small weddings are a chance for us to show the special attention to personal service for which we are known.  Personally, I find it fun to do something out of the ordinary at the inn!  Rick Litchfield, your innkeeper

What is Kennebunkport Arts in the Inns?

KENNEBUNKPORT, June 2007 - Artists from Kennebunk and Kennebunkport are partnering with seventeen local area Inns to present the 3nd Annual Art in the Inns, June 1-3, 2007. The Kennebunkport area is famous for its art community and Inns and the combination results in a unique venue for the artists in the beautiful setting of some the finest Inns in Maine.

The award winning artists' portfolios on display in the Inns include oil, watercolor, and acrylic paintings, relief sculptures as well as driftwood sculptures and multi media. The Inns are making a cash contribution to the Brick Store Museum and the Kennebunkport Historical Society and public donations are welcome during the event.

The weekend schedule at the Inns is as follows:

• Saturday June 1: 1-5pm with artist receptions from 3-5m
• Sunday June 2: 12-3pm

The public is invited anytime during the exhibition hours to see the art displays and enjoy the hospitality of the inns. To meet the artist, be sure to attend the receptions in each inn on Saturday afternoon. In most cases, the art is available for purchase. In addition, many of the Inns are offering special rates and packages for this event.

The participating Inns are: Captain Fairfield Inn, Captain Jefferds Inn, Captain Lord Mansion, English Meadows Inn, Kennebunkport Inn, Maine Stay Inn and Cottages, Nonantum Resort, Waldo Emerson Inn.

28 Reasons to Trust Reservations at The Captain Lord Mansion

Thursday night, May 30, 2007, in a ceremony at The Ivy Manor Inn in Bar Harbor, my wife, Bev Davis and I were pleased and honored to accept our 28th consecutive AAA Four Diamond Award for The Captain Lord Mansion. 

The AAA Diamond rating system was first adopted by the Auto Club in 1977.  Maine held its first Four Diamond Award ceremony in 1987 at the Black Point Inn in Scarborough.  The 1988 award winners were all lodging properties. 

The property with the longest history of winning the prestigious Four Diamond Award is the Stage Neck Inn in York Harbor, being awarded the honor for 31 consecutive years.  The 28 consecutive years for the Captain Lord Mansion is the second longest period for AAA establishments in Maine. 

Also, only about 3% of lodging properties and restaurants in the United States rated by AAA receive the Four Diamond Award.  As the rating criteria have strengthened over the years, we've made many many improvements to the inn which help maintain the Captain Lord Mansion in that top 3%. 

Two other lodging properties in Kennebunkport received the AAA Four Diamond Award at Thursday night's ceremony; the Yachtsman Lodge & Marina and the White Barn Inn, which also received a Five Diamond Award for its restaurant.

I was thrilled and honored not only to receive this prestigeous award, but to be in such august company.  Thank you guests and friends for your loyalty over the years.  Rick Litchfield, your innkeeper

Kennebunkport Trivia!

What President has his summer home in Kennebunkport?  (The home was built by his maternal grandfather in the early 1900s.)

1. George Washington
2. George H. W. Bush (#41)
3. George Clooney

How many beaches are in the Kennebunk's?

1. None
2. 4 (Goose Rocks Beach, Colony Beach, Gooches Beach, Mother's Beach)
3. 5 (Plus Parsons Beach)

How many museums are in the Kennebunks?

1. None
2. 2 (Brick Store Museum, Kennebunkport Historical Society)
3. 3 (Also the Seashore Trolley Museum)

What was the economic activity that made Kennebunkport prosperous before tourism?

1. Whaling
2. Fishing
3. Shipbuilding

How many trains per day brought tourists to Kennebunkport from New York and Boston before World War Two?

1. Seven
2. Five
3. Two

How many large hotels existed in Kennebunk and Kennebunkport to serve the tourists during the years before World War Two?

1. 27
2. 15
3. 8

Kennebunkport has many distiquished restaurants; what is the name of the celebrated restaurant honored with the AAA 5 Diamond Award?

1. The Cape Arundel Inn
2. The White Barn Inn
3. On The Marsh

What is the name of the summer stock playhouse in the area?

1. The Arundel Barn Playhouse
2. The Gorge Bush Memorial Playhouse
3. The Port Playhouse

What is the only Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast Inn honored with the AAA 4 Diamond Award?

1. The Kennebunkport Inn
2. The Captain Lord Mansion
3. The Captain's Garden House

What famous authors lived and wrote in the area?

1. Booth Tarkenton
2. Rachel Carson
3. Kenneth Roberts
4. All of these

Answers: 2,3,3,3,1,1,2,1,2,4  I hope you have some fun with this post!  Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

Five Ways to enjoy Memorial Day Weekend in Kennebunkport

Memorial Day Weekend is the traditional start to the tourist season and there are several activities that begin this weekend which offer you different experiences to enhance your enjoyment of Kennebunkport.

1. The Lobster Boat Rugosa begins giving scenic cruises along the beautiful and rugged coast.  See lobster harvesting up close and personal!  This weekend, the Captain Lord Mansion begins offering a special package whereby you may take this interesting cruise and then enjoy a "Lobster Shore Dinner" at Mabel's Lobster Claw restaurant. 
2. The Whale Watch boat Nick's Chance offers you an opportunity to visit Jeffery's Ledge which is a feeding area for whales.  It is located 20 miles from shore in the gulf of Maine.  Several species of whales are resident throughout the summer, feeding primarily on herring.  The twin, high output, diesel engines with a cruising speed in excess of 20 knots, allows the boat to reach the feeding grounds in about one hour.
3. Ride the Rails at The Seashore Trolley Museum.  Just minutes from Dock Square, Kennebunkport's shopping district, the museum is a world apart, a place where history comes alive.  Enjoy the sights and sounds of a bygone era as you ride restored historic electric railway vehicles and explore the world-famous international transportation collection and beautiful grounds.
4. Step aboard the Schooner Eleanor at the docks of the Arundel Wharf. Your trip begins with a short ride down the historic Kennebunk River, passing lobster boats and luxury yachts. Once clear of the harbor, the sails are set and the wind takes charge. A typical course will take you along the scenic coastline from Cape Arundel to Cape Porpoise. Watch lobstermen at work and seabirds glide by. Learn a little local history. Help work the sails or sit back, relax and enjoy the fresh salt air. The peace and quiet of cruising under sail will put a smile on your face.
5. Kennebunkport celebrates Memorial Day on Monday, May 28th with an old-fashioned parade of veterans and the high school marching band.  You might see George H. W. Bush (#41) giving an address at the ceremonies.  Finish your weekend with this solemn celebration of the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom.

We always look forward to Memorial Day as an unofficial start to the tourist season.  Even though the real rush begins about mid-June, we want our gardens and rooms to be ready by the holiday.  Rick Litchfield, your innkeeper