Captain Fairfield Inn

Local Connections = Great Maine Vacations! 13 May 2013, 5:50 am

Whether you have been visiting the Kennebunks for years or you are planning your first ever trip to our Maine boutique inn, the resident managers of Captain Fairfield Inn are happy to help create the perfect stay for you.

Because we live and work in town and have great connections to the local scene, we can point you to exactly what might interest you.  Want activities within walking distance?  Absolutely.  Need the low down on the best places for gluten free guests to eat?  No problem. Looking to make a quick trip up to Portland but don’t want to break the bank? We’ve got you covered.

Our personal take on “Portland on a Budget.” 

The day trip starts after your three course creative breakfast at our Kennebunkport inn. For photo ops of lighthouses instead of tolls, we’ll give you turn by turn directions for the scenic route up the southern Maine coast.  When you arrive in Portland just snag our favorite spot for free parking:  on India Street right in front of Miccuci.  This Italian grocer is the perfect place to grab a satisfying lunch.  Dine there or take your Sicilian Slab pizza, cannoli, and maybe a bottle of wine to a nearby park. (you can not drink wine in the park)  Portland is a very walkable city, so you can explore the waterfront and independent shops in the Old Port for the afternoon.  

As a special treat, make your way to Maine Mead Works for a free tasting of the dry and sweet meads they create on site. While there are more great food options in Portland than we can possibly name, here are a couple of affordable options for dinner:  try Little Tap House for casual, locally sourced fare or Schulte & Herr for a BYOB German feast.

Other Concierge Resources

If chatting with us and hearing our thoughts isn’t how you want to make the most of your trip, we’ve still got you covered. As with other Lark Hotels, Captain Fairfield Inn staff will be present when you want them and absent when you don’t.  You can peruse area information and procure a local map while grabbing a complimentary soda or tea in our 24 Hour Guest Pantry.  Or, stay snug in your room and fire up the iPad given to you at check-in.  The iPad is curated by us and each alternative vetted, so you have top quality recommendations to explore on your own.  Because of the electronic medium, the information never gets stale.  You can easily browse attractions you may not have visited before and even see the menus of local restaurants who change their offerings daily.

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Rain or Shine — Spring in Kennebunkport offers plenty to do! 22 Apr 2013, 7:05 am

It’s been a beautiful spring so far in Kennebunkport, and our guests here at Captain Fairfield Inn are making the most of it. Some gather shells and sea glass while others visit Cabela’s for outdoor supplies.  We love balmy days and the mild climate of the Southern Coast of Maine, but spring can be unpredictable — and we have our wet days, too. 

Don’t let precipitation stop you from venturing out from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast and exploring the many rainy-day Maine attractions and activities!

We think there’s truly something spectacular about strolling a deserted beach as the rain softly falls or savoring seafood chowder while gazing out the window at the misty town and sea.  Go ahead, grab one of our large, complimentary umbrellas and wander to a few of the fabulous local shops.  Don a wetsuit and kayak on the Kennebunk River.  Devour a double-scoop ice cream cone.

Still, sometimes you just want something warm and worthwhile when the sky goes grey.  To help you enjoy The Kennebunks as we do no matter what the weather, we’ve compiled this list of things to do on a rainy day in Kennebunkport.  All of these attractions and activities have our stamp of approval and are just a short distance from the Captain Fairfield Inn.

Top Ten Things To Do on a Rainy Day in Kennebunkport:

10. Indulge in some comfort food – as if we need to suggest this.  Whether your favorite is fish and chips, a hearty burrito, or delivery pizza, you won’t have to go far in our foodie town.

9. Attend a live theater performance. The famous Ogunquit Playhouse is not alone.  There are some great choices in Portland and Portsmouth, plus Biddeford’s City Theater, and the Arundel Barn Playhouse which is 10 minutes from the inn.

8. Hop on the Intown Trolley Tour. It’s a good way to learn a bit of history, stake out the area for future exploring, or get off (and back on later) in locations you’d like to traverse.

7. Stop by a gallery or an art venue, even if only a block or so away.  Mast Cove has a wide collection of artists as well as the occasional jazz event. You can meet the painter at W. Robert Paine Gallery and see pictures of him and Norman Rockwell as young artists.

6. Go to the movies. The area has a few singular silver screen options: Cinemagic & IMAX, Saco Drive-in Theater, and Smitty’s, where you can enjoy a full meal in an oversized chair.  

5. Hit the gym!  Boost those endorphins with a workout.  You can purchase a day pass from Quest Fitness and enjoy up to date machines, classes, and even a pool.

4. Shop the outlets in Kittery or Freeport.  If you can’t treat yourself, think of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day!  Antiques dealers and independent shops also abound.

3. Visit a museum. While we love the Portland Museum of Art, it’s also memorable to visit the niche transportation museums:  Wells Auto Museum and Seashore Trolley Museum.

2. Tour a brewery like Allagash or Kennebunkport Brewing Co. We carry awesome local beers at Captain Fairfield Inn, but visit the source and you might learn a thing or two and sample something special.

1. Take a spa day. Cottage Breeze Day Spa is great for a Maine River Stone Massage or full body treatment, while Soakology in Portland earns the description “foot sanctuary”.

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History and Renewal – Springtime in Maine! 4 Apr 2013, 6:03 am

One of the reasons Captain Fairfield Inn is open year-round is there is something to love about the southern coast of Maine during any season. Many guests of our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast specifically choose to visit during the Spring, saying they’ve discovered the best of both worlds.  The town hovers between the peace of the quiet season and the bustle of the high season.  Some highly regarded attractions open their doors, and the trip is a bargain with so much to do.

Our boutique inn’s building–once the home of ship captain James Fairfield–has reached its two hundredth year in 2013.  As we celebrate our bicentennial, the Brick Store Museum will highlight the historic shipbuilding and seafaring nature of The Kennebunks with the Maritime Heritage Exhibit opening April 20th.  The museum is ten minutes from the Captain Fairfield Inn and open to the public throughout the year.  Self-guided tours focusing on the architecture of the historic district are always available, and guided walking tours of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport begin in May.

We are especially pleased that the Portland Museum of Art resumed tours of the Winslow Homer Studio on April 2nd, and will continue them until June 14th.  As the restored historic site at Prouts Neck opened its doors only last year, it is new to even long-time visitors to the region.  Call ahead for tickets (or have us do it) as soon as you know when you would like to go. Locals are among those interested in seeing the artist’s retreat, and the 10 spots per tour fill quickly.  Of course, there is no need to plan ahead to see some of Homer’s paintings in the museum itself.  Then you can meander back down the coast and contemplate your own seascape.

Because some things improve with age, we suggest a visit to Old Vines Wine Bar after a day of art and history.  This week they return with a brand new menu.  Whatever changes have been made to the food and wine list, we trust that their knowledgeable staff will be back along with the warm, low-lit setting perfect for a drink or a leisurely meal.

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St. Patty’s Day at Captain Fairfield Inn 15 Mar 2013, 12:45 pm

River Tree Arts, one of our favorite local fixtures, is less than five minutes from our Kennebunkport Bed & Breakfast.  River Tree’s nonprofit mission enriches the cultural landscape and fosters creativity in our Maine coast community.  The best part for Captain Fairfield Inn guests and other visitors to The Kennebunks are the unique, affordable events they host throughout the year.

There is an eclectic evening jazz performance next Saturday, March 23rd, for example, and River Tree will host an art reception for the Kennebunkport Festival in June.  We had the good fortune to attend the Celtic Connections Concert this week.  All the Irish music, dance, and poetry made us eager for St. Patrick’s Day.

Around this time last year at Captain Fairfield Inn we debuted our local craft beer selection.  Being able to savor a nutty brew by the fire or sip a cold one on a warm summer day is as appealing now as it was then, but we also want to try something different in honor of the St. Patty’s holiday.  This year we’ve decided to feature an Irish-inspired beer. Aged on vanilla beans, Maine Beer Company’s Old Mean Tom should be perfect in the morning as part of our new recipe:  stout cinnamon buns.  Guests on the night of the 17th will be the first to try this homemade pastry as part of a creative St. Patrick’s breakfast menu.  In case this makes you green with envy, the sweet, sticky rolls will likely appear again at our boutique B&B.

Even if you don’t stay the night with us, St. Patrick’s Day seems like a great time to come to Kennebunkport.  You can drop in one of Southern Maine’s many Irish pubs or just try some great seasonal items at any cherished local establishment. The truth is, all our area restaurants are getting geared up for Spring. We’re tempted by the house cured corned beef sandwiches at Eventide Oyster Co. in nearby Portland, but you’ll probably catch us at Pier 77 listening to live music and sampling Guinness Lamb Stew.

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Captain Fairfield Loves Harris Farm 3 Mar 2013, 7:43 am

There may not be lots of snow where you are but we’ve had our fair share this winter.  Coastal Maine’s winter weather pattern has kept the snowfall “just right.”   There’s no doubt that Jed has had his share of shoveling, but, in our view, our second winter in Maine has been just about perfect, with plenty of opportunity to sit by the fire, enjoy a glass of wine or a hot toddy and of course get out and explore the area.

During this, one of the most beautiful times of year in our coastal village, many of our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast guests are taking advantage by strolling quiet beaches or hopping on a sleigh ride. Still more visit one of our favorite locations supporting local, eco-friendly agriculture: Harris Farm.

Just a short scenic drive to the west, Harris Farm offers visitors the opportunity to explore the farm on snowshoes or cross-country skis. Novices to both winter sports are always welcome! We’ve heard stories of the great patience and competence of the farm’s staff during lessons, and especially the fun to be had exploring this corner of Maine.  Of course, if you are accomplished in either sport there are many miles of beautiful trails to explore on your own.

Admittedly, we were introduced to our Southern Maine neighbors in a way that has nothing to do with winter sports. Harris Farm supplies several local restaurants, including our favorite new addition to downtown Kennebunk, Owen’s Farmhouse. Check out the “Harris” pizza, which includes ingredients sourced from its namesake farm.  We’d suggest stopping in at Owen’s on your way back from a day of exploring – they have takeout and dine-in options.  If you opt for take out, let us know and we’ll be sure to have the fire going so you can warm up after your day of winter trekking.

On a related note: It’s time to tap the Sugar Maples! If you’re visiting on March 22nd & 23rd be sure to check out Harris Farm’s annual Maple Weekend. Get an inside look at their operation and even sample maple syrup straight from the boiler.

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Designer Showhouse – Happening Now in Kennebunkport! 10 Jul 2012, 7:21 am

Have you visited the Designer Show House at the Kenneth Roberts Estate in Kennebunkport yet? It goes through this coming Saturday, July 14 not too far from the inn.

Our friends at Portland, Maine’s Inspired Wire Stdio (the folks who – at this very moment – are crafting a custom light for our new tasting room!) have one of their pieces featured in the guest bedroom by Fiore Studio.

Check out this news clip on the showhouse. Watch until the end and you’ll see the orb “solstice” chandelier.

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Style Loves Style! 27 Jun 2012, 6:38 am

A vacation mentality. Coastal locations. Style. Fun. Focus on the good life. . .

We realized we had a lot in common with the clothier, vineyard vines, so we hooked up with them to be the official outfitter for Lark Hotels. From managers to housekeepers (and even friends and family!), you’ll see the crew at Captain Fairfield Inn decked out in stylish vineyard vines dresses, khakis, polo shirts, tunics and capris.

Our partnership with vineyard vines benefits you, our guest, as well. You’ll receive an exclusive discount deal from vineyard vines for each stay at a Lark Hotel this summer (until September 4, 2012).

Plus, when you purchase an item at vineyard vines stores in the Boston area, Connecticut and New Jersey, you’ll get a Lark Hotels promotional piece in your bag. Simply present that piece upon check-in and receive a free vineyard vines gift.

We’re excited to join with this great New England-based company to spread style and fun in iconic coastal destinations.

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Valentine’s Day and a Maine Getaway 2 Feb 2012, 10:39 am

Perhaps the sneakiest of holidays, Valentine’s Day has crept up on us once again and is now less than 2 weeks away! What to do, what to do… It may be the fourth quarter, but this is when you bring your A game. Channel Tom Brady and come up with a hail-mary that will win her (or him) over.

We almost forgot ourselves, but were luckily reminded when Love and Lobster featured us on their blog post about Valentine’s Day getaways. Thanks guys!  (BTW, if you are single or dating and your Valentine’s Day is so successful this year that it leads to something more, this blog about clever coastal New England wedding inspiration may come in handy…)

So what would make a getaway at Captain Fairfield, a Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, a game-winner for Valentine’s Day? Option 1 – a classic Valentine’s Day package with all the details taken care of. Option 2 – customize your stay with wine, small plates, or other items from our a la carte selections. Option 3 – dream up anything, then call or email us and we’ll see what we can do about making it happen!

Kennebunkport, Maine bed and breakfasts and inns are known for being romantic, but what makes Captain Fairfield an especially perfect choice for this holiday?  The boutique experience we offer – which means your special requests will be greeted with a smile, but you’ll also get the privacy you desire.  Help with your dinner plans?  We can help you make the tough call of choosing among all of the fabulous Kennebunkport restaurants.  Then we’ll take care of the reservations for you.  Table for two for our gourmet breakfast?  Done.  Did you say breakfast in bed?  Just ask for our breakfast basket option.  Combine all of this with our boutique style, and you’ve got a game plan for an unforgettable getaway.

PS.  Thanks for indulging the overdone football references.  Must be Superbowl fever.

What was I talking about?  Oh yes, Valentine’s Day…

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Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude 31 Dec 2011, 10:39 am

2011 marked the 30th anniversary of Christmas Prelude, and as always Kennebunkport’s holiday festival was brimming with cheer.  To say Christmas Prelude is a big deal is no hyperbole; it helped K’port earn the #2 spot on HGTV’s list “Top 10 Christmas Towns.” During the first two weekends in December, residents and visitors mingle at tree lightings, caroling, open houses, craft fairs, public luncheons and suppers, and Santa’s arrival via lobster boat.  Most of the events are inspired simply by the season and are offered for free or for a donation to a local charity.  Set in this picturesque seaside village, Prelude is truly a Normal Rockwellian holiday festival.

Our Kennebunkport inn is located just a short walk to many Prelude events, and our guests soaked up the holiday spirit at many of them.  Here are a few of their highlights:

• Candlelit caroling at the Franciscan Monastery, where everyone received not only a candle but warm chestnuts as well
• Firehouse lobster bake at the Washington Hose Fire Station
• The Dock Square Christmas tree, decorated with lobster pots and topped with a red wooden lobster
• Tour of the 1853 Nott House, elegantly decked to the nines
• Historic trolley rides on an electric streetcar through the Maine woods
• Fireworks over the cove, right in the center of Kennebunkport

At Captain Fairfield, we want our guests to have a Prelude weekend that is as full and festive as possible.  Our halls are decked in a chic boutique take on traditional holiday decor.  Guests are welcomed with a wine and cheese reception and a roaring fire in the Lounge fireplace.  Before the tree lighting, a Prosecco pour is offered.  Later on, a port pour and chocolate bite might encourage some conspiring.

Whenever you stay at Captain Fairfield, whether during the holidays or another time of year, we believe your stay should evoke a warm sense of nostalgia.  While you’re here, we hope you’ll have the feeling that you’ll be looking back on this getaway for years to come.

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Kennebunkport Festival: Food, Wine, Art 17 Oct 2011, 8:42 am

The Kennebunkport Festival, which takes place during the first week in June, is a wine festival, a food festival and an art festival, all in the destination where you can sink your toes into the meaning of the term “summer vacation.” Planning for the 2012 Festival is well underway, with some of the participating chefs already revealed! You can keep up with the latest by liking the Festival on facebook.

All of us at Captain Fairfield Inn were lucky enough to enjoy several events at the 2011 Festival. Here we share with you some of our experiences…

Pop the Kennebunks

As soon as we arrived at the William Farley Estate for Pop the Kennebunks, it became clear that this was truly a celebration of everything that Kennebunkport represents: good times with great food and drink in a beautiful location. This was no ordinary backyard party; crystal chandeliers hung from the sweeping tent’s ceiling, table upon table greeted guests with savories and sweets, and at the epicenter – a large wine bar where Cellardoor Winery was bustling to serve glass after glass of their well-crafted libations. While some guests had donned their finest tuxedos, ball gowns and costume jewelry, others appeared more nonchalant, yet all were wearing the ease of the good life in Kennebunkport. The gala paid homage to all the local treats Maine is lucky to claim, like fresh oysters still salty from the sea, robust wines, and fun music by local band Secret Service. The energy that resonated from Pop the Kennebunks is a great start to the summer and initiates all the good things to come.

- Hillary & Nate

Grand Tasting

That first bite moment. The restaurant everyone’s been telling you to try, an artfully presented dish, ingredients you love, a novel combination or preparation… You take that bite, then pause, then – “Mmm, that’s good.” At the Grand Tasting, you get to experience that moment again and again. On a sunny early summer afternoon on the porch at The Colony Hotel, overlooking the Atlantic, we meandered from table to table, sampling food from Maine restaurants and wine from national and international wineries. There were sixty restaurants and wineries, and although we didn’t have a chance to visit all of them, there are some that still linger in our minds. David’s definitely generated some buzz with their Mushroom Risotto Balls with Lobster and Truffled Microgreens. Several people told me, “You have to try those!” They were right – amazing. The Lobster Cakes from 95 Ocean were also delicious. Hmm – a trend here? But not every restaurant elected to feature fruits of the sea – there were plenty of other choices. Chef Jonathan Cartwright presented the White Barn Inn’s Crispy Braised Beef Short Rib with Sauce Remoulade (ribs from a Maine farm, Archer Angus, in Chesterville, Maine!), and Chefs Mark Gaier and Clark Frasier, of Arrows, MC Perkins Cove and Summer Winter, showed off a steak with Mom’s Sauce (which they are now making available to their fans!). We also enjoyed wine tasting (many of the wines are represented here in Maine by Nappi Distributors), and liked C’est La Vie Pinot Noir/Syrah so much that we’ve added it to our wine list at Captain Fairfield. As the afternoon wore on, we had to make another lap around for some sweet samples. Gelato Fiasco, as usual, did not disappoint, and we loved Academe’s version of “Cookies and Milk.” We were pleasantly surprised to discover Black Dinah Chocolatiers of Isle Au Haut, Maine, and are considering offering their chocolates as an a la carte item at Captain Fairfield. Well, I’ve gone on long enough – but there were just so many memorable moments of sipping, sampling, and savoring at this year’s Grand Tasting.

- Leigh

Brews & Tunes

After enjoying the early part of the afternoon at the Grand Tasting, we headed over to Brews & Tunes, an event new to the Festival this year. The venue – the boatyard next to the Kennebunk River and the Pilot House Restaurant – set the scene for this nothing-fancy, laid-back summer party. Part of the yard was covered with a tent but many people opted to hang out in the late afternoon sun while they enjoyed several local craft beers from Maine and some great live music. We got there in time to catch most of the Gypsy Tailwind set (GT being our favorite Maine band), which was definitely enjoyed by the crowd of a hundred or so. Sadly, we just heard that this great up-and-coming group has broken up to pursue individual projects, so as it turned out we were lucky enough to have seen one of their last shows in Maine.

- Rob

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