Time to Unwind and Relax!
It’s January, and the holidays are over. The whirlwind cooking, cleaning, decorating, buying and entertaining are now behind you. It’s time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the quieter pleasures of the season. That New Year’s resolution of being mindful? Start the practice away from it all and visit Vacationland in Maine to enjoy the pleasures of a New England winter. First choose quiet, beautiful, quintessential New England lodging. There is nothing like a cozy boutique inn to make one feel at home. The Water Street Inn, a modern take on a historic property, is conveniently located along the Piscataqua River in the heart of Kittery, so you can enjoy all that this town has to offer. Anyone who wants to visit nearby Portsmouth or York will also benefit from our central location, as these places are just a short drive away.
Winter on the Seacoast is very special. From the twinkling lights along the harbor and storefronts, to couples bundled up as they stroll along the streets, to ice skating, the season creates a truly memorable backdrop. Come see for yourself and check out our list of some of the special things to enjoy during this time of year.
First of all, try some winter sports! These you can enjoy at your own pace, and enjoy the pleasure of being outside. Need supplies? No problem, just head to Kittery Trading Post to pick up what you need and start an annual tradition of outdoor adventure! You can also pick up warm and stylish clothing at the outlets nearby, such as Barbour and Orvis or any of the other Kittery outlets.
Ice skating:
Whether you’re looking for a fun winter activity with the family or dying to live out your rom com fantasy with your special someone, this is a must.
The Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond in Portsmouth is very special.
It’s a beautiful setting with houses of Strawbery Banke around the pond and the views of Prescott Park and the Piscataqua River across the street. In the middle of the rink is a seating area with a small fire pit so skaters can take a break and warm up. And there are indoor bathrooms that you can use before and other skating.
The Waterhouse Center in Kennebunk Maine, an open sided 100’ x 120’ facility, hosts free ice skating in the winter.
Snow-shoeing in Kittery:
Remick Preserve: Over 70 acres between Routes 236 and 103 may be accessed via a recently-improved central trail connecting hemlock stands, wetlands, and diverse wildlife habitats. This preserve offers a quiet forested walk, with grand, old trees.
Kittery Town Forest: The 72-acre Kittery Town Forest was once mostly used as farmland but is not filled with stands of hardwoods, evergreens, and low-lying shrubs. Stay on yellow, red or blue loop.
Leland, Stonewall and Orchard Trail in Rogers Park: Try this easy 1.1-mile loop trail near Kittery. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, but during the winter you can still enjoy some solitude.
Enjoy mouth-watering meals:
Kittery is the Brooklyn of Portsmouth! This town has great food, craft beer and delicious cocktails. You’ll find classic lobster rolls with water views and fried seafood institutions beside outlet malls, as well as the kind of neighborhood restaurants that we’d all like to have in Kittery Foreside. For a delicious weekend, here are some can’t-miss spots:
Lil's Cafe: Delicious coffee, the best crullers, and other wonderful breakfast and lunch options.
Cocktail hour starts whenever you’d like on vacation, and there’s no better place to begin than at The Wallingford Dram for craft cocktails. If you prefer beer, a wonderful place to visit is Tributary Brewing Company. Enjoy either of these places prior to going out to the following special restaurants!
Anju Noodle Bar: Steamed buns, a wide variety of Asian noodle dishes.
Tulsi: A Mumbai native cooks dishes from across India.
The Black Birch: A warm, lively dining room and bar.
Ore Nells Barbecue: Central Texas Style! For dinner or weekend brunch.
However you decide to spend your weekend, The Water Street Inn is the best location to start and end the day to make your stay complete and carefree. Our modern amenities create a home away from home feel. We look forward to hosting you!