Maine, The Way Fall Should Be - The Federal Hotel and 555 north Restaurant

We’ve been feeling the urge to get away for a relaxing weekend, to relish the seasonal shift; to embrace November’s changing colors and crisp fall air. A stay at The Federal Hotel in idyllic downtown Brunswick is now at the top of our list. We toured the inn last week while dining in its exceptional on-site restaurant, 555 North.

The Federal is a 19th century boutique-style hotel that’s been elegantly reimagined. The marble floors and grand staircase in the two-level mezzanine lobby are awe-inspiring, and the 30 guest rooms, split among two buildings, are decorated with a warm contemporary flair. The Federal also offers two workout rooms and two meeting rooms for corporate and social events, and is pet-friendly, which is a rare treat.

Outdoors, there’s plenty to discover right in Brunswick or on an easy drive to the coast. The beautiful Bowdoin College campus and Maine State Music Theater are a short stroll from the inn, and the downtown has many intriguing shops, galleries, and restaurants. The nearby Androscoggin riverfront offers a paved off-road trail, a dog park, and a boat put-in. A leisurely drive east leads to some stunning pristine beaches.

The hotel’s restaurant, 555 north, is a must-visit too. It’s fabulous; the food, the design, the decor, everything. Chef Steve Corry (named Best New Chef by Food and Wine magazine in 2007, when he owned 555 in Portland) is serving up exceptionally prepared locally sourced dishes; full dinners, small plates, and a bar menu too. We started with Fireside Negronis, followed by impeccably fresh oysters and an Autumn Salad. We were tempted by the Seared Duck Breast with Glazed Carrots and Wild Berry compote, but we couldn’t resist ordering the chef’s Lobster Mac and Cheese, a Maine specialty! We’re already planning our dishes for our next visit, the Seared Tuna and local mussels.

We hope November brings you some new adventures and new perspectives. We’re always here to outfit you with new shoes for the journey. Join on our next visit  - "Maine, The Way Fall Should Be"