Articles Tagged "Local businesses"

The downtown area is full of many local businesses and attractions that delight residents and tourists alike.

Our real estate agents find a delightful mix of traditional and modern attractions at these great destinations in downtown Augusta.

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Since separating from Massachusetts and becoming the 23rd state, Maine has created a rich history of its own. Learn about the fascinating past, present, and future of our state with a visit to the Maine State House, just minutes away from Augusta homes for sale.  

History of the Maine State House

After a fierce rivalry among communities to be named the capital city, Portland emerged as the victor. But the honor proved to be temporary, as the state legislature voted in 1827 to make Augusta the permanent capital.

In order to meet the high standards befitting this honor, Maine hired famed Boston architect Charles Bulfinch to design the State House. Bulfinch's portfolio already included the Massachusetts State House as well as sections of the U.S. Capital and many prominent New England buildings.

The first meeting of the Maine Legislature in the new State House was held in 1832. Over the years, remodeling and expansion has included the addition of a west wing and the replacement of the original low dome with the high copper dome seen today.

The Maine State House complex includes the Maine State Museum and Blaine House, with Capitol Park bridging the area between the complex and the Kennebec River. While the Museum is currently closed for renovations, the State House and Blaine House are open to the public.

Visiting the Maine State House 

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National Pancake Day is coming up on February 21, 2023, and there is only one way to celebrate. Take a break from looking at Augusta homes for sale, and order a tall stack of pancakes from one of these local restaurants.

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Our real estate agents know that high-quality seasonal skiing is one of the most sought-after reasons to settle in beautiful Maine. The Pine Tree State is well known for some of the best skiing in the Northeast. Whether you settle near Augusta homes for sale or elsewhere, you will never be too far from the slopes.

There are many different local ski resorts to choose from, catering to skill levels from beginner to expert. The biggest question is which one to see first!

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Our real estate agents firmly believe that you don't need an excuse to reach for a cup of coffee. And with National Coffee Break Day coming right up on January 20, you might want to pour yourself a second cup!

Luckily, we have some truly excellent coffee shops here in the Augusta, Maine, area. Be sure to check out these Kennebec Valley coffee shops to get your caffeine fix this season!

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Ice skating is an annual tradition for many families near Augusta homes for sale, and you have plenty of local options if it appeals to you. Many communities near Augusta host seasonal ice skating. Some rinks are in municipal facilities or set on outdoor lakes, while others are found in large event venues.

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Between showings of the best Augusta homes for sale, our team knows that it's important to take time out for all the little things that make life special. The holidays are the season to get together with loved ones and celebrate what matters most. That also means it's time for the hectic fun of holiday shopping!

Even with the best of intentions, time can get away from you. Luckily, you have plenty of options when it comes to finding the perfect gift here in Maine. Plus, our real estate agents know of a few places where you could find something truly special.

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The Kennebec Valley is known for beautiful natural sights and fresh produce that sustains communities around the region. Our real estate agents want to introduce you to the local apples and the cider they create.

Apple cider has long been a celebrated drink in New England, just right for getting warmed up by the fire in winter. Cider is a beverage made from crushed apples and may be fermented or unfermented. Heated cider is known as mulled cider.

No matter what type you choose to savor, the base of any cider is fine, fresh apples.

Kennebec Valley apples include such varieties as Spencer, Winesap, McIntosh, Northern Spy, and even the traditional Red and Golden Delicious you may find elsewhere throughout the country. An individual cider may use just one or several types of apples and might even be aged in a cask like wine.

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With nearly 200 farms that generate upwards of $570 million in annual sales, the dairy industry is a vital part of Maine's economy and culture. Join our real estate agents in supporting these hard-working farmers on Maine Open Creamery Day. 

About Maine Open Creamery Day

This year marks the 15th anniversary of Maine Open Creamery Day, a popular event where the public gets a chance to learn first-hand about the tradition of cheese-making. Here are some of the participating creameries that will be opening their facilities from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 9.

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Are you planning a visit to Augusta — perhaps to look at Augusta homes for sale? While you're in the area, we highly recommend checking out some local museums and attractions. One of the best ones to visit is the Monmouth Museum, which houses displays related to early life in Maine. Visiting this museum will give you a better understanding of the region's history, and it will also feel like a peek back in time. Here are the key things you need to know prior to your visit.

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Who says goodbyes have to be hard? Bid summer farewell with a bang at the Windsor Fair, the annual showcase event near Augusta homes for sale. Plan this year's visit with a little help from our real estate agents, who share a sneak preview of what to expect.

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Maine's Kennebec Valley really comes to life in summertime, with a wide range of fairs, festivals, and events. Many of them, including the much-anticipated Taste of Waterville Festival, are just minutes from these Hallowell homes for sale.

Highlighting all the unique flavors of Maine's diverse culinary landscape, Taste of Waterville is now in its 30th year. As we get ready for one of our favorite summertime festivals in Maine, our real estate agents are excited to share more information about Taste of Waterville.

About Taste of Waterville

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No matter if you choose Hallowell homes for sale or Augusta homes for sale, you can count on many exciting amenities in your new neighborhood. Our real estate agents know that choosing a new home isn't just about the property itself but also about the community you decide to become a part of.

The Kennebec Valley area is well known for its natural beauty as well as its strong local economy. One of the most enticing parts of living in the region is getting to see the development of small businesses that give our towns and cities a unique flair – and craft breweries are at the forefront of it all.

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Running from Moosehead Lake to the Atlantic Ocean, the Kennebec River is one of Maine's most prominent bodies of water. It passes right through Augusta, and there are plenty of areas where you can enjoy a stunning view of this waterway. Our real estate agents recommend dining at one of these restaurants on the banks of the Kennebec.

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Our real estate agents know that the area around the Kennebec River has a lot to offer.

Waterville, Maine, is located right on the Kennebec River and is one of the northernmost parts of Kennebec County and is situated near Oakland homes for sale. It used to be a mill town, but today it's transformed into a vibrant area filled with art, colleges, culture, dining, and entertainment. You'll have no trouble filling the day with fun activities. A walking tour of Waterville gives you the opportunity to get some exercise while also supporting local businesses. Here is a quick list of things you'll definitely want to include in your itinerary:

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The golf season in the Kennebec Valley is upon us, and now is the perfect time to dust off your clubs before enjoying a round of golf at one of many great local courses. You won't have to travel far to enjoy the best golf that Maine has to offer. Our real estate agents have all of the details on 5 of the best golf courses in the Kennebec Valley for you to enjoy this spring and summer.

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Augusta homes for sale are located right in the midst of one of Maine's most desirable communities. Nature's bounty is all around, and our real estate agents know there are plenty of different ways to enjoy it all – from exploring it to, well, eating it!

Whether living right in Augusta or in one of the surrounding towns, you'll find yourself at the crossroads of plenty of local farmers markets. While many farmers markets are seasonal, there's such a selection in the local area that you're bound to find one ready for your visit at any time of year.

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At Sprague & Curtis, our real estate agents know the magnificent natural beauty of the Kennebec Valley is only the start. Augusta homes for sale are nestled within beautiful surroundings, but local charm and culture are just as important.

One thing many newcomers are surprised to discover is the busy antiquing scene. The Kennebec Valley is dotted with an eclectic assortment of antique shops full of vintage furniture and other precious items.

Let's visit with a few now:

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Maine proudly stands out as the #3 producer of maple syrup in the country. Yes, it's true we're not that far from Canada, but maple syrup from The Pine Tree State is in a class by itself. 

Whether you slather it on pancakes or slip it in your coffee, our real estate agents know that maple syrup is a local tradition. When you choose Augusta homes for sale, you will have the opportunity to partake in it with some of the freshest maple syrup you can find in the United States.

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Our real estate agents know the Kennebec Valley region is full of surprises. If you're exploring it for the first time, it's tough to even know where to begin! History, culture, and natural beauty all combine to create a uniquely enticing environment where you'll find great Augusta homes for sale.

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Maine has no shortage of charming small towns with picturesque main streets. But the small city of Gardiner really stands out, with its revitalized downtown district a stone's throw from the banks of the Kennebec River. 

If you happen to be in the Kennebec Valley looking at Augusta homes for sale, then a detour to Gardiner is well worth your time. These are just a few of the hidden gems you'll find in Gardiner's historic district: 

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Trying to squeeze in some holiday shopping while you're busy touring Augusta homes for sale? Take in the local ambiance and pick up one-of-a-kind gifts at these craft shows and markets recommended by our real estate agents.

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Antiquing can be a lot of fun, but one of the hardest parts is sorting the trash from the treasure. When you discover that perfect find, there's no feeling quite like it! Our real estate agents happen to know some of the best places in Maine to find genuine treasures. 

If you're on the hunt for an Augusta home for sale (and some great antique furniture to fill it with) then you might want to check out some of these amazing antique stores and markets in the Kennebec Valley! 

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Fittingly, National Chicken Wing Day was established in 1977 in Buffalo, NY, the birthplace of the iconic American snack. Our real estate agents will be celebrating on Thursday, July 29th, with a pile of hot wings at one of these popular restaurants in the Kennebec Valley.

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Our real estate agents know many of our clients, friends, and neighbors are looking forward to the chance to enjoy a vacation. When it's finally time to get away, why not choose the Kennebec Valley as your destination?

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Maine is famous for seafood! If you've been looking at Augusta homes for sale, you'll want to know more about the local seafood culture. 

While the "seafood season" goes year-round here, it peaks in late summer. This is when both hard-shell and soft-sell lobsters (also called "shedders") are readily available.

There are still many reasons to order up a plate of local seafood, especially with National Shrimp Day coming up on May 9th. 

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International Waffle Day is celebrated on March 25, so forget about skipping breakfast or settling for a routine bowl of cereal. Instead, head out to a Kennebec Valley restaurant to sample some local flavor and get your day started with a delicious waffle.
  
Our real estate agents suggest trying one of the following breakfast spots to satisfy your craving for waffles:

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When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, it's either amore or time for National Pizza Day. Our real estate agents are excited to celebrate! On Tuesday, February 9, celebrate with an order of delicious pizza from one of these great Kennebec Valley restaurants.

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A wise but anonymous person once described hot chocolate as "a hug from the inside." During a cold Maine winter, that couldn't be more true! When our real estate agents feel a need for the warm embrace of cocoa, they head to these great restaurants and coffee shops near Augusta homes for sale. 

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Are you ready to celebrate one of the most delicious months of the year? Maine has long been a national leader in fresh-caught seafood, and the Augusta area is the perfect place to celebrate National Seafood Month. Every October, National Seafood Month shines a light on all of the delicious seafood available in local communities around the country, so this is a great time to see what your local seafood shops have to offer. Our REALTORS® have all the delicious details on where you can find fresh, local ingredients for National Seafood Month in the Augusta area.

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When a chill in the air arrives here in Augusta, there are many different hearty delicacies to choose from and our REALTORS® know a bowl of soup can be especially enticing. New England clam chowder is only the beginning!

Journey around Augusta homes for sale and you're sure to notice there are plenty of places that specialize in rich, homemade soup. In fact, there are dozens of options to explore: Many residents have favorites that they visit regularly all throughout fall and winter.

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We could go on and on about all the reasons we love autumn in Maine. The crisp morning air, the brilliant foliage, the welcome return of flannel weather. But few things say 'fall' quite like apple picking.

Our real estate agents are blessed to live in a place with an incredible variety of orchards, farms, and farm markets where fresh apples are abundant every autumn. Here are some of our favorite places to pick apples in the Kennebec Valley:

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The summer months are heating up, and our real estate agents have just the solution. Let's eat some ice cream. July 19th is National Ice Cream Day, and we're looking forward to celebrating the only way we know how—visiting some of our favorite ice cream shops in the Kennebec Valley. Be sure to check out these local hot spots when you need to cool off.

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Our real estate agents know that there are plenty of great reasons to choose Augusta homes for sale. A terrific local dining culture is one of them – and that includes breakfast!

Some hail it as the most important meal of the day, and you won't have to go without it. Augusta is rich with coffee shops and bakeries perfect for getting a morning meal and a caffeine fix.

With National Doughnut Day just around the corner, it's the right time to check them out.

National Doughnut Day is June 5 – a Friday this year. If a sweet treat sounds like it would hit the spot, you're in luck. Even though table service isn't available right now, lots of local restaurants are open for curbside takeout or delivery. Warm, tasty doughnuts await.

Sure, nationwide chains often offer something on National Doughnut Day, too. But for a true taste of Augusta, we recommend these four bakeries.

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Have the fall and winter months left your landscaping in need of a spring refresh?

If you're buying or selling a home in the coming months, landscaping is more important than ever. Our real estate agents always recommend sprucing up your curb appeal before listing. Since many sellers list in early spring, fixing up your landscaping right away will help ensure that your home stands out from the crowd. 

Whether you need a few new plants, some fertilizer, and mulch, or gardening tools to help you get the job done, a quick visit to one of the area's greenhouses will help you get started. 

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The Kennebec Valley is known far and wide for its splendid scenery, but its best-kept secret might be the wealth of local dairies and cheeseries we have at our fingertips. And with National Cheese Lover's Day coming up on January 20th, our real estate agents are thrilled to share some of their favorite local destinations for fantastic cheese in the Kennebec Valley. 

• Winter Hill Farm - 35 Hill Farm Rd., Freeport, ME 04032
  With a philosophy of eco-friendly farming practices and respectful treatment of their animals, Winter Hill Farm is a great place to get your guilt-free cheese fix this winter. The farm is nestled among the wooded hills and rolling farmland just outside Freeport, and only minutes away from these Freeport homes for sale. Their offerings include fresh, bloomy rind, washed rind, and aged raw milk cheeses, all handmade in small batches by master cheesemakers. 

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Did you know that maple syrup has its own holiday? National Maple Syrup Day is observed every year on December 17, and our corner of Maine is the perfect place to celebrate this sweet holiday. Local, family-owned businesses have been producing fresh maple syrup for generations, using old-fashioned harvesting practices producing some of the best maple syrup in the world. Whether you're a maple syrup aficionado or you want to enjoy something sweet, this is the holiday for you. Our REALTORS® have all the delicious details on four great spots to celebrate National Maple Syrup Day near Augusta this year.

1. Bacon Farm Maple Products – 415 Goodhue Rd., Sidney, ME 04330
   Conveniently located close to Sidney homes for sale, you'll find Bacon Farm Maple Products, the perfect place to celebrate National Maple Syrup Day. This farm is one of the oldest continually operating maple syrup shops in the area and has been delighting visitors ever since it was first founded in 1881. Today, the Bacon family sticks to the classic methods that have served them well for generations, starting with the sap harvest in the early spring. The sap is boiled down on-site to create fresh, delicious maple syrup. If you're interested in creating your own maple syrup, Bacon Farm also sells sugaring products and supplies.

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There is nothing better than a hot cup of chowder to take the chill off a cool New England night. Moreover, you will have plenty of things to do when you move into any of the Augusta homes for sale this season. Between the crisp air and the tired muscles, the last thing you will want to do is fire up the stove and make dinner. When you are ready to take a break from the boxes and settle into the area, the following are some of the best places in town to enjoy a piping hot bowl of New England chowder.

Sandy Point Seafood - 146 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Augusta, ME 04330

Open Wednesday through Sunday, Sandy Point Seafood is one of the best chowder restaurants in Maine. From lobster stew to haddock chowder, they have something for everyone to discover. When you do get settled into the area, you can come back and pick up some of the freshest halibut, haddock, shrimp, and lobster in Augusta to bring home. This local favorite is a great place to rub elbows with your neighbors and find out what's happening in the community.

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Every year on September 5, people around the world come together to support those in need for International Day of Charity. This annual holiday is the perfect opportunity to learn more about local causes and offer support. Whether you're currently shopping for Augusta homes for sale or you're a long-time resident, you'll find plenty of worthy, local non-profit organizations to support on International Day of Charity. Our real estate agents have all the details on 5 local Augusta charities you can support this year.

1. Maine Greyhound Placement Service – 231 Old Belgrade Rd., Augusta 04330
   The Maine Greyhound Placement Service (MGPS) is a local charity working to find new homes for retired racing greyhounds, typically between two and five years old. These well-trained dogs often make great family pets. Besides finding the dogs homes, the organization also operates a spay/neuter clinic, and a greyhound pet supply store to help raise funds. Volunteer to help greyhounds find homes, or make a financial donation to support the cause.

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Maine's Kennebec Valley has many charms, including spectacular outdoor scenery that you won't find anywhere else. From hiking trails to public parks and waterways, there are so many different ways to experience the natural beauty of the Kennebec Valley. There's nothing like traversing the area by water, in a kayak, canoe, or small boat. It provides a unique perspective on familiar natural spots throughout the area and offers a great workout in the process. Our real estate agents know outdoor fun, and we've got all the info you need to paddle your way around the Kennebec Valley.

Touring the Kennebec Valley by Water

Kennebec Valley Kayak and Boat Rentals

• Belgrade Canoe & Kayak – 1005 Augusta Rd., Belgrade 04917
  With a convenient location close to Belgrade homes for sale, you can find everything you need for a day of paddling at Belgrade Canoe & Kayak. This spot is known for its fantastic customer service and extensive selection. It's also open 24 hours, so you can always find equipment for your next trip.

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When potential home buyers start exploring Gardiner homes for sale, one of the first things they notice is the area's small-town feel and strong sense of community. Residents here love to support small business by shopping local. That's one of the reasons the Gardiner Food Co-Op is so popular. 

Not sure what a food co-op is or how it works? No worries! Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on everything you need to know! 

What is a Food Co-Op? 

On the surface, a food co-op works in much the same way as a traditional grocery store or food market. The storefront is open to the public, and you don't have to be a member to shop there. 

The biggest difference is the fact that local residents can become cooperative owners by making an equity investment, or purchasing shares. This gives them a vote in important matters regarding the operations of the business.

Unlike a traditional stock investment, the value of the shares does not fluctuate. When excess funds are accumulated, they are typically invested back into the co-op, held as reserves, or used to support other activities approved by the shareholders. Although it's not the primary objective, occasionally excess funds are returned to members based on their use of the services.  

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One of the many things our real estate agents love about the Kennebec Valley is that it's one of the best places in America to experience the great outdoors. And despite offering some of the best fishing in the country, this region still flies under most people's radar—and we think that should change!

When it comes to fishing in the Kennebec Valley and Augusta, Maine area, the options are endless. The Kennebeck River offers unmatched fly fishing opportunities, especially in spring and fall when trout spawn in the main river and its many tributaries. Lakes and ponds up and down the river provide excellent bass fishing in summer as well. Even in winter, ice fishing gives hardy anglers a chance to tangle with big fish through the ice. 

So if you're in the neighborhood looking at Augusta homes for sale, you may want to set aside some time to do some fishing. You can't go wrong in any of the Kennebec Valley's rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, but if you're new to the area, you may want a bit of expert guidance. These great local guide services can guarantee a great fishing trip in the Augusta area:

1. Blue Heron Fly Fishing - 80 E. River Road, Whitefield, ME
   Your go-to guide for fly fishing adventures on the Kennebec Valley, Blue Heron Fly Fishing offers both wade and drift boat trips in Central Maine, including the Kennebec River and several other nearby rivers and streams. Located near these Whitefield homes for sale, Blue Heron Fly Fishing offers not only a chance to fish for big wild brook and rainbow trout in a beautiful environment but also an opportunity to learn more about the region's rich history, plants, and wildlife. Blue Heron Fly Fishing provides everything from fishing gear to lunch prepared on shore, along with fly fishing lessons and fly tying lessons. 

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Dessert lovers, rejoice! Within the span of one week this summer you can celebrate National Vanilla Milkshake Day on June 20 and National Ice Cream Cake Day on June 27. Get ready to indulge as our real estate agents share the scoop on their favorite ice cream shops around Augusta.

1. The Red Barn - 455 Riverside Drive, Augusta 04330
   Roadside diners are a classic part of summer in America, and The Red Barn has been a family-owned Augusta institution since 1977. Take a break from touring Augusta homes for sale and sit outside at the picnic tables to enjoy a meal of clam strips, lobster rolls, or other Maine seafood before finishing with some of their popular soft-serve ice cream. Have it in a bowl, cone, or as a luscious milkshake. Hours are 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

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Mother's Day is the perfect time to give mom a break from all she does for the family throughout the year. Our real estate agents recommend taking her out for brunch at one of these six fantastic Augusta area restaurants. 

1. Cloud 9 - 284 Western Ave., Augusta
   The award-winning Cloud 9 restaurant is nestled within the Senator Inn & Spa. Mom can enjoy her mimosa and brick oven pizza in a beautiful, relaxing setting the whole family will enjoy. When the meal's over, mom can have a relaxing massage and review listings for the many beautiful Augusta homes for sale.

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Nothing (and we mean nothing!) beats a fresh, delicious lobster roll made from succulent, flavorful Maine lobster fresh off the boat. You don't have to take our word for it—ask any of our real estate agents, experts all in great Augusta homes and lobster rolls. Here's where to go in Augusta and surrounding areas for this Down East delicacy. 

1. The Red Barn - 455 Riverside Drive, Augusta
   You drive, and drive, and drive to take in all the great Augusta homes for sale. Finally, hunger overwhelms you, and you pull into The Red Barn. Jackpot! Or, er ... lobster pot.
   
   Few places compare to lobster rolls from The Red Barn. Choose between 1/4-pound or 1/2-pound of lobster meat on a soft, warm roll. Or, go for the greatness with Crustacean Elation—a foot-long lobster roll! Worth every dollar.

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Pure Maine maple syrup is such a popular commodity that Native Americans used it as money. While maple syrup is no longer made by dropping red-hot stones into thick wooden containers of sap, it retains the same unique quality and flavor people have enjoyed for hundreds of years.

On the fourth Sunday of March each year, our state's sugar houses celebrate Maine Maple Sunday. Our real estate agents prepare you for this year's event on March 24 by sharing the story of making maple syrup along with our favorite sugar houses to visit.

How Maple Syrup Is Made

The maple syrup cycle begins when the first crow of the year flies, usually in late January. This marks the beginning of the "sweetwater" sap flow, which generally runs until mid-April. Even in these high-tech times, many sugar houses still follow the tradition of collecting sap in buckets hung from trees.

How valuable is sap? A large tree can produce a generous amount of 60 gallons in one year, but the end result is only about one-and-a-half gallons of maple syrup.

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Take a deep breath in.

Now exhale with a slow "Om."

Residents who value the calming effect of meditation know that Augusta and Hallowell are perfect places for a peaceful and relaxing yoga session. Our real estate agents know that a good instructor, class, and ambiance is key to helping you disconnect from the world and reconnect with your inner spirit. We've gathered a list of our five favorite yoga studios around town that we know will enrich your mind, body, and soul.

1. Harmonious Spirit, 74 Winthrop St., Augusta
   Seek inner harmony, and you shall find it at Harmonious Spirit. Right down the street from cozy Augusta homes for sale, this studio focuses on whole body wellness. Individual coaching or group classes are available for yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and stress management. Their additional services include reflexology, cupping, Reiki, and full-body massages. They even offer specialty services like infant massages and can provide in-home chair massages by request. Licensed massage therapist, registered yoga teacher, and Reiki II practitioner Hilary Spear will guide you through holistic practices that promote mindful living throughout your life.
   
   

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If you're looking for vintage or retro décor for your next home, Hallowell, Maine, has been a wonderful antiquing destination for decades. Their many unique antique stores have a wide variety of items big and small dating back from the 1800s and beyond. Our real estate agents at Sprague & Curtis Real Estate love getting lost in the relics of yesterday and have picked out a few of our favorite Hallowell antique shops for you to check out!

1. Hallowell Antique Mall - 191 Water St., Hallowell
   How could a stop at the antique capital of Maine not be on your antiquing list? The Hallowell Antique Mall has two buildings featuring 30 separate dealers that have thousands of treasures waiting to be found. In addition to a large selection of furniture, The Hallowell Antique Mall has a stunning collection of vintage clothing, military items, coins, tools, gifts and more. Swing on down to the largest antique store in town and discover what wonders await you near amazing Hallowell homes for sale.
   
   

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No matter the season, there is nothing quite like settling in with a great book and being carried away to another place. Whether you're sitting by a fire in the winter or dipping your toes in the sand during the summer, the right book makes for the perfect companion. Living in the Hallowell area means that you don't have to buy your books online, because there are still plenty of great, local bookshops in the area where you can always pick up an excellent read. Our real estate agents are here to help you find the perfect read, with our guide to some of the best bookshops in the Hallowell area.

Shopping for the Best Books? Where to Find Your Next Read Near Hallowell

1. Merrill's Bookshop – 110 Water St., Hallowell
   Shopping for Hallowell homes for sale? Be sure to make a stop at Merrill's Bookshop, where you can find books on just about any topic under the sun. Merrill's Bookshop has been serving the area for more than 20 years, with a fantastic selection of books that span the centuries. Merrill's is proud to be an old-fashioned bookshop and is one of the best spots in the region to find rare, antique editions of classic books. The knowledgeable staff is happy to help you find the books you came for, and offer great tips on books that you may not have known about before visiting.

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Are you looking to add some crafty décor to your home? You're in luck, because there are several places near Manchester, ME that sell local crafts and artwork, with a few even offering classes. Our real estate agents recommend these four craft studios to update your home or hone your craft skills.

1. Stained Glass Express - 966 Western Ave., Manchester
   Located close to homes for sale in Manchester, the Stained Glass Express impresses visitors and regulars alike. The family-owned business features a studio, retail store, and their Glass Academy on site. They have an array of stained glass, mosaics, and etching supplies in stock. Their staff can restore or create any number of projects, such as residential cabinet doors. They have two large classrooms in their Glass Academy and host a variety of classes, ranging from beginner and children's classes to adult classes. They teach glass and glass blowing, to more advanced stain glass techniques. The Stained Glass Express is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
   
   

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If you're ready to dust off your ice skates this winter, you're not alone. Ice skating is practically the official state pastime here in Maine, and if you've never ice skated before, Maine is the perfect place to learn.

Our real estate agents look forward to ice skating season, and it's finally here! Of course, there's one place in town where you don't have to worry about the weather at all – the Camden National Bank Ice Vault.

Hallowell's Home for Winter Sports

Home to the Maine Moose ice hockey team and the Skating Association of Maine, the Maine Ice Vault is one of the premier ice rinks in the state. It opened its doors in 2012, replacing the former Kennebec Ice Arena, which collapsed under the weight of snow in 2011. 

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Your first week living in a new town is filled with things to do: unpacking boxes, hooking utilities up, and learning your way around town. The last thing you want to worry about is cooking. With so many fantastic restaurants in the area, there is no need to add "making dinner" to your list of things to get done. Getting out and enjoying these seven restaurants that our real estate agents recommend will give you a chance to rest and discover the fantastic culinary delights Augusta has to offer.

1. The Red Barn - 455 Riverside Drive
   There's no better way to celebrate your new home purchase than with plates piled high with the freshest seafood in the area. The Red Barn features succulent lobster, tender scallops, and some of the best clam strips in New England.
   
   

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Folks in Augusta, Maine know how to enjoy the winter weather. In fact, for people who love the snowy season, the variety of options for outdoor winter fun is one of the best aspects of living in the area. Whether you are already an area resident or are shopping Augusta homes for sale with the intention of becoming one, there are lots to do when the snow flies. Here are four places for outdoor winter fun near Augusta that you won't want to miss:

1. GO Tubing, 60 Alder Park Road, South China, ME
   This popular winter fun venue offers old-fashioned fun for families. Snow tubing is their main gig, with four tubing lanes and a tow line to haul tubers back to the top for another run. There is also a skating rink available to patrons, as well as a cozy lodge with a roaring fire and a food truck where meals, snacks, hot chocolate, and other beverages are purchased.  You can host parties and group events at GO Tubing.

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A warm and relaxing Thanksgiving brings one of the best meals of the year.  Even our real estate agents take a little break from showing off Augusta homes for sale to get together with family to appreciate all the best life has to offer.

If you're feeling especially thankful this year, why not make it a holiday to remember and go out to one of our fine Central Maine restaurants to get your turkey day feast?

Each one of these five restaurants will provide you with a lavish feast fit for a king (or a pilgrim!), and you won't even have to lift a finger. It's all taken care of for you!

When it comes to the best Thanksgiving restaurants in Maine, these are our picks:

1. Aunt Gin's - 48 Augusta Road, Whitefield, ME
   You can find Aunt Gin's online, on Facebook, or just down the road on Route 17 in beautiful Whitefield. It's already famous for its Sunday breakfast buffet, which draws crowds from far and wide for a heaping helping of comfort food. You'll find the classics, including delicious waffles and pancakes made right in front of you. Try the homemade blueberry bread pudding.

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Fall is perhaps the perfect season to tour Augusta homes for sale in Maine. The weather is excellent, and the foliage is alive with color. When you need a break from house hunting, Augusta is the perfect place for a sip of New England Wine.  

In case you didn't know, Maine is wine country. You'll find quaint wine bars and secluded wineries throughout the area. To help you choose the perfect spot place to enjoy a glass of wine, our real estate agents did the research and compiled a guide to our favorite wineries in Augusta, Maine.  

• Two Hogs Winery - 186 Mudget Hill Rd, Vassalboro, ME
  Two Hogs Winery was an idea that began with a sip of a friend's homemade wine and shared wine recipes. The winery now offers red and white varieties, all made with fresh local fruit. Every bottle bears a drawing of the winery's namesake, two hogs on motorcycles.

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Nearly everyone loves a good slice of pizza, and the local pizzerias in Augusta serve up some pretty impressive pies. Satisfying, quick and delicious, pizza makes mealtime fun, and once you get to know these area pizza stops, you may have trouble deciding which one to choose. With their unique atmosphere, menu offerings and specials, each of these Augusta pizzerias are sure to rank high on your list of favorite places to dine. Our real estate agents want you to become acquainted with the area, and a great way to start is by checking out our six favorite pizza shops.

1. Amato's - 284 Civic Ctr Dr, Augusta, ME 04330
   One bite of Amato's mouth-watering pizza will win you over, and you'll understand why this Augusta pizza stop is a local favorite. What began as Giovanni Amato's dockside Italian sandwich cart in Portland has grown into a Maine tradition offering pizza, sandwiches and more. Try the "Giovanni" pizza for an unbeatable Italian flavor, or go for one of their other specialty pizzas. Build your own pie from a great variety of toppings, and don't forget to bring your appetite!
   
   

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The merits of taking a spa day are extensive, and many people are making periodic spa visits a part of their overall wellness routine. First and foremost, a spa day helps you relax and unwind from the rigors and stress of everyday life. What you may not know is that a trip to the spa can also help you detox, improve circulation, skin tone and sleep patterns, as well as fighting those annoying signs of aging. While you're considering some of the beautiful Augusta homes for sale during your house hunt, take some time to get to know our five favorite places to enjoy a spa day.

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