New England has more arts nooks and cultural crannies than just about anywhere. Here are five finds in Brunswick, Maine.
Take is going on the road, checking out New England’s corners for everything from the best bodegas to tiny galleries and music spots. We’ll be adding towns as we come across them. Check back regularly for the latest New England finds. First up? Brunswick, Maine, home to a lot more than Bowdoin College.
Settled in 1628, Brunswick was initially known by its Native American name, Pejepscot. Indeed, the town’s website, notes that Maine Street—yes, that’s with an “e” of course—was “laid out by the ‘Pejepscot Proprietors’ in 1717 at a width of 12 rods (198 feet) so that travelers between Fort Pejepscot on the Androscoggin River and Maquoit Bay would always be nearly 100 feet from the woods on each side, providing protection from ambush.”
Another historical tidbit? Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote Uncle Tom’s Cabinˆwhile living in Brunswick where her husband taught at Bowdoin. She apparently, or so the story goes, got a vision for the book while praying in First Parish Church, which still sits in the center of town.
Here are five finds in Brunswick, Maine for you to check out during your next visit.
Photo by Katie Bingham-Smith
Locals and visitors alike know that Danny’s is the place to go if you’ve got a hankering for a hot dog. Danny’s has been selling hot dogs—steamed or grilled, you decide—since 1982. Allow a little extra time to grab lunch as the line, while speedly, is almost always long. You can grab a dog, chips, and a drink for around $5.
Location: On the town green, 171-181 Maine Street, Brunswick, Maine
Photo courtesy of Estilo
Estilo is the kind of resale place where you just never know what you’ll find. One day, you could score a pair of Frye boots, another day a Coach bag or one-of-a-kind jewelry. Locals know about Estilo. Now you do, too. You’re welcome.
Location: 10 Pleasant Street, Brunswick, Maine
Photo courtesy of Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections
Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections
Wilbur’s Of Maine Chocolate Confection’s is a bit of a mouthful, which seems appropriate given that filling your mouth—and belly—with delectable chocolate wonderfulness is their raison d’etre. With a focus on all things local, the family-owned business’s panoply of chocolate offerings includes chocolate-covered blueberries as well as chocolate-covered caramel with Maine sea salt.
Location: 143 Maine Street, Brunswick, Maine
Photo courtesy of Kings and Queens Hair Studio
Kings and Queens is both a throwback to the barbershops of yesteryear and a hair studio with its finger on what’s coming in hairstyles. Need a straight razor shave? A classic fade with custom designs? Extensions? Kings and Queens can likely help you.
Location: 50 Maine Street, Brunswick, Maine
Photo by Katie Bingham-Smith
Wyler’s may have started as a pottery shop, but it’s grown into eclectic store that offers everything from women’s clothing to hand-crafted jewelry from Maine artists, accessories and toys. It’s a great shop to browse; you’re sure to find a gift for a friend and go home with something for yourself.
Location: 150 Maine Street, Brunswick, Maine
