Maine is a dream destination for Bostonians looking to escape the hustle of the city. With its rugged coastlines, charming towns, and flourishing craft beer scene, the Pine Tree State offers an enticing contrast to Boston’s urban sprawl. To help you find your way to the best spots, we put together this quick Bostonian’s guide to Maine.
If you’re planning a trip North, Brickyard Hollow should be on your radar as both a culinary delight and a cultural experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to get to Maine, where to stop along the way, and the can’t-miss Brickyard Hollow locations that exemplify the best of Maine hospitality and craft beer.
Step 1 of your Guide to Maine: The Journey North from Boston
Travel Tips and Logistics
One of the best parts about living in Boston is its proximity to Maine, making spontaneous weekend getaways easy. Here are a few ways to make the trip:
- Driving: If you prefer flexibility, take I-95 North for roughly 100 miles. In light traffic, you can reach Maine in just a couple of hours. You’ll pass picturesque stretches of New Hampshire’s seacoast, so keep an eye out for scenic detours.
- Train Services: Amtrak Downeaster runs between Boston’s North Station and various stops in Maine, including Wells, Old Orchard Beach, and Portland. It’s a comfortable option if you’d rather not drive.
- Car Rentals and Rideshare: If you’re flying into Boston on your way to Maine, rental cars offer mobility. Rideshares like Uber are an option (especially in combination with the Downeaster Train). However, rideshare options can get more limited the farther north you go.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
If you’re taking the coastal route, you’ll find plenty of sights to break up the drive. According to VOGUE, travelers often highlight Kennebunkport for its quaint harbor views and classic New England architecture. Another major draw is Portland, consistently praised for its culinary scene, waterfront charm, and bustling Old Port District. Exploring these towns en route not only enriches your journey but also gives you an authentic taste of Maine culture.
Step 2 of your Guide to Maine: Maine’s Craft Beer Landscape
A Rising Craft Beer Hotspot
Craft beer has become synonymous with Maine’s culture, drawing both local fans and beer tourists. From small-batch breweries tucked away in fishing villages to more established brewpubs in bustling downtowns, the state offers a level of variety that pleases all palates. Beer enthusiasts flock here to sample everything from New England-style IPAs to meticulously crafted stouts, barleywines, and sours.
Brickyard Hollow’s Place in the Scene
Brickyard Hollow is one of the newer trailblazers, having launched in 2018 with a strong community focus. We’ve carved out a distinct niche by combining traditional brewing techniques with innovative releases, all the while prioritizing community engagement. Over the years, our presence has expanded to multiple Maine locations, each offering its own neighborhood vibe and local color. Through our Community Involvement, we regularly host events, fundraisers, and local partnerships that strengthen our ties to each town we serve.
Step 3 of your Guide to Maine: Brickyard Hollow Locations on the Beaten Trail
Yarmouth: Where It All Began
Restaurant Address: 236 Main St, Yarmouth, ME 04096
Our Yarmouth location is the heart and soul of Brickyard Hollow. Opened in 2018, this is where we perfected the blend of a full-service bar, craft brewery, and gourmet pizza menu. Families love it for the laid-back atmosphere, while craft beer aficionados appreciate the rotating taps and seasonal offerings. The interior decor is modern yet warm, reflecting Yarmouth’s rich history—after all, the town itself was once split between inland farming and coastal fishing communities, bridged by a literal “brickyard hollow.”
Portland: Amidst a Vibrant Food Scene
Restaurant Address: 9 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101
If you’re exploring Portland’s Old Port, you’ll find countless eateries, art galleries, and boutique shops. Our Portland location fits right in, offering cozy seating inside a rustic-modern space. It’s a perfect pit stop if you’re craving a craft beer after strolling along the waterfront or indulging in fresh seafood at the local wharves. Try a flight to explore our range of flavors, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs.
Freeport: The Shopper’s Paradise
Restaurant Address: 20 Bow St, Freeport, ME 04032
Famous for its outlet shopping and the flagship L.L.Bean store, Freeport is a magnet for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts alike. But what’s a shopping spree without a great meal and refreshing pint? Brickyard Hollow’s Freeport location offers exactly that—our signature craft beer lineup and comforting pizza menu, conveniently situated in the heart of downtown. Whether you’re taking a break from the outlets or making Freeport your home base for exploring Maine, this location provides a relaxed atmosphere to recharge.
Ogunquit: The Classic Maine Beach Town
Restaurant Address: 335 Main St, Ogunquit, ME 03907
Just steps from the Marginal Way and Ogunquit’s iconic sandy beaches, this Brickyard Hollow outpost delivers the quintessential coastal-vacation vibe. The bright, airy dining room is splashed with nautical touches—think reclaimed-wood accents and vintage surf photography—while a streetside patio lets you sip a crisp lager in full view of the summer bustle. Order a signature pie (the crowd-favorite Lobster Mac & Cheese pizza sells out fast), pair it with a refreshing Kölsch or fruited sour, and catch a local musician strumming during weekend happy hour. Whether you’re fueling up after a day of sun and surf or grabbing a late-night slice before the Playhouse curtain rises, our Ogunquit taproom captures everything people love about a classic Maine beach town: laid-back energy, fresh flavors, and ocean air in every breath.
Biddeford: An Up-and-Coming Food Destination
Restaurant Address: 180 Main St #3, Biddeford, ME 04005
Once defined by its sprawling textile mills, Biddeford is quickly emerging as one of New England’s hottest small-city food scenes—and Brickyard Hollow sits right in the middle of the renaissance. Housed inside a beautifully restored brick mill building, our Biddeford location blends industrial charm (original beams, soaring windows) with modern comfort (plush booths, communal high-tops). On tap you’ll find adventurous brews—think hazy double IPAs, pastry stouts, and rotating small-batch experiments—alongside dependable house staples. Complement your pint with a wood-fired pizza topped with locally sourced cheeses or Maine-grown veggies, then take a stroll along the RiverWalk or browse the nearby artists’ studios and vintage shops. From First Friday art walks to pop-up makers’ markets, there’s always something happening downtown—making our Biddeford taproom a perfect launching pad for discovering the city’s vibrant new culinary identity.
Step 4 of your Guide to Maine: Beyond the Beer
Cultural and Natural Attractions
Maine boasts a treasure trove of scenic walks, museums, and historic architecture. According to Architectural Digest, the Portland Museum of Art is one of the must-visit spots in the state. Housing an impressive collection of American and European artworks, it provides a cultural counterpoint to the natural beauty of Maine’s coast.
If you prefer the outdoors, consider exploring the rocky beaches and lighthouses scattered along the shoreline. Nature trails near Portland and Freeport offer everything from casual strolls to challenging hikes, perfect for soaking in the crisp sea air.
Foodie Favorites
In addition to craft beer, Maine’s culinary scene is legendary, particularly its seafood. Picture fresh lobster rolls, briny oysters, and hearty chowders that warm you to the core. If you’re near our Portland location, you’re steps away from iconic restaurants serving farm-to-table delights.
If you’re traveling with kids or want a break from beer, many of these eateries feature homemade sodas, fresh juices, and craft cocktails that incorporate local ingredients like wild blueberries or maple syrup.
No Guide to Maine is Complete Without Seasonal Events and Festivals
Maine Maple Season
Maine’s maple sugaring season typically spans from February to April, and Food & Wine often highlights this sweet tradition. You can visit local sugarhouses to watch syrup being made, sample maple candies, and even participate in guided tours of the facilities. Planning a trip around this time? Pair a sugarhouse excursion with a stop at one of our Brickyard Hollow locations for a unique taste of Maine—sweet syrup in the morning, craft beer in the afternoon.
Local Festivals
Throughout the year, Maine hosts a variety of festivals celebrating everything from local arts and crafts to seasonal produce. Keep an eye out for events like:
- Portland’s First Friday Art Walks: A monthly showcase of local artists.
- Yarmouth Clam Festival: A beloved summer event that brings the community together for parades, music, and, of course, clams.
- Freeport’s Fall Festival: Celebrates autumn with local vendors, pumpkin displays, and live music.
Visiting Maine during a festival can elevate your experience, providing you with an authentic taste of local culture. And don’t forget to swing by Brickyard Hollow afterward to cap off your day with exceptional beer and pizza.
The Bottom Line
For Bostonians yearning for a getaway that marries natural beauty, rich culture, and top-tier craft beer, Maine is an ideal destination—one that’s just a short drive or train ride away. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastlines, indulging in classic Maine seafood, or immersing yourself in the state’s thriving arts scene, make sure to include Brickyard Hollow on your itinerary.
Each of our locations provides its own unique ambiance, but all share the same dedication to outstanding beer, community involvement, and warm hospitality.
So, next time you’re planning a trip “Down East,” take a detour from the typical tourist stops and experience Brickyard Hollow for yourself. Whether you drop by after a scenic day of leaf-peeping in autumn or a wintertime trek through snow-laden forests, our doors are always open, ready to serve up craft pints and gourmet pizza that capture the essence of Maine.
Here’s to crossing state lines, discovering new flavors, and forging memories that will last long after you’ve returned to the bustling streets of Boston. Safe travels and cheers!