Schaefer’s Spouter Tavern in Mystic, Connecticut

Dining Outside the Home: Schaefer’s Spouter Tavern in Mystic, Connecticut! For perfect al fresco dining in the heart of Mystic Seaport Museum’s seafaring village, choose a table outside under the trees. Take a breath of fresh air as you gaze at the flagship, Charles W. Morgan, an American wooden whaling ship built in 1841. She’s a National Historic Landmark, you know, now docked in Chubb’s Wharf. That’s quite a view. But back to the tavern. For those who may not be familiar, the tavern is named after one mentioned in Melville’s “Moby Dick”. The Museum re-created it as a working exhibit in 1956. As for lunch, I highly recommend the Lobster Roll, served on a split bun with chunks of fresh lobster meat practically overflowing onto the plate. Add a bottle of Mystic River IPA for a mild, earthy, citrus flavor that will go down like a welcome treat for the palate.

Manchester-by-the-Sea is a Charmer

You probably know the Massachusetts village by an Oscar-winning film of the same name that awakened the rest of the world to this sleepy little fishing community. But Manchester-by-the-Sea has been around since 1645. Located along the north shore of Massachusetts Bay, where quaint summer cottages become the coveted home-away-from-home for a season, history is still being made. Such notables include a poet, author, actor, politician, comedian, professional golfer, radio talk show host, and more. The town has several points of interest, like Singing Beach, that adds enough allure to keep people flocking back. Unless of course, you’re one of the fortunate ones who get to live there. 

Dining Outside the Home: The Fireweed Grill in Kananaskis Village, Canada 

Dining Outside the Home: The Fireweed Grill in Kananaskis Village, Canada! With an stunning view of Canada’s Rocky Mountains, it’s not too difficult to appreciate a traditional breakfast of Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict. Outside the temperature may be around freezing, but the warm sunlight casting shadows over the natural beauty intensifies every adventure, especially dining. An impressive menu features personalized service at the International Breakfast Buffet or from the a-la-carte menu instead. Not an early riser? No worries. The Fireweed Grill offers unforgettable dinner options as well. Think about adding a wilderness back-country retreat to your already lengthy delicious Bucket List.