Boothbay is very much a summer destination. During those months, every business is working to fulfill the needs of the summer crowd. However, once Indigenous Peoples Day hits, most of the town shuts down. Yet, starting in mid-November, the town of Boothbay experiences a resurgence, and that is owed to Gardens Aglow at the botanical gardens.
Gardens Aglow is a massive undertaking, with 750,000 lights strung up in the gardens. There are certain parts of the gardens that are shut off to visitors because it might not be safe to visit those areas at night, but the areas that are accessible makes up for the loss of those sections. There are cafes set up throughout the compound that provide bathrooms, a place to rest and serves hot drinks. Furthermore, there are signs and staff members throughout the gardens that can help and guide those wishing to see the lights.
The botanical gardens also provide a map upon entry to help in planning out the best route. Due to the garden’s popularity, parking and tickets are extremely limited, so make sure to plan ahead, and definitely buy your tickets online to ensure you can enter the gardens.
After I finished my tour of the botanical gardens, I made my way into town. While there, I dined at Ports of Italy. Small and intimate, reservations are recommended. There are tables scattered throughout the restaurant, and there is seating at the bar. Street parking can be found out front, while additional parking can be found in the rear. Unfortunately, Ports of Italy is only open from mid-April to New Year’s Eve, so make sure to plan accordingly.
Ports of Italy has a sizable wine menu, along with a cocktail list, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. Typical Italian food with a bit of seafood dot the menu, and any guest will find something delicious to eat. I had the spaghetti alle vongole, which is a pasta dish with clam sauce. It is absolutely delicious, and I find myself ordering that whenever I stop at Ports of Italy.
Gardens Aglow is definitely worth the trip to Boothbay. I try to go at least once a year, and I always find something new whenever I go. If you are interested in Gardens Aglow, you can click here, and if Ports of Italy sounds appetizing, you can click here. As always, I have to ask, where should I go next?
themerrymainer 