Michael Miclon works hard to bring folks to Gardiner.
As the executive and artistic director of the historic Johnson Hall Opera House on Water Street, he brings musicians, comedians and other performers to town, along with audience members, too.
Working in town for more than a decade, Miclon has developed his own favorite spots in town, which he gladly shared.
Where do you like to eat?
My favorite place to eat in Gardiner is Bintliff’s Corner Brew. The food and coffee are incredible, and the portion size is amazing. The venue itself is just beautiful and their staff is so welcoming.
Where do you like to get a drink?
You can’t go wrong at The Depot Pub. They have so many beers on tap as well as a full bar. Their food is great too and it is a great place to unwind.
Where do you like to connect with nature?
For this, I have two. One is the Kennebec River Rail Trail. I do a 3-mile walk on this great trail that flows along the Kennebec. It’s a lovely place to get some air. Two is the Gardiner Waterfront. This is a beautiful spot that feels like you are out of town even though you are right in the middle of things.
Where do you like to shop locally?
My favorite place to shop is Monkitree. It is a great store to find the perfect gift. Most everything is made by artists from Maine or nearby. I always find something unique.
What’s a hidden gem in town?
Even though I am totally biased… I have to mention Johnson Hall Opera House. We recently completed a $9.3 million renovation and reopened Maine’s oldest operating opera house. The space is beautiful and the acoustics are second to none. Lyle Lovett said “it was like performing in a recording studio.”
My other hidden gem is Gardiner Main Street’s annual Swine & Stein Brewfest event every October. It is a single-day event that brings in over a thousand people to Water Street. Great music, food and beers from all over the state.
Five Things is a feature in which locals give our readers suggestions for exploring the state of Maine, town by town. Have a city or town you think we should explore in the future? Tell News & Culture Editor Katherine Lee at [email protected].
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