21 wonderful ways to stay warm this winter. Wow!

Fire. It’s a classic way to warm up. And so…pretty…to stare at…

So if you’re going to be roaming about in Maine this winter, it’s not a bad idea to know where the local heat sources are. Linda Bean’s Maine Kitchen in Freeport and El Rayo Cantina in Portland both boast cool fire pit tables to warm you up when you’re sitting out.

If you’d rather be in, there are fireplaces to warm your hide at RiRa and Bull Feeney’s, Portland.

In fact, there are a load of ways to beat the chill around here.

Some heat-seeking suggestions from locals who know:

“The bar at DiMillo’s has a mighty fine fireplace. And soup from Kamasouptra is a given. Beer & cheddar or sweet potato corn chowder are my faves.” – Jane Stevens

“Drinking a single malt scotch by the fireplace at Pat’s Cafe.” – Kevin Montminy

“1. sit by the fire at The East Ender and order a Bailey’s Irish Cream 2. cozy up with hot choc at the new Katy Made location (!!) 3. a warm bowl of vegan butternut squash soup (made with local ingredients) at ROOST House of Juice. I could go on and on, but those are my favorites!” – Claire Jeffers

“Portland Harbor Hotel bar has an awesome fireplace.” – James Johnson

“I set myself on fire but that’s not for everyone.” – Nichole Jandreau

“I love the saunas at USM’s Sullivan complex…and the airport Holiday Inn has a hot tub for ‘guests’ (whatever that means)” – Nick Callanan

“The Cheddar-Ale Soup we sell at Sebago – made by Kamasouptra with our Runabout Red Ale! My favorite winter meal!” – Elise Loschiavo

“Day passes at the Regency Spa – sauna, hot tub.” – Sarah Curtis Long

“Portland Power Yoga…the yoga is hot and the yogis are hotter” – Diana Ichton Nelson
(And the yoga is Free Feb 14, with a focus on “heart opening poses.”) There’s also hot yoga to be had at Greener Postures in SoPo and Falmouth.

“The only thing keeping me from turning into an icicle is the sauna/steamroom at the YMCA.”  – Greta Rybus
(A day pass is $12.)

“Steam room at the Bay Club, third floor OCC.” – Jim Peak

We’d also add that de-icing your feet at Soakology in Portland always sounds like an inviting idea.

Got another suggestion? Post it in the comments.