Dexter Grist Mill

Frommer's Review

This charmingly weathered building has survived some 350 years and at least as many lives. At present, it serves its original purpose, grinding corn with turbine power; you can watch the wooden gears in action and buy a bag to take home and cook up into Colonial "johnnycakes" (short for "cakes for the journey") or trendy polenta. Fresh corn meal costs $3.50 for a 2-pound bag, $9 for three bags. During the glassmaking boom of the 1800s, this venerable mill was but one of many pressed into service to keep the factory workers well fed. When the laborers dispersed, the mill sat useless until a local entrepreneur thought to convert it into a tearoom to serve the new tide of tourists arriving by motorcar. The mill was fully restored in 1961 and will probably be good for a few more centuries of stalwart service.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.