Things To Do In Kennebunkport
Published February 28, 2025
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In Maine's southern region lies the picturesque Kennebunkport coastal town.
It is an impressive place that provides a distinctive travel experience to visitors throughout the year.
This town is where you should take your cherished pup on a culinary adventure, paddle on the water, and enjoy fresh lobsters at each meal.
Also, it is a location most often recognized as George Bush, the former president's summer residence.
However, there is much more in Kennebunkport than just admiring Walker's Point, the site of George Bush's estate.
Whether exploring with your loved ones or alone, read on to discover the things to explore in Kennebunkport.
Go on a Food Adventure
There’s no superior way to explore Kennebunkport than by merging your journey with culinary experiences.
Experience Maine Foodie Tour in order to savor Kennebunkport's delightful flavors and gastronomic heritage.
The tour is a well-known tourist attraction that guides visitors through half a mile of culinary experience from Dock Square up to Kennebunkport's lower village.
Enjoy delicious chowders and lobsters as you converse with the food artisans sustaining Maine’s long-standing culinary heritage.
Visit Cape Porpoise
Enjoying a day in Kennebunkport packed with gentle adventure and exploration is simple inside Cape Porpoise.
It's a tranquil fishing townlet where numerous lobster boats bring in their daily haul.
Though its lighthouse is its most recognized feature, there are significantly more activities to engage in as well.
You may rent bicycles to ride along the countryside or hire a kayak in order to discover the aquatic scenery.
Explore the Beach
Situated in a prime location along the Atlantic Seaboard, Kennebunkport town provides numerous beaches for relaxation and fun that any beach enthusiast can relish.
Some beaches to explore in Kennebunkport are:
Parsons Beach: For those seeking a secluded beach experience, Parsons Beach is an ideal choice.
Even though parking is scarce and access to this beach requires permission, it remains a worthwhile trip to appreciate a picturesque stroll in this pristine environment.
Kennebunk Beach: This beach is an excellent option for swimming, kayaking, and spending an entire day picnicking while taking in the breeze of the Atlantic.
Goose Rocks: Without any doubt, this beach is the most pleasant choice for you if you want the perfect beach to enjoy quality moments with your family.
Small children can securely swim and have fun on its well-kept shore while relishing the gentle waves.
Discover Rachel Carson’s Wildlife Refuge
This is a sanctuary spanning 9125 acres on Maine's southern coast.
It was founded in the year 1966 and named in honor of Rachel Carson, a marine biologist and writer.
The center is committed to safeguarding the natural environment of various wildlife living in the region, even migratory birds.
It includes a path for visitors to stroll and engage in exercise while discovering the various plants and animals that inhabit its large area.
Enjoy Ice Cream
Every day in Kennebunkport, Rococo Artisan’s Ice Cream offers a selection of fourteen delicious flavors.
You can enjoy a classic chocolate or choose a more inventive cone.
Their Goat Cheese and Blackberry Chambord ice cream are delicious, and their Spicy Rocky Rd will provide your taste buds with a heavenly zing.
Or what about their Sunfish Ale Beer infused with Apricots and Candied Ginger?
Walk into their store and choose the most distinctive flavor available.
Hire Classic Bikes
Exploring the enchanting coastal town of Kennebunkport will be completely fulfilled when you ride along its shore with flair.
Coastal Maine Kayak provides a wide variety of classic and new bicycles suitable for cruisers of every age.
Then, in addition to classic bicycles, they provide brand-fresh bike models available in various styles, sizes, and features to meet your biking needs.
So, whether you intend to ride solo or with friends, kids, or even pets, there's a bicycle that fits your needs for a truly enjoyable outdoor experience.
Try Out Whoopie Pie
This is a scrumptious treat made of two soft chocolate cakes encasing a sugary frosting filling—like an enhanced Oreo.
Originally, this snack was created using excess cake batter, however today, its popularity justifies a dedicated recipe and specialized nonstick pan.
While whoopie pie's source has been contested by Maine and Pennsylvania, the former has declared it its official state dessert.
You can visit HB Provisions, a welcoming general store often frequented by the Bush family, to sample their variant which is genuinely tasty.
Explore Goat Island Lighthouse
This lighthouse ranks among the most visited sites in New England and is located near Cape Porpoise.
It was constructed in the year 1833 to function as a guiding light for sailors.
When President Bush assumed office from 1989 - 1993, this lighthouse operated as a lookout point for several of his agents in the Secret Service.
Even, Walker’s Point is easily seen from this lighthouse's top.
Enjoy Lobster Rolls
You can't experience a more authentic taste of Maine than enjoying fresh lobster rolls, and a fine spot for this is Clam Shack.
The lobster roll they make, crafted with lobster meat, melted butter, and mayonnaise, justifies the long line of a dozen people that often assemble at the ordering window.
The sandwich is packed with an impressive lobster meat of one pound. It has been featured in various publications, including Gourmet magazine.
Also, while Clam Shack remains undeniably tasty, numerous locals also rave about Port Lobster and Mabel’s for their lobster rolls.
Note that you might need to conduct extensive research (tasting lobster rolls) to discover your favorite.
Relax in a Vintage Bed
There are many historic Breakfasts and Beds in Kennebunkport's coastal town.
Captain Lord Mansion is part of the finest and a home for several delightful nights.
This genuine shipbuilder's estate is located in a serene residential area, merely some minutes from their beach and Dock Square.
Consume a Blueberry Tart
This blueberry pie serves as Maine's official dessert.
In the high season, the fruit is prominently showcased in several restaurant meals, such as blueberry barbecue and blueberry cornbread.
However, nothing compares to a homemade, sizzling blueberry pie that is oven-fresh.
Mabel’s eatery is not just known for its amazing lobster rolls, but they likewise offer a delicious blueberry pie à la mode.
Also, if you prefer not to stay for pie during your visit, you can prepare your own using Maine's blueberry recipe.
Tour in the Lobster Boat
You’ve enjoyed your lobster rolls, it's now time to take a look into the world of lobster fishermen.
Rugosa Lobster Tours offers an hour thirty minutes picturesque journey along Kennebunk River aboard a traditional wooden New England lobster boat.
During this cruise, you have the option to help with hauling their lobster traps.
Then, if you're in search of a more calming cruise, embark on Schooner Eleanor Cruises, which will navigate the schooner by the stunning Kennebunks shoreline.
This experience will make you feel like a wealthy yachtsman aboard a vessel that showcases exquisite local artistry.
Visit the Local Brews
If you are someone who enjoys quality craft beer, be sure to sample some at Kennebunkport's popular local breweries.
One of them is Kennebunport's Brewing Company, located directly under Federal Jacks’ eatery.
Not only will you explore the facilities on a tour, but you may also select the sampler that includes beers such as Fuggles and Old Thumper.
Then, Batson River features its main location inside of downtown Kennebunk, while Sebago Brewing Company is another beloved local spot.
Spot Celebrities
Kennebunkport usually hosts celebrities including Bush's family and various other dignitaries.
You might spot them enjoying lobster rolls, sipping coffee at the HB Provisions, resting at the opulent White Barn, or watching a performance at Ogunquit Playhouse.
However, do your best not to interrupt them as they are likely savoring a tranquil retreat.
Among the celebrities said to stealthily visit Kennebunkport are Quentin Tarantino, Billy Joel, and Taylor Swift.
Visit Sea-Shore Trolley Museum
While at Kennebunkport, visit this museum and consider taking rides on the trams dating back to 1900.
The museum remains the largest and first museum dedicated to mass transit globally.
It features an extensive assortment of classic trams, buses, and cars that were preserved and brought back to their original splendor.
In 1980, 10 of the trams secured their rightful place on National Register’s Historic Places list.
Also, Atlantic Shoreline Electric Railroad was the primary means of transportation during the 1800s.
Currently, it functions as a significant tourist spot and a showcase railway that visitors can appreciate when exploring the museum.
Check Out St. Ann’s Church
This church is definitely worth visiting while at Kennebunkport even when you don’t intend to remain for the service.
Its property includes a stunning stone chapel, a seaside chapel, a columbarium, and a rectory.
Its charming stone chapel remains the primary attraction for tourists, and it’s easy to see why.
The inside and outside of it feature stunning water-washed stones rather than wood, and then the glass windows originate from the 1800s to early 1900s.
Explore Dock Square
This is a charming historic area that is situated in the center of Kennebunkport.
It's a location you must see when exploring this charming and captivating town in New England.
Enjoy a relaxing stroll along Ocean Avenue before admiring the fishing vessels and sailboats docked by the Kennebunk River.
This scenic landscape will remind you of an era that life was more straightforward and effortless.
Also, as you relish the breeze of the Atlantic, you can savor a lavish dinner at a nearby eatery or browse shops.
The main streets are famous for their classic stores that provide a variety of goods you can utilize during your visit or take back as a souvenir from your trip.
Visit Walker's Point
The estate at Walker’s Point serves as the summer residence for George Bush, former President, with his family members.
The estate's main house was constructed in the architectural style of colonial American prevalent in New England since the early 1600s.
Walker's Point is a well-known landmark that honors New England's vibrant history.
While visitors cannot enter the estate, they are permitted to park their vehicles and utilize the viewpoint along Ocean Avenue in order to appreciate the stunning architecture and picturesque nature surrounding it.
Experience Vinegar Hill
While at Kennebunkport, experience a top-notch live show at the Vinegar Hill Theatre and immerse yourself in the distinctive entertainment adventure that the place provides.
This venue is far from your ordinary performance space—it was once a barn constructed in the 1800s which has now fulfilled its initial function for more than a hundred years.
In 1997, the barn underwent a transformation and was revitalized into a theatre.
Since that time, it has provided outstanding shows that are appreciated by both the local residents and the tourists in Kennebunkport.
The ancient structure has observed the nineteenth century beginning in this charming place and will continue to exist to witness many more centuries.
Have Fun on the Kennebunk River
Experience a unique viewpoint of the Kennebunks by paddling through its scenic tidal river.
The active river plays a significant role in the local culture and economy, which one can enjoy from the river.
At Maine Kayak, visitors have the option to join their tours of the Kennebunk River or select a self-led kayak experience.
