Kennebunkport, Maine, has been a popular summer destination since 1870s. Beaches and water activities dominate the things to do list, from sailing and whale watching to swimming and hiking along the coast. History and food also play an important role in this beautiful seaside town in Maine. Here are the best things to do in Kennebunkport.
The top attractions to visit in Kennebunkport, Maine near me today according to local experts are:
- 1. Gooch's Beach
- 2. Seashore Trolley Museum
- 3. First Families Kennebunkport Museum
- 4. Things to Do in Kennebunkport: Intown Trolley
- 5. Maine Day Ventures
- 6. The Pineapple Ketch
- 7. First Chance Whale Watch
- 8. Kennebunk Beach
- 9. Things to Do Near Me Today: Parsons Way Trail
- 10. Rugosa Lobster Tours
- 11. Saint Ann's Church
- 12. Schooner Eleanor Sailing Tours
- 13. W. Robert Paine Gallery
- 14. Wedding Cake House
- 15. Things to Do in Kennebunkport: Old Vines Wine Bar
- 16. Nunan’s Lobster Hut
Where to Stay: White Barn Inn
Located in Kennebunk Beach, Maine, The White Barn Inn & Spa is a beautiful historic hotel with a AAA Five Diamond, Forbes 5 Star fine dining restaurant. The property is a perfect weekend getaway for couples looking to relax and rejuvenate in a luxury setting.
The White Barn Inn has a large selection of accommodations to choose from, ranging from the charming Junior Cottages to the spacious Loft Suite. The Main House contains the Junior Suites, the Queen Suites, and the luxury Loft Suite. The Junior Suites feature modern décor including a gas-burning fireplace, granite and marble bathroom fixtures, a whirlpool tub, and a walk-in rain shower.
Each room has a king-sized bed and 420 square feet of room. The three Queen Rooms, the Deluxe, the Superior and the Bedded contain a down-topped queen-sized bed and private bathrooms with walk-in rain showers. The Queen Deluxe is perfect for a honeymoon as it has a whirlpool tub for two and a double-sided gas fireplace.
Through the garden, guests can access Garden rooms, each featuring a large window view of the surrounding forest. With 250 square feet of space, walk-in rain showers, and gas-burning fireplaces, each room is a cozy escape in itself. May's Cottage is also located across from the Main House, conveniently close to the pool. With a king-sized bed, separate parlor area, fireplace, and whirlpool for two, this is also an ideal selection for a couples’ getaway, either for honeymooners or to celebrate an anniversary.
The former carriage house, which is now called May's Annex, contains six Junior suites. These measure 420 square feet in size and feature granite and marble bathrooms with a whirlpool, king-sized beds, fireplace, and separate walk-in rain showers. Each room has a unique color palette. Guests can choose from blue, aubergine, red, green lilac or chestnut.
The White Barn Inn Restaurant is an award-winning eatery comprised of two restored barns for a truly unique dining experience. The restaurant has been awarded the AAA Five Diamond rating and named as one of the Forbes 5 Star restaurants. The inn has a rustic ambience, and guests can enjoy the spectacular natural surroundings through the large windows.
The white linen décor is the perfect way to dine in style, with regional selections on the menu capturing the flavors of the state. The White Barn Inn Restaurant offers a four-course fixed price meal at $109 per person.
Picnic baskets are available for guests to take along with them, for an outing on the beach in the summer, or a stroll through the gardens. Select meal items are packed in a charming wicker basket that guests can keep.
Also available are private cooking classes, special holiday meals, and the location is now part of the Truffle Trail, which allows guests to enjoy Truffle-based delectables from the Mayflower Grace to the Vanderbilt Grace, another uniquely magical experience.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, The Bistro offers a casual dress code, a simpler yet flavorful menu, and is open seven days a week. The Bistro dinner series is an event which is hosted by the inn. Local breweries and wineries are invited to present a selection of crafted beverages which the in-house staff pairs with a complimenting dinner entree.
With a choice of body wraps, facials, massage treatments, and the popular couples massage, guests can revitalize or relax as they choose. A Spa Director is present to guide guests through the spa experience. Guests are given a Personal Care Guide to help discover which option would best fit their needs.
In addition to the spa, the property offers a variety of fitness options. Private personal training sessions are available every Saturday. Guests even have the option to choose between scheduling the session at the fitness studio or on the beach during the warmer season.
The White Barn Inn features a cozy private location which is perfect for a Kennebunk Port destination wedding. Between the months of January and May, the private dining room can seat up to 35 guests. The Wine Room is available year-round and can seat up to 15 guests for an intimate gathering. Special menus can be prepared with the help of the event planning teams available at White Barn Inn.
For corporate events, there is an on-site event planner, furnished meeting spaces with equipment, block rates for rooms, and an a la carte option. Wi-Fi and parking are included with the stay and the entire property can be reserved for special events with advance notice.
Guests get the chance to learn how to cook their favorite dishes as the in-house chef demonstrates how to prepare them. This two-hour cooking class allows guests to take part in the preparation of the evening meal. Those who take part can choose which area they are most interested in learning, and everyone gets a free apron to take home afterward.
Summertime is a perfect time for guests to take in a glorious sunrise. The White Barn Inn prepares guests for just such an outing with a reserved picnic basket with coffee and breakfast items. Guests can schedule in advance and the hotel will notify them of sunrise times for convenience in preparation.
The area around the inn offers an abundance of activities for those eager to get out of doors. Along with the nearby beach, guests can go for a walk, a bicycle ride, or a trip in the canoe. The property consists of 66 picturesque acres, including gardens and outdoor chapels.
In early summer, guests can enjoy fine wine and dining during the Annual Food, Wine & Art Festival. Local seafood and vegetables, roasted meats, dancing, and cocktails are all available. The chef prepares the meals and recommends the perfect wine pairing to go along with the dining experience.
The Maine Maritime Museum allows guests to experience a glimpse into the state's past. The location has school programs, boat cruises, and special guest lectures. There is a large selection of art galleries in the area, including Scott Bundy Galleries, Chris Becker Gallery, Mast Cove Gallery, and the Gallery on Chase Hill. Guests can make a night of gallery hopping and take in the offerings of some of the region's premiere up and coming artists.
One of the most popular outings is whale watching. Guests can reserve a spot on the 4 ½ hour Whale Watch adventure aboard Nick's Chance to observe a variety of whale species which frequent this area. A 1.5 hour trip aboard Kylie's Chance is also available for a Lobster Tour along the Kennebunk River and coastline.
37 Beach Ave, Kennebunk Beach, ME 04043, Phone: 207-967-2321
Find more great Luxury Weekend Getaways for Couples.
Where to Stay: Captain Fairfield Inn in Kennebunkport
The Captain Fairfield Inn is a luxurious boutique bed and breakfast in the heart of Kennebunkport, Maine, that offers a beautiful blend of contemporary décor and style, creative cuisine and gracious, professional hospitality. Situated in a quiet neighborhood overlooking the River Green and just one block away from the Kennebunkport harbor and the bustling Dock Square, the Captain Fairfield Inn is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds cooled by sea breezes. The charming hotel features nine inviting guest rooms designed to reflect the ambiance of the 1813 Federal mansion in which the hotel is based on a seamless blend of old world period décor and furnishings and new age modern amenities for the discerning travelers.
The Kennebunkport Inn features nine beautifully appointed guest rooms with bold contemporary décor, period furnishings, luxurious beds with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer products. Some rooms feature extra amenities such as writing decks, gas fireplaces, rainfall showers, soaking tubs, and private porches with lovely garden views. Modern amenities in every room include flat screen TV/DVDs with Apple TV, iPads, iPod docking stations, air-conditioning, and complimentary wireless Internet. Additional room amenities include wine glasses, corkscrews, hairdryers, and irons and ironing boards.
The Lark Suite is the largest guest room and features a king-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, oversized soaking tub inside the shower enclosure, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer products. The Lark Suite boasts beautiful views of the historic River Green and modern amenities include HDTV, iPod docking station, air-conditioning, gas fireplace, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
The James Suite is located on the second floor and features a distressed wood two-poster king-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, oversized soaking tub and shower, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer bath products. Modern amenities include HDTV, iPod docking station, air-conditioning, gas fireplace, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
The luxurious Vineyards Suite is located on the first floor and features a king-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, a double-head shower, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer bath products. A small sitting room has two comfy chairs and sailing-inspired art, along with HDTV, iPod docking station, air-conditioning, gas fireplace, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
The Sweet Liberty Room is a sunny and spacious corner room on the second floor with a grand upholstered queen-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, a luxurious tiled rainfall shower, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer bath products. The Sweet Liberty Room boasts views of the neighborhood’s historic sea captain’s homes and the River Green.
The Captain Fairfield Room is a large second-floor corner room overlooking Kennebunkport’s Village Green park with a king-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, a walk-in shower, and soaking tub, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer bath products. A sitting area has a large comfortable couch, and wide plank pine floors covered with a bold modern rug and modern amenities include HDTV, iPod docking station, air-conditioning, gas fireplace, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
The Walker Room is located on the second-floor corner and features a plush king-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, a walk-in shower and soaking tub, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer bath products. Decorated in soothing tones of red, blue and tan, this room has a comfortable sitting area with an overstuffed couch, writing desk, modern corner fireplace, and dressing room and modern amenities include HDTV, iPod docking station, air-conditioning, gas fireplace, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
The Rachel Room is located at the back of the house on the second floor and features a plush king-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, a walk-in shower and soaking tub, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer bath products. This room has a comfortable sitting area with an overstuffed couch, writing desk, modern corner fireplace, and dressing room and modern amenities include HDTV, iPod docking station, air-conditioning, gas fireplace, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
Inspired by colors of coastal sand and the jewel green of Maine waters, the Breakwater Room is located on the second floor and boasts a king-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, a walk-in shower and soaking tub, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer bath products. A sitting area has a gas fireplace and plush suede chaise, and modern amenities include HDTV, iPod docking station, air-conditioning, gas fireplace, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
The Parsons Room is located at the back of the house on the second floor and features a plush king-size bed with pillow-top mattresses and luxury designer bed linens, and an en-suite bathroom with single vanity, a walk-in shower and soaking tub, plush towels, waffle kimono robes, and designer bath products. This room has a comfortable sitting area with an overstuffed couch, writing desk, modern corner fireplace, and dressing room and modern amenities include HDTV, iPod docking station, air-conditioning, gas fireplace, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
Guests are treated to a signature gourmet breakfast of curated small plates in the mornings and homemade cookies in the afternoon. This unique tapas-style breakfast features fresh fruit and juices, organic teas, and roasted coffee, along with plates such as oatmeal with coconut and currants, baked Portobello mushrooms, Mexican hot chocolate scones, and lemon-ginger scones.
The Captain Fairfield Inn offers an array of amenities, including a signature gourmet breakfast of curated small plates in the mornings and homemade cookies in the afternoon, a 24-hour guest pantry offering beverages and snacks, and freshly baked chocolate chip cookies in the evening. Additional services include free wireless Internet throughout the Inn and grounds, daily newspapers and current magazines, a comfortable lounge with a wood burning fireplace and an outdoor lounge with fire-tables and private seating areas, and beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens. A DVD library and various board games and puzzles offer entertainment, and there are umbrellas for guests to use.
8 Pleasant Street, Kennebunkport, ME 04046, Phone: 207-967-4454
More Romantic weekend getaways in Maine, Things to Do in Kennebunkport
Where to Stay: Yachtsman Lodge
Water Views at the Yachtsman Lodge is a casual riverfront hotel based at the Yachtsman Lodge & Marina in the heart ofKennebunkport in Maine. Set on the shores of the Kennebunk River on the quieter side of town and within easy walking distance of the Kennebunkport Marina and Dock Square, the boutique lodge offers a warm and welcoming ambiance in which to enjoy a relaxing seaside getaway.
The Lodge features spacious guest rooms with modern furnishings, comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms with shower/bath combinations, separate living rooms with pullout sofas, and private patios overlooking the river and marina. Deluxe amenities at the lodge include complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon tea served on the waterfront patio every day, barbecue grills for outdoor dining, loaner bikes for exploring the town and spa and fitness facilities at the lodge’s sister hotel nearby. Complimentary wireless is available on the property, which is a short walk from the beautiful beaches of Kennebunkport.
Guest Accommodations
Water Views at the Yachtsman Lodge features beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites with panoramic water views over the marina. Designed by award-winning designer Peter Niemitz to reflect the interior of an elegant yacht, all accommodations feature nautically-inspired décor and modern furnishings, vaulted cathedral ceilings, rich mahogany and walnut timber finishes, classic fabrics, and soothing, nautical color palettes. Rooms and suites have comfortable king beds with deluxe linens and down duvets, and en-suite bathrooms with shower and bath combinations, granite vanities, fresh towels and bathrobes, and designer Gilchrist and Soames bath products.
Spacious living areas with writing desks and comfortable chairs open through glass sliding doors onto private patios with tables and chairs and boast beautiful views of the marina and waterfront. Modern amenities include mini-refrigerators, flat screen televisions with cable channels, air conditioning, irons and ironing boards, and complimentary wireless Internet. Accommodations are available in Standard and Deluxe Riverview King Rooms, with the option of having an extra pullout sleeper sofa bed for additional guests.
Dining
Guests staying at Water Views at the Yachtsman Lodge are treated to a complimentary breakfast served on the waterfront patio every morning, which includes a variety of fresh fruit and juices, cereals and yogurts, freshly baked bread and muffins, and hot entrées along with coffee and tea.
Dinner can be enjoyed at Stripers Waterside Restaurant, a local favorite which is located directly at the lodge’s sister property and boasts beautiful waterside views. The restaurant offers a comprehensive menu of local cuisine, including fresh seafood and fish, hearty entrées and meat dishes, fresh salads and vegetables, and decadent desserts, accompanied by an excellent list of wines from around the world.
Amenities and Recreation
Water Views at the Yachtsman Lodge offers an array of deluxe amenities for guests to enjoy during their stay, ranging from complimentary bicycles for exploring Kennebunkport to massage and fitness services at the exclusive Breakwater Spa. A delicious complimentary breakfast is served every morning against a backdrop of beautiful water views, and casual New England coastal cuisine is served at the nearby Striper Restaurant for dinner. Guest can savor a traditional afternoon tea with imported teas and coffees and freshly baked treats every afternoon, and there are canoes available for sunrise or sunset paddles on the river.
Local Attractions
Kennebunkport is ideal for a relaxing vacation or a quiet weekend break and offers an array of activities and attractions to enjoy. The delightful seaside village is ideally located on the banks of the banks of the Kennebunk River and is within easy walking distance of the beach for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing and other water sports such as sailing and kayaking. The Kennebunkport Village and Dock Square is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, cafés and antique stores for browsing and dining, and the Breakwater Spa offers pampering body treatments and massages.
59 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME 04046, Phone: 207-967-2511