Looking for a peaceful coastal retreat with historic charm? Head to Kennebunk, Maine! This seaside town offers sandy beaches, scenic walks, charming inns, and classic New England vibes. Whether you're into art galleries, lobster rolls, or seaside serenity, Kennebunk delivers an idyllic Maine escape.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kennebunk is from late spring through early fall (May–October). Summer is peak beach season, while fall offers fewer crowds and vibrant foliage along the coast.
How to Get There
- By Car: Kennebunk is located off I-95, just 90 minutes from Boston and about 30 minutes south of Portland.
- By Plane: The nearest airport is Portland International Jetport (PWM), about 30 minutes away.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Downeaster stops in nearby Wells, just 10 minutes from Kennebunk by car or taxi.
Where to Stay
- The Kennebunk Inn – Historic downtown hotel with charm, comfort, and an on-site tavern.
- White Barn Inn – Luxurious retreat offering spa services and fine dining in a rustic-chic setting.
- Port Inn & Suites Kennebunk – Friendly and modern option with easy access to town and beaches.
Top Attractions
1. Explore Local Creativity at Maine Art Hill Galleries
The Maine Art Hill in Kennebunk, Maine is made up of four different destinations for art: Gallery at the Grand, Studios, Shows, and The Gallery.
- Open year-round, The Gallery has been one of the premier art galleries in Southern Maine for decades, representing over forty artists with a connection to the state.
- Artwork is displayed throughout a home-like environment.
- Shows includes a smaller gallery setting that hosts art shows from June to September and features a sculpture garden. Special events take place November-December and February-April. Shows is closed during the month of January.
14 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043, Phone: 207-967-2803
2. Step Into the Region’s Past at The Brick Store Museum
The Brick Store Museum is located in downtown Kennebunk, Maine and is open full-time throughout the year to visitors.
- Since the museum showcases rotating exhibitions, there’s often new programs for the public and exhibits to see with each visit.
- The museum aims to ignite personal connections to the culture, art, and history of southern Maine, as well as encourage collaboration, empathy, discovery, and learning in the local community.
117 Main St, Kennebunk, ME 04043, Phone: 207-985-4802
3. Read, Learn, and Relax at the Kennebunk Free Library
The Kennebunk Free Library along Main Street in the quaint summer vacation town of Kennebunk, Maine is a public library that offers many educational and entertainment resources to the general public, both locals and visitors alike. The library features plenty for people of all ages, a helpful and friendly staff, and a pleasant environment in which to learn and relax.
112 Main St, Kennebunk, ME 04043, Phone: 207-985-2173
4. Let Your Pup Play Off-Leash at Kennebunk Dog Park
Since it opened in 2005 to the Kennebunk community in Maine, the Kennebunk Dog Park has become a great place for furry friends to run and socialize with many other dogs, providing an expansive open space for dogs to safely play and run off leash.
- The Kennebunk Dog Park is operated by the town and offers a natural, fenced, and safe environment for dogs to get exercise, and is free to the community and open from dawn until dusk seven days a week.
- The dog park also features a gazebo for visitors to sit and relax in while their dogs play.
36 Sea Rd, Kennebunk, ME 04043
5. Find Vintage Charm and Salvaged Gems at Old House Parts
Old House Parts is a unique place in Kennebunk, Maine with a focus on providing American architectural elements from the eighteenth, nineteenth, and early twentieth centuries for home improvement, historical restoration, and more. Housed within a 11,000-square-foot warehouse that dates back to 1872, Old House Parts has become a revolving museum for genuine architectural salvage, such as old wood flooring, masonry, sonte, iron, clawfoot tubs, wainscoting, moldings, fireplace mantels, lighting, stained glass, hardware, antique doors and windows, and much more. Visitors can see a collection of more than three thousand salvaged antique doors, which are grouped by panels.
1 Trackside Dr, Kennebunk, ME 04043, Phone: 207-985-1999
6. Admire Coastal-Inspired Works at Deborah Randall Fine Art
The Deborah Randall Fine Art gallery is located in the downtown district of Kennebunk, a popular destination during the summer, only steps away from Dock Square. The art gallery is a dedicated space for displaying the works of Deborah Randall, which include landscape oil paintings that get their inspiration from the natural beauty of the state of Maine, coastal adventures, and more. Pieces exhibited in the Deborah Randall Fine Art gallery also include mixed media abstraction, watercolor, and whimsical works. Randall’s artwork is part of both corporate and private collections in galleries and universities worldwide as well.
8 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043, Phone: 207-409-5911
7. Dine on Comfort Food Favorites at Squaretoes Restaurant
The Squaretoes Restaurant is a family-owned and operated restaurant that serves breakfast all day and specializes in homemade muffins, hash, chowder, and soups. Ran by Paula Hunter, the Kennebunk neighborhood eatery offers all-day homestyle breakfast, along with a delicious menu for lunch. The breakfast menu includes homemade corned beef hash, omelets, and even Lobster Benedict among many other tasty options. All of the dishes are made from scratch at the restaurant, including the variety of soups and chowders. The Squaretoes Restaurant is open seven days a week, from seven in the morning until two in the afternoon.
30 York St, Kennebunk, ME 04043, Phone: 207-985-6636
Where to Eat
If you are a first time visitor
- Gooch’s Beach – Popular sandy beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and shoreline strolls.
- Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge – Scenic trails through salt marshes and wildlife habitats.
- Downtown Kennebunk – Stroll through quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés with small-town charm.
More Places to Eat
- Federal Jack’s – Waterfront spot with craft beer, seafood favorites, and harbor views.
- Rococo Ice Cream – Creative, small-batch ice cream with rotating flavors and local ingredients.
- The Clam Shack – Iconic spot for lobster rolls, fried clams, and picnic-table-style seafood dining.
If you are interested in local events
- Kennebunk Farmers’ Market (May–November) – Shop for fresh produce, local goods, and crafts each Saturday.
- Kennebunk Beach Classic 5K (June) – Annual race that winds through coastal roads and scenic neighborhoods.
- Christmas Prelude (December) – Holiday celebration in nearby Kennebunkport with lights, parades, and caroling.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Kennebunk, Maine
- Kennebunkport (5–10 min) – Visit the iconic Dock Square, walk along Ocean Avenue, or see the Bush family compound.
- Wells (10–15 min) – Explore beaches, nature reserves, and the Wells Reserve at Laudholm.
- Ogunquit (20–25 min) – Charming coastal town with the Marginal Way cliff walk and Perkins Cove shopping.
- Biddeford (15–20 min) – Artsy mill town with craft breweries, unique boutiques, and riverside parks.
- Saco (20–25 min) – Visit Ferry Beach State Park or Funtown Splashtown USA amusement park.
- Old Orchard Beach (25–30 min) – Classic boardwalk fun, amusement rides, and a wide sandy beach.
FAQ
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What is Kennebunk often combined with?
- Kennebunk is often combined with the town of Kennebunkport as the "Kennebunks".
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What makes Kennebunk a great destination?
- The town of Kennebunk offers a variety of things to do within a quaint New England setting.
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What attractions can visitors find in Kennebunk?
- Kennebunk is home to a number of art galleries.
- Visitors can enjoy beaches with scenic coastal views.
- The town has several restaurants serving great food.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Beautiful blooms and fewer tourists.
The Kennebunk Inn – A charming and historic stay in the heart of town.
Visit the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge – Perfect for nature lovers.
Summer (June-August) – Ideal for beachgoers and warm-weather activities.
Captain Lord Mansion – A luxurious and cozy bed-and-breakfast.
Relax at Gooch’s Beach – A beautiful and family-friendly coastal spot.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning autumn foliage and fewer crowds.
The Nonantum Resort – A scenic waterfront stay.
Explore Dock Square – Enjoy local shops, galleries, and restaurants.
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