Best Things to do in the Kennebunks

SEE KENNEBUNKPORT BY TROLLEY
The 45-minute guided tour of Kennebunkport’s most scenic and popular spots is the perfect way to plan your day. Best of all, your $18 adult fare ($8 for kids ages 3-17 | 2 and under are FREE) is good throughout the day. That means you can get on and off at some of the best beaches, shopping areas and dining spots in town without worrying about parking! www.intowntrolley.com

SAVOR THE BEST LOBSTER ROLL IN MAINE
This isn’t just our local pride talking. The Clam Shack has been written about in magazines all over the world, was the winner of multiple NYC Lobster Rumble and has racked up countless awards. The secret is the fresh-caught, fresh-cooked meat of an entire Maine lobster on their signature bun paired with your choice of mayo, butter or both. If lobster isn’t your thing, the Clam Shack has options to delight every palette! www.theclamshack.net

STROLL THE PARSONS WAY WALKING TRAIL
As Ocean Avenue winds past the cluster of shops and restaurants near the Colony Hotel, the scenery from here on is best appreciated on foot. Happily, the sidewalk that runs from Dock Square continues past Saint Ann’s stone church and rewards your effort with a spectacular view of the York County coastline. You can continue walking to the scenic overlook of the Bush’s summer home at Walker’s Point or stroll up the steps of the Cape Arundel Inn to enjoy a cocktail on their porch.

VISIT THE BRICK STORE MUSEUM IN KENNEBUNK
Rain or shine, the Brick Store Museum has something for everyone. When the weather isn’t cooperating, the museum’s rotating exhibits spotlight local art, history and culture (closed only Monday). Every Saturday from July thru October, the museum offers $10 guided walking tours of downtown Kennebunk and Mother’s Beach with special attention paid to the history and architecture of the beautiful, old homes that line both areas. www.brickstoremuseum.org

DISCOVER A DINING EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER AT EARTH
Looking for the ultimate Date Night destination? Nestled within the charming grounds of the Hidden Pond resort near Goose Rocks Beach, Earth is more of a retreat than a restaurant. Executive Chef Joe Schafer and his team transform the freshest ingredients into artistic, yet satisfying dishes in an elegant setting that brings the outdoors in. Reservations for the dining room are required and bar seating is first come, first served. www.earthathiddenpond.com

ENJOY COCKTAILS WITH A VIEW AT BATSON RIVER TASTING ROOM
Batson River Tasting Room is a year-round hub of discovery, fun and activity located just steps from Kennebunkport’s Dock Square. Their bartenders prepare a seasonally updated selection of specialty cocktails featuring your new favorite spirit and serve their craft beers in pints and flights of four. When hunger strikes, their menu features a tempting selection of apps and light bites that are perfect for snacking and sharing. www.batsonriver.com

SIGHTSEE ON THE WATER WITH COASTAL MAINE KAYAK
Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding adventures take planning, and the certified guides at Coastal Maine Kayak handle all the details so you can focus on having fun. Your $85 fee includes all the gear you need, transportation to and from the boat launch, a guided tour, and even drinks and snacks! They have three guided tour packages to choose from and equipment rentals for those who prefer to go it alone. Ask them about private tours! www.coastalmainekayak.com

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME AT THE SEASHORE TROLLEY MUSEUM
Train fanatics and history buffs of all ages flock to the Seashore Trolley Museum, a favorite with summer visitors since 1939. The oldest and largest public transportation museum in the country is located less than ten minutes from our parking lot. There you’ll find over 250 vehicles on display from a horse-drawn trolley car built in 1884 to a 1977 green line commuter car from the Massachusetts Bay Public Transportation Authority. Open daily from Memorial Day through Columbus Day. www.trolleymuseum.org

HUNT FOR ANTIQUE TREASURE ON ROUTE 1
Whether you’re into midcentury furniture or eccentric pop culture items, you’ll find a fertile hunting ground less than two miles from our parking lot. Antiques USA, Trader Dave’s, Arundel Antique Village, Bacon’s, Hemen’s and the Arundel Flea Market are all located within 100 yards of each other at the intersection of Route 1 and Log Cabin Road. These remarkably diverse shops are packed with items you never knew you needed, things you’ve been searching your whole life for and unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else!

DRIVE OUT TO CAPE PORPOISE FOR A SLICE OF MAINE HERITAGE
Kennebunkport’s lobstering heritage is alive and well in the picturesque village of Cape Porpoise. Head to the harbor pier located at the end of Pier Road for a chance to watch the fishermen head out to sea or take in views of Goat Island Light. We recommend getting there early in the morning nab a spot in the shared parking lot of the three popular restaurants located there. www.kporttrust.org/kctgoat-island-lighthouse