14 Best Things to Do in Kennebunk (Maine)

Kennebunk is a small city of around 10,000 people located in the York County of Maine. It is found on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean and includes plenty of beautiful beaches that attract crowds of tourists.

The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is also located here, along with historic buildings and museums and many more attractions.

Kennebunk is proud to be the only village in the world with this exact name. It was initially settled in 1621 and incorporated in 1820.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the 15 best things to do in Kennebunk, Maine:

1. Take a stroll along Walker’s Point

Not only will you have a chance to admire some splendid scenery, but also ogle at the home of former US president George Bush. Along the way, there some memorials that pay tribute to America’s 41st president.

Lay some flowers, say a prayer to thank him for all the things he did for the country, and then continue your walk along the coastline.

2. Explore to Gooch’s Beach

This is just one of Kennebunk’s many wonderful beaches and offers splendid views no matter what the season. In the summer, you can come here to get a tan and enjoy a refreshing swim. During the rest of the year, it’s a great place to go for a walk with family, friends or dogs.

The conditions are good for surfers, so you will see plenty of them hitting the waves here. Overall, this is a great beach for the entire family.

3. Visit the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

This refuge was created to protect estuaries and salt marshes for migratory birds, and now, visitors can enjoy them all year round. The place is great for getting back to nature and admiring some wildlife at its finest.

The trail is just about one mile long and meanders through the forest and along the marsh. There are benches to have a quick rest or better admire the idyllic scenery.

Dogs are allowed, but make sure to keep them on a leash. Also, don’t forget to bring mosquito protection.

4. Stroll along Ocean Avenue

If you haven’t had enough of the splendid ocean views yet, there are plenty more to admire along Ocean Avenue.

The walk is not too long (about one mile), so anyone can attempt, it regardless of their fitness level. Along the way, you will admire the ocean, the rocks, the lighthouse, and all the beautiful homes in this area. There’s also a restaurant in case you get hungry.

If it’s raining, you can drive along this stretch of road, but if the weather allows, it’s much better to explore it on foot.

5. Visit Saint Ann’s Church

This small church looks stunning and has a one-of-a-kind design, made entirely from rocks.

You can admire it, take lots of photos, and, if you arrive at the right moment, you may be able to nip inside for a look.

6. Chill out at Kennebunk Beach

One of the most popular swimming beaches in the city, the shoreline is dotted with large granite rocks. You can come here for some swimming and tanning during the summer, but also for a relaxing walk during the rest of the year.

There are plenty of parking spots nearby, so you can leave your car, take off your shoes, step on the sand and breath in the salty air.

7. Discover the Seashore Trolley Museum

This amazing place is the largest electric railway museum in the world. It boasts plenty of old trolleys, trams, buses, trains, wagons and other means of transportation.

Besides admiring the amazing pieces and taking lots of photos, you can ride antique rail cars on the private railroad. This is a fun place for the entire family.

8. Admire St. Anthony’s Monastery

Yet another gorgeous sacred place in Kennebunk, this monastery is located on a large estate with beautiful lawns, English gardens, and walking paths that wind alongside the river.

The monastery is beautifully built and includes some nice sculptures. The masses are held in a chapel that features interesting architecture and stained glass.

There is also a nice gift shop with religious items that were blessed by the priests. Overall, it’s a beautiful, peaceful place where you can spend a relaxing afternoon.

9. Check out Maine Art Hill

If you like art, you will absolutely love this place with its nine different galleries featuring 45 artists. The premier gallery destination in southern Maine for more than 20 years, it continues to impress year after year.

You will find plenty of amazing paintings, sculptures, decorations and other art forms, including the one of a kind wind sculptures.

All the displayed items are for sale, so feel free to pick up a nice piece of art from Maine Art Hill and support the local artists.

10. Get back to nature at Snug Harbor Farm

If you are passionate about farming and gardening, you will love this place. Even if you’re not, you will still enjoy a visit to Snug Harbor Farm to admire the beautiful plants and animals.

The farm boasts a gift shop featuring antiques, topiaries, and other items. Kids will love petting the mini ponies and greeting all the other farm animals.

11. Find a good book at the Kennebunk Free Library

For the tourists and locals that love reading, the Kennebunk Free Library offers a wide variety of books on various topics.

The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and will gladly help you find the right book. If you need a good novel to read during your stay in Kennebunk, stop into this library.

12. Relax at The Spa at Rivers Edge

When it comes to relaxation, this is the go-to place in Kennebunk. Operating for 11 years, the spa offers a wide variety of services, including massage, steam baths, a spa, a hair salon, skin care and more.

Open seven days a week, it also hosts bridal and private parties.

13. Amble through Rotary Park

After you’ve seen the beautiful beaches along the shoreline of Kennebunk, it’s time to change the scenery a bit and walk through this beautiful park.

Here you will see the Mousam River tumbling over the rocks; it’s a great place to just relax and appreciate the beauty of a small American city. There is also a dam, a gazebo and an informative plaque about the Rotary Club.

After your walk, you can grab a quick snack at Duffy, right across the street.

14. Visit the Brick Store Museum

This museum will connect you with local history, art and culture through a wide variety of exhibits and educational programs. It is open all year round and celebrates the history of Kennebunk and the nearby areas.

Find out the entire past of the city – from shipbuilding to George Bush. This museum was recently renovated and the exhibits are well preserved and well presented.

You will be able to admire all sorts of antique clothes, dishes, paintings, household items, furniture and more. You can also choose to take a guided tour and see the historic homes of shipbuilders, all maintained in great condition.