Best Things to Do in Kennebunkport, Maine (1-Day Itinerary)

Emily Rose — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 08:32:06 +0000

Looking for the best things to do in Kennebunkport, Maine? This charming seaside town is the heart of coastal New England — filled with historic homes, salty breezes, cozy cafés, and lobster rolls that define a perfect Maine getaway.

Whether you’re here for a weekend or just a quick trip, this one-day Kennebunkport itinerary captures the best of the town’s charm — from Dock Square strolls to ocean views and unforgettable eats.

Quick Summary: Top Things to Do in Kennebunkport, Maine

Explore Dock Square and its fall display at the Kennebunkport Inn
Get coffee at Dock Square Coffee House
Take a photo at South Congregational Church UCC
Sample local flavors at Maine-ly Drizzle
Find the best harbor views near Seas the Day and Junebug Beach House
In summer, grab a drink aboard the Spirit of Massachusetts
Lunch at The Clam Shack or Federal Jack’s
Stay at The Inn at English Meadows
Take an e-bike tour with Coastal Maine Hike & Bike
Dinner at Nunan’s Lobster Hut
Nightcap at Batson River Brewing & Distilling
End the day by the firepit
Bonus: Visit Ogunquit and walk the Marginal Way

Morning: Explore Dock Square

Start your day in Dock Square, the lively heart of Kennebunkport. This historic area is lined with quaint boutiques, seaside art galleries, and shops selling everything from saltwater taffy to nautical décor.

If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss the seasonal display at the Kennebunkport Inn. They have one of the most photographed fall backdrops in town, bursting with pumpkins, mums, and coastal autumn charm.

Pro Tip: Need a pit stop? You’ll find free public restrooms conveniently located behind Alisson’s Restaurant in the parking lot out back.

Grab Coffee at Dock Square Coffee House

After some window shopping, grab your morning caffeine at Dock Square Coffee House, one of the most beloved cafés in town. Locals and visitors alike rave about their espresso drinks and homemade pastries.

Order a latte or cold brew and a blueberry muffin (because Maine = blueberries) and enjoy your coffee while people-watching in Dock Square. They also have a pumpkin coffee cake that is incredible!

Take a Picture at South Congregational Church UCC

Just a short walk away, the South Congregational Church UCC stands tall and bright white against the sky — the perfect “Classic Maine” photo stop.

Its timeless New England architecture is a must-see, especially in the morning light or fall colors.

Photo Tip: Walk around to the back of the church for a quieter and equally picturesque angle.

Sample Local Flavors at Maine-ly Drizzle

Next, stop into Maine-ly Drizzle, a charming specialty shop offering samples of locally made olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and honey.

It’s a great spot to grab a souvenir from Kennebunkport — something edible and uniquely Maine. My favorites? The lavender raw honey and wild blueberry balsamic — sweet, floral, and perfect drizzled over cheese or toast.

Find the Best Harbor Views

Want one of the best hidden photo spots in Kennebunkport? Walk between Seas the Day and Junebug Beach House to find a small deck overlooking the harbor. From here, you’ll see the iconic stilted buildings reflected in the water — a postcard-perfect scene.

Continue your stroll past the Boathouse Restaurant, and cross the bridge back into Dock Square.

Don’t forget to stop for a selfie with the “Welcome to Kennebunkport” sign — a rite of passage for every visitor!

Summer Highlight: Have a Drink on the Spirit of Massachusetts

If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss a drink aboard the Spirit of Massachusetts — a historic schooner docked right in town that’s been transformed into a floating bar and restaurant.

It’s one of the most unique things to do in Kennebunkport, with unbeatable harbor views and a breezy nautical vibe. Just note that it’s seasonal and operates with limited hours, so check the schedule before you go.

Shop Around Dock Square

Spend a little more time exploring Dock Square’s shops before lunch. You’ll find cozy boutiques, galleries, and even a local bookstore with an entire section dedicated to books set in Maine — a perfect souvenir for book lovers.

Lunch at The Clam Shack or Federal Jack’s

By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite — and in Kennebunkport, that means lobster time!

The Clam Shack: Famous for its award-winning lobster rolls — buttery, fresh, and served steps from the bridge.
Federal Jack’s: Offers great waterfront views and local craft beer from Shipyard Brewing Company.

Both are excellent choices, depending on whether you’re in the mood for a casual takeout vibe or a relaxed sit-down meal.

Check In: The Inn at English Meadows

After lunch, check into your home base for the night. I love The Inn at English Meadows, a modern, charming bed and breakfast within walking distance of Dock Square.

The rooms are cozy and bright, breakfast is delicious, and there’s a firepit out back perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

There are plenty of other great inns in town, but this one checks all the boxes for comfort, style, and location.

Afternoon: E-Bike Adventure with Coastal Maine Hike & Bike

Ready to explore beyond downtown? Head to Coastal Maine Hike and Bike for an e-bike tour or self-guided ride.

If you’re going solo, follow this scenic, easy loop through Kennebunkport’s most iconic sights:

Ganny’s Garden
St. Anne’s Church
Walker’s Point (the famous Bush family compound)
Wildwood Baptist Church
Goat Island Lighthouse

End your route at Nunan’s Lobster Hut — a Kennebunkport institution and the perfect dinner stop.

Dinner at Nunan’s Lobster Hut

For dinner, dig into fresh lobster at Nunan’s Lobster Hut — a true Maine classic. It’s cash only, no reservations, and opens at 5pm, so plan ahead.

Order a steamed lobster, side of corn, and finish with their homemade blueberry pie. To drink, try a blueberry-lemonade cocktail — it’s light, refreshing, and very Maine.

After dinner, it’s just a 10–15 minute e-bike ride back to town.

Best Things to Do in Kennebunkport, Maine (1-Day Itinerary + Local Tips)

Nightcap at Batson River Brewing & Distilling

End your night with a cocktail at Batson River Brewing & Distilling, one of Kennebunkport’s most stylish and cozy bars.

The atmosphere is rustic yet refined, with creative cocktails, local brews, and a menu that’s just as impressive. The mussels are a must-try, but everything here is delicious.

The interior is beautiful, but if the weather is nice, the top deck has a great view overlooking the cute & tiny Kennebunkport.

Cozy Evening at The Inn at English Meadows

Back at The Inn at English Meadows, settle in by the outdoor firepit and soak up the peaceful Maine evening. It’s the perfect way to end your day — cozy, quiet, and full of that classic Kennebunkport charm.

Bonus: Add a Stop in Ogunquit

If you’ve got extra time, take a quick 30-minute drive south to Ogunquit and walk the Marginal Way, a scenic 1.5-mile paved coastal trail with stunning ocean views.

End at Perkins Cove, a postcard-worthy harbor filled with shops, seafood spots, and the iconic Perkins Cove Drawbridge.

(Pro tip: Park at Obed’s Parking Lot to start the walk!)

From Dock Square coffee shops to seaside bike rides and lobster feasts, there are countless things to do in Kennebunkport, Maine that capture the best of coastal New England.

Whether you’re sipping a drink on a docked schooner in summer or posing with pumpkins in fall, Kennebunkport offers charm in every season — the perfect mix of small-town comfort and seaside adventure.