With a few hours to ourselves recently, we decided to take a day trip to Kennebunkport. And boy, are we glad we did! It’s an easy and scenic drive from Wolf Cove Inn. We found an abundance of delicious food, plenty of things to see and do, and delightful shops to explore. Here’s our advice on finding all the hidden gems in Kennebunkport.
Breakfast at the Inn
Start your day with and organic farm-to-table Maine breakfast. Choose a table for two with a view of the lake, or join other guests to share your plans for the day. Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients and perhaps some blueberry-baked stuffed French toast, an inn favorite. We pride ourselves on serving the freshest ingredients and the best of what our local farmers offer.
Getting to Kennebunkport
The drive from Poland to Kennebunkport takes approximately 1.5 hours, covering about 70 miles.
- Take ME-26 S and I-95 S for a straightforward route
- Consider the more scenic ME-35 S for a leisurely drive through charming small towns and picturesque countryside
Arrival in Kennebunkport
As you arrive in Kennebunkport, you’ll immediately notice this coastal town’s quaint, historic charm. It is known for its maritime heritage, beautiful beaches, and vibrant downtown area. There are so many things to see and do in Kennebunkport you’ll need the whole day to explore.
Morning Activities
Stroll Through Dock Square | Shop and Dine
Begin your exploration in Dock Square, the heart of Kennebunkport. This bustling area has boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy the quaint architecture, and buy a souvenir.
Visit the Kennebunkport Historical Society | View Impressive Exhibits
Located nearby, the Kennebunkport Historical Society offers a fascinating insight into the town’s rich history. The Nott House, an elegant Greek Revival home, showcases period furnishings and exhibits about the town’s maritime past.
Lunch Spots
By now, you’ll likely be ready for a bite to eat. Kennebunkport boasts a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Mabel’s Lobster Claw | Seafood Classics
If you’re in the mood for classic Maine seafood, Mabel’s Lobster Claw is the place to go. We tried the fantastic lobster roll and lobster mac ‘n cheese. In our words, wicked good! Located along Ocean Avenue, Mabel’s has served some of the freshest Maine seafood since the early 1950s.
Alisson’s Restaurant | Something for Everyone
Alisson’s Restaurant in Dock Square offers a diverse menu with something for everyone (vegetarian options and a vegan option, too). Try their clam chowder or lobster bisque for a real treat. It’s popular with the locals, so you know it’s good. And they’ve been around since the early 1970s, serving fresh and delicious food in a casual family atmosphere.
Afternoon Activities
After lunch, it’s time to explore more of Kennebunkport’s hidden gems.
Seashore Trolley Museum | A Fun Stop
A short drive from downtown, the Seashore Trolley Museum is the world’s oldest and largest museum of mass transit vehicles. It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs and families, with vintage trolleys you can ride and explore.
Cape Porpoise | Coastal Views
Drive to Cape Porpoise, a small, picturesque village within Kennebunkport. Visit Goat Island Lighthouse for stunning coastal views and photo ops. The working fishing harbor is also a great spot to observe local fisherpeople at work and enjoy the beautiful coastline.
Walker’s Point Estate | Scenic Viewpoint
No trip to Kennebunkport is complete without a visit to Walker’s Point Estate, the summer home of the Bush family. While the estate is private, there’s a scenic viewpoint along Ocean Avenue where you can take photos and learn about its history.
Beach Time
Kennebunkport is home to some beautiful beaches, perfect for an afternoon of relaxation and frolicking in the waves.
Goose Rocks Beach | White Sands
Known for its soft white sand and gentle surf, Goose Rocks Beach is ideal for families. Stroll along the shoreline, collect seashells, or relax and soak up the sun.
Kennebunk Beach | Calm Waters
Also known as “Mother’s Beach,” this spot is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is well-maintained, and its calm waters make it an excellent choice for families with young children.
Evening Activities
As the day winds down, Kennebunkport offers plenty of entertaining activities.
Sunset Cruise | Stunning Vistas
Experience the stunning Maine coastline from the water with a sunset cruise. Several companies offer scenic cruises that provide a unique perspective of Kennebunkport’s shoreline, including views of historic homes, lighthouses, and possibly even some wildlife.
Dinner in Town | Options
For dinner, Kennebunkport has a range of excellent dining options. Here are two standout choices:
- Earth at Hidden Pond: For a truly memorable dining experience, make a reservation at Earth at Hidden Pond. This upscale restaurant focuses on farm-to-table cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients to create innovative dishes. We think it’s an absolute must-stop.
- White Barn Inn: Wind down in the elegant ambiance of the dining room at the White Barn Inn. This fine dining spot serves contemporary New England fare in elegant surroundings. It’s no wonder it achieved recognition as a Forbes Five-Star restaurant.
Heading Back to Wolf Cove Inn
After a full day of exploring the beautiful coastal village of Kennebunkport, it’s time to make your way back to Wolf Cove Inn. Enjoy the quintessential Maine countryside as you meander the back roads or jump on the highway for a speedy return. When you reach the Inn, unwind by the lake and perhaps enjoy a nightcap by the fire pit with a traditional s’mores kit.
More Day Trip Ideas
A day trip from Wolf Cove Inn adds to your Maine experience. Use our Tripp Lake location to explore our excellent day trip recommendations. Take a scenic drive to visit waterfalls and covered bridges, visit the Maritime Museum in Bath, and photograph iconic lighthouses in Portland. Use our Maine Travel blog to find great ways to enhance your getaway and discover all the beautiful places to visit near us.
Ready, Set, Go
A day trip to Kennebunkport, ME, offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, historic charm, coastal vistas, and delicious cuisine. Whether strolling through Dock Square, enjoying a lobster roll by the water, or relaxing on the beach, Kennebunkport provides a perfect escape. So, pack your bags, plan your route, and prepare for a memorable Maine adventure and stay at Wolf Cove Inn!
Photo Credit:
© mike innella via canva.com
© gyro via canva.com