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Kennebunkport and the Southern Maine Coast offer much to
see and do in every season. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you
have any questions or would like assistance with your plans. When you
arrive at the Inn, we'll have brochures with information on local attractions
and suggested driving routes to help you see the most beautiful places along the
coast.
Enjoy!!
Leigh and Rob, Innkeepers
Dock Square and Lower Village - Take a leisurely
stroll around downtown Kennebunkport, called Dock Square, where you’ll find
boutiques, galleries, and fine gift shops. Cross the bridge into Lower Village
Kennebunk where the shopping continues.
Historic Kennebunkport and Village Walking Tours -
Wander around the area between Ocean Avenue and Maine Street. The Captain
Fairfield Inn is among the many historic homes that have been restored and
maintained to their original splendor when shipbuilding thrived and the shipping
trade made the town one of the wealthiest in New England. Along the way
you’ll see some truly pristine examples of Colonial, Federal, Greek Revival, and
Victorian Homes. You can take a guided tour of this area, given by the
Kennebunkport Historical Society in the summer and fall. Guide books for
self-guided walking tours
may be purchased
at the Nott House Gift Shop or the Pasco Exhibit Center (125 North Street,
Tues-Fri 10am-4pm). 967-2751
Ocean Avenue – Walk or drive along Ocean Avenue
heading away from Dock Square, and you’ll follow the Kennebunk River out to the
open ocean. Colony Beach, a small beach near the breakwater, will be on your
right, and just past the beach there are several benches where you can take in
an amazing view of the river and the Kennebunk beaches beyond. As you continue
on Ocean Ave you will pass by the palatial homes of many of Kennebunkport’s
summer residents, St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, and finally, the Bush Estate at
Walker’s Point, summer home of the former President George H. W. Bush. It’s
about 2 miles out to the Bush Estate which makes it a great walk, but there is
also some parking along the way.
Beaches and the Outdoors – The Southern Maine Coast
is unique in having many long sandy beaches, unlike the rest of Maine where the
coast is mostly rocky. Whether you seek a sunny summer day at the shore or
a romantic stroll on a deserted beach in the fall or winter, we'll be happy to
make suggestions for the best spots. Or, if you seek a
more active day, enjoy the scenery and wildlife at the
Wells Reserve at Laudholm
Farm, which has seven miles of trails providing
access to woodlands, fields, wetlands, beach and dunes, and offers cross-country
skiing in the winter.
Lighthouse Tour - There are over 60 lighthouses in
Maine, and you can see six of them between Kennebunkport and Portland. As you
look for these landmarks, you can also see more of the beautiful coast and visit
beaches, sanctuaries and state parks. Check out our “Suggested Driving Routes”
when you arrive at the Inn,
and we’ll be happy to give you a copy of the directions to take with you.
Portland -
Portland is a diverse city situated on a peninsula
jutting out into spectacular Casco Bay. Here you’ll find a wealth of historic
and cultural offerings, boutique shopping along cobblestone streets, and fine
dining featuring regional and international cuisines. We recommend beginning in
the Old Port neighborhood, but in strolling through the West End and other parts
of the city, you can stumble onto interesting architectural gems and the locals’
favorite eateries.
Antiquing - The Southern Maine Coast is known for
its high concentration of antiques shops. Pick up an antiques map in our
pantry, which will guide you to Route 1 South, Wells and Ogunquit. There are
plenty of other things to see and do along this route; see our “Suggested
Driving Routes” if you’d like to spend the day exploring this part of the coast.
All phone numbers begin with area code (207).
We will be happy to provide more information and
directions at your request. |