Kennebunkport, Maine

On this page you find practical information, photos and videos about Kennebunkport, Maine.

Kennebunkport, Maine features in these preplanned City Guides:

Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine, home to a charming main stretch, 100- and 200-year-old houses and mansions along the coast, and many beaches. The town is also known for its art galleries, cute inns, and generally beautiful views
The town center, Dock Square, is located along the Kennebunk River, approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) from the mouth of the river on the ocean
Originally a shipbuilding and fishing village, Kennebunkport has become quite the popular seaside tourist destination, especially during summer
The town population is estimated at 3,720, but this number increases quite a bit during summer
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Kennebunkport developed as a summer spot for the wealthy. To see many of these homes, drive from Dock Square along Ocean Avenue, ending at Walker's Point (the Bush compound)
Is the summer residence of former U.S. President George H. W. Bush, father of other former President George W. Bush. It was built by Bush's grandfather George Herbert Walker, and has been a family home ever since
During his presidency, George H. W. Bush often invited world leaders to the spot, including Margaret Thatcher and Mikhail Gorbachev. As President, George W. hosted Vladimir Putin and Nicolas Sarkozy

Go window-shopping (or actual shopping) in the center of town - it's designed to accommodate pedestrians, with wide sidewalks and many crosswalks
Head to the beach - you can choose from Kennebunk Beach, Gooch's Beach, Mother's Beach, and Parson's Beach
Drive along the coast to admire the old mansions, including the Bush family (as in, two former U.S. Presidents) compound north of town at Walker's Point
Check out one of many local art galleries
Don't miss the local seafood, especially the lobster rolls - Clam Shack is one favorite

It can be handy to come with a car, in order to drive along the coast. However, keep in mind that during the height of tourist season (June through August), car traffic can be terrible - a 15-second drive through the central 300 meters of town might suddenly take 10 minutes
Parking can also be difficult to find during tourist season, so consider parking in a nearby neighborhood. If you're parking at a beach, you may need a permit. If you don't get one, you can still often find other parking nearby that doesn't require one