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Because the southernmost city on Maine’s seacoast, the city of Kittery Maine has loads to supply! Kittery is perhaps finest identified for its outlet buying, but it surely additionally has an enchanting historical past courting again to 1647, making it Maine’s oldest city.
I’ve spent plenty of time in Kittery — sure, like many New Englanders, I went primarily for the shops, although on a few of my many Portsmouth visits I’ve walked throughout the bridge into Kittery to get pleasure from extra of what this coastal city in Maine has to supply.
Kittery is residence to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which was established in 1800. With probably the greatest pure deepwater harbors on this planet, it’s the oldest regularly working shipyard in america, constructing and repairing submarines for the US Navy.
Historical past and buying apart, the city has a small-town vibe and has quietly been changing into one of many cooler offbeat cities in Maine, filled with artwork galleries, native markets, and connoisseur eateries serving locally-sourced meals.
Notable eating places to take a look at are Warren’s Lobster House, which serves wonderful seafood with views of the river, and Robert’s Maine Grill, additionally serving nice seafood together with steak and rooster.
Being the southernmost city in Maine, part of the state that’s typically deemed “North Massachusetts” (although whether or not or not that’s a praise or an insult will depend on who’s saying it!), Kittery makes a superb cease on a Maine highway journey or a simple day trip from Boston.
Kittery winks on the world — it has a lot extra to supply than you assume.
This put up, revealed in November 2023, was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Susan Stephens.
![The view of a small town in coastal Maine: fishing shacks covered with colorful buoys and small white boats perched on the edge of a pier, cottages on shore behind them.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Kittery-Maine-1024x683.jpg)
Greatest Issues To Do in Kittery, Maine
Store on the Kittery Premium Shops
Many guests begin their day in Kittery with a visit to the Kittery Premium Outlets. This shopper’s paradise options greater than 100 shops, from Kate Spade to Banana Republic Manufacturing facility Retailer, Michael Kors to Carter’s, and from Coach to Adidas. The costs listed below are effectively definitely worth the go to!
If you end up feeling starvation pangs throughout your buying spree, you’ll uncover a variety of eating places obtainable, together with a couple of cheeky breweries.
One factor to bear in mind, although, is that Maine has 5.5% gross sales tax, in contrast to next-door neighbor New Hampshire, which has no gross sales tax. (Although in the event you actually need to max up the tax financial savings, you would possibly need to hit up the outlets in New Hampshire.)
Moreover, clothes is taxed in Maine, in contrast to Massachusetts, the place most clothes below $175 isn’t taxed. Simply preserve this in thoughts earlier than you store so your expectations are stored in test.
The shops couldn’t be simpler to get to, situated simply off I-95 on Route 1, and there’s loads of parking.
Should you haven’t had sufficient retail remedy on the shops, Kittery Trading Post is one other nice buying cease, excellent for snagging all your out of doors clothes and equipment.
![An aerial view of the Maine coastline, with a big grassy area topped with a stone fort, surrounded by stone fences.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Fort-McClary-Kittery-Maine-1024x767.jpg)
Fort McClary State Historic Website
Fort McClary is likely one of the finest locations to immerse your self within the historical past of southern Maine. Inbuilt 1844 and situated at Kittery Level, the fort performed an important function within the protection of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard through the Warfare of 1812 and the Civil Warfare. Main McClary misplaced his life at Bunker Hill within the Revolutionary Warfare, and this fort safeguarded the area for a formidable 275 years.
The historical past of Kittery is mirrored within the fort’s structure. Utilizing native granite, the encompassing wall stands proud as a testomony to the fort’s sturdiness. Over time, modifications have been made to maintain its authentic grandeur. Right now, guests can discover the fort’s grounds, go to the museum, and luxuriate in gorgeous views of the Piscataqua River.
The fort is open for excursions from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, from 10:00 AM till sundown, except in any other case posted on the gate. Charges are $3 for Maine residents, $4 for non-residents, and $1 for all seniors, no matter residency.
![An Aerial view of a gray sand beach curving around bright blue water, with wetlands on the other side.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Seapoint-Beach-Kittery-Maine-1024x768.jpg)
Take pleasure in Kittery’s Seashores
Kittery is residence to a number of lovely seashores that supply gorgeous landscapes and ample alternatives for enjoyable within the solar. You’ve acquired a few of Maine’s trademark rocky seashores, together with calmer sandy choices.
Seapoint Seashore is a smaller, extra secluded seashore situated on the outskirts of Kittery. Don’t be fooled by its rocky shores; the swimming is divine. Parking will be restricted, particularly throughout busy occasions, however canines are welcome!
Alternatively, Fort Foster Park is an attractive 45-acre park situated on Gerrish Island in Kittery Level. The park is only a brief drive from downtown, also referred to as Kittery Foreside, providing gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and a pleasant seashore space.
The park is residence to a Civil Warfare-era fort and museum, a playground, picnic areas, and a ship launch. The park additionally provides swimming, fishing, and climbing trails. Know that canines usually are not allowed on this seashore.
Crescent Seashore is a well-liked spot in Kittery identified for its calm waters and picturesque sandbar. It provides quite a lot of facilities, together with restrooms, showers, and a snack bar. Whereas there’s a massive car parking zone, it does refill throughout peak occasions, so come early in the event you’re visiting through the summer season.
Take Flight Aerial Journey Park
Should you’re searching for a thrill, you gained’t need to miss Take Flight Aerial Adventure Park! With over 65 actions to select from at this enjoyable spot, you’ll embark on an aerial journey, navigating swinging tires, suspended platforms, swings, catwalks, and even an exhilarating zip line that can check your nerves!
With programs for all ages and ability ranges, it’s an effective way to get your adrenaline pumping and expertise the great thing about the Maine woods from a singular perspective. Don’t fear in the event you’re a first-timer; you’ll obtain instruction, security pointers, and the chance to observe earlier than venturing out by yourself. The knowledgeable workers all the time prioritizes security so you’ll be able to benefit from the expertise with peace of thoughts.
The park is open weekends from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM, April to October. A number of completely different packages can be found starting from $12-84, relying in your degree of curiosity. Select from an aerial problem course, zip line tour, tremendous swing, ski soar, and fast soar. Combo packages can be found from $118 per particular person.
![A small blue cottage with a sign reading Kittery Historical & Navy Museum, with patriotic red white and blue paper banners hanging above the door.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Kittery-Maine-Naval-Museum-1024x683.jpg)
Kittery Historic and Naval Museum
The preservation of Kittery Maine’s wealthy naval traditions is fantastically showcased on the iconic Kittery Historical & Naval Museum. It homes a formidable assortment of artifacts and displays that spotlight the city’s function in shipbuilding, the Revolutionary Warfare, and the U.S. Navy.
Guests may discover the museum’s historic buildings, together with the Seventeenth-century Sparhawk Home. Due to the devoted efforts of volunteers and beneficiant donations from far and extensive, this distinctive historical past is preserved for generations to come back.
Excursions on the museum are self-guided, they usually’re open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM, from Could by November. Admission is $7 for adults, $3 for kids, and $15 for households.
Catch a Efficiency on the Dance Corridor
The Dance Hall is a superb neighborhood gathering house in Kittery, Maine, designed to encourage younger and outdated with the enjoyment of music and motion. With an ideal mixture of dwell performances, patrons can’t assist however benefit from the environment within the historic 1928 constructing. The vibe is classic and the acoustics are spine-tinglingly good!
Must brush up in your dance strikes earlier than you’re taking to the ground? The Dance Corridor provides a choice of dancing classes in its landmark artwork house. The corridor prides itself in selling culturally various programming with its dwell occasions, artist residencies, and ongoing neighborhood tasks.
The ticket costs are very inexpensive and the house is managed by a devoted non-profit group. It’s an ideal alternative to immerse your self within the native arts scene, placing cash into the pockets of Mainers dedicated to the humanities. Beer and wine can be found throughout performances. Reveals begin at $17 per particular person. See their web site for the dance lesson costs and scheduling.
Drop Into Simply Us Chickens
Uncover the whimsical creations of Just Us Chickens artwork gallery. Since 2005, this artist cooperative of 18 native artisans has created a beautiful spot with which to showcase and promote their works.
Whether or not you’re looking for a singular reward, or a private memento, the gallery is the proper vacation spot. Right here, you’ll discover a variety of beautiful gadgets, together with glassware, nature-inspired artwork, ceramics, and fantastically crafted baskets.
What makes Simply Us Chickens even higher is that it’s run by the artists themselves. This not solely lends a private contact but in addition ensures that their work is offered with the utmost care and fervour. As soon as once more — right here’s the place you’ll be able to put funds direct into Maine artists’ pockets.
![A man pouring a beer from a big steel tank at a brewery.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Brewery-Beer-1024x681.jpg)
Go to Kittery’s Breweries
Very like the remainder of the U.S., the cities of Kittery, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire are residence to a flourishing craft beer scene.
Tributary Brewing Company is likely one of the oldest and hottest breweries in Kittery. The brewery was based in 2010 by two buddies who’re obsessed with craft beer.
They’re identified for his or her extensive number of beers, which vary from IPAs and stouts to extra experimental choices like bitter beers and barrel-aged beers. The brewery additionally has a well-liked taproom the place you’ll be able to pattern their beers and pair them with an fulfilling meal.
One other nice possibility in Kittery is Woodland Farms Brewery. This brewery is a bit smaller than Tributary however they’ve an ideal choice of farmhouse ales and lagers. It is usually Maine’s first non-alcoholic brewery (sure, that’s a factor!), with beneficiant choices for non-drinkers, even non-alcoholic IPAs! Woodland Farms Brewery can be identified for its dedication to sustainability, and it makes use of eco-friendly practices every time potential.
Should you’re keen to take a brief drive, there are even more breweries to check out in nearby Portsmouth, NH, and the surrounding Seacoast region.
![A park on the edge of the river, several sailboats in the water behind it.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sailboats-in-Kittery-Maine-1024x683.jpg)
Get Out within the Water with Seafari Charters
I really feel like all good journeys to Maine require a ship journey in some unspecified time in the future, and one firm provides quite a lot of methods to expertise the nice outside of Southern Maine and the New Hampshire Seacoast. With an skilled group of Coast Guard-licensed captains, Seafari Charters gives excursions, fishing journeys, and scuba diving adventures that let you create lasting reminiscences within the water.
Need to do some whale watching? E-book a tour and get the possibility to watch humpback, fin, and minke whales whereas cruising previous the Isles of Shoals in New Hampshire and Nubble Lighthouse in York, Maine.
Deep sea journeys with Seafari Charters cater to anglers of all ability ranges, and their skilled captains can assist you land quite a lot of species together with cod, pollack, haddock, wolf fish, halibut, and extra.
Diving charters might sound nuts in Maine — the water up right here isn’t precisely Caribbean heat — however scuba diving right here is exclusive. Off the coast of Maine, you’ll be able to discover the varied marine lifetime of the area’s rocky ledges, kelp forests, and shipwrecks, providing a singular view into the underwater world.
Half-day and day journeys can be found, relying on the tour you select. Should you’re seeking to change into a licensed scuba diver, they’ve packages for newbies.
![A small Maine island dotted with fishing shacks and piers, underneath a purple and yellow sunrise.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Badgers-Island-Kittery-Maine-1-1024x810.jpg)
Go to Badger’s Island
A cute little island situated between Kittery and Portsmouth, NH, Badger’s Island is the proper place to flee the hustle and bustle of on a regular basis life and benefit from the pure fantastic thing about Maine. It’s additionally a pleasant cease when strolling into Portsmouth.
Should you’re feeling lively, you’ll be able to chill out in one in all a number of parks or take a ship journey from the marina. Like Kittery, it’s additionally a historic location the place a number of outstanding boats had been constructed again within the 1700s. You’ll additionally discover three eating places on Badger’s Island: Ore Nell’s BBQ, Badger’s Island Pizza, and Buoy Shack. The latter provides seafood and breathtaking views of the harbor.
Attending to Badger Island is simple. Merely take the Portsmouth-Newmarket Bridge and comply with the indicators. It’s a simple stroll in the event you’re coming from both Kittery or downtown Portsmouth.
![Downtown Portsmouth New Hampshire, with a small town square featuring a tall white steepled church, and a brick building with a mural of Italy on it.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Portsmouth-NH-Market-Square-1024x717.jpg)
Go to Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth, New Hampshire is one in all my favourite locations in New England — an inviting coastal city actually throughout the bridge to the south of Kittery. With its wealthy historical past, vibrant tradition, and delightful surroundings, Portsmouth and Kittery are two sides of the identical coin.
Additionally residence to various historic websites, amongst them, you’ll discover the Strawbery Banke Museum, a dwelling historical past museum that tells the story of the city’s early settlers. Different notable websites embody the John Paul Jones Home, the place the well-known Revolutionary Warfare naval hero as soon as lived, and the downtown space right here is likely one of the prettiest in New Hampshire.
You’ll discover various galleries, theaters, and music venues. In the course of the summer season, don’t miss the Prescott Park Arts Competition. A number of the extra well-known Portsmouth restaurants to take a look at are The Oar House, which serves recent seafood with a view of the river, and The Portsmouth Brewery, which provides quite a lot of craft beers and pub fare.
Learn Extra: Best Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH
![People relaxing on a long rocky beach leading to teal water.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Ogunquit-Beach-Things-to-Do-in-Ogunquit-Maine-1024x674.jpg)
Go to Ogunquit, Maine
Should you’re searching for a enjoyable and funky seaside city, simply north of Kittery you’ll discover Ogunquit. This city has all of it — superior seashores, a vibrant queer neighborhood, lovely strolling trails, cute little retailers and galleries, and a bar the place you’ll be able to sing out present tunes.
One of many highlights right here is strolling Marginal Method. This scenic strolling path winds alongside the rocky shoreline, providing improbable views of the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s additionally an ideal spot for whale watching. Should you can tear your self away from the seashore, that’s!
Should you’re craving a little bit of efficiency artwork, the historic Ogunquit Playhouse has been presenting Broadway musicals and different dwell performances for over 80 years. That is the place you’ll need to be to catch a present and luxuriate in an evening out in town. Alternatively, hit up The Front Porch, a enjoyable bar and restaurant, for dinner and present tunes!
However one of many nicest issues about Ogunquit is simply strolling across the downtown space and having fun with an ice cream, or heading over to Perkins Cove to take quintessentially colourful pictures of coastal Maine.
Learn Extra: 17 Fun Things to Do in Ogunquit, Maine
![A lighthouse perched on a rocky island, surrounded by crashing waves.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Nubble-Lighthouse-York-Maine-1024x683.jpg)
Go to York, Maine
Situated between Ogunquit and Kittery, York, Maine is an attractive city. It’s identified for its gorgeous seashores, historic landmarks, and basic New England environment. York is a really family-friendly city, with tons of actions for teenagers, however even adults may have a blast right here.
The seashores listed below are a number of the nicest within the space, together with Quick Sands Seashore and Lengthy Sands Seashore. You’ll discover arcades and sweet shops that really feel virtually frozen in time.
The city is residence to a number of locally-owned retailers and cafes and boasts a vibrant arts scene. It additionally hosts a number of festivals and occasions all year long, such because the York Harvestfest.
And naturally, you’ll be able to’t overlook in regards to the meals! You’ll discover a number of the finest fine-dining seafood eating places in Maine; every thing from lobster rolls to recent oysters.
Learn Extra: 15 Fun Things to Do in York, Maine
![An aerial view of downtown Kittery Maine, with several buildings surrounded by woods and a river in the distance.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Downtown-Kittery-Maine-1024x767.jpg)
The place to Keep in Kittery Maine
It’s not a foul thought to have a look lodging at Portsmouth, NH first — it’s simply throughout the bridge from Kittery and town is residence to a nice selection of hotels. Nevertheless, listed below are my prime picks if you wish to keep proper in Kittery:
Luxurious: Water Street Inn, nestled within the historic district, boasts gorgeous views of the Piscataqua River. The meticulously restored 1812 mansion provides 8 elegant rooms, every with its distinct character and luxurious facilities. Company can chill out on a secluded riverside patio, collect for afternoon tea within the Nice Room, or discover Kittery’s boutique galleries, retailers, and eating places.
Mid-Vary: Hampton Inn & Suites Kittery, located in north Kittery close to Interstate 95, provides a cushty keep for vacationers searching for comfort. The resort’s modern rooms present fashionable facilities and ample house for households and enterprise vacationers. Company can begin the day with a complimentary breakfast, unwind with a swim within the indoor pool, or work out within the health middle.
Funds: Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portsmouth is a pleasant budget-friendly possibility for visitors and is simply throughout the river from Kittery. Their snug visitor rooms are outfitted with facilities akin to a TV, espresso maker, and complimentary Wi-Fi. For added consolation, make the most of their on-site breakfast and health middle.
![A small seaside village in Maine, cottages on shore, wooden docks leading out to the water.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Pepperell-Cove-Kittery-Maine-1024x683.jpg)
Greatest Time to Go to Kittery, Maine
No shock, you’ll expertise the most effective climate in Kittery in the summertime, however the reputation of the shops retains Kittery hopping year-round.
Should you’re searching for the most effective summer season climate, your finest bets are July, August, and even early September. June tends to be a bit riskier with rain in New England.
Shoulder season is a beautiful time to go to with much less crowds. Traditionally, you’ll expertise higher climate in fall than in spring (although foliage season, which peaks in early to mid-October, will be each lovely and really busy, particularly on Columbus Day weekend).
The winter months are quiet alongside the Maine coast, with most sights closed for the season. That mentioned, a winter journey to Maine is an effective way to get to know the locals dwell right here year-round!
![The Kittery Trading Post, a building with a giant bullseye painted on it, with lots of cars parked in front.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Kittery-Trading-Post-Kittery-Maine-1024x683.jpg)
Find out how to Get to Kittery Maine
By far, one of the best ways to get right here is by automotive. A lot of small-town New England isn’t accessible by public transportation, and with a automotive, you’ll have loads of freedom to discover the encompassing areas.
Should you’re flying into Kittery, the closest airport is in Portland, Maine, adopted by Boston, Mass. Logan Airport in Boston is a extra handy possibility for worldwide flights.
If coming by practice, Amtrak’s nearest cease is in Dover, NH on the Downeaster line from Boston to Portland. Native buses come from Portsmouth and cease in Kittery (simply north throughout the river).
Uber does exist in Kittery and Portsmouth, which is an effective way to get round in the event you don’t have entry to a automotive, or if you wish to hit up the bars and don’t have a delegated driver.
![A wooden pier leading into the water in Maine, underneath a pink and purple sunset.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sunset-in-Kittery-Maine-1024x683.jpg)
How A lot Time to Spend in Kittery Maine
Someday is sufficient for the primary sights of Kittery. Should you keep longer than that, you’ll be capable to see every thing that the city has to supply. However in the event you’re planning a mixed journey to Kittery and Portsmouth, I feel three days gives you time to see quite a bit in these two vibrant coastal cities.
Kittery additionally makes a superb base for exploring Southern Maine and the encompassing area. You possibly can completely use Kittery as a base as you drive up and down the coast, discovering loads of treasures (and eat ALL the lobster rolls!).
![A steel suspension bridge connecting two sides of a curvy blue river.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Piscataqua-River-Bridge-Kittery-and-Portsmouth-1024x767.jpg)
Is Kittery Price It?
I completely love the southern coast of Maine — in addition to its sibling, the New Hampshire Seacoast. Whether or not you’re visiting on a day journey from Boston or spending a full two weeks exploring the area in depth, I feel it’s a improbable place to discover.
Kittery is only one city amongst many on this area. And whereas I don’t assume it’s one of many best possible cities — for me, that might be Portsmouth or Ogunquit — Kittery is completely price no less than a half day go to. You gained’t remorse spending a couple of hours right here.
I hope you could have the most effective time in Kittery, Maine!
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Have you ever been to Kittery Maine? What’s your favourite factor to do? Share away!
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