Spread the love!

Kittery, Maine: Where Fun Never Takes a Break! Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

The forts and the beaches here cost you nothing at all to walk. The outlets run to over 60 stores at up to 65% off retail. The museums are cheap and the lobster pier is the one real expense. Everything else here is a picnic table and a view of the water. Budget for the lobster and the rest of it will look after itself.

Welcome to Kittery, Maine – the oldest town in Maine and a handsome seaside destination. History buff, outdoor enthusiast, shopaholic or keen eater, Kittery covers everyone.

Explore the town’s deep history by visiting the Fort McClary State Historic Site or the Kittery Historical and Naval Museum. For outdoor activities, take a scenic drive to Chauncey Creek, go on a boat tour, or enjoy water sports. And if shopping is your thing, Kittery is known for its outlet malls and one-off boutiques. Don’t forget to indulge in the local food and drink scene, which includes fresh seafood and craft breweries.

Kittery is a handsome and picturesque town with a lot to offer. From its historical significance to its outdoor activities, shopping and food scene, everyone is covered. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Kittery has to offer.

Key Takeaways

• Kittery, Maine is the oldest town in Maine and a charming seaside destination
• Kittery offers a variety of activities, including historical sites, outdoor activities, shopping, and food and drink
• From its rich history to its unique charm, Kittery is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Historical Significance

Kittery, Maine is a town with a deep history that dates back to the 1600s. The town played an important role in the American Revolution and World War 1. Today, visitors can explore the town’s historical significance through its many museums, forts and garrisons.

Fort McClary State Historic Site

One of the better-known historical sites in Kittery is Fort McClary State Historic Site. This fort has stood for over 275 years and has played a vital role in protecting the region. It was named after Major McClary, who lost his life at Bunker Hill during the American Revolution. The fort is now a museum and is open for visitors to explore.

Andrews-Mitchell Garrison House

Another historical site in Kittery worth your time is the Andrews-Mitchell Garrison House. This house was built in 1664 and is one of the oldest buildings in the town. It was used as a garrison during the Indian Wars and is now a museum that showcases the town’s early history.

American Revolution

Kittery played a crucial role in the American Revolution. The town was home to several key figures in the war, including Major McClary and John Paul Jones. Visitors can learn more about the town’s involvement in the war by visiting the Kittery Historical & Naval Museum.

World War 1

During World War 1, Kittery was home to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which played a vital role in the war effort. Visitors can learn more about the shipyard’s history by visiting the USS Albacore Museum, which is located in Kittery.

USS Albacore Museum

The USS Albacore Museum is worth the trip for anyone interested in naval history. The museum is home to the USS Albacore, a submarine that was used by the US Navy during the Cold War. Visitors can explore the submarine and learn more about its history.

Kittery Historical & Naval Museum

The Kittery Historical & Naval Museum is a strong place to learn more about the town’s history. The museum has exhibits on everything from the town’s early history to its involvement in the American Revolution and World War 1. Visitors can also learn more about the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and its impact on the town.

Kittery, Maine is a town with a deep history that is worth exploring. From its forts and garrisons to its museums and exhibits, everyone has something to learn and enjoy.

Outdoor Activities

If you’re looking for some fun outdoor activities in Kittery, Maine, you’re in luck. There are plenty of options to choose from, beach bum or adrenaline junkie.

Seapoint Beach

Seapoint Beach is worth the trip for anyone who loves the sun, sand and surf. This handsome beach is located just a short drive from downtown Kittery and offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is soft and inviting. Just be aware that parking is limited, and it can get crowded on weekends.

Fort Foster Park

If you’re looking for a more active outdoor adventure, head to Fort Foster Park. This park offers miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks and even a beach where you can go swimming or fishing. The park is also home to several historic military fortifications, which are open for exploration. Just be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray, as the park can get hot and buggy in the summer months.

Take Flight Aerial Adventure Park

For an outdoor adventure of its own kind, check out the Take Flight Aerial Adventure Park. This park offers a variety of high-flying activities, including ziplining, ropes courses and more. The courses are designed for all skill levels, so seasoned pro or first-time flyer, you’re sure to have a blast. Just be prepared to face your fear of heights.

No matter what kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, Kittery, Maine has something to offer. From beaches to parks to aerial adventures, there is never a dull moment in this handsome coastal town. So pack your sunscreen, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore everything that Kittery has to offer.

Shopping in Kittery

When it comes to shopping in Kittery, you have plenty of options to choose from. Looking for handcrafted jewelry or designer brands, Kittery has got you covered. Here are some of the strongest places to shop in Kittery:

Kittery Trading Post

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can’t miss the Kittery Trading Post. This shopping destination has everything you need for your next adventure, from camping gear to hunting equipment. You’ll also find a broad selection of clothing and footwear, so you can look sharp while exploring the great outdoors.

Kittery Premium Outlets

For those who love a good deal, the Kittery Premium Outlets are worth the trip. This shopping center features over 60 stores, including Coach, Kate Spade and more. You can save up to 65% off retail prices, so you can shop to your heart’s content without breaking the bank.

Just Us Chickens Gallery

If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary and handcrafted, Just Us Chickens Gallery is the place to shop. This boutique features the work of over 40 local artists, so you can find pieces of their own kind that you won’t find anywhere else. From pottery to paintings, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

No matter what kind of shopping experience you’re looking for, Kittery has an option for you. So, grab your wallet and get ready to shop ’til you drop.

Kittery was settled back in 1623 and is the oldest town in Maine. It is also the place you go for discount Coach and Kate Spade. A garrison house from 1664 sits only a short drive from all that. The town holds both of those without either one looking out of place. Work the two of them against each other and the day gets interesting.

Food and Drink

When it comes to food and drink, Kittery has a lot to offer. From fresh seafood to craft beer, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds. Here are some of the strongest places to check out:

Robert’s Maine Grill

If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, Robert’s Maine Grill is the place to go. This local favorite serves up dishes like lobster rolls, clam chowder and fried fish. The portions are generous, so come hungry.

Tributary Brewing

Beer lovers won’t want to miss Tributary Brewing. This small brewery produces some of the strongest craft beer in Maine. Try their flagship IPA or one of their seasonal brews. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, and the staff is happy to chat about their beer-making process.

Blue Current Brewery

Another strong spot for beer is Blue Current Brewery. This brewery specializes in Belgian-style beers, so expect to find some flavorful brews you won’t taste elsewhere. The tasting room is cozy and inviting, and the staff is knowledgeable about their beer.

Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier

For a classic Maine lobster experience, head to Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier. This rustic seafood shack is located on the water and serves up fresh lobster, clams and other seafood. You can dine outside on the picnic tables and enjoy the wide views of the creek.

The Black Birch

If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, check out The Black Birch. This gastropub serves up creative dishes made with local ingredients. The menu changes frequently, so you never know what delicious surprises you might find. The beer and cocktail selection is also first-rate.

No matter what kind of food and drink you’re in the mood for, Kittery has something to offer. So grab a fork and a glass, and get ready to indulge.

Arts and Culture

If you’re looking for some culture and creativity in Kittery, you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few places to check out:

The Dance Hall

The Dance Hall is worth the trip for any artsy person or anyone who loves to dance. This intimate venue hosts a variety of events, from live music to dance performances and classes. You can even take a swing dance class with your partner or learn some new moves with friends. The Dance Hall has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and you’ll feel like you’re part of a community as soon as you walk through the door.

Art Galleries

Kittery is home to several art galleries that showcase the work of local artists. Take a stroll through the galleries and discover some new favorites. You might even find just the piece to take home with you as a souvenir. Some of the galleries worth checking out include:

• Just Us Chickens Gallery: This gallery features the work of over 40 artists, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry.
• Buoy Gallery: This contemporary gallery showcases the work of emerging artists from Maine and beyond.
• Kittery Art Association: This nonprofit organization has been promoting the arts in Kittery since 1958. The gallery features the work of local artists and hosts workshops and events throughout the year.

Hipster Scene

If you’re into the hipster scene, Kittery has plenty to offer. Grab a cup of coffee at Lil’s Cafe and check out their selection of vinyl records and vintage clothing. Then head over to D. Pratt Framer to browse their collection of antique maps and prints. Finish off your day with a craft beer at Tributary Brewing Company, a popular spot among the locals.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re looking for more to do around Kittery, there are plenty of nearby attractions to explore. From historic towns to scenic islands, everyone is covered. Here are a few nearby attractions you won’t want to miss:

Portsmouth

Just across the Memorial Bridge from Kittery, you’ll find the handsome town of Portsmouth. With its brick sidewalks, historic homes, and quaint shops and restaurants, Portsmouth is the place to spend a day. Be sure to check out the Strawberry Banke Museum, a living history museum that takes you back to the 17th century.

York

If you’re looking for a classic New England beach town, York is the place to go. With its sandy beaches, rocky coastline and quaint downtown area, York has an option for everyone. Be sure to check out the Nubble Lighthouse, photographed more than almost any other lighthouse in the country.

Star Island

For an experience of its own kind, take a boat tour to Star Island. Located in the Isles of Shoals, a group of islands off the coast of New Hampshire and Maine, Star Island is home to a historic hotel and conference center. Spend the day exploring the island’s rocky shoreline, or take a guided tour of the hotel and learn about its fascinating history.

Isles of Shoals

If you’re interested in exploring more of the Isles of Shoals, there are plenty of other islands to visit. Appledore Island, for example, is home to the Shoals Marine Laboratory, a research and education facility that offers guided tours to the public. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a kayak tour and explore the islands on your own.

No matter what your interests are, there’s plenty to see and do around Kittery. So why not make a day of it and explore some of these nearby attractions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Kittery’s Premium Outlets? Are they really that premium?

Well, let’s just say that if you’re looking for a deal, you’ve come to the right place. With over 60 designer and name-brand outlet stores, Kittery Premium Outlets is a shopper’s dream. And yes, they really are that premium. You can score some serious discounts on everything from clothing to housewares to outdoor gear. Just be sure to bring your credit card and a sturdy shopping bag.

What’s the most romantic spot in Kittery, Maine? Asking for a friend, of course.

Ah, love is in the air. If you’re looking for a spot to impress your significant other, head to Fort McClary State Historic Site. This 19th-century fort offers wide views of the Piscataqua River and the Atlantic Ocean. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a romantic lunch on the grassy knolls. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even explore the underground tunnels together. Ooh la la.

Are there any fun facts about Kittery that I can use to impress my friends?

Absolutely. Did you know that Kittery is the oldest incorporated town in Maine? It was settled in 1623 as a fishing village and has a deep maritime history. In fact, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, located in Kittery, is the oldest continuously operating shipyard in the United States. And if you’re a fan of lobster, you’ll be happy to know that Kittery is the “Lobster Capital of Maine.” So go ahead and impress your friends with your newfound knowledge.

What’s the best way to keep kids entertained in Kittery, Maine? Besides bribing them with lobster rolls, of course.

We don’t condone bribery, but we do have some ideas for keeping the little ones entertained. Take them to the Kittery Historical and Naval Museum, where they can learn about the town’s history and see some cool artifacts. Or head to the Seacoast Science Center, where they can get up close and personal with marine life. And if they’re feeling adventurous, take them on a whale watching tour. Who knows, they might even spot a humpback or two.

Frequently asked questions about Kittery, Maine

How long has Fort McClary been standing on the point?

Over 275 years. It was named for Major McClary, who died at Bunker Hill during the American Revolution, and the fort is a museum that you can walk through now. The Andrews-Mitchell Garrison House goes back further still than that, to 1664. That one served through the Indian Wars and is now a museum too. Both of them are a good deal older than anything that surrounds them now.

How many stores sit inside the premium outlets here?

Over 60 of them. Discounts run up to 65% off retail across designer and name-brand stores, which is the reason a lot of people drive up here at all in the first place. Just Us Chickens Gallery sits at the exact opposite end of all that. That one carries the work of over 40 local artists in it instead. Kittery Trading Post covers the outdoor gear sitting in between the two.

Which beach here is worth the drive from downtown?

Seapoint Beach. It is a short drive out of town, the water runs clear and the sand is soft, but parking is limited and weekends get crowded fast. Fort Foster Park has a beach of its own on it as well. That one adds hiking trails and some old military fortifications on it too. Take the park if you want rather more out of it than sitting.

Spread the love!