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Road Trip: The Kennebunks

KennebunksIt's sunset. You're walking along the beautiful beach and watching as the sun slowly sets behind the lighthouse in the distance. You stroll through the charming streets – each home, each landmark telling a story of the town's history.This easy-going town is only miles away, but really depicts the simplicity, beauty and sophistication of a traditional New England destination. Welcome to the Kennebunks.Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, Maine are rich with history and filled with stories from the past. The area is a fabulous getaway for both couples and families... and because it is so close, you could pack a picnic and plan a day trip, or spend your vacation time hanging out by the water, taking a scenic bike ride and checking out the local antiques.

Read: Dog Friendly Day Trip To Southern Maine

Getting There

Distance from Boston (Roundtrip): 170 miles
Travel Time: 3 hours 10 minutes

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The Seashore Trolley Museum

Only a few miles away from Kennebunkport in the town of Arundel is the Seashore Trolley Museum, where visitors can see trolleys from all over the United States, Canada and many other countries. The Seashore Trolley Museum is the oldest and largest electric railway museum in the world!

For only a small fee ($10 for adults, $7.50 for kids ages 6-16, senior citizens $8 and children under 5 are free) visitors can ride in a restored electric streetcar through the Maine countryside.

Your entrance fee also gives you access to unlimited streetcar rides and access to the museum.

Take A Walk

Kennebunkport is a beautiful town that is best seen on foot. Antiques stores fill the streets and galleries are abundant. Visitors can see and purchase local pottery, paintings and other unique goods.

If shopping is not your thing, take a stroll along the water and gaze at the beautiful homes lining the sand. Take off your shoes, let the sand sink in between your toes and listen to the waves lap up against the shore – a scene perfect enough for a postcard.

There is a beautiful stretch of beach that many walkers, runners and bikers use that will truly impress you. Lace up your sneakers and walk along Beach Ave. in Kennebunk. This mile-and-a-half stretch of road covers several beaches -- all of which provide walkers with different scenery.

Non-resident parking can be tough to find around Kennebunk Beach, so consider taking the trolley!

If you are not sure where to go, walking tours are also available. Among the tours available is a walk through Kennebunkport's historic district, where you will see the town's architecture and how it has changed over the years.

You can also pick up brochures at the Kennebunkport Historical Society to take your own walking tour. Whether you want to take a brief tour, or walk for over an hour, there is a adventure for you!

The Brick Store Museum

If you are a history buff, you should make a stop at the Brick Store Museum during your stay at the Kennebunks.

The Brick Store Museum began as a brick dry goods store in the early 1800's. This store was established by William Lord, who was considered the wealthiest man in Kennebunk at the time of his death in 1875.

Lord's great-granddaughter, who inherited the building, made part of it a museum in the mid 30's. At first, the museum featured artifacts from the Lord's and related families. Now, the Brick Store Museum is a center for regional history and archives. A $5 donation is suggested for admission.

The Kennebunks is a beautiful destination that is full of history and charm. If you are looking to take a quiet vacation that will leave you feeling completely refreshed upon your return home, this is the place for you!

Eat

Arundel Wharf
43 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME 04046
(207) 967-3444
www.arundelwharf.com

Here's a spot where you can try some of the local food or just grab a few drinks, all while kicking back on the deck and enjoying the river view. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is laid back.

Here are some more adventures you can take while on your tip to Kennebunkport and Kennebunk:

-- Galleries And Shopping

-- Kylie's Chance Scenic Lobster Tour

-- Webhannet Golf Club

-- Guided Kayak Tours

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