THINGS TO DO IN KENNEBUNKPORT/TOP AREA ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS/1802 HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST INN
Searching for things to do in Kennebunkport, Maine? See our list of the best activities in the area including restaurants, shops, local events, outdoor adventures & more.
Looking for things to do in Kennebunkport? There are so many great things to do in Kennebunkport, that we cannot possibly include them all on our website. We are happy to recommend those activities that are personal favorites and those that our guests have found to be particularly enjoyable during their stay. Some of the annual events listed will, of course, fall on different days during different years.
Please feel free to call the inn to find out specific dates or check out our Maine travel blog for more information on the latest happenings. Read on to discover the best things to do in Kennebunkport, ME.
FAVORITE EVENTS
SPRING & SUMMER
MAINE COAST MARATHON
May brings the Maine Coast Marathon, organized by the Marathon Sports Runners Club. This point-to-point course between Kennebunk High School and the University of New England in Biddeford offers plenty of gorgeous views during its traditional 26.2-mile length.
Maine Coast Marathon >
CELEBRATE LAUNCH!
THE KENNEBUNK'S MARITIME FESTIVAL
Every June the Kennebunk's celebrate their nautical history with a weekend of celebrations.
Shipbuilding, lobstering and commercial fishing are still a vital part of the community here in Maine and the local communities come together to celebrate it. There are many special events including the Blessing of the Fleet and the River Lights Boat Parade, fun and adventure for all the family. Celebrate the weekend with fresh seafood at local restaurants and check out the local shops for fun and unique gifts and crafts.
Launch >
AUTUMN & WINTER
FALL FOLIAGE
From September through mid-October, all of New England is awash in beautiful fall color. Set out on a drive through the New England countryside and take in the gorgeous scenery. In addition to all of the wonderful colors on display, fall also means pick your own farm shops, and we have some great ones near our bed and breakfast for you to explore. Enjoy wandering the fields, eating fresh crisp apples and load up on locally grown, fresh Maine produce as you do.
Maine Foliage >
CHRISTMAS PRELUDE
Voted the #2 Christmas Town in America, Kennebunkport lights up the first two weekends of each December with Christmas Prelude. During this event, the entire community celebrates by lighting up buildings, boats, and trees, holding arts and crafts fairs, offering meals and food, caroling, sponsoring programs, and bringing Santa to town on the Lobster Boat. The second weekend will also include fireworks, which are a fantastic display to behold. In addition, the Historic Inns host Walk to Bethlehem and Inn Tours each year.
Visit Christmas Prelude >
FEBRUARY IS FOR LOVERS
Every February, the entire town of Kennebunkport celebrates "February is for Lovers." Despite the cold and chill that can be found here in the northeast, the area heats up with romantic carriage rides, dining specials and much more. No matter when you visit in February, you'll receive a warm welcome here in southern Maine.
Paint the Town Red >
FAVORITE ACTIVITIES
FAVORITE ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS
Beaches
Goose Rocks Beach (parking passes required) and the Kennebunk Beaches are the closest to the inn. 1802 House Bed and Breakfast Inn offers chairs and towels for our guests' use.
Biking
There are several area bike trails for riding, and residents are tolerant to riders on the street. If you did not bring your own bike, rentals are available during your stay through local outfitters.
Kayaking
Kayak on Grist Mill Pond, the Kennebunk River, Mousam River, Cape Porpoise, and more. Take a guided tour or rent boats to explore on your own!
Sailing
Schooner Eleanor offers two-hour sailing trips aboard a traditional 55-foot, gaff-rigged schooner. Join Captain Rich for a sail along Maine's scenic coastline.
Lobster Tours
Join Captain Bob and his crew aboard the Rugosa, a classic New England lobster boat. On the short 1.5-hour trip, tour the Kennebunk River, see the beautiful coastline, and watch the crew haul lobster traps. Sit back and watch or roll up your sleeves and join in the fun!
Restaurants
From traditional seafood or quintessential Maine lobster shack, to eclectic and vegetarian, to food trucks and locally made ice cream and desserts, Kennebunkport and the surrounding area boasts 39 eateries to tempt your taste buds. Ask us about our favorites!
Unique Shops
Kennebunkport features a wide variety of independently owned shops offering art and collectibles, books, jewelry, home goods and a wide variety of unique gifts and goods. Looking for something in particular? Your innkeepers will be happy to help you find it!
Galleries and Museums
With a rich history and a number of talented area artists, Kennebunkport features more than a dozen galleries and museums. Be sure to visit Maine Art Hill and check out their gallery, studios, shows, and wind sculptures.
FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
HURRICANE
A few minutes' walk from the inn and perfectly positioned on the main street overlooking the river is the Hurricane Restaurant. Winner of the Open Table Diners Choice award in 2016 and Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2019, this elegant restaurant is the perfect Maine dining experience. Serving the freshest seafood and lobster, meat lovers and vegetarians alike will find dishes to delight and satisfy.
Hurricane >
THE LOST FIRE
Just few minutes' drive away in Cape Porpoise you will find this Patagonian bar and grill where renowned international Chef Germán Lucarelli brings his experience to the Kennebunks for our guests to enjoy. Serving wood fired steak and tasty seafood, this cozy restaurant has both quiet booths and a lively bar. For those warmer summer nights, a beautiful patio is available for outdoor dining.
The Lost Fire >
50 LOCAL
Located in picturesque Kennebunk is a perfect Bistro style restaurant with an American slant The owners have an established relationship with local farmers and it shows in the menu which is comprised of local fish and produce and features dishes such as pasta, burgers and excellent fish and chips. Cooking and cocktail making classes are also offered at this comfortable and friendly establishment.
50 Local >
OLD VINES
A favorite local spot for fine wine, craft cocktails, local beer, and a fresh take on Maine cuisine. Food is served tapas style and made for sharing. There is a of items from flat bread pizza and delicious meatballs to fajita and everything in-between. Something to suit everyone.
Old Vines >
ALISSON'S
In the heart of Dock Square a few minutes' walk from the inn, Alissons is a staple of Kennebunkport. Family owned and operated since 1973 it offers among other things quality seafood and excellent burgers and sandwiches. Running alongside its excellent menu are 22 beers on tap to savor while taking in a game or taking part in the weekly quiz.
Alisson's >
MABELS LOBSTER CLAW
A short drive away on Ocean Avenue is Mabel's Lobster Claw. Serving Maine seafood since the 1950's Mabel's is a Kennebunkport Institution. A favored haunt of the Bush family and recently voted the "Manliest Meal" by Men's Health Magazine and Rachel Ray for it's Lobster Savannah, it was also runner up in the "Best Seafood Restaurant in America" by USA Today Readers Choice Award. Fresh seafood and of course lobster delivered straight from the fishermen each day can be enjoyed on the covered porch.
Mabels Lobster Claw >
CHEZ ROSA
Located in the heart of Dock Square, this enchanting bistro offers delicious food and excellent service. A new addition to Kennebunkport's culinary experience it pairs a relaxing and comfortable environment with mouthwatering dishes and delightful cocktails.
Chez Rosa >