Just a quick ten-minute drive from Stage Neck Inn in York, Maine, is the town of Kittery. Known as the first and oldest town in the state of Maine, Kittery is a lively seaside village that is packed with an enormous number of things to do on any given day.
Kittery includes the seaside district of Kittery Point, Badger’s Island, and part of the Isles of Shoals (which you can catch a boat to) It’s the southernmost town in Maine, and although it’s well-known for its many outlet stores, including Kittery Premium Outlets, there is plenty more to enjoy here.
Looking for the Best Things to Do in Kittery, Maine?
If you’re looking for the most interesting things to do in Kittery, Maine, you’ll find plenty of options that might make it difficult to squeeze everything into your itinerary! Following are ten of the best things to do in Kittery, Maine:
Maine Kittery Outlets
Known as “America’s Maine Street for Shopping,” Kittery Outlets is just one of the many outlet mall destinations that attract shoppers of all kinds.
With more than 120 popular brand-name stores that stretch out for more than a mile, this outlet mall also is the home of the famous Kittery Trading Post. The Trading Post has been offering the finest outdoor goods and products since 1938.
Fort McClary State Park and Historic Site
Along with the fort that has stood watch over the area for more than 275 years, this state park is named after Major Andrew McClary, who was killed in the Battle of Bunker Hill during the American Revolution.
While the fort has undergone several changes through the years, the oldest building that still stands is the gunpowder store, which was built way back in 1808. The fort was manned during every American conflict until World War I. Take some time to fish, hike, and camp at the park.
Kittery Historical & Naval Museum
Kittery is a seaside town, so you can imagine the depth of its naval history. This history is preserved in a fantastic museum, which offers exhibits and presentations about colonial times, local shipbuilding, regional struggles, and more. The Kittery Historical & Navel Museum is self-guided, and it offers a fun scavenger hunt for children.
Badger’s Island
Badger Island is situated in the middle of the Piscataqua River, which forms the boundary between New Hampshire and Maine.
The island is home to a marina, which is fitting because several important sea vessels have been built on the island: Built in 1782, the USS America was the biggest ship in the country at the time. The USS Ranger, John Paul Jones’s famous ship, was built in 1777. The USS Raleigh, also built on the island, took just 60 days to complete from start to finish.
Don’t forget to take a tour of the river itself as you visit the island — and stop by the Strawbery Banke Museum, too.
Tributary Brewing Company
Craft beer is incredibly popular throughout New England, and the Tributary Brewing Company is a fun hot spot for enjoying a wide variety of the best craft beers around. Featured brews include a Belgian IPA and a Czech-style amber lager, along with rotating seasonal concoctions. You can enjoy a beer by the glass or by the jug!
The Dance Hall
All kinds of brilliant local talent come to The Dance Hall to perform. It’s run by a local nonprofit organization and has made quite a name for itself in Kittery! The Dance Hall is a popular entertainment hub in town, and along with showcasing local talent, it also hosts community events, classes, and cultural programs.
Seapoint Beach
Seapoint Beach is a gorgeous shoreline that is quintessentially Maine. The shoreline is a unique strip of land adorned with seaweed, driftwood, and rocks; fun for swimming and exploring.
As there isn’t much room for parking at Seapoint Beach, the only public beach in the area, you may want to go during quieter hours — unless you don’t mind a bit of a walk to get to the water.
Just Us Chickens
Just Us Chickens is a unique artist cooperative in the center of Kittery that displays works of art from about 30 local artists. You’ll find many works in all kinds of mediums, from drawing, basketry, and sculpture to jewelry, painting, and fiber art.
The cooperative is operated by the artists themselves, so make sure to take your time enjoying all of the pieces.
Take Flight Aerial Adventure Park
This aerial park includes a ropes course and more, offering some of the most popular and exciting aerial activities in the state. There are more than 65 activities available to visitors at any given time, including fun obstacle courses, six zip lines, and even gorgeous gardens to enjoy while you relax and catch your breath.
Seafari Charters
Enjoy fishing and whale watching as you experience the adventure of the Seafari, a 44-foot USCG-certified sportfishing charter. If scuba diving is something you’d like to try during your time in Kittery, Seafari Charters can make it happen. The vessel is certified for up to 20 passengers and 100 miles, and it’s equipped with all the amenities you can imagine to make a day that you’ll remember forever!
There are plenty of things to do in Kittery, Maine, and with such a variety of options, you can find a great activity for anyone, no matter their age or interests.
Stage Neck Inn is an iconic destination where families and friends share delightful experiences that evolve into lifetime memories. Offering spacious accommodations with modern amenities and classic décor, breathtaking ocean and harbor views and the ocean’s relaxing sounds make for the perfect stay at our oceanfront resort in York Harbor, ME. Book your stay online now.