Anyone who has lived in or visited Maine knows (after just a few days!) that this state is full of history. That’s one of the best things about exploring the many small towns. In addition to great stories that stem from the state’s 201-year history, there are great new things to see. From restaurants to bars to trails and waterfront, one particular town offers it all. Head to southern Maine to visit the oldest town in the state!
Welcome to Kittery! Located in York County, this little town was settled by the British in 1623 and officially incorporated in 1647. If you’re a fan of Maine history you’ve probably already done the math to realize that this is the state’s oldest town.
mr_t_in_dc / Flickr
Kittery sits directly across the Piscataqua River from New Hampshire earning it the nickname “Gateway to Maine” and it’s home to a ton of fun things to do and see.
baxterboy / Flickr
If you’d like to visit, we’ve got a few pointers for you to take the guesswork out of planning your trip. First, head to Kittery Point, located in a picturesque setting on the water. This is where you’ll find Fort McClary State Historic Site.
leslee / Flickr
The former US military fort was used mainly to protect Portsmouth Harbor and the shipyard. One of the fascinating sites here is the 1844 blockhouse.
petersent - Self-photographed, Public Domain
From here, consider visiting Gerrish Island to see Fort Foster Park. The fort was active for 45 years between 1901 and 1946. Today you can visit the fort and enjoy the trails and beaches around it.
mariano-mantel / Flickr
If your idea of the outdoors is a bit more involved, visit Cutts Island and Seapoint Beach.
galfred / Flickr
This is also where you’ll find the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. This 5,400-acre area sits on 50 miles of the southern coast. Opened in 1966, the refuge protects native habitats and endangered species.
Captain-tucker - Own work, CC BY 3.0
We love historical sites, but our favorite thing about visiting new towns is the food and Kittery doesn’t disappoint. Check out Bob’s Clam Shack, one of the most well-known seafood shacks in the state. Enjoy their famous lobster roll, but don’t forget to try the “Lillian,” a basket of whole belly clams.
auvet / Flickr
Get back on the history tour by checking out The First Congregational Church on Pepperrell Road. Formed in 1714 it’s the oldest church building continually used in all of Maine.
nhoulihan / Flickr
And now that you’ve enjoyed nature and history, it’s time to check out the other side of what makes this town so great. It’s time to shop! Kittery offers more than 120 outlets along a one-mile stretch of Route 1, just off I-95. Don’t forget to visit Kittery Trading Post with its three stories of camping, hunting, fishing, ski, snowboard and kayak gear.
KitteryOutlets / Facebook
Kittery is a great place to visit no matter what you love to do! If you’re coming back from a trip out of state, plan on adding a night here. It’s also completely worth going out of your way for!
nhoulihan / Flickr
Kittery is located in York County and you can learn more about it by checking out the town’s official website. If you’ve visited share some of your favorite things to do while there! We’d love to add them to our travel list.
mr_t_in_dc / Flickr
baxterboy / Flickr
leslee / Flickr
petersent - Self-photographed, Public Domain
mariano-mantel / Flickr
galfred / Flickr
Captain-tucker - Own work, CC BY 3.0
auvet / Flickr
nhoulihan / Flickr
KitteryOutlets / Facebook
To continue learning more about what this state offers visit these 12 artsy towns in Maine for a whimsical day trip!
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Address: Kittery, ME, USA
