Kennebunk

Located in York County, Kennebunk, Maine is known for its beautiful beaches, natural conservancy and blueberry fields. The town has a population of approximately 11,000 people, which does not include its neighboring town of Kennebunkport. The small town is representative of coastal Maine, offering tourists fantastic seafood, and an array of large summer homes overlooking the ocean. Many well-known families have called Kennebunk their home during the summertime, including the Bush family.

The total town area is 43 square smiles, with almost 9 square miles being water. The town of Kennebunk is drained by the Kennebunk River and Mousam River. It can easily be accessed by many forms of transportation, including Maine’s large I-95 interstate, U.S. Route 1, Route 9A, Route 35 as well as the Amtrak train station. Additionally, Kennebunk is adjacent to many other Maine towns, including Arundel, Alfred, Sanford and Wells.

In terms of education, Kennebunk has a small public-school system as well as a small alternative school called The New School. The New School was formed in 2000 by local community members and parents, and is accredited by the State Of Maine. It focuses on community-based learning. The New School attracts students from Portland, and other areas of Maine who want an alternative school option.

In terms of things to do in this beautiful coastal town, Kennebunk offers several beautiful beaches to walk, a historic and quaint downtown and many local shops and boutiques. In terms of shopping, both Kennebunk and Kennebunkport have excellent antiquing opportunities. There is also no shortage of bed and breakfasts overlooking the Atlantic Ocean to stay at in town. Colony, Parson’s and Mother’s beaches are the three most popular beach options in Kennebunk. Tourists are often seen there paddle boarding, surfing and kayaking during great weather.

Calling all foodies; Kennebunk is a must-see. Maine Foodie Tours offers seasonal walking tours in the town, where people are able to sample locally made foods and beverages. Additionally, each June, the Kennebunkport Festival celebrates regional cuisine with the state’s largest food and wine festival. Lastly, the White Barn Inn in Kennebunk is well-known for its outstanding food and accommodations. It offers 25 luxurious guest rooms as well as an award-winning restaurant located in two restored barns. If you’re looking for seafood, White Barn Inn is the place to be!

Maine Stay Inn and Cottages and the Kennebunk Inn and the Kennebunkport Inn, all which have incredible character and charm, are all staples in terms of places to stay in town.

5 Fast Facts About Kennebunk, Maine:

1. During wintertime, there is covered ice skating at the Waterhouse Center. This is a favorite for families located in Kennebunk.
2. Kennebunkport’s two-week long Christmas Prelude was voted the 2nd Best Christmas Town in America by HGTV and the event has many activities from caroling to gingerbread house creating.
3. If history is your thing, you’re in luck. The town offers a free walking tour that informs you of local historic sites and shares stories, events and traditions in Kennebunk.
4. In fact, there are 25 historical panels, rich with local archival imagery, installed around town. Maps are available throughout town at stores and the library.
5. The Seashore Trolley Museum, considered the "oldest and largest trolley museum in the world," is located in and has been a toursist favorite since it opened in 1939.