Attractions and Places To See around Kittery - Top 20

Kittery, as Maine's oldest incorporated town, is rich in history. You can visit Fort McClary State Historic Site, which played a crucial role in coastal defense, or explore Fort Foster Park on Gerrish Island, a historic fort with a beach area. The Kittery Historical and Naval Museum offers artifacts detailing the town's shipbuilding and military past. Additionally, several colonial-era homes like the William Pepperrell House and the Lady Pepperrell House showcase the town's heritage.

Yes, Kittery offers beautiful natural landscapes. You can find stunning coastal views from the Wallis Sands Beach overlook, which provides an unobstructed panorama of the Atlantic and the Isles of Shoals. Seapoint Beach and Crescent Beach offer quieter coastal experiences. The Piscataqua River, forming the boundary with New Hampshire, is central to Kittery's identity, and boat tours are available. The nearby Fort Foster pier also offers excellent views of multiple islands and lighthouses.

Kittery and its surroundings are great for outdoor enthusiasts. For cycling, consider routes like the Ocean Boulevard / Route 1A, an outstanding stretch along the coast. You can find various road cycling routes, including those passing Fort McClary, in the Road Cycling Routes around Kittery guide. For hiking, explore easy trails such as the Kittery Point Shore Trail loop in Fort Foster Park or the Cutt's Island Trail loop, detailed in the Easy hikes around Kittery guide.

Absolutely! Kittery provides several family-friendly options. Fort Foster Park offers a beach area perfect for picnicking and spending the day. The Rye Harbor, while not for swimming, provides an interesting view of lobster boats. For a sweet treat, Yummies Candy and Nuts is a popular family destination. Many of the cycling routes, like those found in the Cycling around Kittery guide, are also suitable for families.

Parking availability varies by attraction. For instance, there is a dedicated parking area for Wallis Sands Beach, which is convenient if you plan to visit the beach or its overlook. Fort Foster Park requires a daily use fee at its entrance gate for access and parking. When visiting Kittery Foreside, you'll find various parking options within the commercial hub.

The best time to visit Kittery for outdoor activities generally spans from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring beaches, hiking trails, and cycling routes. Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for coastal activities, while spring and fall provide cooler weather and often fewer crowds, making them excellent for hiking and cycling.

Kittery offers a blend of culture and unique shopping. Kittery Foreside is the town's historic and commercial hub, featuring art galleries and local markets. For performances and classes, The Dance Hall is a cultural venue. Shoppers flock to the Kittery Premium Outlets along Route 1. You can also find outdoor gear at the long-standing Kittery Trading Post or unique handcrafted items at Just Us Chickens Gallery.

Yes, Kittery has options for visitors with dogs. Seapoint Beach is known for being dog-friendly, offering a natural setting for you and your pet to enjoy. Many of the outdoor trails and parks in the area, such as those mentioned in the Easy hikes around Kittery guide, are generally welcoming to leashed dogs, but it's always good to check specific park regulations beforehand.

Visitors particularly enjoy the unobstructed and expansive coastal views. For example, the Wallis Sands Beach overlook is praised for its beautiful panorama of the Atlantic and the Isles of Shoals, providing a quiet spot to take in the scenery. The Fort Foster pier also offers excellent views of multiple islands and lighthouses, making it a local treasure for scenic appreciation.

Kittery has a growing local food and drink scene. You can visit unique breweries like Tributary Brewing Company for tastings of local craft beers. For baked goods and meals, When Pigs Fly Company Store offers a combined bread store and pizzeria. Kittery Foreside also hosts gourmet eateries and local markets, providing a variety of dining experiences.

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, established in 1800, is the oldest continually operating shipyard in the United States and holds immense historical significance for Kittery. While access is generally restricted, its presence highlights Kittery's deep maritime heritage and its role in national defense, building and repairing submarines for the US Navy.