Kittery Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay and eat in Kittery, Maine, the gateway to the Southern Coast of Maine, New England, USA. Plan your trip to Kittery with this complete itinerary and insider's guide.


Introduction to Kittery

Nestled in the southern coast of Maine in New England, Kittery is a small town situated at the gateway to the state’s scenic coastline. With miles of coastline, beaches, and outdoor recreation, Kittery is a charming destination for those who love nature, history, and culture. Its historic seaport has become a popular tourist destination, with a bustling downtown shopping district, and miles of hiking trails to explore. The town is a vibrant mix of history, art, and culture making it an ideal destination for both solo travelers and families alike.

List of Places to Visit in Kittery

Here are the must-visit attractions when in Kittery.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort McClary State Park: You can experience military history at this 275-year-old fort that once guarded the Piscataqua River. The park features a visitor center, picnic areas, and trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
  • Kittery Historical and Naval Museum: This museum chronicles Kittery’s long and proud maritime history, from the Revolutionary War to today’s Navy. With exhibits on maritime and military history, the museum also features a restored 1943 naval launch that can take visitors out on the river.
  • John Paul Jones Memorial Park: Named after the Revolutionary War naval hero, this park is a local favorite. With picnic tables, grills, and a sandy beach, it offers a great view of the Piscataqua River.

Natural Attractions of Kittery: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chauncey Creek: With its picturesque views, this spot is perfect for kayaking, fishing, or having a picnic. This tidal creek offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, with ample parking available at the nearby John Paul Jones Memorial Park.
  • Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge: A great location for bird watching, shellfish digging, and hiking. This wildlife refuge is situated in the Maine-New Hampshire Seacoast region and was created to protect ecosystems.
  • Frost Point Wildlife Sanctuary: Frost Point Preserve is a 150-acre natural area located on Spruce Creek. The preserve offers a walking trail through wetlands, woods, and coastline, with many interesting and varied plant and animal life.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kittery

Kittery is known for its natural beauty, and there is no better way to explore it than on foot or bike. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Kittery:

  • Fort Foster Park: With its rocky shoreline, grassy fields and long beaches, this park is a must-visit destination. The park features more than four miles of trails, including scenic coastal walks, so be sure to bring your hiking shoes.
  • Mt. Agamenticus: The mountain has multiple trails for hiking and mountain biking, providing a wide range of experiences to hikers of all levels. The summit gives amazing views of the coastline and surrounding areas.

Best Things to Do in Kittery: Activities and Tours

  • Shop at Kittery Outlets: With over 120 stores, Kittery Outlets is a shopping paradise for those who love to shop. You will find the best brands at discounted prices, from Brooks Brothers to Adidas.
  • Take a Whale Watching Tour: Head on a whale-watching cruise around Maine’s coastline and marvel at the stunning views of the coast and wildlife on the way.
  • Learn to Sail: Kittery is known for its excellent sailing conditions, and there are several sailing schools in the area that offer lessons and rentals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kittery

Here’s an itinerary for a week’s stay in Kittery:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Fort McClary State Park and Kittery Historical and Naval Museum
Day 2 Visit John Paul Jones Memorial Park and take a kayak tour
Day 3 Take a whale-watching tour and hike at Mount Agamenticus
Day 4 Visit Chauncey Creek and Frost Point Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 5 Bike the trails of Fort Foster Park
Day 6 Learn to sail and shop at Kittery Outlets
Day 7 Visit York Harbor and Beach and watch the sunset

Food and Drink Scene of Kittery

Kittery is famous for its seafood cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll: A classic dish made with fresh Maine lobster meat and served in a roll or bun with mayonnaise, celery, and salt.
  • Clam Chowder: Another must-try dish made with clams and potatoes in a creamy broth, perfect for lovers of creamy soups.
  • Maine Blueberry Pie: A sweet and tart combination of Maine’s famous blueberries and a flaky, buttery crust.

Local Beverages

  • Allagash White: An easy-drinking, Belgian-style wheat beer brewed with curacao orange peel and coriander.
  • Shipyard Brewing Company: A local craft brewery that offers some of the best beers in the area, including some seasonal options like Pumpkinhead or a Raspberry Wheat.

Where to Stay in Kittery: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kittery has several accommodation options, suitable for every budget. Here are a few options to choose from:

  • Portsmouth Harbor Inn and Spa: A luxurious waterfront inn located on the banks of the Piscataqua River.
  • The Kittery Inn and Suites: A budget-friendly option with comfortable and clean rooms and suites.
  • Coachman Inn: A family-friendly hotel located near the Kittery Outlets and offers exceptional amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and sauna.

What to Buy in Kittery: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Kittery without buying some souvenirs and local products. Here a few things to bring home with you:

  • Salt water taffy: A classic sweet treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings.
  • Handmade pottery: Made by local artists, these unique pieces of pottery are fantastic souvenirs to remind you of your time in Kittery.
  • Maine Lobster: If you love seafood, then Maine Lobster is the perfect souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kittery

Maine is famous for its ‘Downeast’ culture. Locals are friendly, welcoming, and often love to share their stories. Respect for the environment is also a fundamental aspect of Maine’s culture, as well as a love of seafood.

Best Time to Visit Kittery

The best time to visit Kittery is from late spring to early fall (May to September). During this time, you can enjoy the warm weather, outdoor activities, and popular festivals. Note that the peak tourist season is during July and August, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kittery

Do:

  • Do Tip: It is customary to tip for good service in the United States, including in Kittery.
  • Do Explore the Outdoors: Kittery has a great outdoor scene, so make sure to experience it by taking a hike, bike ride, or going for a swim at the beach.
  • Do Sample the Seafood: Maine is synonymous with seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants in Kittery that serve fantastic seafood dishes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen: Since most activities in Kittery center around the outdoors, make sure to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by applying sunscreen.
  • Don’t Litter: Help keep Maine’s environment clean by throwing your trash in the proper receptacles.
  • Don’t Wear White Clothing: Due to the high likelihood of getting seafood sauce or butter on you, avoid wearing white when eating seafood.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kittery

Kittery is a safe town, with no particular risks to tourists. However, it is advisable to be aware of your surroundings and to keep valuable items locked in your hotel room or car. If hiking or taking part in outdoor activities, make sure to carry enough water, food, and other essentials like a map and compass.

Health in Kittery

Kittery has a health center that is open daily, with several hospitals within driving distance in the surrounding areas. If you are participating in outdoor activities, make sure to be mindful of heatstroke, dehydration, and tick-borne illnesses.

Getting to Kittery: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kittery is well-connected to major cities in the US and Canada. Here are the main transportation options:

Airports Near Kittery

  • Portland International Jetport (PWM): Located 50 miles north of Kittery, this airport has frequent flights to major cities in the US.
  • Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT): Located around 40 miles south of Kittery, this airport has direct flights to many North American destinations.

Bus Stations Near Kittery

  • C&J Bus Lines: Provides regular service from Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City to Portsmouth, NH (5 miles from Kittery).
  • Greyhound: Provides service from Boston, MA, to Portsmouth, NH (5 miles from Kittery).

Other Options:

  • Car Rental: You can rent a car from several rental agencies at the airport or in the town center of Kittery.
  • Private Chauffeur Service: If you prefer a more luxuriant option, you can book a private chauffeur service to take you to your destination.

How to Get Around in Kittery

You can navigate Kittery by car, bike, or on foot. Kittery is also connected to Portsmouth, NH, through the Memorial Bridge, which makes it easy to get around the area by car. There is also a trolley service that runs seasonally through Kittery and connects to other neighboring towns, including Portsmouth.

Where to Go Next from Kittery: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kittery is well-positioned to allow exploration of the surrounding area. Here are some recommended nearby destinations to explore:

  • Ogunquit: A seaside town located just 15 minutes north of Kittery, known for its long sandy beaches, picturesque Marginal Way walkway, and Perkins Cove.
  • Portsmouth: A charming town located across the river from Kittery. The town boasts a vibrant downtown shopping district, the stunning Portsmouth Harbor, and a lively dining and nightlife scene.
  • Portland: A city located approx. 90 min north of Kittery, known for its historic Old Port district, lighthouses, and waterfront restaurants.

Conclusion

Kittery is a gem offering visitors a chance to explore history, culture, and outdoor activities all in one destination. This beautiful Maine town offers something for everyone, from hiking and wildlife watching to lighthouses and shopping. Follow this guide and plan your trip to Kittery, and experience everything this historic town has to offer.