Exploring Kennebunk, Maine & Beyond
Lexington Elms sits right on Main Street in the heart of historic downtown Kennebunk, one of the most charming and walkable small towns on the Maine coast. Whether you are visiting for the beaches, the food scene, local history, or simply a long overdue escape, there is no shortage of places to explore nearby.
We love this town deeply and are always happy to point guests toward our favorite spots over a cup of coffee. Below are a few of our favorite ways to experience Kennebunk and the surrounding coast.
Right in the Neighborhood
Our location on Main Street places you steps away from some of the best of downtown Kennebunk. The street itself is worth exploring, lined with Federal-style homes, independent shops, galleries, and a genuine sense of place that feels increasingly rare.
Kennebunk’s Main Street is also part of Maine’s first National Historic District, making even a simple stroll feel special.
- Downtown Kennebunk — shops, galleries, events, and local charm
- Kennebunk Free Library — one of the loveliest libraries around, just steps away
- Brick Store Museum — local history, folk art, and rotating exhibitions
- Octopus Bookshop — a beloved independent bookstore worth browsing
- Wine House on Main — wine tastings and special events on Main Street
- Kennebunk Farmers’ Market — Saturdays, May through November
- Kennebunk Artisans Marketplace — local makers and artisans throughout the summer season
Breakfast & Coffee
Local Favorites
- Boulangerie – A Proper Bakery — artisan breads, pastries, espresso, and one of the coziest atmospheres in town
- Coffee Roasters of the Kennebunks — locally roasted coffee and excellent breakfast sandwiches
- Bev’s Cafe — a longtime local favorite known for its cinnamon buns
- KPort Bagels — handmade bagels and lox, but arrive early because they sell out
- Mike’s All Day Breakfast & Mike’s American Diner — classic breakfast comfort food with generous portions
Worth the Short Drive
- Baker Bru Cafe (Wells) — great gluten-free and dairy-free options, plus excellent meat pies
- Maine Diner (Wells) — a classic Maine diner famous for lobster pie and chowder
Dining & Drinks
The dining scene in the Kennebunks has quietly become one of the highlights of the southern Maine coast, with everything from casual pubs to creative farm-to-table dining.
In Downtown Kennebunk
- 50 Local — locally sourced dining and craft cocktails right on Main Street
- Duffy’s Tavern — casual neighborhood pub favorites
- Crotux at Garden Street Bowl — pizza, poutine, cocktails, and bowling for a fun night out
- The Tavern at The Kennebunk Inn — a cozy lunch or dinner stop known for its haddock chowder
- The Landing Store — a historic market and deli perfect for sandwiches and lobster rolls before a beach day
- Batson River Brewing & Distilling — craft beer, spirits, brunch, and a lively atmosphere
Just Across the River in Kennebunkport
- Alisson’s Restaurant — a Dock Square staple known for chowder and lobster rolls (pictured)
- Dock Square — waterfront dining, shops, galleries, and one of the most iconic areas in Kennebunkport
Image by Domenico Convertini used via https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/
The Beaches
The beaches of Kennebunk are a short drive from our door and each one has its own personality. We are happy to loan you beach chairs and an umbrella for the day — just ask! There are also beach towels available to take with you in the guest rooms. A parking pass is required in season; we will help point you in the right direction.
- Gooch’s Beach — a long, sandy stretch perfect for walking and sunbathing
- Mother’s Beach — calmer waters, great for families, with a small playground
- Middle Beach — rockier and quieter, wonderful for collecting shells and tidepooling
- Parsons Beach — a more secluded, serene option a short drive away
Nature & the Outdoors
Maine’s coastal landscape is one of its greatest attractions, and there are countless ways to get outside and enjoy it.
- Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge — peaceful marsh trails and birdwatching (pictured)
- Kennebunk Land Trust Trails — scenic forest, marsh, and field trails throughout the area
- St. Anthony’s Franciscan Monastery — beautiful riverside walking paths and gardens
- Coastal Maine Kayak — kayak and paddleboard rentals plus guided tours
- Gotham Bike & Ski — bike and snowshoe rentals for exploring the area at your own pace
A Day Trip to Portland
Portland is just 25 minutes north and makes an easy day trip from Kennebunk. Portland is Maine’s largest city and blends its thriving food scene with Portland’s historic waterfront charm, scenic working piers, lively neighborhoods, and excellent museums.
- Old Port — enjoy cobblestone streets filled with shops, restaurants, breweries, and galleries
- Portland Museum of Art — featuring works by Winslow Homer, Andrew Wyeth, and Edward Hopper
- Portland Head Light — Maine’s most iconic lighthouse (pictured)
- Eastern Promenade — waterfront walking and biking paths overlooking Casco Bay
Seasonal Events
The Kennebunks are truly a four-season destination, with festivals, music, art walks, and beloved local traditions happening all year long.
- Frinklepod Farm — organic farm dinners, flower picking, markets, concerts, and seasonal events
- Christmas Prelude — nationally recognized holiday celebrations in Kennebunkport each December
- Kennebunk Art Walk — summer Friday art nights and gallery events
- Vinegar Hill Music Theatre — live performances in a beautifully restored historic barn
- Concerts in the Park – Lafayette Park Wednesdays all summer long
- HarvestFest — fall festival with live music, food, pumpkins, and family fun
- May Day Festival — spring celebration with parades, music, markets, and family activities downtown
More Resources
Planning your trip? These helpful resources offer visitor information, travel ideas, seasonal events, and local tips for exploring Kennebunk, the southern Maine coast, and beyond.
- Go Kennebunks — official visitor guide
- Visit Maine — statewide travel inspiration and events