Attractions and Places To See around Kittery Point - Top 20

Kittery Point offers a variety of natural beauty and scenic coastal views. You can enjoy the picturesque shores of Seapoint Beach and Crescent Beach, known for swimming and tide pools. For expansive ocean vistas, visit the Wallis Sands Beach overlook. The Ocean Boulevard / Route 1A is also an outstanding stretch along the coast, perfect for cycling with opportunities to access the water. Additionally, Pepperrell Cove provides a lovely spot for picnics and walks, and Spruce Creek contributes to the diverse landscape.

Yes, Kittery Point is rich in history, particularly with its fortifications. You can explore the Fort Foster Park, which was a coastal defense fort and now offers beaches, walking trails, and remnants of the fort with superb views. Another significant site is Fort McClary State Historic Site, a Revolutionary War-era fortification with a blockhouse dating from 1844, offering sweeping water views.

Beyond visiting attractions, Kittery Point is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find various hiking and walking trails, including the Fort Foster Loop and Cutts Island Trail. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Kittery Point. Cycling is also popular, especially along the scenic Ocean Boulevard / Route 1A. For road cycling enthusiasts, there are several road cycling routes around Kittery Point.

Absolutely! Kittery Point offers several family-friendly options. Fort Foster Park is a great choice, featuring three beaches, walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. Seapoint Beach is also popular for families, offering swimming and tide pool exploration. The calm waters and amenities at Crescent Beach make it another excellent spot for families.

For cultural experiences and local flavor, head to Kittery Foreside, the historic and commercial hub, which boasts trendy cafés, boutiques, and eateries. You can also visit the beautifully restored Rice Public Library, a Romanesque-Revival building. For craft beer, check out Tributary Brewing Company, or enjoy music and dance at The Dance Hall, a landmark art space.

While popular spots are great, Kittery Point also has some charming lesser-known places. Consider exploring the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge (Brave Boat Harbor Division at Cutts Island) for quiet canoe/kayak sites and self-guided trails. Eagle Point, overlooking Spruce Creek, offers lovely views from rocky ledges. For a unique historical perspective, seek out the John Bray House, one of Maine's oldest standing homes.

Rye Harbor is a man-made port primarily used for fishing and lobstering. While not for swimming, it offers an interesting view of docked boats, including fishing vessels, lobster boats, and charter craft. It's a great spot to observe local maritime activity as you pass by.

Yes, some areas are designed with accessibility in mind. The Parking area for Wallis Sands Beach is noted as wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to easily access the area and enjoy the coastal views. While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, this parking area provides a good starting point for enjoying the beach environment.

Kittery Point features several notable historical homes and architectural landmarks. The Lady Pepperrell House, built in 1760, is a National Historic Landmark. You can also find the First Congregational Church, the oldest continuously used church building in Maine, dating from 1730. The Robert and Louisa Traip House is a rare example of Greek Revival architecture from around 1839, and the John Bray House, built around 1720, is one of the oldest standing homes in Maine.

Yes, to delve into Kittery's past, you can visit the Kittery Historical and Naval Museum. This museum provides insights into the town's long and rich naval history, offering a deeper understanding of its significance in the region.

The warmer months, typically late spring through early fall, are ideal for enjoying Kittery Point's outdoor attractions and activities. During this time, the weather is pleasant for hiking, cycling, beach visits, and exploring the coastal areas. However, the scenic beauty can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a different charm.

Parking is available at many of the attractions. For instance, there is a dedicated parking area for Wallis Sands Beach. When visiting Fort Foster Park, you will need to stop at the entrance gate to pay a daily use fee, which includes parking access to the pier and the rest of the park. It's always advisable to check specific parking details for individual sites.