Top Places to See When Driving From Boston, Massachusetts to Kennebunkport, Maine
New England is steeped in history and charm, making it a perfect destination spot for tourists from all over the world. The route from Boston, Massachusetts to Kennebunkport, Maine offers some of the most scenic vistas and beautiful towns you’ll find in the Northeast. Along the drive, you’ll find everything from rolling hills and quaint villages to rocky coastlines and sandy beaches. Take a leisurely road trip from Boston to Kennebunkport, and visit some of the region’s most picturesque attractions. Here are some of the top places to see on this stunning road trip.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, located in downtown Boston, is one of the top places to visit on your way from Boston to Kennebunkport. This historic market has been a hub of commerce for over 250 years, and it continues to be a bustling center of activity today, with shops, bars, and restaurants. Visit the Quincy Market Colonnade to sample some of Boston's famous seafood, including traditional clam chowder or oysters. There's also plenty of shopping at Faneuil Hall, with over 100 shops featuring everything from handmade crafts to designer clothes. Be sure to stop by the historic Faneuil Hall, where some of the most famous speeches in American history took place.
Salem, MA
Just 30 minutes from Boston, Salem is a historic town that’s famous for its witch trials in the late 17th century. The Salem Witch Trials Museum is a must-visit attraction in this charming town, but Salem has plenty of other museums and historic landmarks, such as the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. As you drive through the town, you’ll see many well-preserved historic homes and buildings, including the House of the Seven Gables, which was made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel of the same name.
Gloucester, MA
Next up on your road trip to Kennebunkport is Gloucester, a charming coastal town that's famous for fishing and lobstering. Overlooking Gloucester Harbor, the Fishermen's Memorial marks the site where more than 10,000 fishermen have lost their lives at sea since the 1600s. The town is home to several museums, including the Cape Ann Museum and the Maritime Gloucester Museum, which features maritime-themed exhibits and educational programs.
Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth, a city on the Piscataqua River in New Hampshire, has a beautifully preserved historic downtown area, which is best appreciated on a leisurely stroll. The Strawbery Banke Museum, which is a living history museum featuring restored homes from four centuries, is a great place to spend an afternoon. Also, visit the naval shipyard, which dates back to the Revolutionary War.
Old Orchard Beach, ME
Old Orchard Beach is one of Maine's premier summer resorts, known for its long sandy beach and seaside amusement park. Relax on the beach or stroll along the pier, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Afterward, head to Palace Playland, Maine's only beachfront amusement park, with over 25 rides to choose from.
Kennebunkport, ME
Finally, you’ll arrive at the charming coastal town of Kennebunkport, which is home to world-class beaches, restaurants, and hotels. Take a walk down Dock Square in the center of town, and you'll find a variety of stores and boutiques selling everything from clothing to crafts. You can take a boat tour of the harbor to see the beautiful coastal landscape or visit the Seashore Trolley Museum to see the largest collection of trolleys and streetcars in the world.
Conclusion
The drive from Boston to Kennebunkport is a perfect combination of history, natural beauty, and fun attractions. From bustling city markets to quaint coastal towns, the region boasts endless possibilities for exploring. With this list as a guide, you won't miss any of the top sights along the way, and you'll be sure to have a memorable road trip experience. So, grab your keys, hit the road, and enjoy the scenic views on the way to Kennebunkport.