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Kennebunkport, Maine - NEU

Northeastern University

Kennebunkport, Maine - NEU

Are you looking for a coastal escape from Boston?

The Skidoo brings you the best travel plans and custom itineraries for one-day trips from the Northeastern University campus. Pause your hectic academic schedule for a day trip to somewhere you can relax, explore, and clear your mind.

A one-day gateway to Kennebunkport, Maine is one of the best options to blend scenic ocean views, historic landmarks, and fresh seafood. This itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable day with local favorites and coastal charm.

Here's everything you need for an enriching and relaxed day in Kennebunkport!

Full Itinerary

Extras

7:30 AM – Departure from Northeastern University

Northeastern University

Travel route 1: Amtrak Downeaster Train + Uber/Lyft

  • Directions: Take the MBTA Orange Line from Ruggles Station to North Station, then board the Amtrak Downeaster to Wells, ME.
  • Transfer: From Wells, a quick Uber/Lyft ride (about 15 minutes) will take you directly to Kennebunkport.
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Cost: $24 for the Amtrak fare + $10-15 for rideshare from Wells.

Travel route 2: Car Rental or Rideshare

  • Duration: About 1.5 hours by car
  • Parking: Free or paid parking is available near Dock Square in Kennebunkport.
Day 1 image

10:00 AM – Arrival in Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Maine

A scenic Kennebunkport welcomes you as you come to the end of your journey. Here your full day of exploration and fun begins. Before, we do that, here’s how you can satisfy your stomach with a perfect breakfast with a beautiful view around!

Day 2 image

10:15 AM – Breakfast at H.B. Provisions

H B Provisions

@hbprovisions

Start your day with breakfast at H.B. Provisions, a cozy cafe and market known for its fresh breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and pastries. This local favorite is a perfect first stop before heading into town. Check more details about it here!

Location: 15 Western Ave, Kennebunkport, ME

Cost: $10-15 per person. Check the menu here!

Day 3 image

10:45 AM – Explore Dock Square and Shops

Dock Square Clothiers

Stroll through the heart of Kennebunkport at Dock Square, filled with charming boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. You’ll find everything from unique souvenirs to handcrafted items by local artisans. Learn more about it here!

Cost: Free to explore, optional shopping

Duration: 45 minutes

Day 4 image

11:30 AM – Scenic Walk to Walker’s Point

Follow Ocean Avenue from Dock Square to Walker’s Point, the summer home of former President George H.W. Bush. The 1.5-mile walk showcases stunning ocean views, historic homes, and beautiful scenery perfect for photos.

Location: Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME

Cost: Free

Duration: 1 hour (30 minutes each way)


Day 5 image

12:30 PM – Lunch at The Clam Shack

The Clam Shack

@theclamshack

Enjoy a taste of Maine at The Clam Shack, an iconic seafood spot famous for its lobster rolls and fried clams. This casual eatery offers fresh seafood with a view of the Kennebunk River. Know more about it here!

Location: 2 Western Ave, Kennebunkport, ME

Cost: $15-25 per person. Check the menu here!

Duration: 45 minutes

Directions: Walk back along Ocean Avenue to Dock Square.

Day 6 image

1:30 PM – Visit St. Ann’s Episcopal Church

St. Ann's by-the-Sea Episcopal Church

Want to dive into the history? Explore the historic St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, built with exceptional artistry in the late 1800s with beautiful stones.

Known for its ocean views and serene ambiance, exceptional glass-stained windows, and architecture, it’s a peaceful stop that reflects Kennebunkport’s rich history. Know more about church activities here

Location: 167 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME

Cost: Free (donations appreciated)

Duration: 30 minutes

Directions: A 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk along Ocean Avenue from The Clam Shack.

Day 7 image

2:15 PM – Walk the Kennebunk Beaches

Kennebunk Beach

@townofkennebunk

Head to Kennebunk Beach, also known as Gooch’s Beach, to enjoy the waves and coastal scenery. Take a stroll along the sand, soak in the Atlantic views, or simply relax by the water.

Location: Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME

Cost: Free to exploreDuration: 1 hour

Directions: A 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from St. Ann’s Church to Beach Avenue.

There are also other beaches like Mother’s Beach and Middle Beach which you can enjoy exploring on Kennebunk. Learn more about it here

Day 8 image

3:30 PM – Seashore Trolley Museum

Seashore Trolley Museum 195 Log Cabin Rd, Kennebunkport, ME

A short drive away, the Seashore Trolley Museum is the world’s largest museum dedicated to public transportation history. Discover vintage trolleys and the history of trolleys in New England, and enjoy a trolley ride! Learn more about it here!

  • Cost: $10-$15 for student admission.
  • Ride hours: Daily every 40-45 minutes from 9:45 AM until 3:45 AM.
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Directions: A 10-minute drive from Kennebunk Beach via Route 9 and Log Cabin Road. View the map!

Check more about tickets & prices here!

Day 9 image

4:45 PM – Coffee and Treats at Mornings in Paris

Mornings in Paris

@morningsinpariscafe

Location: 21 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME

: 3 Dyke Road, Kennebunkport, Maine

: 246 Main Street, Ogunquit, Maine

End your day with a coffee or tea and a pastry at Mornings in Paris, a charming European café known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious treats.

There are three different outlets in the Kennebunk to make your dining or take-out experience seamless. It’s the perfect final stop before heading back to Boston. Learn more about it here!

Cost: $5-10 per person. Check the menu here!

  • Open hours: Daily: 7 AM-4 PM
  • Crepe Hours: Friday-Monday: 9 AM-2 PM
  • Duration: 30 minutes
  • Directions: A 10-minute drive back to Kennebunkport Center from the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Pro-tip: Before you leave the port, you can try the delicious and soft-served Rococo ice cream at 8 Western Ave, Kennebunk, Maine 04043. Check out their crafted ice cream on @rococoicecream!


Day 10 image

5:15 PM – Return to Boston

Northeastern University

Option 1: Take an Uber/Lyft back to Wells Station and catch the Amtrak Downeaster back to Boston.Option 2: Drive or rideshare directly back to Boston.

  • Duration: Approximately 1.5-2 hours
  • Cost: $24 for Amtrak or rideshare fare, if applicable
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Trip Summary

7:30 AM – Departure from Northeastern University

10:00 AM – Arrival in Kennebunkport

10:15 AM – Breakfast at H.B. Provisions

10:45 AM – Explore Dock Square and Shops

11:30 AM – Scenic Walk to Walker’s Point

12:30 PM – Lunch at The Clam Shack

1:30 PM – Visit St. Ann’s Episcopal Church

2:15 PM – Walk the Kennebunk Beaches

3:30 PM – Seashore Trolley Museum

4:45 PM – Coffee and Treats at Mornings in Paris

5:15 PM – Return to Boston

Packing Checklist

  • Essentials: Student ID for discounts, cash/card, water bottle, and a small backpack.
  • Seasonal Attire: Dress in layers for coastal weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Know more about local weather here!
  • Outdoor Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat for sunny days, and a light jacket for cooler weather.
  • Personal Items: Phone charger, camera, and any necessary medications.

Budget Breakdown

Transportation (Round-Trip) $50-60
Breakfast$10-15
Lunch$15-25
Trolley Museum Entry$10
Coffee Break$5-10
Total Estimated Cost$90-120

In a Nutshell

Here’s how you can enjoy one of the best coastal gateways with TheSkidoo! From exploring Kennebunkport’s historic sites, lighthouses, fun water activities, beautiful beaches, and local eateries. From breakfast at H.B. Provisions to a sunset coffee at Mornings in Paris, this one-day Kennebunkport trip is packed with memorable experiences that capture the charm of coastal Maine.