17 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kittery (Maine)

Notable for its long tradition of shipbuilding and commerce, Kittery is the oldest town in Maine.

The town’s name is said to be derived from choral composer William Billings’ anthem “Kittery”. However, this is debatable because the tune was published after the town’s founding.

Kittery, now a town of just over 10,000 inhabitants, has a reputation for being a fun shopping destination, with both huge department stores and malls as well as small craft businesses.

Asides from that, Kittery is a beautiful shopping and relaxation point. It is a peninsula and a waterfront town with beautiful seashore places and charming homes worthy of a visit.

If visiting Kittery is in your plans, then here are the best things to do in Kittery. Also, check out some of Kittery’s best restaurants to dine in!

Things to do in Kittery

1. Kittery Historical & Naval Museum

With plenty of parking and easy access, this museum is the ideal site to start a tour in Maine.

The Museum is just off I-95, one exit before the Kittery outlet malls, at the Kittery traffic circle.

Kittery Historical and Naval Museum has been a treasure trove of local history since its establishment in 1977, packed with relics from Kittery’s nautical and military legacy.

The museum concentrates on bygone eras, accumulating exhibits through time and teaching visitors about the colonial past, shipbuilding, and regional battles.

During Colonial times, Kittery was known for shipbuilding, and it was the home of the first ship to fly a US flag in battle, and during World War 1.

From the outside, this appears to be a small, simple place, but once inside, you realize it is quite extensive, with an enormous selection of well-displayed items and exhibits.

It is nicely kept, spotless, and covers many aspects of the Naval Yard, the manufacture of submarines during WWII, as well as covering much history of the area.

The Andrews-Mitchell garrison house, a farmstead that safeguarded the population from attacks during Colonial times, is located here, as is a separate navy museum.

The staff are very welcoming and extremely well informed.

Browse the displays to learn about Kittery’s history, from colonial days to stately hotels, shipbuilding, and lighthouses, to the present day.

Address: 200 Rogers RD, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

2. Just Us Chickens Gallery

This artist co-op gallery of over 30 artists is a must-stop whenever you are in Kittery.

This unique gallery first opened its doors in 2005, with eighteen artists displaying their work, ranging from furniture to paintings to jewelry.

If you are looking for that unique gift that is handcrafted, come to this artisan’s gallery close to the coast of Maine and do your shopping. The gallery contains one-of-a-kind and exquisite works, as well as quality and deserving handmade things that may be purchased as gifts.

Although not significant, the gallery still has a lot to display. It has various creations, from jewelry, fiber art, and home décor in different media to whimsy and practical items, such as a knit shawl a jacket.

The gallery is a cooperative where members share obligations, like keeping an eye on the store paying dues.

It also has many degrees of involvement for artists who want to show their work.

Unique goods such as metal-bead-sea glass combination jewelry, glass sun catchers, hand-painted pottery bowls, driftwood and seashell artwork, colorful ceramics, custom-made doll clothing, and many others may be found here.

Visit the gallery to find handcrafted products for yourself or someone you care about.

There’s always something new, especially around the holidays.

Address: 156 State RD, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

3. Maine Visitor Information Center, Kittery

This tourist center is located just south of the York-Kittery town boundary, making it quite convenient.

Route I-95 has a dedicated exit for it. It’s also accessible via Ledgewood Drive from US Route 1.

The vast parking area has ample free parking.

Maine places a high value on providing travelers with information, and as a result, there are many helpful information centers.

The travel information of the Maine State Visitor Information Center is organized by regions, such as Mid-Coast, Down East & Acadia, and so on. This makes finding information about the area (s) you intend to visit a breeze.

There are stacks of printed information on lodging, campgrounds, restaurants, and tourist attractions. The visitors’ center covers every facet of trip planning.

Inside this rest stop, people are there to answer any inquiries and provide information and pamphlets on any region of the state. There are immaculate restrooms and a dog walking zone for the puppies.

There are also walking spaces to stretch your legs.

Besides, you can pose for photos near the Smokey the Bear statue. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs before heading to your holiday destination in Maine.

We highly recommend stopping here for travel information, even if the trip is already planned. There is always more information to add an extra attraction or restaurant to the itinerary.

Open Hours :Winter: 9am -5:30pm; Summer: (Starting Memorial Day) Sunday- Thursday 8am -6pm and Friday & Saturday 8am – 8pm.

Address: I-95 and US-1, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

4. Fort McClary State Park

Fort McClary is a decommissioned US military defense stronghold located near Kittery Point on the southern coast of Maine.

McClary was a Major who died at Bunker Hill during the American Revolution, and the fort that carries his name is a must-see for anybody visiting Kittery.

This hidden gem is well worth the detour off US Route 1 or Route I-95. For travelers headed further north in Maine, this is a great place to behold.

Local granite was used in the construction of the encircling wall, and the original fort was modified over time.

Fort McClary makes for an excellent outdoor classroom. It’s a fantastic area to take your children to run around and learn.

There are cannons and antique buildings, as well as information about the fort’s history and plenty of hills.

Three cannons, a blockhouse, a powder magazine, and other features are included in the fort. A dirt lot is used for parking.

You can see two lighthouses in the distance if you look out over the water, or you can watch boats pass by while inhaling the salty sea air.

The majority of the structures on the site require the use of stone or wooden staircases to gain access.

Although the fort was manned during every battle until World War I, it saw very little real action. The gunpowder shop, which was established in 1808, is the oldest building still standing today.

Some parts of the park are wheelchair accessible; however, there is some uneven terrain.

This place is a lovely spot for a picnic or a few hours of relaxation.

Address: Pepperrell Rd, Kittery Point, ME 03905, United States

5. Seapoint Beach

Seapoint Beach is a beautiful area for a bit of reflection, if you don’t mind a secluded spot.

Or, if you’re looking for a quiet area to spend some time alone, even if you want to take your dog for a stroll and let it play in the waves, come down to the beach.

Seapoint Beach is a shale-gray stretch of beach with a long tidal slope littered with pebbles, boulders, and seaweed, as well as a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean.

It’s a haven for off-leash dog walkers. This pristine ‘double’ beach is clean.

Walking around the mini-peninsula at the end of the beach is very scenic. Similarly, two beaches are separated by a point of land pleasant for a short hike.

The main parking lot closest to the beach is for Kittery residents only. Outsiders can park up in the grass a short walk away.

High tide renders the farther beach useless for sunning as it’s primarily rocky at high tide, so the main beach is where most people take in the sun and have a picnic. Great for kids too.

You should go to the beach and relax when you’re on the coast.

Go people-watching in a beautiful location while basking in the sun and photographing the flying seagulls, rocky islets, and softly flowing waves on the shore.

Go beachcombing for sea glass, driftwood, and seashells that have washed up on the shore.

There’s just so much to do here!.

Address: Kittery, ME 03904, United States

6. Take Flight Aerial Adventure Park

Have you ever wished to be able to fly across the sky and over the trees?

This is an excellent spot for a fun outing with the kids or your adventure-seeking significant other. They have an adventure park and a zip line course that can give you a high-flying thrill!

If you’re unsure what to do for the day and have some extra cash, this is great.

Take Flight is the best destination for adventure on the Maine and New Hampshire seacoast, and it’s at the top of the Things-to-Do list!

There are over 65 activities and features to climb, hang, and course through, including dangling platforms, swinging tires, swings, and catwalks, as well as vines and nets to test your climbing skills.

On the Aerial Courses, you may choose how high and how far you want to go across multiple levels. On the Zip Line Tours, you’ll meet three climbing aspects and six zip lines; and during Team Building, you’ll develop your talents through learning and action.

At this attraction, pursuing adventure has never been more enjoyable.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline thrill, then this is for you.

 Address: 506 Blue Star Memorial Highway, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

7. Yoga East, Kittery

Yoga East was established in the Seacoast in 1999 and is located in Kittery. It is trendy all around the world.

This yoga studio specializes in authentic Ashtanga Yoga in the tradition of Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois, as taught in Mysore, India.

As you embark on the daily practices at this studio, you will discover the linkages between breath and movement, a new perspective on the body. You will also see the synergy of emotions with exercise and a renewed connection with your body and mind.

If you’re already a regular yoga practitioner, you’ll feel right at home at Yoga East, and if you’re new to the practice, now’s your chance to learn about the healing, growth, and inner peace it can bring.

While you’re in Kittery, there’s no excuse to skip your normal yoga practice. Why not give it a shot while you’re here if you haven’t already?

Each week, there are a variety of classes to choose from, and you should be able to find something that suits your skill level.

You can book easily online.

Address: 2 State Rd, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

8. Kittery trading post

This store is a stand-alone destination on its own! And it’s gigantic! They have everything an outdoor enthusiast might want.

Kittery Trading Post features a large selection of things under one roof if you prefer shopping at a single location rather than going in and out of the Premium Outlets. You’ll find all the well-known clothing brands, sports equipment, and unique gifts for friends and family.

This is a family-run store with high-quality gear for fishing, hunting, camping, and anything else outdoors.

The shoe and sock section alone is larger than some entire outdoor stores and

This place has it all! Plenty of parking, clean bathrooms, and even a small takeout restaurant for lunch (The menu for the restaurant is on their website).

They also have everything you can think of related to outdoor activities. Tents, kayaks, fishing stuff, hunting stuff, etc.

If you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, this is the place for you.

Before you go, make sure to pick up some of the famed Trading Post Fudge; this wonderful sweet treat is irresistible, so stock up!

Be sure to go when you have plenty of time to look around because there’s a lot to see.

Address: 301 U.S. 1 Route One, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

9. Yummies Candies and Nuts

This is an exquisite candy shop. The walls were like catacombs, filled to the brim with nothing but sweet and savory snacks.

Since 1986, Yummies Candy has been delivering satisfied clients with pounds of candy and nuts.

It contains every type of sugar confection imaginable, and you’ll enjoy taking a trip down memory lane with the old candy bars, gum, novelty sweets, mints, and hard candy.

They stock just about every style and flavor of sweet treats imaginable, or at least it sure looks that way!

Also, an enormous variety of shelled and unshelled nuts are on hand.

The various gums, jellies, licorice, chocolates, fudge, and other sugary delights will be a feast for your children.

Saltwater taffy, maple candy, and other delights like sugar pebbles, chocolate rocks, and gummi lobsters are all traditional Maine sweets.

Nuts, mixtures, seeds, and dried fruits are also available for those seeking organic options.

Just inhaling the air gives a sense of your arteries clogging, and your mind releasing pure dopamine.

Your sweet tooth will surely take over if you find yourself here. Highly recommend bringing your dentist for bonus points.

 Address: 384 US-1, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Kittery? check out our list of things to do in York, Bangor, Ogunquit, and Kennebunkport!

10. Robert’s Maine Grill

Don’t leave Kittery without having a lobster dinner.

When visiting Maine, you should always take advantage of the fresh seafood. Order fried calamari, Maine crab cakes, oysters, or lobster while you’re here. Get a taste of these sumptuous seafoods.

Robert’s Maine Grill is such a great place to grab some fresh seafood, especially Maine lobster!

The lobster is so good; you don’t want to waste any tiny bit, so suck away!

You will find this two-story restaurant right across the border of New Hampshire.

On the two levels, there is a bar and food options, with magnificent views of the river and marsh from the dining rooms.

Even better, wash it all down with a couple of local artisan beers. There are plenty of other options if you don’t want to eat anything from the sea.

We recommend seating on the 2nd-floor patio, where you can enjoy your fine meal while overlooking the beautiful outdoor scenery & Spruce Creek.

 Address: 326 US-1, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

11. Tributary brewery

If you’re the adventurous type who likes to try some real different beers, this is the place for you.

Try some wonderful local beer while you are in Kittery.

Tod Mott, a master brewer with over 20 years of experience working at some of the area’s most known brewers, runs Tributary Brewing Company.

The owner/brewmaster is literally world famous for his skills at brewing many types of really good beer. He also has been called the Godfather of Brewing for his help to others in the business.

Enjoy a flight, a 4-ounce taste of the beers on tap, or a 12-ounce glass of your choice of drink in the tasting room, which features an ever-changing selection of brews.

It’s a friendly space with a communal table for parties, a bar overlooking the brewhouse’s shining stainless tanks, and an open deck for outdoor seating in the second half of the year.

As you sip your distinctive glass of Tributary beer, savor the flavors of southern Maine.

Great selection of beers brewed by people who clearly care about beer indeed.

Address: 10 Shapleigh Rd, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

12. Seafari Charters

Maine is a fisherman’s paradise. You can catch bass or bluefish if you go ashore. You can catch halibut, haddock, pollock, or cod further out in deep water.

They also offer catch-and-release for those interested in the sport.

They can organize ultra-marathon and long-distance fishing trips for a truly unforgettable deep-sea fishing adventure.

Whale watching and coastal cruising are also available through Seafari Charters.

Keep a watchful eye on humpback, finback, and minke whales, and examine the library and videotapes onboard for further information.

They will take you on a day cruise where you may spend time with your loved ones while traveling long miles in search of animals and beautiful scenery.

Scuba diving is also available from Seafari Charters’ platform, with both facilities and instruction available upon request. In the immediate area, there are numerous dive spots with intriguing marine life to see.

If you’d rather keep out of the water, take a whale-watching cruise; this charter business has so much to offer that you might want to stay with them for a few days!

 Address: 7 Island Ave, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

13. Kittery Premium Outlets

To the diehard Mallrats and spree shoppers, here’s something you will be interested in.

Kittery is well-known for its outlet shopping, and this location has a plethora of stores carrying some of the most well-known brands.

This place is truly awesome and unique, but very dizzying! There is so much to do and so much to look at that there isn’t enough time in a day! Possibly not enough time in an entire vacation!

There is every type of store you could ask for. Also, since they are outlets there are lots of discounts for premium stores such as Coach and Polo

Seek out roughly 55 designer and name-brand retailers, and ask for a complimentary coupon book filled with special offers and discounts at the customer care desk.

The outlet shops are scattered out in several plazas across the street from one other at this location, so you’ll probably stretch your legs or drop off your purchases in the car before continuing to your next destination.

There are a decent amount of restaurants and the Starbucks nearby is a lifesaver (like always).

The location is super convenient, as it is part of the drive into Maine so it’s hard, nearly impossible, to miss.

So shop Kittery Premium Outlets for stylish footwear, on-trend clothing, renowned cosmetics, fashionable designs, evocative accessories, handmade crafts, cool brands, and more.

 Address: 375 US-1, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

14. The Dance Hall Kittery

The Dance Hall is a non-profit organization that was created in 2011. It was created to inspire and engage people of all ages to enjoy the joys of music, movement, and dance.

One of the hall’s key goals is to give a stage for local artists to perform.

Live on-stage acts are scheduled on weekends, and fans are encouraged to hit the Maplewood dance floor.

There are events to promote local talent, as well as classes, cultural, and community programs. There is something for everyone, regardless of age. During your visit, look over the program to see if anything piques your interest.

They always have a great variety of music here. Nice dance floor, nice stage. Parking is on the street.

You can come here to listen to and dance to great music, meet local performers, and enjoy themed nights like salsa night, polka night, and bongo night, to mention a few.

Take your friends or a date to The Dance Hall for a fun and romantic evening.

Address: 7 Walker St, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

15. Chair Massage Now

Massage has been practiced for thousands of years. Today, if you need or want a massage, you can choose from about 80 massage therapy styles with a wide variety of pressures, movements, and techniques.

Massage chairs are one of the ways to get a good massage

There are few better ways to unwind at the end of a long day than with a massage. After expert treatment at this refuge on the Route One By-Pass, your stress and “knots” in your limbs will go.

Chair massages take up very little space but are incredibly calming and invigorating. The emphasis is on the head, neck, and shoulders, which are all easily accessible from a seated position.

Address: Kittery, ME 03904, United States

16. When Pigs Fly Pizzeria

This is a perfect place for an area that attracts tourists. Splurging on something yummy to take to your vacation rental is a delicious indulgence.

Stop by this pizzeria with its screened-in farmer’s porch, rear terrace, and beer and wine bar when you’re craving delicious pizza and drinks after a hard day.

The aroma alone is good enough of a reason to stop here. If you are a fan of bread, visit this bakery, you will be engulfed in a torrent of delightful scents.

They even have bread you can taste, as well as vinegar, oils, and jams that you can try with said bread.

There are over fifteen pizza options, as well as a variety of starter plates, salads, desserts, and other dishes.

Their Neapolitan-style pizzas are created using natural ingredients, and the dough is smokey and chewy thanks to their wood-fired ovens.

They use only the freshest ingredients, including mozzarella cheese, which they make fresh daily.

 Address: 460 US-1, Kittery, ME 03904, United States

17. Badger’s Island

Badger’s Island is located in the Piscataqua River at Kittery, Maine. It is directly opposite Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Badger Island, located in the middle of the river, was the site of the construction of several important boats many years ago.

The Ranger, designed by John Paul Jones and finished in 1777, was one of the most noteworthy structures.

On the island, there is a marina, and a tour of the river is a fun way to spend time in Kittery.

Address: Kittery, ME 03904, United States

Start planning your trip

Kittery is such a fun-filled destination and make sure you stop to take some incredible shots. Go shopping, eat some seafood, and have some relaxing massages.

If you ever plan to visit, bring this list with you so you don’t miss any of these attractions. You’re going to enjoy every bit of it.