Things To Do
in Kittery
Kittery is a coastal town in southern Maine perched at the mouth of the Piscataqua River, directly across from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It blends a rich maritime heritage with modern outlets, dining, and cultural curiosities along a walkable waterfront. Historic streets, brick mill buildings, and scenic harbor views create a quintessential New England vibe.
As a gateway to Maine’s mid-coast, Kittery offers seafood, shopping, and outdoor moments year-round with a friendly, small-town attitude.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a peaceful walk through Fort McClary State Park, enjoying the serene coastal views and historical significance of the fort. As the sun rises, the park becomes a great spot for a morning picnic, with plenty of benches and grassy areas to relax. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and unique architecture.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into Kittery's rich history by visiting the nearby Seapoint Beach for a leisurely stroll along the shore. Take time to enjoy the local seafood at a waterfront restaurant, sampling fresh clams and lobster rolls. Explore local shops and art galleries that line the streets, soaking in the local culture.
As the sun sets, find yourself at a cozy seafood shack, indulging in a delicious dinner while overlooking the water. After your meal, take a sunset cruise on the Piscataqua River to experience the beauty of the region from a different perspective. Conclude your night with a visit to a local pub that offers live music, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife.
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Kittery Foreside, where historic buildings tell the tale of the town's past. Stop by a local café for breakfast, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and artisanal pastries. The morning light accentuates the quaint architecture and invites a leisurely exploration.
Spend your afternoon at the Kittery Outlets, browsing through a wide variety of shops offering everything from designer brands to unique souvenirs. After some retail therapy, grab a bite at one of the several eateries within the outlet complex. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax and recharge before heading to your next adventure.
As evening falls, enjoy dinner at one of Kittery's upscale restaurants, savoring locally sourced dishes. Consider booking a table with a view of the river to enhance your dining experience. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront and delight in the evening breeze while admiring the twinkling lights of the nearby boats.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $120-220 |
| 🚗Gasoline for a day trip | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible waterfront charm with historic flavor
- Strong seafood scene and maritime culture
- Walkable Foreside district and scenic river views
- Proximity to Portsmouth and the Maine coast for day trips
- Limited nightlife within Kittery itself; longer drives for broader options
- Seasonal crowds can make outlets and waterfront areas busy in summer
- Smaller town amenities compared to larger cities nearby
Places to Visit in Kittery
Visit one of these nice places.
A coastal bastion with commanding water views, rugged shoreline, and historic masonry perfect for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Historic brick-and-wood waterfront with boats, docks, and colorful storefronts—great for street photography and harbor scenes.
Prominent views across the river toward Portsmouth; capture ship traffic, ferries, and seaside sunsets from vantage points along Route 1.
Historic building exterior and landscaped grounds offering a glimpse of the town’s nautical past for architectural photography.
Food in Kittery
Kittery Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cold or hot-packed lobster meat on buttered bun, with light mayo or drawn butter; a seaside staple available at many waterfront spots.
Must-Try!
Creamy, hearty chowder featuring cleanup clams, potatoes, and onions; a comforting classic often served with oyster crackers.
Lightly battered, golden fried whole belly clams—crisp, salty, and perfect with tartar sauce.
A rich, comforting preparation that highlights sweet lobster meat in a creamy base, sometimes with a touch of sherry or thyme.
Seasonal Maine blueberries baked into rustic pies or cobblers, a nod to local farm produce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local seafood, produce, baked goods, and prepared foods; great for pairing lunch with fresh ingredients.
Casual, on-street vendors or small pop-ups near the waterfront offering quick bites like lobster bites, fried seafood, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common courtesy includes saying please and thank you, greeting with a friendly hello, and respecting quiet hours in residential areas. Hold doors for others and be mindful of the harbor’s fishing and working areas.
Loud field or beach behavior is generally discouraged in quiet residential zones; dress for the weather and maritime environment, especially near the water.
Safety
Tipping in Kittery
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard tip is 15-20% of the bill before tax. For bar service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab is common. Tipping is appreciated for good service; no tipping is expected for self-service or fast-food.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at restaurants, shops, and most services. Carry some cash for small vendors or farmers markets; contactless payments are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool to mild weather with increasing coastal greenery; harbor vessels return to service and markets reopen. Pack a light jacket and layers; expect breezes along the water.
Warm days with sea breezes; peak crowds at outlets and waterfront spots. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water; enjoy long daylight hours for outdoor activities.
Maine’s fall foliage nearby is vibrant; comfortable temperatures for hiking and walking tours. Layered clothing recommended; seafood and harvest-inspired specials abound.
Cool to cold with potential nor’easters; some outdoor spaces close early. Embrace indoor dining, museums, and cozy cafes; dress warmly for seaside visits.
Kittery at Night
Hiking in Kittery
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails with ocean views, birding opportunities, and a mix of rocky shore and woodland paths.
Accessible hikes with panoramic views of seacoast towns; a short drive from Kittery for a more wooded, elevated hike.
Airports
How to reach Kittery by plane.
Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by car from Kittery; offers extensive domestic and international flights and rental car services for regional trips.
Small regional airport near Portsmouth, NH; convenient for short domestic flights and private aviation, with accessible ground transportation.
Regional airport in Portland, ME; good for domestic flights and connections to the East Coast with car rental options to reach Kittery.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for beaches, parks, and safe, walkable streets along the harbor.
A relaxed coastal community with easy access to healthcare, scenic views, and leisurely dining.
Residents and visitors who enjoy outdoor activities, small-town culture, and nearby urban outings to Portsmouth and Portland.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common activity around the harbor with community boat clubs and regattas in nearby ports.
Coastal fishing is popular both for recreation and small-scale charter trips along the Piscataqua.
Local and nearby courses offer scenic rounds with water views and coastal terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kittery.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer veggie burgers, veggie wraps, salads, and hearty vegetable-forward dishes. When in doubt, ask for seafood-free soups or sides, and consider markets for fresh produce to prepare simple meals.