Kittery: Maine's Newest Trending Vacation Destination
Kittery has a little something for everyone. Located just over the New Hampshire border, Kittery is the southernmost town in Maine. Locals and tourists alike can enjoy fantastic shopping, fresh local seafood, historical sites and breathtaking coastline scenery in this delightful Maine town.
Although Kittery is historically best known for the fabulous shopping at the Kittery Outlets on the mile long stretch along Route 1, this small town also has some of the best food and local stores in Southern Maine. An ideal place to spend a day in Kittery (at any time of year!) is the downtown area, known as the Kittery Foreside. Over recent years, the Kittery Foreside has transformed into a charming and hip scene for foodies, coffee lovers, and local shopping enthusiasts alike.
The Kittery Foreside is a food lover's dream. Do not miss a visit to Lil's for a cup of coffee and one of their world famous crullers. These heaven sent crullers are what dreams are made of, light and airy with the perfect smattering of sugary goodness. Lil's also serves up some incredible lunch sandwiches using their own homemade baked bread. Don't miss this lil' cafe that packs a whole lot of grit.
Nestled in the corner of Wallingford Square in the Foreside is Rudders Public House, a cozy public house gem that holds its own among its more epicurean neighboring restaurants. Enjoy a classic New England pub style menu (done the right way) and some of Maine's best local craft beer.
Bring the dog along and unwind at their outdoor patio, and indulge in the cheesy goodness of their famous Mozza Lunas.
For a unique dining experience, check out Anju. This trendy noodle bar boasts an "intricate, free-style Asian cuisine" in an intimate yet bright dining space. Their interesting culinary menu includes inventive ramen bowls, sweet and sticky Gochujang wings, and an out of this world Banh Mi Bun. If you're lucky enough to score a windowseat at Anju, get ready for a relaxing meal watching all the comings and goings of the main street.
Although not directly in Wallingford Square, less than half a mile up the road from the Kittery Foreside is Locos Cocos Tacos, a renowned and lively Mexican restaurant serving up authentic recipes made with local ingredients. People travel far and wide for their Mexican fix at Locos Cocos. Grab food to go at their quick serve counter, or stay awhile in the fun and inviting dining room and bar area. Locos Cocos is known for their fantastic margaritas, which they now even offer to go.
The Kittery Foreside also boasts some of the most curated and trendy local shops in Coastal Maine. Check out Kit Supply + Co., a kids concept shop focused on empowering families to share adventures in nature. These hand selected items inspire the perfect birthday gift or just a little something to brighten your child’s day. Kit Supply and Co. is a women owned business, and offers a free story hour on their stoop every Sunday at 10 AM.
Down the street from Kit Supply and Co. is the thoughtfully curated Tayla Mac Boutique. Peruse the trendy mix of eclectic variety of home decor, gifts and clothing. The owner, Mikayla Parsons, proudly carries only ethically produced goods in her store. Tayla Mac Boutique also carries products from as many local artisans and makers as possible.
After you've sampled the culinary feats and shopping pleasures of the Kittery Foreside, don't miss the chance to walk over the Memorial Bridge which connects straight into downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Before the Memorial Bridge opened to pedestrians, regular ferry service was available between the two cities. Now, the Memorial Bridge is open to pedestrians, and boasts some of the most fantastic views of the Piscataqua River. The scenic walk is the perfect activity for a morning or afternoon stroll, jog or bike ride.
History buffs will love the USS Albacore Museum in Portsmouth, less than two miles from Kittery in neighboring Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Visitors enjoy a self guided tour inside a remarkable submarine, exploring all the spaces including the control room and bunkrooms. Check out the Memorial Garden, a special place that preserves the memory of those who have served on Albacore and other U.S. submarines. Adults are $9, kids aged five to 14 are $4. A family of four package is $20. Children under 2 years old are not allowed due to safety regulations. Due to the nature of the submarine experience, strollers and wheelchairs aren't allowed.
Another historical site to check out in Kittery is Fort Foster, a historic fort that was active from 1901 to 1946 in the Kittery Point. Today, this area is a beautiful park with swimming beaches, walking and biking trails, picnic areas and gorgeous views. An admission fee is charged for access.
Some special events come around in the summer to the Kittery Foreside, the most popular being The Kittery Block Party. This free outdoor event takes place this year on June 18, 2022, and the party goes all day and night, from 10 AM to 11 PM. The KBP typically attracts over 5,000 attendees, and celebrates the finest from the Coastal Maine area including great food, artists, non-profits, local farms, bands and more. The party continues into the evening hours, with a 5K road race at 5 PM, the Foreside Music Fest at 7 PM, and a talent show from 7 to 9 PM.
Another can't miss summer event in Kittery is the Great New England Seacoast Food Truck Festival which takes place on May 28 from 11 to 6. Enjoy crafters, vendors, artisans, and lots of food vendors and food trucks. Experience live music all day and a libation tent with signature cocktails and local craft beer. Fun for the whole family, this festival also has a Kidz Zone, with face painting, bounce houses and more. Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the gate. Ages 14 and under are free.
Whether dining or shopping, taking in the sites or experiencing one of the many fun events this area has to offer, you're sure to have a fantastic time in Kittery.