The Cozy Small Town In Maine That Comes Alive Under A Blanket Of Snow
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published January 08, 2024
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Though only 3,500 people call this charming town their year-round home, warm weather spells a tide of tourists that flood Kennebunkport each summer, inflating the population to over 10,000! It's easy to see what draws visitors here: just 40 minutes south of big-city Portland, it's a short trip for Mainers and easily reached from other New England states.
But there's wisdom in seeing this place dressed up in snowy white. Besides its array of shops and restaurants, there's plenty to do outside near Kennebunkport. Seekers of al fresco fun, for instance, will enjoy snowshoeing the Kennebunk Plains Loop just a few minutes inland.
You can also hitch a sleigh ride with a local company like Rockin' Horse. This family-run stable has delighted horse lovers since it first opened in 1994, swiftly building a reputation for one-of-a-kind experiences and their devoted husbandry.
Surrounded by innumerable parks, Kennebunkport boasts all the rugged natural beauty Maine is known for. While winter brings out a different character to these stunning spots, they're no less memorable when covered in frost.
Just remember, with highs in the 30s and lows that dive well below freezing, you'll want to pack your warm weather gear. Also, keep in mind that snow sports tend to be far more energy-intensive than their summer-time counterparts. You'll burn as much as 50 percent more calories snow-shoeing than you will hiking, so plan accordingly.
If you're not up for a snowy sojourn, you'll be just as entertained in town. In February, Kennebunkport is known for its Paint the Town Red celebration of Valentine's romance! Shops, restaurants, and local landmarks all participate in transforming downtown into a sanctuary of love, and the chilly weather is the perfect excuse for cuddling up to your someone special.
