The Historic Small Town That Every Mainer Should Visit At Least Once
By Michelle|Published March 25, 2021
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Anyone who has lived in or visited Maine knows (after just a few days!) that this state is full of history. That’s one of the best things about exploring the many small towns. In addition to great stories that stem from the state’s 201-year history, there are great new things to see. From restaurants to bars to trails and waterfront, one particular town offers it all. Head to southern Maine to visit the oldest town in the state!
Welcome to Kittery! Located in York County, this little town was settled by the British in 1623 and officially incorporated in 1647. If you’re a fan of Maine history you’ve probably already done the math to realize that this is the state’s oldest town.
Kittery sits directly across the Piscataqua River from New Hampshire earning it the nickname “Gateway to Maine” and it’s home to a ton of fun things to do and see.
If you’d like to visit, we’ve got a few pointers for you to take the guesswork out of planning your trip. First, head to Kittery Point, located in a picturesque setting on the water. This is where you’ll find Fort McClary State Historic Site.
From here, consider visiting Gerrish Island to see Fort Foster Park. The fort was active for 45 years between 1901 and 1946. Today you can visit the fort and enjoy the trails and beaches around it.
This is also where you’ll find the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. This 5,400-acre area sits on 50 miles of the southern coast. Opened in 1966, the refuge protects native habitats and endangered species.
We love historical sites, but our favorite thing about visiting new towns is the food and Kittery doesn’t disappoint. Check out Bob's Clam Shack, one of the most well-known seafood shacks in the state. Enjoy their famous lobster roll, but don’t forget to try the "Lillian,” a basket of whole belly clams.
Get back on the history tour by checking out The First Congregational Church on Pepperrell Road. Formed in 1714 it’s the oldest church building continually used in all of Maine.
And now that you’ve enjoyed nature and history, it’s time to check out the other side of what makes this town so great. It’s time to shop! Kittery offers more than 120 outlets along a one-mile stretch of Route 1, just off I-95. Don’t forget to visit Kittery Trading Post with its three stories of camping, hunting, fishing, ski, snowboard and kayak gear.
Kittery is a great place to visit no matter what you love to do! If you’re coming back from a trip out of state, plan on adding a night here. It’s also completely worth going out of your way for!
Kittery is located in York County and you can learn more about it by checking out the town’s official website. If you’ve visited share some of your favorite things to do while there! We’d love to add them to our travel list.
