Welcome to Kennebunk
With a rich history in agriculture and shipbuilding, Kennebunk today retains her connection to the land and sea. With easy access to the ocean, river, and wooded trails, the town is one of those special communities that seems to have it all, even the prestige of name (there is only one Kennebunk in the country). Kennebunk balances a rural feel with true convenience – Portland is only 25 miles away and catching the Downeaster train in Wells makes the commute to Boston a snap.
A Community Deeply Rooted in Kindness
Featured on the town seal is the Lafayette Elm, which was planted to commemorate General Lafayette's 1825 visit to Kennebunk. The handsome tree is one of the only survivors of the Dutch Elm that destroyed hundreds of trees that once lined Kennebunk's streets. The residents are a bit like the mighty tree: able to withstand the changing of seasons and passing of time with a sense of quiet nobility. In this tight-knit, laid-back community, it’s easy to be a good and helpful neighbor.
Healthy Habits Are Easy to Keep
Miles of well-maintained trails are always open to hikers, runners, cross-country skiers and four-legged friends. Many trails lead to beautiful, soft-sand beaches – a welcome treat on a warm summer day. A thriving Farmer’s Market is colorfully stocked with locally sourced produce, flowers, and seedlings, as well as goods from foragers, creameries and bakers. The community garden overflows with opportunities for education, relaxation, and exercise for your green thumb. And the Eastern Trail is a popular route for cyclists, whether they’re seeking a mellow ride around town or a 27-mile trek north to the trail’s end at Bug Light in South Portland.
This Town Embraces Small Business
Cafes, stores of every whim, and purveyors of high-end cuisine all add to the quaint vibe of the Lower Village. The downtown area of Main Street has a beautiful library, town hall, and even an old fashioned barber shop specializing in beard trims and cigars. In the summer, a shuttle connects the two areas for those that want to leave their cars behind. While on foot, the Franciscan Monastery provides a serene respite from shopping, with its English gardens, riverside paths, and outdoor chapel all open to the public.
Respected School System
The high-performing and supportive Kennebunk schools offer a variety of academic, athletic, cultural and musical experiences. Both the middle and high schools are International Baccalaureate schools, affording students world-class learning opportunities.
Kennebunk, ME Real Estate: When It Comes to Character, This Town Takes the Cake
The most photographed house in Maine, the Wedding Cake House, is in Kennebunk. But it’s not the only beloved residence; all throughout town, this is a place where owners take pride in their homes.
Summer Street, Maine’s first Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is lined with striking and impeccably maintained sea captains’ mansions, complete with multiple fireplaces, hand-painted details and colorful flower gardens.
Overlooking the serene Kennebunk River are majestic Maine shingle-style cottages with yards that roll to the water’s edge and private docks perfect for fishing, launching a kayak, or reading by sunlight.
The homes on Beach Avenue enjoy gracious water views, golden sun all day, and ocean breezes carried in from some of the most beautiful beaches in the state.
