Maine’s cities might not be known for their sky-high buildings, but that doesn’t mean we have no impressive architecture. From tiny houses to fairy houses, we have some really interesting examples of design and construction. One of the most unique is the Kennebunkport “Wedding Cake House.”

You might know Kennebunkport as a place to visit for its beaches and quaint downtown, but there's one other thing we recommend you check out.
nhoulihan / Flickr
The Wedding Cake House is more than just a sight to see in Maine - it's got real history.
boston_public_library / Flickr
Dating back to 1825, it was built by well-known 19th century shipbuilder, George W. Bourne.
William G / TripAdvisor
In fact, he used to construct his ships in the backyard, which was conveniently the Kennebunk River!
mariano-mantel/ / Flickr
But why does a house like this even exist?
jjandames / Flickr

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The story going around is that Captain Bourne was a newlywed when he was was shipped off to sea.
kitonlove / Flickr
Knowing that he would be disappointing his new bride, he built this ornate home to show his love and to give her something to occupy her time while he was away.
While the story might not be ENTIRELY correct, we do know that the couple lived in the home together just after being married.
jjandames / Flickr
But, the most impressive part of this gothic-style house is that Bourne built it with his own two hands!
William G / TripAdvisor
Today, the home is known as the most photographed in Maine and is open to visitors on select days during the year and for charity events.
NAUgrad2005 / TripAdvisor
While some say it needs a paint job every few years, we think the fact that it exists is enough to appreciate.
William G / TripAdvisor
The Bourne family owned and occupied the Wedding Cake House for three generations, until finally selling it to another family in the early 1980s.

Check it out for yourself at 105 Summer Street in Kennebunk.

While we’ve got things to do in Maine on the brain, have you read about this fun riverboat cruise in Damariscotta yet?

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