This Maine Town Has Been Making People Feel Like They’re in Europe Since 1629

There is so much to love about Kennebunkport, Maine. First of all, the beaches and scenery are amazing. And then there are the wonderful shops, galleries, and museums. It is no wonder that the town is such a popular place to visit both in and off season. While Kennebunkport is best known as a quintessential New England village, it is also a great place to experience a little slice of Europe. Allow me to take you on a local European road trip through the area.

But first, a bit of history before we set off. It is interesting to note that Kennebunkport was settled in 1629 and is recognized as one of the earliest European settlements in North America. It was initially a fishing and shipbuilding center, but it later became a popular summer vacation spot. Today, Kennebunkport continues to thrive as an upscale Maine travel destination.

Your slice of Europe within town starts with a delicious Parisian-inspired breakfast. Stop by the Mornings in Paris Cafe in neighboring Kennebunk. Everything here is absolutely delicious. Order a sweet or savory French crepe, croissant, quiche, or Belgian Waffle and a house-roasted coffee, and sit down and people-watch. The Kennebunk location (there is also one in Ogunquit) additionally offers to-go picnic boxes and serves beer and wine later in the day. 

Once you have finished breakfast, you should be all set to explore town. There is so much to experience here. Whether you choose to spend some time at the beach, wander through the galleries and boutiques downtown, or set out on a sailing tour to explore the Maine coastline, you are in for a splendid afternoon. 

Once dinnertime rolls around, there is more fabulous French food to try right in town at the Chez Rosa restaurant. This small, husband-and-wife-run bistro specializes in French comfort food and features popular dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is open year-round and has outside patio seating in the summer months. Or if you are in the mood for some Italian cuisine, head to Wandby Landing in Kennebunk. This wonderful eatery was inspired by a local shipwreck.

End your day in Kennebunkport by grabbing a beer and experiencing a bit of Irish culture at Ryan's Corner House Irish Pub. They also serve up some great family-style meals. Their menu includes traditional Irish dishes such as Guinness Irish Beef Stew and Clonakilty Bangers and Mash, as well as some fantastic local seafood dishes and traditional pub fare. You can additionally catch some live music here on select nights.

If your visit to Kennebunkport involves an overnight stay, I suggest staying at The Inn at English Meadows. This award-nominated historic bed and breakfast has been recently renovated and features a variety of fabulous accommodation options. The property includes some lovely English gardens and is located close to both downtown Dock Square and scenic Gooches Beach.

You can find out more information about this quaint coastal village by visiting the Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce website and the Visit Maine Facebook page. If you are looking for another coastal town with a European feel, I suggest heading north to Bar Harbor.