A Day Trip to Portland & Kennebunkport, Maine

On your way to Acadia National Park, you’ll pass through two must-visit spots: Kennebunkport (Maine’s most affluent small town) and Portland (the state’s most populous city). Kennebunkport is filled with charming gift shops and seafood restaurants—all with delicious food. As for Portland? It was even better than I imagined: great eats, a cozy vibe, and so much to explore. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Portland by the Bay in downtown, which was super convenient—everything was just a short walk away! P.S. The last photo is of the restaurant in Cape Porpoise where Taylor Swift filmed her music video—such a cool little landmark! 🎬 🌟 Kennebunkport Highlights Walker’s Point: This is the Bush family’s vacation home. You’ll spot two Secret Service cars parked nearby, keeping watch—such a unique sight! 🔐 Ocean Avenue: A scenic coastal road with stunning ocean views—perfect for a slow drive or walk. Kennebunk Beach: A lovely spot to stop by for a quick look—soft sand and calm waves make it feel serene. 🌊 Parsons Way: A quiet, tree-lined path with glimpses of the coast—great for a peaceful stroll. Goose Rocks Beach: Another beautiful beach with rocky patches (hence the name!)—ideal for collecting small seashells. The Clam Shack (Dock Square): We ate here twice! It’s so popular that there’s a line of dozens of people on weekends, but it’s shorter on weekdays. Their fresh clam dishes are a must-try 🦪. Wedding Cake House: Maine’s most photographed house! The owner drew inspiration from Milan Cathedral when designing it—its intricate, white details look just like a fancy wedding cake 🎂. 🌟 Portland Highlights Old Port: Portland’s historic waterfront district—filled with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and waterfront cafes. It’s the heart of the city! Eastern Promenade: A scenic park with sweeping ocean and city views. You can rent a bike here to explore the area—cycling along the promenade is such a fun way to soak up the scenery 🚲. Commercial Street: A lively street lined with restaurants, bars, and local shops—great for browsing or grabbing a bite. Portland Observatory: A historic tower that offers panoramic views of the city and harbor. Climb to the top for a bird’s-eye view! Bug Light Park: One of the best spots in Portland to watch the sunset. The small “Bug Light” lighthouse here makes for a cute photo op as the sky turns pink and orange 🌅. Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse: A picturesque lighthouse perched on a rocky ledge—you can walk out to it via a narrow causeway. Portland Head Lighthouse: Consistently ranked among the top lighthouses in the U.S.! It’s located in a pretty park, and the coastal views around it are breathtaking 🏴‍☠️. 🍴 Top 3 Restaurants (Great for Lunch & Dinner) Duck Fat – 43 Middle St, Portland ME: Famous for its duck fat fries and delicious salads—don’t miss their truffle ketchup! East Ender – 47 Middle St, Portland ME: Seafood is their specialty, especially their mussels—cooked in a flavorful broth that’s perfect for sopping up with bread 🥘. Eventide – 86 Middle St, Portland ME: Their Battered Casco Bay Pollock is incredible—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with tasty sides. #TravelTheWorld #HikingRouteRecommendations #OffTheBeatenPathTravel #MyUniqueTravelGuide #Travel #MyTravelDiary #AroundTheWorld #TravelGuide #RecorderOfRomanticLife