Southern Maine Coast

The Southern Maine Coast Region has miles upon miles of wide sandy beaches in contrast to the remaining rugged, rocky coastline of Maine. The region has an array of sites from historic to present times that will satisfy vacationers of all ages and tastes. Walk the beaches for miles or nature trails for peaceful moments, shop till you drop at outlet stores, antique shops, boutiques, and general stores, learn of the region's history at museums and restored villages, or go for thrills on rollercoaster and other rides at amusement parks. There is much to see, much to enjoy...have a memorable vacation. Things to See and Do Attractions County Courthouse in Alfred holds the nation's oldest court records, dating from 1636. Wedding Cake House in Kennebunk - An ornately decorated Federal-style house,circa1825. It was built by a sea captain for his bride as a substitute for a wedding cake when he was called off to sea--so the story goes. Willowbrook in Newfield - A recreated 19th century village with 37 buildings and an 1894 carousel. Covered Bridges Parsonsfield-Porter Bridge in Porter and Parsonsfield - Built in 1859 and crossing the Ossipee River, the bridge was closed to traffic in 1960. Historic Sites Fort McClary in Kittery- Built in 1846; hexagonal blockhouse named for Andrew McClary who died in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Harmon Historical Museum in Old Orchard Beach - Memorabilia from the town's famous past, including the Big Band era, and an airplane exhibit. John Paul Jones Memorial in Kittery- A two-acre memorial. Kittery Historical and Naval Museum in Kittery - Featuring a history of the southern coast, and ship models. Old York Village Historic District: Elizabeth Perkins House in Old York - A 1730's Colonial-Revival house filled with artifacts of the period. Locations South Berwick is the site of the country's first sawmill. York, the first chartered city in America, 1641. Museums Brick Store Museum in Kennebunk - Dates back to 1825. Provides a history of the area with art exhibits. Architectural tours through Kennebunk's historic district Kennebunkport Maritime Museum in Kennebunkport (summer residence of former President George Bush) - Exhibits feature seafaring history in the riverside cottage of author Booth Tartkinton. Old Gaol Museum in York - One the the oldest remaining public buildings in North America, complete with dungeons and jailer's living area. Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport - Where you can view more than 50 antique trolley cars and buses and take a four-mile ride in one of them. Outdoor Activities Old Orchard Beach in Old Orchard Beach - Historic seaside resort with its famed 7-mile long beach that is consistently rated as "Maine's Best Beach". Parks & Trails Saco Heath in Saco - A 500-acre preserve where nature trails lead through woods and fields. Wells Natural Estuarine Research Reserve at Laudholm Farms in Wells - A 1600-acre preserve with a visitor's center, 7-miles of maintained trails, exibit rooms, lectures, nature hikes, artists workshops, kayak adventures, and a gift shop. Scenic Drives Start in Sanford on Route 202. Follow east to Route 35. Head west on Route 25 and continue until you reach Route 160. Take Route 160 south to Route 11. Head south on Route 11 through Newfield to Emery Mills and then continue on Route 11/109 back to Sanford. This trip is approximately 85 miles. Science & Nature Related East Point Sanctuary in Biddeford - A Maine Audobon preserve where bird watchers can spot numerous species in a natural habitat. Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge in Wells - Divided among 10 sites including a coastal marsh, habitat for plants, animals, and 250 species of birds.

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