Christmas time in New England is absolutely beautiful! My mom and I visited Kennebunkport, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire for a little getaway the weekend before Christmas. The coastal towns are so picturesque from the breathtaking views of the water to the historic homes to the seasonal decorations. It truly is lovely! This guide highlights our memorable trip to New England. Hope it inspires you to visit one day!
Where to Stay
Kennebunkport Captains Collection – definitely the quaintest bed & breakfast I’ve ever stayed in all my travels! It is a boutique inn with four historic homes formerly owned by Maine sea captains. We stayed in the William Jefferds House – a quintessential New England home. It was so charming, cozy, and beautifully decorated! The locals shared the best places to visit during our stay. A delicious breakfast was served in the main house every morning. The Captains Collection is in the heart of Kennebunkport’s historic district and within walking distance to Dock Square with all of the local shops and eateries.
William Jefferds House
Nathaniel Lord Mansion – Main House of Captains Collection
James Fairfield House
Things to Do in Kennebunkport
- Walk through the historic district and admire the historic homes
- Visit the local shops in Dock Square and Lower Village
- Take a drive along scenic Ocean Avenue
- Drive to York, Maine and stop by Nubble Lighthouse, also known as Cape Neddick Light Station
- Visit the Stonewall Kitchen flagship store and eat lunch at their café in York
Local eats:
- Old Vines Wine Bar
- Bandaloop
- 50 Local
- Dock Square Coffee House
Local shops:
- Spaces by Nicki Bongiorno
- Bliss
- Fleurant
- Daytrip Society
- Daytrip Jr.
- Farm + Table in Cape Porpoise
Kennebunk River
Local shops in Dock Square & Lower Village
Cape Porpoise
Farm + Table Shop in Cape Porpoise
Lobster Trap Tree in Cape Porpoise
Nubble Lighthouse in York, Maine
Stonewall Kitchen Flagship Store in York, Maine
Things to Do in Portsmouth
- Visit the local shops in downtown – Gus & Ruby Letterpress is a pretty paper & gift shop.
- Walk around the South End historic district
- Tour the Strawbery Banke Museum
- Local breakfast + coffee spots: The Goods or Elephantine Bakery
- Local eats: Green Elephant, Massimo’s, or Cure
South End Historic District
Gus & Ruby Letterpress in Market Square
There is something so enchanting about New England. I am so looking forward to visiting again and exploring more of this charming part of our country. Until next time, New England!
xoxo,
Juliana
