Dock Square
Discover the Charm of Dock Square, Maine
Dock Square: The Heart of Kennebunkport
Experience the charm of coastal Maine in Dock Square, Kennebunkport's vibrant center for shopping, dining, and historical exploration.
Dock Square is the vibrant hub of Kennebunkport, Maine, a charming coastal town steeped in history and brimming with activity. This bustling square, located at the intersection of several main streets, serves as a central gathering place and a gateway to the town's many attractions. With its array of shops, galleries, and restaurants, Dock Square offers a quintessential Maine experience for visitors and locals alike.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Dock Square
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Maine, US
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Getting There
Walking
From the intersection of Maine Street and Elm Street, head east on Elm Street towards the Kennebunk River. Cross the Mathew J. Lanigan Bridge, which offers views of the river and connects Kennebunk to Kennebunkport. Once across the bridge, you'll find yourself in Dock Square. The walk is approximately 0.2 miles and should take about 5 minutes. No cost is involved.
Public Transport
The Dock Square Shuttle and Parking System provides transportation from outlying parking facilities to the Kennebunkport Village Center. Check the Town of Kennebunkport website for the shuttle schedule and route. A single ride fare is approximately $1-2.
Taxi/Ride-Share
From a location in Kennebunk, a taxi or ride-share service to Dock Square typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on the distance and demand. Services like RideMaineKPT offer local transportation in the Kennebunks.
Parking
If driving, parking is available in the Dock Square parking lot behind Alisson's Restaurant. This is a paid lot with a pay-per-hour system in effect from May 1st through October 31st. Parking is free if under 30 minutes. The walk-and-pay ticket machine near the restrooms at the entrance takes cash, debit, and credit cards. Free parking is available on North Street, a 1/2 mile walk to Dock Square.
Local tips
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Explore the side streets and hidden alleyways branching off Dock Square for unique shops and quieter spots.
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Visit during the Christmas Prelude in December for a festive holiday experience.
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Take a walk along Ocean Avenue from Dock Square to enjoy scenic ocean views and visit Walker's Point.
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Consider a boat tour or kayaking excursion from the nearby marinas to experience the Maine coast.
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Check the local event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other happenings in Dock Square.
Discover more about Dock Square
Dock Square is the heart of Kennebunkport, Maine, a picturesque town with a rich maritime history. Once a bustling port and shipbuilding center, Dock Square has evolved into a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, and exploring the Maine coast.
The square is home to a diverse collection of boutiques, art galleries, and shops offering unique handcrafted Maine gifts. Visitors can browse for souvenirs, artwork, jewelry, clothing, and home furnishings. Numerous restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops provide ample opportunities to refuel and savor local flavors.
Dock Square's history is palpable in its architecture, with many shops and galleries housed in former homes and 18th-century warehouses. The Kennebunkport Historical Society offers insights into the area's past, highlighting its evolution from a working port to a popular resort destination. The square also hosts events throughout the year, including the lighting of a Christmas tree during the town's Christmas Prelude and a fireworks display on July 4th.
Beyond shopping and dining, Dock Square provides access to Kennebunkport's scenic beauty. The Mathew J. Lanigan Bridge connects Dock Square to Kennebunk, offering views of the Kennebunk River. Ocean Avenue, which starts at Dock Square, leads to the coastline, where visitors can find beaches, rocky shores, and the famous Walker's Point, the summer home of the Bush family. Boat tours, whale watching excursions, and kayaking adventures depart from the nearby marinas, allowing visitors to experience the Maine coast from the water.
A brief summary to Dock Square
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