“Coastal Gems: Exclusive Private Tour from Portland to Portsmouth

Visitors to the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, will step back in time as they explore this expansive outdoor history museum, which showcases over 300 years of life in a historic New England neighborhood. The museum features meticulously restored houses, gardens, and landscapes, representing different periods from the 17th to the 20th century. Costumed interpreters bring history to life by demonstrating traditional crafts, cooking, and daily activities, providing an immersive glimpse into the lives of past residents. Visitors can also engage in hands-on activities, explore rotating exhibits, and enjoy seasonal events, making Strawbery Banke a vibrant and educational experience for all ages.

Just a stone's throw away, you'll find the intriguing Wiggly Bridge. This quaint pedestrian bridge is famous for its unique wobbling sensation as you walk across it. Enjoy a leisurely walk and soak in the natural beauty of the York River.

A visit to Nubble Light in York, Maine, offers a picturesque experience at one of the most iconic lighthouses on the East Coast. Located on a small, rocky island just off Cape Neddick, the lighthouse is accessible only by boat, but visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from Sohier Park on the mainland. The area is a popular spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a golden hue over the Atlantic Ocean and the lighthouse. The crashing waves, coupled with the sound of seabirds and the salty sea breeze, create a serene and captivating atmosphere.

In York, Maine, your stop at the Historical Society offers a deep dive into the town’s rich colonial history. Explore exhibits showcasing artifacts from the early settlers, maritime history, and local lore, all set within beautifully preserved historic buildings. The adjacent Old Burying Ground holds a unique piece of local legend: the grave of Mary Nasson, often referred to as the “Witch’s Grave.” Her tomb, marked by an unusual stone slab believed to keep her spirit at rest, adds an eerie and intriguing layer to York’s storied past.

A stop in Kennebunkport offers a delightful blend of charm and coastal beauty. Stroll through the picturesque downtown, where you’ll find quaint shops, and galleries. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for exploring local art and enjoying unique shopping. As you make your way to the water, you’ll have the chance to view the impressive Bush compound from afar, a stunning estate that has been home to the Bush family for generations, providing a glimpse into the lives of former presidents. To complete your visit, stop at a historic waterfront inn, where you can soak in the stunning ocean views and appreciate the inn’s charming architecture that reflects the town’s rich maritime heritage. Enjoy a moment of relaxation on the inn’s porch, with the sound of the waves and the salty sea breeze creating the perfect ambiance. This stop in Kennebunkport captures the essence of Maine’s coastal charm, history, and natural beauty.

Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine, is a stunning coastal walkway that stretches approximately 1.25 miles along the picturesque cliffs and shoreline. This scenic path offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, sandy beaches, and rugged coastal landscapes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. During a 30-minute stop, visitors can meander along the paved trail, taking in the fresh sea air and the sound of crashing waves. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming lookout points, where you can pause to capture stunning photographs of the coastline and nearby coves. The path also features lush vegetation and seasonal wildflowers, adding to its natural beauty. With plenty of benches and quiet spots to relax, a visit to Marginal Way is a delightful way to experience the enchanting scenery of Ogunquit.

Wentworth by the Sea, a grand historic hotel in New Castle, New Hampshire, offers a glimpse into the elegance of Gilded Age architecture and the hotel’s storied past, from welcoming high society in the early 1900s to serving as a hospital during World War II. Guests will enjoy its beautiful waterfront setting, stroll through lush gardens, and admire its refined interiors. As the lunch stop on this tour, it’s an ideal opportunity to relax and dine while taking in views of the surrounding harbor, enhancing the experience with both local history and luxury.

Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, situated at Fort Constitution in New Castle, New Hampshire, is a classic New England lighthouse dating back to 1771. With its iconic white cast-iron tower and green lantern room, it stands as a beacon at the mouth of the Piscataqua River. Visitors can learn about its storied history of guiding ships safely to shore, explore the nearby fort, and take in sweeping views of the harbor and coastline. The lighthouse offers a quintessential coastal experience and a glimpse into maritime navigation’s past.