photo credit:unurth.com
Boston area to Portsmouth, New Hampshire:
If vacation time or money is tight and you still really just need a getaway, here is a great weekend roadtrip to vie for before the masses hit these towns (late May or early June). Start by filling up on breakfast in order to have a later lunch and then hit the road to the first stop, Portsmouth, NH. Portsmouth boasts a beautiful and historic downtown where many love to people watch from a spot in Market Square. If the kids have come along, or you particularly enjoy history, than the Strawbery Banke Museum is a great place to spend your time learning about life along the water in Portsmouth, from 1695 on. Another fabulous way to see the "port" in Portsmouth, is to head out on a public sail on a reproduction gundalow barge (weather permitting). There are so many restaurants to choose from and one fun choice for anyone that likes burgers (black bean burgers too), is Lexie's Joint! Extra: keep your eyes open for great street art when in town.
photo credit:lodgeonthecove.com
Portsmouth to Kennebunkport, Maine:
After a day of seaside fun, head to the chic and soothing retreat that is The Lodge on the Cove in Kennebunkport. This family friendly motor lodge, located on a tidal cove, has many amenities including a heated pool, kayak rentals, light breakfast faire, fires, movie nights and more. A casual dinner can be had by the pool at The Dory or if you want to try one of many fantastic restaurants in beautiful locations ask the follks at the front desk, they have many sister inns with dining.
photo credit:fws.gov
Kennebunkport:
The next day can be spent exploring the area. Start the day early with a drive along Ocean Avenue and a stop at St. Anne's Church for a beautiful view, inside and out. Then you can decide between two natural choices: Rachel Carlson Wildlife Refuge or Wells Reserve at Laudholm. Both places have preserved acres of varying habitats and offer many activities beyond trails. If the weather is so-so or you are more of a retailer then hiker, than keep following historic Ocean Ave. to Dock Square and shop the shops. Make sure to try Rococo Artisan Ice Cream for a treat, no matter the weather. There are also culinary programs offered at Table with either cooking lessons or many other varied events. If it's wildly warm, Mother's Beach is a local fave with a large playground if kids are along. The Lodge has many activities to offer or you can just relax and soak up the cove scenery. Make sure to send yourself a postcard with your favorites listed so you can have the memories, mail and a great photo!
