About this city
Also known as: The Gateway to Maine
Positioned as the southern gateway to Maine on the north bank of the Piscataqua River directly opposite Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Kittery is the state's oldest incorporated town, established in 1647. The town's historical trajectory has been defined by maritime engineering since the founding of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard on Seavey's Island in 1800, which constructed the nation's legendary wooden submarines, warships, and modern nuclear sub fleets. In the late 20th century, Kittery expanded its economic identity dramatically by developing a massive retail outlet shopping corridor that draws millions of visitors annually. The contemporary town presents a unique combination of a high-security defense shipyard, a bustling retail commercial center, and a historic coastal downtown filled with independent restaurants.
Location & Administrative
Transportation & Accessibility
Weather & Timing
Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
Shop top international designer brands along the extensive retail strip of the Kittery Outlets. Walk the historic, trendy streets of Foreside downtown to dine at independent seafood bistros. Peer across the river to view active naval vessels from Badger's Island.
