📍 Location & Geography
Kennebunk is a charming town located in the southern part of the state of Maine, in the United States. It falls within York County and is approximately 90 miles north of Boston and 25 miles south of Portland. The town covers a total area of 35.05 square miles, of which 24.57 square miles is land and 10.48 square miles is water. Kennebunk is bordered by the towns of Kennebunkport, Arundel, Lyman, Wells, and the Atlantic Ocean.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Kennebunk, Maine are approximately 43.38° North latitude and 70.54° West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Kennebunk is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is situated on the southern coast of Maine, known for its beautiful beaches and historic architecture. The town is divided into several areas including Downtown Kennebunk, West Kennebunk, Lower Village, and Kennebunk Beach.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Kennebunk had a population of approximately 11,390 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 49.5 years. The population is predominantly white, with smaller percentages of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Kennebunk was first settled in 1621 and was originally part of the town of Wells. The town was incorporated in 1820 and its name is believed to be derived from the Native American word “Kennebunk” which means “the long cut bank,” possibly referring to the town’s long river bank. Kennebunk has a rich maritime history and was once a prosperous shipbuilding and shipping town.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Kennebunk is known for its stunning natural beauty. It boasts several beautiful beaches including Gooch’s Beach, Middle Beach, and Mother’s Beach. The town is also home to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, which provides habitats for a variety of wildlife. The Kennebunk River adds to the town’s picturesque landscape and is a popular spot for boating and fishing.
🏫 Education
Kennebunk is served by the Regional School Unit 21 (RSU 21), which includes Kennebunk Elementary School, Sea Road School, Middle School of the Kennebunks, and Kennebunk High School. The town also has several private schools and is in close proximity to several colleges and universities.
🚧 Transportation
Kennebunk is easily accessible via Interstate 95, also known as the Maine Turnpike. The town is also served by the Amtrak Downeaster train service, which provides daily service between Boston and Brunswick, Maine. The town has a public transportation system, the ShuttleBus-Zoom, which provides service to nearby towns and cities. The Portland International Jetport is the nearest airport, located about 30 miles north of Kennebunk.
📜 Trivia & Events
Kennebunk is known for its annual May Day Festival, a day-long celebration featuring a parade, live music, craft vendors, and other festivities. The town is also home to the Brick Store Museum, a local history museum located in the heart of downtown Kennebunk. Additionally, Kennebunk is famous for the Wedding Cake House, an ornate Gothic Revival style house that is one of the most photographed buildings in the state.