YOU don’t need to leave the country this summer for a seaside getaway that doesn’t skimp on the views.
The southern Maine town of Kennebunkport is one of the country’s oldest European-settled towns and has been called “New England seaside charm personified” by Exploration of love.
Kennebunkport is just under a three-hour drive from Boston and 25 miles south of Portland.
Established in 1600, the coastal town quickly became a meeting place for fishermen and coastal mercenaries.
Visitors can sign up for a variety of events, from interactive tours to trips to local theaters.
The city Seaside Tram Museum is the first and largest electric railway museum in the world.
Guests can board a 20th-century vintage tram and take a ride along a three-and-a-half-kilometre railway.
History buffs will be pleased to know that the trail was formerly the Atlantic Shore Line railroad from the 1920s.
They can also explore the museum’s 350-acre campus, three trams and a restoration shop.
Tram rides depart from the museum’s boarding platforms in 45-minute increments, starting at 9:45 a.m., with the last tram leaving at 3:45 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased hereand entry for babies up to two years old is free.
Kennebunkport holds an annual tradition, called the Christmas Prelude, from late November to early December.
A captain started the tradition as a way to give back to the local community.
“It was in the early spring of 1982 in Kennebunkport when Henry Pasco called a meeting of business owners to discuss ways the business community could thank the residents of Kennebunkport and Kennebunk for supporting them,” the city said. website explained.
“Henry suggested some kind of Christmas festival to create a sense of community spirit.
“At the time, Nantucket and Marblehead, Massachusetts, were hosting Christmas festivals.
“The objective was not to duplicate these events, but rather to organize our own festival. Committees were formed and the name Prelude was suggested.”
Holiday visitors can watch the city’s Christmas tree lighting, fireworks display, street festival and more.
The city is also a popular wedding destination, with many accommodation options for guests attending the ceremony.
The area is regularly visited for its diverse range of pre- and post-ceremony activities and diverse venues.
“The best part of a wedding or special event in Kennebunkport and Kennebunk Beach is the offering of churches, reception halls, resorts, parks and beaches, all with incredible ocean views or unforgettable backdrops,” the website added.
“In addition to making your wedding exceptional, the wide variety of activities to choose from before or after the big event, including local golf, whale watching, lobster boat trips, sunset boat trips, beaches and Dock Square with its Fabulous shops and restaurants will keep everyone in your wedding party entertained.”
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story