16+ Best Things To Do In Ogunquit, Maine

Last updated August 26, 2025

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Ogunquit is a unique place that offers something for every visitor. It's a favored family vacation spot that is suitable for children of any age.

It is an arts hub featuring a community theater and outstanding museums and galleries.

Ogunquit is also exceptionally picturesque and numerous opportunities are here for outdoor activities.

Read on to discover the 16+ best things to do in Ogunquit, Maine!

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1. Explore Perkins Cove

Formerly a snug haven for local artists and a quiet fishing village, Perkins Cove presently is a place that invites photography from every perspective.

There's a famous footbridge here that you may traverse and operate manually.

This area also provides excellent shopping options.

There are numerous charming gift shops, boutiques, jewelry boutiques, and art studios.

It’s an ideal spot to grab a keepsake or simply wander and look around.

Many restaurants in the area are worth checking out, particularly if you enjoy seafood.

Enjoy fresh fish at the lovely Barnacle Billy, and after your meal, swing by a candy shop for some saltwater taffy that is locally made.

2. Take a Ride on Ogunquit Trolley

For getting around Ogunquit, riding the fun Ogunquit Trolley remains an enjoyable option!

The trolleys are delightful and enjoyable, providing a lovely means to discover the city, particularly if you lack a vehicle.

The trolley can transport you to many of the main spots you wish to see, including Perkins Cove, Ogunquit Beach, and the renowned Marginal Way.

Additionally, the trolleys travel through the downtown area and will drop you at the eateries, pubs, and stores that are on your list.

So, I suggest taking the trolley upon your arrival in the Ogunquit coastal town in order to familiarize yourself with the area.

3. Check Out Ogunquit Heritage Museum

For an educational experience that benefits the whole family, this museum is the perfect destination.

Located in the Captain Winn James House of the eighteenth century, this museum provides a glimpse into the region's history.

The structure, built in 1780, retains much of its original design.

The museum is located in a beautiful park known as the Dorothea JacobGrant Common.

The ground is excellent for strolling and exploring, featuring a mix of forests, open spaces, and trails to discover.

The displays within the museum concentrate on the town's history, highlighting subjects related to the trades which have sustained it, such as fishing and lobstering.

It also provides an understanding of the societal and cultural legacy and the notable theater and art scenes that have emerged in Ogunquit.

And what's the most enjoyable aspect? Entry to this museum has no charge!

4. Explore Portland

Portland is an amazing city, only a drive of 45 minutes from Ogunquit.

Many people are now adding Portland to their lists of emerging cities to explore in the USA, while New England residents have recognized its greatness for a long time.

Portland is particularly recognized as a culinary destination as many great restaurants are present here, offering both upscale and casual dishes.

You will really have a fantastic time in Portland and enjoy delicious food, kombucha tasting, gin tasting, wine tasting, and bar visiting in the evening.

For a taste of city life while on an Ogunquit vacation, Portland is definitely an excellent choice.

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5. Embark on a Sailing Journey

Why not discover Ogunquit’s coastline in an enjoyable manner?

Sailing stands as the ultimate experience for enjoying the ocean mist on your face and the wind on your hair.

You can unwind and enjoy the stunning scenery, or join tours that offer knowledge about local history and marine life.

Numerous companies provide excellent sailing trips in Ogunquit.

You can see animals such as harbor seals, enjoy cocktails, and gain knowledge on lobstering, based on your selected option.

Silverlining Sailing provides a variety of traditional and classic sailing adventures.

Their excursions allow for a maximum of six participants in each trip and will guide you along southern Maine's coastline for stunning photo opportunities.

The boat excursions allow you to experience sailing on your own.

Then, additional companies to explore are Sail theGift and Sail Me.

The latter provides three distinct cruise varieties with a well-liked sunset journey.

The former can host larger groups of 12 individuals for an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

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6. Go on a Kayak Adventure

If you're looking to enjoy yourself on the waters, kayaking is an excellent option.

Sea kayaking demands some skill, though if you have some kayaking experience already in calm waters, you can easily adapt to Ogunquit’s minor waves.

WorldWithin Sea Kayaking provides rentals for enjoyment on the stunning Ogunquit River.

They'll provide you with stand-up paddle boards, and while you paddle through the water, you'll have the opportunity to observe plenty of wildlife.

Among the local wildlife are fish, native birds, and foxes, and if you are extremely lucky, a big moose.

Also, if you don't know about kayaking, you're free to opt for private lessons.

Mastering the technique of wet exits is a valuable ability that will benefit you wherever you travel.

7. Visit FrontPorch Piano Bar

This place has been a staple in Ogunquit for over 35 years.

The venue provides an amazing entertainment experience ideal for a romantic evening or special occasion.

Situated in the heart of downtown, it hosts performances nightly, with two musicians performing on weekends.

Among Piano Bar’s greatest aspects is the fact that it provides a full experience for an evening out.

There is always live music and it offers more than merely a location.

A lounge and bar are also available for drinks before the show, along with a nice restaurant for exquisite dining.

Their menu showcases refined New American cuisine with diverse influences for an intriguing and dynamic offering.

Additionally, there is a menu featuring craft cocktails.

Regardless of which area of the lovely Front Porch you'll love to explore, you will create lasting memories.

8. Explore York

A fascinating stop in Ogunquit is York, only an 11-minute distance away.

York and Ogunquit are frequently combined in a day journey from Portland or Boston, and I suggest following this approach as well.

York is a fascinating destination for families traveling with children, offering a fun amusement park, a tranquil beach, and an amazing candy shop with mesmerizing taffy pullers.

The Short Sand Beach here may not be as large or spacious as the Ogunquit Beach, yet it remains a lovely spot to enjoy the sun.

FunORama Arcade is also situated just by the beach and offers a variety of games and an amazing fortune teller.

If you're in York, you should visit the unique Nubble Lighthouse as well.

This is a legendary location offering picturesque sights that provide an excellent setting for that classic Maine picture.

On the premises, there is also a gift shop and a lighthouse museum.

9. Watch a Performance at Ogunquit Playhouse

Ogunquit Playhouse was founded in the year 1933 and it has consistently produced remarkable musicals and plays for nearly a century.

It has also showcased performances by nationally-recognized artists, including Sally Struthers and Bette Davis.

The playhouse is recognized nationwide for its high production standards and exceptional performances.

As part of the few original remaining off-Broadway summertime theaters, it is now recognized as America's leading summer theater, providing insight into Maine history and theater history overall.

So, when visiting Ogunquit from late spring to mid-fall, make sure to see a performance here.

Previous seasons have showcased shows like The Sound Music, Beautiful: the CaroleKing Musical, and Grease, and there are additionally matinees here such as Elf: TheMusical that are enjoyable for children.

10. Visit Wells

Wells is only a drive of 12 minutes away from Ogunquit and is home to a top Maine restaurant; Maine Diner.

The seafood chowder at Maine Diner is the tastiest chowder in the world.

It’s packed with large chunks of lobster, clams, scallops, fish, and shrimp, surpassing anything else produced in the region of New England.

They also offer a sample platter motivated by their feature on Diners, Dives, and Drive-Ins.

Just make sure to verify their timetable online before your visit because since the onset of COVID, they have encountered staffing challenges and have cut back on their operating hours.

Then, outside the diner, Wells has plenty of activities to offer in its historic fishing and shipbuilding community.

It's an excellent spot for shopping, particularly for vintage items. Numerous charming shops can be found throughout the downtown region.

Stunning beaches also exist here, which are certainly worth visiting for enjoyable coastal strolls on the sand.

11. Walk Around Downtown Ogunquit

This downtown section is among the finest aspects of Ogunquit.

Go ahead and explore the fantastic stores and art spaces, and also get some ice cream.

Numerous delightful bars, restaurants, and cafes can be found here as well.

Whether you enjoy food, have a passion for antiques, or simply want to stroll, Downtown Ogunquit is the right place.

There are many fantastic stores here that you definitely shouldn't overlook.

A few of them are specialized locations for unique products like the lovely Tea Space.

There, you will discover a selection of teas and tea accessories to achieve the ideal brew.

Mainely Quilts offers a variety of quilts, including both vintage and new options, as well as quilting materials.

If you’re looking for ceramic items, the fun Pottery Shop stands as an excellent place to visit here.

Then, if you're looking for a memento or present, make sure to visit Spoiled Rotten.

Their collection includes a diverse range of candles, home goods, jewelry, and additional items, all

Also, if you seek something genuinely distinctive or with a backstory, Blacksmiths Mall Antique can assist.

Their shop showcases over 70 vendors and is among the most favored destinations for antiques throughout Maine.

12. Explore Kennebunkport

When you continue driving a little further north, you'll see this lovely place known as Kennebunkport.

This affluent town in Maine is best recognized for its connection to the President Bush family and is just 24 minutes away from Ogunquit.

The Bush summertime residence here has existed for many generations, and the two Presidents Bush frequently brought their households here.

For a deeper understanding of the town's connection with USA presidents, a visit to the Kennebunkport First Families Museum is recommended.

Several other museums are also available here to enjoy a leisurely afternoon of exploration.

Both the Seashore Trolley and Brick Store museums are great places to visit too.

During your visit, be sure to also check out famous landmarks such as the Wedding CakeHouse, the most captured house in the whole state.

Then, other exciting experiences include going on food tours or lobster tours.

In fact, you will discover that there is no lack of enjoyment in Kennebunkport!

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13. Relax at Ogunquit Beach

A trip to Ogunquit isn’t complete without a day at the beach.

You can relish the wave sound and the soft sands the location is famous for whenever you set your chair at the beautiful Ogunquit Beach.

Simply follow Beach Street right from the town center straight till you reach the waves and sand.

Ogunquit Beach remains extensive and wide with gentle sand, and often appears on the rankings of "US top beaches".

It's an excellent spot to simply relax and soak up the sun, splash in the waves, or create a sandcastle.

You will also come across an occasional surfer here.

Footbridge Beach stands as an excellent option to steer clear of the busy main beach.

It's charming as Ogunquit Beach, featuring the same white sands and waves, but it is considerably more tranquil.

Note that dogs are allowed at Footbridge and Ogunquit Beach from the beginning of Labor Day through March end each year.

Ogunquit Beach has umbrella rentals and additional gear to enhance your enjoyment in the sun, and each of the beaches provides public restrooms.

14. Explore Beach Plum Farm

This is an excellent place if you wish to appreciate nature and have a relaxing walk.

The farm features breathtaking views across its land of 22 acres, showcasing dunes, the sea, gardens, and numerous beach plums.

A path circles the fields and gardens, providing a 0.5-mile walk.

Numerous benches line this route, making it simple and convenient to travel along.

Additionally, it's an excellent spot to reflect, sketch the landscape around you, and enjoy a book.

Beach Plum also features over 50 community garden plots, a variety of flower and plant species, as well as some wildlife.

It's likewise an excellent spot for observing birds, and the greatest aspect is that entry here is free.

15. Stroll Along the Scenic Marginal Way

The Marginal Way is the perfect spot to become familiar with the stunning coastal views of Ogunquit.

It winds along a cliff facing the AtlanticOcean and offers breathtaking vistas along its whole stretch.

The path along the cliff's edge is paved, making it an easy hike instead of a challenging one.

The journey isn’t very long, spanning just a 1.25-mile distance, making it an achievable task for many individuals.

Along the Marginal Way, there are 39 benches positioned at strategic locations to enjoy the finest views.

On pleasant days, the picturesque Marginal Way provides an idyllic beach stroll that features its own quaint lighthouse.

Sailboats frequently adorn the sea and the opposite side is sprinkled with resorts and inns.

This is an ideal way to experience Ogunquit village allure and is absolutely essential for those visiting this town in New England.

16. Check Out Portsmouth NH

Right across the stateline lies the charming Portsmouth City, New Hampshire, located just a 25-minute drive from Ogunquit.

The city is another location for a fun day trip when you intend to stay on the coast of Maine for some time.

Portsmouth is home to numerous fantastic independent restaurants and shops.

It is certainly New Hampshire’s food capital, featuring excellent eateries such as Durbar Square and Black Trumpet.

There are many great bakeries and bars here as well, and this region is also rich in history.

Strawberry Banks Museum stands as a reconstructed historical village here, featuring guides who portray characters.

Also, there is the African BuryingGround which memorializes and pays tribute to both free and enslaved black individuals who had perished in the town.

There is also the USS Alba core Museum located in a decommissioned submarine, which provides a unique chance to gain knowledge as well.

Portsmouth NH also offers excellent biking and hiking opportunities, along with enjoyable things to explore on the beach and numerous water-based activities.

17. Explore the Ogunquit Museumof American Art

Located off Shore Rd, this museum draws inspiration from the art communities that have thrived in Ogunquit throughout the history of the town.

With over 3,000 pieces showcased at OMAA, it serves as an exciting destination and one of Ogunquit’s top activities.

The museum features diverse artworks across multiple media, such as drawings, paintings, photographs, sculptures, and film.

Numerous diverse exhibitions are also held here at any moment.

These exhibitions are frequently revised and altered, so in case you travel to Ogunquit again later, you'll have the opportunity for a different adventure at OMAA.

The museum charges $12 for adult entry and $10 for seniors and students, while children under 12 can enter for free.

You can visit any time from May to October between 10 AM and 5 PM.

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Conclusion

The town of Ogunquit is an extremely favored day trip location for individuals in Boston.

Also, you can take a day journey from other areas of New Hampshire or Maine to Ogunquit.

You will accomplish much within one day, and spending some days will let you truly immerse yourself in Ogunquit and also explore the nearby regions.

Some people even have their residence for the summer in Ogunquit so they stay here for the whole summer.

Whether you are visiting for one day or a lengthier stay, you will appreciate your experience in this charming town.

Simply ensure you capitalize on everything Ogunquit has available and also try to immerse yourself in the arts too.

Additionally, ensure you buy some lovely souvenirs for your family and loved ones, and consume all of their seafood!

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