Discover The Top Things to Do in York, Maine

From Sandy Beaches to Fine Dining - We Have it All!

When you visit us at Dockside Guest Quarters, we’re always happy to show you all of the top things to do in York, Maine. Whether you want to explore the variety of nature trails, catch a show in one of our theaters, embark on a deep sea fishing adventure, or just relax on the beach, we can help guide you. No matter what time of year you visit our bed and breakfast near Portsmouth, New Hampshire, you can be assured that boredom is not an option.

To help get you started, we’ve narrowed down the extensive list to some of our favorite things to do. Take a look and start getting inspired for your own Maine coast vacation! If you’re already convinced that it’s time for a New England adventure, you’ll find the perfect accommodations for a romantic getaway in York, Maine at Dockside Guest Quarters. Come and see why we’re an excellent alternative to other York, Maine hotels.

Onsite Activities

Onsite Activities at Our Waterfront Inn

While there are more than enough fun things to do in York, Maine to keep any traveler busy, we want you know how much there is to do right here at our bed and breakfast in York, Maine! From lawn games to cycling on the coast, enjoying harbor activity, or just relaxing around the grounds and enjoying a meal at our fantastic restaurant, we have you covered for an excellent escape to the southern Maine coast.

Play Games or Take a Bike Ride

If you like resort style games, then you’re in luck. We offer croquet on the Maine House lawn, badminton by the garden, and shuffleboard under the maple trees. Or you can borrow our bicycles for a ride along the coast. We have 3 E-bikes and 4 Standard bikes available to our guests! Check out a map of our grounds to help you get acquainted with our property.

Watch the Harbor Activity

Relax with a book, binoculars and maybe a craft beer from one of our local Maine or New Hampshire breweries and watch the endless harbor activity from your private deck. Our gazebo and Adirondack chairs on the lawn are also great places to relax and experience our special place.

Hit the Water

Guided harbor boat tours are available three times a week on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 10:30 AM, weather permitting. Please ask about our private boat tours on Saturdays and Sundays! Learn some harbor history while enjoying the beauty of the Maine coastline. Inquire at the desk for more information or Email info@docksidegq.com to book in advance!

Seacoast Maritime Charters

Seacoast Maritime Charters offers private charters in the Kittery and Portsmouth area, catering to all your needs! Whether you’re planning a family outing, a bachelorette or bachelor party, or a memorable sea adventure, their team brings over 50 years of captaining experience to the table. With deep roots in these waters, you can trust them to provide an unforgettable experience on the water.

Nearby Attractions

Maine Beaches

One of the top attractions in York, Maine is undoubtedly its beaches. With four beautiful beaches to explore right in York, Maine, you’ll have plenty of options to enjoy the coastal scenery. Plus, Ogunquit Beach, another popular beach destination, is just a short drive away. To make your beach experience even more enjoyable, we provide our guests with beach towels and chairs for a comfortable and relaxing day by the water.

Area Restaurants

In addition to fantastic dining at the Dockside Restaurant and iconic Maine lobster shacks, York, Maine offers a variety of great places to eat. You can also explore nearby dining options in Portsmouth, NH, and Ogunquit, Maine, with a range of delicious restaurants to choose from. Be sure to check out our list of top restaurants in these areas for more dining recommendations.

Breweries

Enjoy a cold, hand-crafted brew at one of the many local breweries that Maine has to offer. Visit one of our favorites.

Touring/Sightseeing

Grab your binoculars and take in the breathtaking scenery along the southern Maine coast. The Nubble Light, located right here in York, is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Don’t miss the chance to experience Maine’s stunning fall foliage, which rivals that of Vermont and New Hampshire. During your stay, be sure to visit some of the most spectacular lighthouses in Maine for unforgettable coastal views.

History and Heritage

The southern Maine coast is rich with 300 years of history, from daring seafaring captains to resilient New England settlers. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the local museums offer a fascinating glimpse into Maine’s pivotal role in revolutionary-era New England. Be sure to visit the Old York Historical Society and the Strawbery Banke Museum on your next trip to Dockside for an unforgettable historical experience.

Summer Theater

Enjoy a variety of seasonal plays and concerts performed by local Maine companies and visiting artists. From Broadway classics to opera, symphony performances, art films, and jazz, these venues offer a diverse array of cultural experiences during your New England getaway. On your next trip to York, be sure to set aside time to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene.

Shopping

World-class outlet stores and unique boutiques dot the streets of York, as well as nearby Freeport, Kittery, and Portland. LL Bean’s headquarters are just 30 minutes away, and historic York village features clothing, books, antiques, homewares, and much more. And don’t forget to check out the Kittery Outlets and Freeport Outlets.

Golf

Nothing beats teeing off on a beautiful green near the rugged Maine coastline. Enjoy leafy woodlands, streams, manicured greens and water views. A number of lovely courses surround the inn both to the north and to the south, our favorites including The Ledges Golf Course and Cape Neddick Country Club. Our local award-winning courses will have you looking forward to your next trip just minutes after leaving.

Fishing/Charters

Imagine the perfect day at sea, reeling in competition-size pollock, mackerel, bluefish, and stripers. No trip to York, Maine is complete without spending some time on the water, so if fishing is your passion, be sure to plan an ocean excursion. Try your luck at the “big catch” with local fishermen who know the waters inside and out. Check out our guide to Maine fishing for more tips, or plan your Maine fishing trip with Northern Edge Charters, conveniently located at the nearby Dockside Marina.

Whale Watching

Whale watching in Maine is an unforgettable experience! From April to October, you can spot these gentle giants as they migrate through the waters of the Gulf of Maine. Charter a tour with First Chance Whalewatch or Granite State for the chance to see large populations of migratory whales traveling through this region, which stretches from Nova Scotia to Cape Cod. Whale watching is one of the best family-friendly activities to enjoy with kids in York, Maine.

Boat Cruises

Take a slow sightseeing cruise along the unrivaled beauty of the southern Maine coastline.

*Offered exclusively for Dockside guests

Kayak & Bike Tours

Enjoy the gently rolling hills and views of the Maine coast on a bike, or discover the wildlife of Maine’s bays and estuaries in a kayak. Or if you are lucky enough to have enough time in beautiful York, do both! With plenty of gorgeous scenery and nature to be explored, you’ll want to take the time to explore our trails and waterways. Be sure to read our guide to kayaking in Maine.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Stroll out our front door and discover spectacular views and diverse habitats. Coastal Maine boasts miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails providing access to woodlands, fields, wetlands, beach, and dunes. We love Steedman Woods, Marginal Way, Wells Reserve at Laudholm, and Mount Agamenticus, but there are many many walks and trails to explore.

Even More Things to Do Near York, Maine

Still not convinced of the need to visit, York, ME? There are plenty of other great nearby attractions all along the Maine coastline.

Check-out our list of fantastic things to do in Ogunquit
Shopping is one of the best things to do in Kittery, Maine
We also have a list of our favorite attractions, activities, and things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Visiting the various antique shops is one of the great things to do in Wells, Maine up to the Maine coastline