St. Anthony Franciscan Monastery and Grounds Kennebunk
A tranquil sanctuary offering peaceful walks, serene grounds, and spiritual reflection. Discover beautiful statues and a calming river trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
St. Anthony Franciscan Monastery and Grounds Kennebunk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil sanctuary offering peaceful walks, serene grounds, and spiritual reflection. Discover beautiful statues and a calming river trail.
"Visitors rave about the peaceful atmosphere and uplifting experience, making it a must-visit for serenity."
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk
Take a stroll on the paved path or explore the wooded trails for a serene experience.
🕯️ Light a Candle
A small donation allows you to light an electric candle for reflection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peaceful Walking Paths
Throughout the monastery grounds
Enjoy serene paved and wooded trails with statues and shrines. A perfect spot for quiet contemplation.
Points of the Cross Monument
Along the paved path
Fascinating sculptures and statues that invite reflection and study. A unique artistic and spiritual experience.
Riverfront Wooded Trail
Access from paved path
A short, peaceful trail offering views of the river and a connection with nature.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Explore the Sacred Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Activities in Kennebunkport
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk
Take a stroll on the paved path or explore the wooded trails for a serene experience.
🕯️ Light a Candle
A small donation allows you to light an electric candle for reflection.
Visiting Christmas Prelude for the first time with kids!
🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop
Browse unique items, but check hours as it's not always open.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Even if not religious, the peaceful atmosphere is uplifting.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk
Take a stroll on the paved path or explore the wooded trails for a serene experience.
🕯️ Light a Candle
A small donation allows you to light an electric candle for reflection.
🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop
Browse unique items, but check hours as it's not always open.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Even if not religious, the peaceful atmosphere is uplifting.
🚻 Restrooms Available
Public restrooms are conveniently located. Donations welcome for upkeep.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Anthony Franciscan Monastery for its profound peace and beautiful, well-maintained grounds. Many appreciate the opportunity for quiet reflection, the interesting statues, and the serene walking paths. While some note the gift shop hours can be inconsistent, the overall experience is described as uplifting and calming, making it a recommended stop for anyone seeking a moment of serenity.
"We stumbled upon the grounds by accident while attempting a U-turn at the main entrance but decided to explore, and we were glad we did. The grounds were interesting, and we eventually made our way to the gift shop in the back, where we picked up a few items. We also spent some time speaking with the priest, and the three of us found great comfort in our conversation with him. His presence left us feeling uplifted, radiating such a positive and peaceful energy. We were only visiting Kennebunkport from the Midwest for a few days, but if we return, we would make it a point to visit him again."
B D
"A very enjoyable walk on the paved path. I did explore a few of the paths through the woods. You can find places to sit and relax, even in front of the bee 🐝 colony.
The paved path is half a loop and takes you past statues that I found interesting to look at. After reading the book 📖, "Monuments Men", I have become more interested in sculptures and statues. The points of the cross monument were fascinating to view and study. There is an outdoor area for conducting mass. There is so much to see 🙈. They even have a gift shop.
There is a short dirt path that leads to the marina.
The place felt peaceful.
The area where they conduct indoor mass is interesting. The area in front of the doors has a place where you can light 🕯️ a candle for a dollar.
Public restrooms are available.
I will recommend a visit even if you are not religious."
Stephen Priest
"Was very peaceful and quiet. Beautiful grounds. Gift shop was not open when we were there."
Teresa Miller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monastery is located in Kennebunk, Maine. While specific public transport options are limited, it's easily accessible by car. Many visitors find it by accident while exploring the area.
Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's a good idea to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
The monastery is a short drive from Dock Square, but it's a bit of a walk. It's more convenient to drive or take a taxi/rideshare if you're not planning on a longer trek.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the grounds and chapels is free. The monastery relies on donations for upkeep and to maintain its peaceful environment.
The grounds are generally open to the public for walking and reflection. Specific hours for the chapels or gift shop may vary, so it's best to check in advance if you have a particular interest.
Tickets are not required as entry is free. You can visit anytime during public access hours.
The monastery has areas for conducting both indoor and outdoor mass. Information on mass schedules is usually available on-site or through their official channels.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks on paved and wooded trails, admire statues and shrines, and find quiet spots for reflection. There are also indoor and outdoor chapels, and a gift shop.
The paved paths are generally accessible, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The wooded trails may be less so.
Yes, the serene grounds, statues, and natural beauty offer many picturesque opportunities for photography.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Quiet reflection is encouraged, so a formal picnic might not be in the spirit of the place.
Take your time to wander the paths, sit in quiet contemplation, and appreciate the art and nature. Engaging with the peaceful atmosphere is key.
🍽️ knife_fork_plate Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the monastery itself. However, Kennebunkport offers a wide array of restaurants and cafes nearby.
It's advisable to check their specific policy, but generally, the focus is on quiet reflection. Bringing food for a full meal might not be appropriate.
📸 camera_with_flash Photography
The statues, shrines, the Points of the Cross monument, and the natural scenery along the river trail are excellent for photography.
Photography inside the chapels may be restricted out of respect. It's best to observe any signage or ask for guidance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it's a place for quiet reflection, families can enjoy a gentle walk and appreciate the natural surroundings. It's a good option for a calm activity that offers a break from more bustling tourist attractions. Remember to encourage respectful behavior due to the monastery's spiritual nature.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
You can wander at your own pace, sit by the river, or simply find a quiet bench to meditate. The opportunity to light a candle for a small donation adds a personal touch to your reflective experience. It's a place where you can feel a sense of calm and spiritual connection, even if you're traveling alone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual and Historical Significance
The monastery grounds are designed to foster a sense of serenity. You'll find a variety of statues and shrines scattered throughout, each with its own story or purpose. The 'Points of the Cross' monument is particularly noted for its intricate design and the opportunity it provides for thoughtful observation. This blend of art, nature, and spirituality creates a unique environment that resonates with many who visit.
Beyond the visual and spiritual aspects, the monastery also offers practical amenities. Public restrooms are available, and a gift shop provides an opportunity to purchase items. While the gift shop's hours can vary, it's worth checking if you're interested in souvenirs or religious items. The monastery humbly asks for donations to support the upkeep of its facilities and grounds, ensuring its continued role as a peaceful retreat.
Exploring the Grounds: A Nature Lover's Guide
For those seeking a more immersive natural experience, a short dirt path leads to a wooded trail along the river. This trail provides a different perspective, with the calming presence of the water and the rustling leaves. It's a perfect spot to sit, relax, and connect with the natural beauty of the area. Some visitors have even noted finding places to sit and observe the local bee colony, adding a touch of wildlife appreciation to the visit.
Even if you're not particularly religious, the natural beauty and the quietude of the grounds make it a worthwhile visit. The combination of manicured paths, natural woodland, and the gentle flow of the river creates a harmonious environment that appeals to a wide range of visitors looking for a peaceful escape.
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