The Brick Store Museum is the best place in the Kennebunks to learn about the people and industries that built the towns. It stands on Main Street in Kennebunk, in a historic complex of brick buildings, and it collects and exhibits the history of the region, from the shipbuilders and sea captains who made fortunes in the nineteenth century to the artists, merchants and residents who followed. Exhibits change, but typically draw on maritime paintings, ship models, tools, textiles, photographs and documents. The museum also has a minke whale skeleton, a playroom for children and programs for visitors of different ages, which makes it more family friendly than many local history museums. It is a modest museum rather than a major institution, so plan on a relaxed hour or two, and take the time to talk with staff or volunteers who often know the stories behind the objects.
What to expect
The museum is small and focused, with galleries that rotate through different themes. If you are interested in shipbuilding and the sea, ask what maritime items are on display, and if you have children, ask about the playroom and activities. The museum also hosts talks, walking tours and events, so check its calendar. Because it is in Kennebunk rather than Kennebunkport, it is an easy add-on to a visit to the Wedding Cake House and Summer Street.
Practical notes
The museum is on Main Street in Kennebunk, a short drive from Dock Square, and street parking is available nearby. Opening days and hours vary by season and the museum is not open every day, so check before you go. Admission policies and accessibility change, and some older buildings have limits, so contact the museum if anyone in your party has mobility concerns. A visit takes about an hour, longer if you join a program.
Why it matters
The Kennebunks were once among the busiest shipbuilding centers in Maine, and the wealth that created the fine houses along Summer Street came from the sea. A visit to the museum makes the architecture and the landscape more meaningful, and it provides a counterpoint to the resort image of the area. It also covers later chapters of the story, including the rise of summer tourism and the role of artists and writers in the region.
Who it suits
History lovers, families, rainy-day planners and anyone curious about the stories behind the buildings. It is an excellent choice when beach weather fails, and it combines well with a stroll along Summer Street, lunch in the Lower Village and an afternoon at the monastery gardens. If you only have time for one museum on this coast, choose between this and the Seashore Trolley Museum depending on whether you prefer local history or vintage transport.
Rainy day planning
Pair the museum with a coffee in Kennebunk, a browse through a nearby bookshop and a drive along Summer Street when the rain eases. Teachers and parents can ask about school and family programs, and history lovers should check for walking tours and talks that bring the exhibits to life. Bring a notebook, and ask staff for suggestions of other historic sites in the area.
What to expect
The experience
A small local history museum on Main Street in Kennebunk with changing exhibits, a minke whale skeleton and a children's playroom.
Best time
Rainy days and shoulder seasons; check opening days.
How long
About an hour or two.
Tips
Check hours and admission before you go and ask about programs.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers and rainy-day visitors.
- Families
- The playroom and whale skeleton appeal to children.
- Couples
- A quiet cultural stop for couples.
- Pair with
- Summer Street and the Wedding Cake House.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Where is it?+
On Main Street in Kennebunk.
Is there a kids area?+
Yes, the museum has a children's playroom.
What is in the collection?+
Local and maritime history, plus a minke whale skeleton.
Is it open daily?+
Not necessarily. Check the museum calendar.
Is it in Kennebunkport?+
No, in neighboring Kennebunk, a short drive away.