St. Anthony's Franciscan Monastery is one of the most tranquil places in the Kennebunks. The estate sits on the bank of the Kennebunk River, across the road from the White Barn Inn, and it has been home to a community of Franciscans since Lithuanian Franciscans bought the property in 1947. Over the decades they added a chapel, an outdoor shrine, a grotto, statuary and spaces for worship, and the grounds also contain English-style gardens and a trail that follows the river. The monastery is best known for its sculpture, including pieces that came from the Vatican Pavilion at the 1964 and 1965 World's Fair, which give the grounds an unexpected international flavor. It is a working religious community and a place of retreat, so visitors are asked to behave quietly and respectfully, to park in the visitor lot and to follow posted guidelines. Whatever your beliefs, it is a calm and beautiful place to walk.
What to see
Walk the paths past the shrine and the grotto, look at the statues and carvings, and visit the chapel if it is open and no service is under way. The gardens are at their best in summer, when flowers are in bloom, and in autumn, when the trees along the river turn color. The riverside trail gives views across the water and a sense of how the Kennebunk River winds toward the sea. Photography is generally fine on the grounds but should be discreet, and you should not photograph people at prayer.
Etiquette and practicalities
The monastery asks visitors to be quiet, dress modestly and not to wander into private areas. Hours, seasons and any admission or donation policies change, so check the local chamber of commerce or contact the monastery before your visit. The grounds can be muddy after rain, so wear sturdy shoes. Some retreat and overnight stays are possible for those who wish to stay in a prayerful setting, but they must be arranged in advance.
Planning
Allow an hour for a relaxed walk, longer if you want to sit and reflect. The monastery is a short drive from Dock Square and is also on the route of the Intown Trolley, which mentions it in its narration. Combine it with a walk to nearby beaches or a meal in Lower Village. Early morning and late afternoon are quietest, and weekdays are less busy than weekends.
Who it suits
Those seeking a quiet moment, history lovers, garden lovers, photographers and anyone interested in religious art. It is not suited to loud groups or to visitors expecting a typical attraction with a gift shop and tours. For a contrast with the lively Dock Square, it is the perfect antidote, and many visitors say it is a highlight of their stay precisely because it is so calm.
Reflective visits
If you are seeking quiet, go on a weekday morning and plan to sit on a bench by the river for a while. Bring a small notebook or simply watch the light on the water. Families may like to turn the walk into a quiet game of spotting statues and flowers, and those who enjoy sacred art can ask at the grounds about the history of the carvings.
What to expect
The experience
A quiet riverside estate with a chapel, shrine, grotto, statuary, gardens and a riverside trail.
Best time
Quiet mornings and late afternoons; summer for gardens and autumn for color.
How long
About an hour.
Tips
Be quiet and respectful, park in the visitor lot and check hours before you go.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a calm break, and history and garden lovers.
- Families
- Suitable for children who can stay quiet.
- Couples
- A peaceful, romantic walk.
- Pair with
- Dock Square or the Kennebunk beaches.
- Time needed
- About an hour.
Good questions
Where is it?+
On the Kennebunk River, across the road from the White Barn Inn.
Is it free?+
The grounds are generally open to respectful visitors. Check for donation or hours policies.
Can I stay overnight?+
Retreat stays are possible by advance arrangement.
Can I take photographs?+
Yes, discreetly, and not of people at prayer.
Is it on the trolley route?+
The Intown Trolley narration mentions the monastery.