Maine’s Oldest Business Has Been Open for Nearly 400 Years

While our Pine Tree State has been a state since 1820, this business in Maine has been continuously operating since the 1600s!

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With so many businesses shutting down left and right in 2025, it’s hard to believe when one stands the test of time. That’s why it’s incredible to talk about a business that’s been open for the number of years we’re celebrating today.

With that in mind, beyond simply existing for nearly 400 years and witnessing history unfold, how do we determine which business is the oldest in Maine?

Obviously, none of us were around 400 years ago keeping track of which businesses were open, let alone sticking around to see them last. Luckily, the New England Historical Society has us covered with ‘The Oldest Business in Each New England State’ on their website, sharing the history of our region’s longest-running businesses.

Now that we've clarified that, what is Maine’s oldest business, and how in the world has it managed to stay open for all these years?

The Seaside Inn in Kennebunk is the state's oldest business, welcoming guests since 1667. According to the New England Historical Society, it was originally run by John Gooch, who arrived in 1637 and later opened the inn while also operating a ferry service.

The Gooch family has owned the inn since 1756, making it one of the oldest family-run businesses in the U.S.

Today, as noted by the New England Historical Society, a ninth-generation descendant of the family still runs the Seaside Inn.

So, there you have it—the oldest business in Maine, which has been open since 1667, is the Seaside Inn in Kennebunk!

Have you ever visited or stayed at the Seaside Inn in Kennebunk? Did you know it's the oldest business in Maine? We'd love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

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