Kid Friendly Sights in Maine

Alternatives to Beach Days in Southern Maine for Kids

© Elizabeth Nolan

Jul 7, 2008
Lenny the Chocolate Moose, Liz Nolan
If your summer travels take your family to the beautiful coastline of Southern Maine, you will find many kid friendly venues just a short car ride away.

If you need a rainy day activity or want to take a break from the sand and sunshine, here are a few suggestions of where you can visit and that the kids will find entertaining as well. If you are staying in the Ocean Park, Maine area, these excursions are all under an hour's drive.

Museums in Southern Maine

Children's Museum of Maine

The kids will love to explore this hands-on environment and parents will enjoy watching the kids' imaginations soar. Among the many exhibits and daily programs, the Museum features a car repair shop, vet's office, grocery store, diner, space shuttle, dress-up theater and a fire truck. Outdoors there is a Ship Yard where the kids can become sea pirates. There is a designated area for snacks as well as an indoor toddler area for younger children. The Museum is located in Portland, Maine.

Seashore Trolley Museum

Experience history in motion on a scenic 25 minute ride on historic, restored electric streetcars. Unlimited rides are available with admission. Take the time to walk through the exhibit barns to see the international transit collection including early horse-drawn cars and modern subways. Special trolley themes are scheduled for the fall and holiday season. There is a nice picnic area on the premise. The Museum is located in Kennebunkport.

Portland Headlight Maine's oldest lighthouse is located in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth. There is a museum on site, as well as a scenic cliff walk and small playground. There is plenty of space for a picnic lunch and the opportunity to climb on the remains of Fort Williams.

Southern Maine Amusement Parks

Funtown/Splashtown U.S.A.

A family amusement and waterpark located in Saco offers many rides, slides, pools, arcades and eating facilities.

Palace Playland

There is no admission charge so take the time to walk through New England's only beachfront amusement park located next to the Old Orchard Beach Pier. The fireworks display is a treat every Thursday night during the summer months.

York's Wild Kingdom

Maine's largest zoo and amusement park features exotic animals and family rides.

Other Short Stops for Days Out in Maine

Len Libby Handmade Candies

Visit Lenny, the life-size moose made of 1,700 pounds of chocolate. You wont be able to leave without a sweet treat or two.

Portland Sea Dogs

If your schedule allows, it is always fun to attend a baseball game with the AA Affliliate to the Boston Red Sox.

Downeast Duck Adventures

Take a 65 minute narrated tour through historical Portland on an amphibious vehicle before plunging into Casco Bay.

Lighthouses, historical sights, museums, homemade candy, and amusement parks will delight all ages as you visit some of the great family stops in Southern Maine.


The copyright of the article Kid Friendly Sights in Maine in Kid-Friendly Travel Destinations is owned by Elizabeth Nolan. Permission to republish Kid Friendly Sights in Maine in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


Lenny the Chocolate Moose, Liz Nolan
Fort Williams, Cape Elizaabeth ME, Liz  Nolan
Portland Head Light , Liz Nolan
   


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