Gabriel Rickles
Visit the northeasternmost state in the United States—Maine! It’s an ideal family destination, combining rugged coastlines, charming towns, natural beauty, and various kid-friendly adventures. With most of its territory covered by forests, this is the perfect place to feel closer to nature while bonding with your loved ones.
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park has over 47,000 acres to explore, which is perfect for families who love the outdoors. You’ll find scenic trails like the Ocean Path and the easygoing Jordan Pond Path. Kids will enjoy spotting wildlife and tidal pools. A visit to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the Atlantic Coast, offers breathtaking sunrise views, perfect for an early morning family adventure.
Bar Harbor Whale Watching
Treat your family to an unforgettable whale-watching tour in Bar Harbor. From May through October, you can see humpback, finback, minke whales, and playful seals and dolphins. The excitement of spotting these marine animals in their natural habitat makes it a thrilling experience for children and adults alike. Don’t forget your binoculars for the best views!
Portland’s Old Port District
A walk through Portland’s Old Port District feels like stepping back in time. Families will enjoy browsing the many boutique shops and stopping for a bite at one of the local bakeries or ice cream parlors. For older kids, check out the vibrant art scene or take a relaxing ferry ride to the nearby Casco Bay Islands, offering a blend of history and relaxation.
Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine
Located in Portland, this museum offers hands-on exhibits for younger kids and creative experiences for older children. The museum is an educational adventure for the whole family, from interactive science displays to art workshops. The on-site theater also features kid-friendly performances, adding a dose of entertainment to your Maine vacation.
L.L. Bean Flagship Store
Located in Freeport, the L.L. Bean Flagship Store is more than just a place to shop for outdoor gear. Kids will love the 24-hour indoor trout pond, while families can join free outdoor discovery programs like kayaking or archery lessons. Grab some new boots and explore the local hiking trails afterward!
Mount Desert Island
The scenic loop around Mount Desert Island is a must for families who enjoy sightseeing by car. Wind your way through charming fishing villages, stop at Thunder Hole for a splash of ocean spray, and enjoy the beautiful views along the way. Make sure to stop for fresh lobster rolls at one of the many roadside seafood shacks.
Maine Wildlife Park
Located in Gray, Maine, Wildlife Park is perfect for animal lovers. The park is home to rescued animals native to Maine, such as moose, black bears, and lynx. Kids can learn about local wildlife while wandering the beautifully maintained park. With picnic areas and walking trails, it’s a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
Take a family trip to the iconic Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol, one of Maine’s most photographed spots. Kids can climb the lighthouse tower for panoramic ocean views, while parents can enjoy the historical significance of this beautiful site. The adjacent Fishermen’s Museum gives a glimpse into Maine’s maritime heritage, making it a great stop for a quick history lesson.
Sebago Lake State Park
Sebago Lake State Park offers a perfect retreat for families that love the water. Spread over 1,400 acres, the park features sandy beaches, campgrounds, and rental options for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. The shallow shoreline is safe for young swimmers, while older kids can enjoy more adventurous water activities. It’s the perfect spot for a nature-filled day.
Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory
Take in sweeping views of the Penobscot River from the Penobscot Narrows Observatory, one of the tallest bridge observatories in the world. Kids will love riding the elevator to the top, where you can see up to 40 miles on a clear day. Combine this with a visit to nearby Fort Knox, a historic site with tunnels and towers to explore.
Maine Discovery Museum
The Maine Discovery Museum in Bangor is a fun stop for curious minds. Kids can immerse themselves and interact with the exhibitions about science, art, and culture across three floors. The museum offers hands-on learning opportunities, from a life-size model of a dinosaur to an exploration of local ecosystems. It’s the perfect spot to mix education with entertainment.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Spanning over 300 acres, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay is a peaceful escape into nature. Families will enjoy the Children’s Garden, filled with fairy houses and interactive exhibits. There are also walking trails and sculptures to explore, making this a great way to spend a few hours while surrounded by colorful blooms and art.
Old Orchard Beach – Classic New England Fun
This iconic beach offers seven miles of sand and waves, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The perfect day for a family starts at the beach, followed by a visit to Palace Playland, a beachfront amusement park with rides and arcade games for all ages. Cap off your day with some fried dough or saltwater taffy from one of the many local vendors.
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
In Freeport, Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is ideal for families seeking a quieter nature experience. The park’s trails meander through pine forests and along rocky shorelines, and it offers opportunities for birdwatching, particularly osprey spotting. Kids will love exploring the tidal pools, while parents can enjoy the park’s scenic picnic areas with coastal views.
Funtown Splashtown USA
End your Maine vacation with a splash at Funtown Splashtown USA in Saco. This amusement and water park has something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters to lazy river floats. Younger kids can enjoy gentler rides, while teens will likely be interested in the adrenaline-pumping slides and wave pools. It’s the perfect spot to cap off a family adventure!
