Maine is the northeasternmost state in the contiguous United States, celebrated for its rugged Atlantic coastline studded with lighthouses, lobster shacks perched over sheltered coves, the dramatic granite peaks of Acadia National Park, and vast northern forests roamed by moose. From the vibrant restaurant scene of Portland to the tranquil islands of Penobscot Bay, Maine offers a compelling blend of outdoor adventure and coastal charm.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Acadia National Park Junior Ranger Program
Kids complete an activity booklet on nature, history, and wildlife; rangers award a Junior Ranger badge. Pick up booklets at the Visitor Center. Park pass ($35/vehicle) required.
Bar Harbor Whale Watch Cruise
3.5-hour cruises to whale feeding grounds; finback, minke, and humpback whales commonly sighted June–October. Book at barharborwhalewatch.com or call (207) 288-2386.
Acadia Carriage Road Cycling
45 miles of smooth carriage roads perfect for families. Bikes rented at Acadia Bike in Bar Harbor (48 Cottage Street, (207) 288-9605). Child bikes, tag-alongs, and trailers available.
Old Orchard Beach Pier and Amusements
Classic New England boardwalk with carousel, mini golf, and carnival rides. Ideal for families with young children. Parking $15–$20/day in adjacent lots.
Maine State Aquarium
Small but excellent aquarium featuring Maine's marine species: lobster, cod, seals, and touch tanks. Open late June–Labor Day. Call (207) 633-9559 for hours.
York's Wild Kingdom Zoo and Amusement Park
Combined zoo and amusement park with over 250 animals and kiddie rides. Open late May–Labor Day. yorksanimalpark.com
Portland Children's Museum and Theatre of Maine
Hands-on interactive exhibits covering science, arts, and Maine culture. Indoor option on rainy days. Open Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00. kitetails.org
Acadia Sand Beach Swimming
The most accessible swimming beach in Acadia; lifeguards in summer, calm-ish water, beautiful mountain backdrop. Water cold (18°C/65°F peak); bring wetsuits for young children.
Lobster Fishing Boat Experience
Short cruises on working lobster boats; captains demonstrate trap hauling, lobster measuring, and banding. Lulu Lobster Boat Ride in Bar Harbor: (207) 963-2341. 50-min trips from $25/adult.
Sunday River Summer Mountain Biking and Zip Line
Sunday River ski resort operates mountain biking ($35 lift + bike), a zip line ($65), and scenic chairlift rides ($20) in summer. Open daily mid-June through Labor Day.
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Bar Harbor Inn
Spruce Point Inn
Samoset Resort
Holiday Inn by the Bay Portland
Old Orchard Beach Campground (Huttopia)
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Lobster pounds with outdoor picnic tables (Harraseeket in South Freeport, Thurston's in Bernard) are relaxed and family-welcoming
Duckfat Portland — duck-fat fries are a universal hit with children; the milkshakes are exceptional
All major coastal towns have ice cream shops; Gifford's Ice Cream is a beloved Maine chain with rotating seasonal flavors
Many mid-range Portland restaurants are child-friendly without being specifically kids' restaurants; call ahead to confirm high chairs are available
Grocery stores (Hannaford, Shaw's) are excellent for assembling a beach picnic; Maine-made products like Stonewall Kitchen jams and Wyman's blueberry products make great snacks
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.