Are you looking for super fun summertime play spots for your kids this year?
Look no further than Old Orchard Beach … Mind you, it’s “O.O.B.” to us locals.
Anyone will tell you that the star attraction of Old Orchard Beach is, of course, Palace Playland. This old-school beachside amusement park dates all the way back to 1902. You won’t want to miss its 24,000 square foot arcade (yup, it’s huge!). Nor will you want to miss the bird’s eye view of OOB sitting atop the 70-foot high Ferris wheel.
But …
We want to let you know about a few other awesome things to do with your kiddies so you have some options on your next vacation to one of Maine’s most popular coastal destinations.
Here’s our roundup of kid-approved hangouts in Old Orchard Beach:
1. Pirate’s Cove Mini Golf
Arrrgh, mateys! If ye be cravin’ a bit o’ the game o’ skill then swagger yer swashbucklin’ selves over to Pirate’s Cove.
Set among an array of caves and waterfalls, this popular mini golf spot promises an afternoon of family fun time. The OOB Pirate’s Cove location boasts a pair of 18-hole mini golf courses with both beginner and expert variations so everyone can play.
For More Info:
Pirate’s Cove @ OOB
70 First Street
Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064
2. Ocean Park Soda Fountain
Want to chill with your family and enjoy some tasty liquid treats?
Then you’ll want to head to the quieter side of OOB, the area known as Ocean Park where you’ll find this unique soda fountain.
Be aware there might be a line but don’t let that scare you off! I guarantee it will be worth the wait.
The staff is plenty warm and friendly while the ice cream treats (with ample serving sizes!) are delivered nice and cool for those warm Maine summer days. The wide variety of ice cream flavors are local too; provided by Thibodeau Farms in nearby Saco and my oh my is it ultra-tasty!!
For More Info:
Ocean Park Soda Fountain
14 Temple Ave
Ocean Park, ME 04064
3. Memorial Park & Playground
Not too far from the pier, and right across the street from the Amtrak station, you’ll find Memorial Park. This is a perfect spot to check out for some extra family hang time with plenty to do.
The park features a playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, in addition to a picnic area. They often host events as well so be sure to check ahead to see what’s going on during your stay.
For More Info:
Memorial Park @ OOB
Staple and Heath Street
Old Orchard Beach, ME
4. The Beach!
We’d be remiss if we didn’t just simply mention the delightful beach at OOB. The beach here is plenty clean and stretches for 7 miles!
It’s no wonder Family Vacation Critic just named it one of the Best Beaches For Families in 2018.
With a long-standing reputation for family fun, entertainment, great people, and great food – you’re virtually guaranteed an amazing summer experience. So bring your toys, sunscreen, and of course your bathing suits for many days of fun in the sun!
Check the event schedule with the link below … and be sure to stick around after sunset for the weekly fireworks events too!
For More Info:
DON’T MISS IT: The Pier @ OOB
I’m sure you might have guessed, but I must remind you that right near the Pier tends to be the busiest area during the height of summer vacation season so be sure to plan accordingly so the kiddos don’t get too restless!
Speaking of the OOB Pier, here’s a fun fact for you:
The original pier at Old Orchard Beach was once the largest steel-constructed pier in the world at 1,825 feet long! Granted, the northeastern storms did get the best of the ol’ pier more than a few times over the years. When you visit, you’ll find that the current pier has been standing strong since 1980, spans 500 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, and features a wide array of souvenir shops, carnival games, and delicious food.
Are you ready to experience the fun at Old Orchard?? What are you looking forward to most during your vacation?
Leave us a comment below!
Feature photo credit: H. Michael Miley