Old Orchard Beach is known for its sun-soaked waterfront Pier, fresh lobster rolls, and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. This cozy resort town is also the perfect place to escape from the bustle and spend an afternoon strolling through downtown.
Ready to explore the best things to do in Old Orchard Beach? Here are ten places to get started.
1. Hop on a Thrill-Ride at Palace Playland
As New England’s only beachfront amusement park, Palace Playland features five-acres and 28 rides for thrill-seekers of all ages. The Playland is also home to Maine’s largest arcade and is central to the rest of downtown to make the most of the best things to do in Old Orchard Beach.
2. Explore the Old Orchard Beach Pier
Spend the afternoon strolling Old Orchard Beach Pier for restaurants, bars, comedy shows, and live music. Built-in 1898, this historic Pier once attracted 5,000 people to acts featuring Frank Sinatra, Benny Goodman, and other premier entertainers. Today, the Pier is celebrated for its seafood and relaxed entertainment, whether you’re headed out for an evening with friends or family.
3. Take in a Concert at the Seaside Pavilion
Spend the day strolling downtown before heading out to one of the best things to do in Old Orchard Beach at the Seaside Pavilion. This state-of-the-art outdoor venue offers stadium seating and unobstructed views. Enjoy acts like Steven Curtis Chapman and the Portland Symphony Orchestra play against the backdrop of the ocean with a gentle breeze to match.
4. Pirate’s Cove Adventure Minipark
Test your competitive spirit at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf for 18-holes along a landscaped course of waterfalls and caves. The 18th-century buccaneer-themed course features a full-scale pirate ship and footbridges peppered with enchanting pirate lore.
5. Indulge in Dickinson’s Candy
One of the best things to do in Old Orchard Beach is delighting your taste buds. Stop by Dickinson’s Candy for 4,500 square feet of homemade fudge, taffy, caramel, ice cream kettle and cheese popcorn, and more. Keep an eye out for specialty items like carrot cake fudge and let the kids discover new favorites.
6. Root for the Old Orchard Beach Surge Baseball
Old Orchard Beach may be a cozy oceanfront town, but still boasts its own independent Empire Professional Baseball League. The Old Orchard Beach Surge Baseball team plays at the local ballpark with a stadium seating capacity of 6,000, and even hosts annual events like the local Blues Fest. Come out to the Old Orchard Beach Ballpark and watch the Surge play against teams like the Southern Maine Waves or Costa NE baseball league.
7. Take a Walk Through History
Step back in time at the Harmon Museum. Exhibits include the Old Orchard Beach Casino Ballroom, Palace Dancehall, and marathon dances. The museum also houses a Fire Room with documentation and information on devastating blazes that once destroyed much of downtown.
8. Hit the Water with Little Miss Paddleboards
The coastline holds the secrets to some of the best things to do in Old Orchard Beach. Ride the waves and get in touch with Maine’s oceanfront with Little Miss Paddleboards. At just 75-yards from the ocean, you can rent a professional-grade paddleboard and hit the water in minutes.
9. Take a Surf Lesson with Mocean Surf & Skate
Ever wanted to learn to surf along Maine’s coastline? Head to Mocean Surf & Skate to browse wetsuits, boards, and more. While you’re there, ask about surf lessons to get you out on the water and up on the waves.
10. Browse the Gifts at Beachology
Founded by a former wardrobe stylist on The Wonder Years, Beachology welcomes customers looking for a nostalgic, feel-good experience. Browse unique gifts and artwork that capture the spirit of Maine and Old Orchard Beach.
Ready to plan your next vacation to explore the best things to do in Old Orchard Beach? Find a vacation rental home and start exploring.