8 Fun Summer Things to Do Outdoors With the Kids in Maine

For New Englanders, the time has come. The time to get outside and enjoy every possible moment of nice weather. I always tell people that aren’t from here that Maine is the best place to be in the summer. We've got beaches, hiking, camping, and endless outdoor activities for all ages.

Let’s talk about the kids. Whether you’re a local or plan to visit this summer, these are just a few things that will keep you and the kiddos not only occupied, but having a blast during the summer months.

Funtown Splashtown – Saco

FunTown and Splashtown are the dynamic duo of summer fun. Funtown's got all the thrills of a classic amusement park, including the infamous Excalibur roller coaster and the Dragon’s Descent. Then, you've got Splashtown right next door, where you can cool off and splash around in the water slides and wave pools.

Aquaboggin – Saco

Just a few minutes up the street is Aquaboggin. This water park is a blast. They have fun slides like the Yankee Ripper, Turbo Drop, and my favorite, The Stealth, where you fly down a 45-foot half pipe. This one still scares me to this day, but I love it. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, and Aquaboggin requires riders to be at least 48” tall.

Maine Wildlife Park – Gray

Maine Wildlife Park is like stepping into a real-life nature documentary, but without the need for a TV screen. Tucked away in Gray, Maine, you can stroll through wooded trails and catch a glimpse of all of their on-site wildlife, and maybe say hello to a black bear or two (from a safe distance, of course).

I also love that this is not your typical zoo experience. Their focus is on rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals native to Maine, giving them a second chance at life in the wild.

Pineland Farms – New Gloucester

Just up the street from the Maine Wildlife Park, Pineland Farms is like a summer wonderland for kids (and adults like me who still haven't quite grown up). They have everything you need for a day of outdoor adventure and family fun, from wide-open fields perfect for picnics and games to miles of hiking and biking trails.

You can even get up close and personal with some furry friends at the barnyard, where kids can pet goats, feed chickens, and maybe even catch sight of a baby calf taking its first steps. To top it all off, you can rent a paddleboat and cruise around the pond, or play a game of disc golf on their scenic course.

York’s Wild Kingdom – York

Located in York Beach, York's Wild Kingdom is the ultimate destination for animal lovers and and family-friendly rides if you’re in Southern Maine. There are family rides, a miniature golf course, petting zoo, concession stands, gift shop, and so much more.

Acadia National Park – Near Bar Harbor

This might be the ultimate playground for summer adventures with the kids in Maine. Nestled along the rugged coast of Maine, Arcadia National Park is a paradise of rocky shores, forests, and stunning mountain peaks just waiting to be explored. Whether you're into hiking, biking, spotting wildlife, or just soaking up some epic ocean views, Acadia's got you covered. Just make sure you check the trail difficulties before going on adventure with the kids, as many of them are for experienced hikers only.

Palace Playland – Old Orchard Beach

Palace Playland is the ultimate amusement park for family fun, and it's right on the beach! Since 1902, people have been coming for their thrilling rides, classic arcade games, and all the tasty carnival treats that you would expect. From the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to the gentle kiddie rides, there's something for everyone. With its beachfront location, you can hit some rides, grab some food, and then relax on the beach, all within a few steps.

Portland Seadogs at Hadlock Field - Portland

This is a home run for the family in the summer. A Sea Dogs game at Hadlock Field is the perfect blend of baseball fun and laid-back vibes that come complete with your traditional baseball grub on-site like burgers, hot dogs, fries, Cracker Jacks, and more.

But it's not just about the game. There's plenty to keep the kids entertained between innings, with the main attraction always being the team mascot, Slugger, running around the ballpark.