New Roller Coaster Opens at Palace Playland in Old Orchard Beach, Maine

For so many families throughout Maine and New England, a trip to Old Orchard Beach, Maine, is a summer tradition.

That trip usually includes a dip in the ocean, a stroll along the main drag to grab some food and a visit to Palace Playland to enjoy some rides or the arcade.

Over the last few years, Palace Playland has been working hard to update their rides. Maine's only beachside amusement park has added several new attractions, from kiddie rides to some serious thrills.

For the 2026 season, Palace Playland has once again added a new attraction. And it's one the whole family can enjoy.

Palace Playland in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, Adds 'Gold Rush' Family Coaster

Hugging the beach side of the amusement park is a brand new family-friendly roller coaster at Palace Playland called Gold Rush.

The coaster is specifically designed for tight spaces but manages to features some sharp turns, slopes and a helix for the feel of a much larger coaster.

The majority of the work to install the new family coaster happened after the park closed for the season in 2025. Final touches were put on at the beginning of spring and Palace Playland has announced Gold Rush is open and ready for visitors.

Palace Playland is currently operating rides only on weekends until their full opening which happens on Thursday, June 18.

Palace Playland in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, Added Two Thrill Rides in 2025

The addition of the new family coaster in 2026 follows a pair of thrill rides making their debut at the amusement park in 2025.

The Wind Surfer debuted last summer, gliding thrill seekers up to 30 feet in the air. Palace Playland also debuted the Nitro Speed, a high octane, heart pounding thrill ride that features twists, spins and speed.