Portland is a northern New England paradise when it comes to finding fun things to do for children. There is simply so much to choose both in the city and surrounding region that families may find it challenging to decided on just one - or several - activities during their visits. Youngsters eager to explore Portland's rich commercial fishing and overseas trade heritage will unquestionably enjoy the Portland Observatory, Portland Head Light & Museum, and the Eagle Island Tours. All three offer fascinating takes on Portland's ties to the sea. Meanwhile, it is possible to enjoy fun in the surf and on the boardwalk at Short Sands in York and the Orchard Beach Boardwalk in Orchard Beach. At both destinations, children can not only frolic in Maine's brisk ocean waters but also indulge in arcade games and, at Orchard Beach, a variety of amusement rides that offer thrills and chills for the younger set. On a similar note, Downeast Duck Tours present a unique sea level-eye view of Portland with their always delightful amphibious traveling vehicles, as well as rich historical lore about the city. Among other first rate activities, both boys and girls will find much to enjoy at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company with its exhilarating perceptions about Maine's railroad industry that specialized in traversing the extensive mountain ranges of northern Maine. Also, the Portland Sea Dogs always succeed in offering family friendly baseball fun that is both affordable and action packed. Of special note for the summer of 2011 is the York Public Library's compelling exhibit about Maurice Sendak, one of the most famous and prolific children's book illustrators in U.S. publishing history. So, there is never a dull moment when it comes to finding great things for kids to do in Maine.
177 Commercial Street
Down East Duck Adventures present tours of Portland via amphibious cars -- a unique way to enjoy Maine's largest commercial city...
58 Fore St
Take a trip back in time and learn about Maine's famous narrow gauge railways. A great outing for the entire family!...
1000 Shore Rd
Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth
Visitors to the Portland Head Light & Museum can tour the grounds of this historic lighthouse, as well as get a sense of Portland's rich history of navigation and shipping...
P.O. Box 26
The Wood Island Lighthouse allows visitors to view and experience this major lighthouse structure on the southern Maine coast...
170 Commercial St
Long Wharf (Commercial St.)
Eagle Island Tours offers a sneak peek into the Age of American Exploration by ferrying visitors to the summer home of famed arctic explorer Robert E. Peary...
15 Long Sands Road
For the summer of 2011, the York Public Library features a free special exhibit on Maurice Sendak, one of America's favorite children's book illustrators...
217 Park Ave
Hadlock Field
The Portland Sea Dogs offer great, professional quality baseball at family friendly prices. A great way to enjoy Portland in the warm weather!...
1267 Westbrook Street
The Tate House Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into colonial Maine life...
542 Congress St
Experience Maine like a true consumer by touring and shopping the L.L. Bean Outlet Store in Portland...