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MaineFamily-friendly activities

Our most recommended Maine Family-friendly activities

Portland, Maine: Sightseeing Trolley Tour with a Guide

1. Portland, Maine: Sightseeing Trolley Tour with a Guide

Hop on this classic 1-hour trolley tour and explore the rich history and beautiful sights of Portland! On this fully narrated tour, you’ll learn about hundreds of years of history and pass some of Portland's most iconic landmarks. Weaving between Old Port, East Bayside, Downtown, and the Arts District, you’ll learn about places like The Portland Observatory, The Longfellow House, and Victoria Mansion. Once the tour is complete, you'll have a wealth of knowledge and recommendations for the city of Portland. Please arrive to the tour meeting point 15 minutes before the tour begins.

Schooner Apple Jack: 2Hr Day Sail from Boothbay Harbor

2. Schooner Apple Jack: 2Hr Day Sail from Boothbay Harbor

Help hoist sails or take a turn at the wheel as we set a course out past Burnt Island Light, Squirrel Island, Ram Island Light and the outer islands of Boothbay. Keep a sharp eye out for porpoise, Osprey, Bald Eagles, and harbor seals as we slip by local boats setting their pots or hauling in the lobster catch of the day.

Portland: Schooner Tall Ship Cruise on Casco Bay

3. Portland: Schooner Tall Ship Cruise on Casco Bay

Set sail on a two-hour cruise from Portland along the rugged coast of Casco Bay. Pack a meal and your favorite wine or beer, and sit back and relax as you slip through the peaceful waters of Maine. Enjoy views of lighthouses, seals, and other coastal wildlife aboard a famous schooner tall ship. Join the crew to hoist the sails or take a turn at the ship's wheel if you feel inspired. Whether you're nine years old or 99, sailing aboard a Maine schooner is a unique adventure. Learn more about the wooden windjammers which are all listed on the National Register of Historic Places and were built in Maine.

Portland: Food Walking Tour with Tastings

4. Portland: Food Walking Tour with Tastings

Join a food walking tour of Portland to celebrate the city's diverse and mouthwatering cuisine. See the very best of Portland's food scene, featuring a carefully curated selection of themed culinary experiences at each stop, from sweet treats to savory delights. Start your journey by seeing a piece of the Berlin Wall, gaining a glimpse into Portland’s connection to global history. Head to your first food destination and dive into a world of sweet indulgence with a freshly baked doughnut or fudge dessert treat. Next up, venture into the realm of seafood delights with a food tasting stop dedicated to savoring succulent and flavorful lobster rolls, a true delicacy that embodies Portland's coastal culinary heritage. After feasting on seafood, take a leisurely city walk to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Portland. Watch the streets come alive with energy and charm, offering a delightful backdrop for your culinary adventure. Finally, make your way to a haven for cheese enthusiasts. Delight in the artistry of a staple Portland grilled cheese shop and sample one of their famous sandwiches. Celebrates the timeless delight of cheese and its rich, diverse flavors. Along the way, gain a fascinating insight into Portland's food culture, the history behind each culinary gem, and the unique stories that make each stop special. Learn about some of the most important moments in Portland’s history from your guide.

Portland: Self-Guided Sightseeing Driving Audio Tour

5. Portland: Self-Guided Sightseeing Driving Audio Tour

Travel through the neighborhoods of Portland on a self-guided driving tour. Learn about the city’s history and culture from an audio-guided app on your smartphone and get panoramic views from the Eastern Promenade.  Start by downloading the app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Once downloaded, your Portland tour begins at the Visit Portland Center. Drive down Commercial Street and hear about the industrial beginnings of the city. Along the way, you’ll see the wonderfully preserved Victoria Mansion, dating back to 1858. That’s followed by the even older Danforth Inn, which goes all the way back to 1823. As you drive up the Western Promenade, you’ll hear about some famous folks who were laid to rest in Portland, including the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (a statue of whom you’ll see next, in Longfellow Square). Go to the Art District (perfect for picking up a souvenir), followed by a church that was once destroyed by the British.  Continue toward the shore, passing the site of an observatory that once guided ships into Portland’s occasionally treacherous harbor. Spot a couple of picturesque lighthouses perfect for any photo collection. Explore the Eastern Promenade, a 68-acre seaside park sporting plenty of unforgettable ocean views. You’ll see the strange and controversial “baked beans” building, before passing through Old Port again for a second chance to stop at one of the neighborhood’s many restaurants and boutiques. Pass by a statue of Portland’s own John Ford. Cross the Casco Bay Bridge into South Portland, home to a quieter community than its buzzing northern neighbor. Finally, you’ll arrive at Fort Williams Park, full of beauty and history. The tour concludes here.

Belfast: Pirate Treasure Hunt Private Boat Tour

6. Belfast: Pirate Treasure Hunt Private Boat Tour

Climb aboard an iconic boat to embark on your treasure hunt tour in Belfast. Follow the map, keep an eye on the sandglass, and solve clues. Come down to the Belfast City Harbor Dock aboard the Back and Forth, a traditional 28-feet wooden lobster boat. Start your adventure with a safety briefing. Get geared up in life vests and pirate hats and choose your seats. Then, begin your treasure hunt. Once out in the bay, flip the old sand hourglass to start your 1-hour countdown to finding the treasure before it is lost to the sea forever. The only directions you have are an old treasure map and some cryptic clues that were discovered in the walls of this very lobster boat. There are 8 'X's on the map but only 1 leads to the treasure. Solve the clues to find out which one it will be. Work out clues to be led to the spot where you can haul the treasure chest. The 8 crosses are there to deter you, so you might not get it the first time, but

Kennebunkport: Cape Porpoise Half-Day Kayak/SUP Rental

7. Kennebunkport: Cape Porpoise Half-Day Kayak/SUP Rental

Go on an exciting adventure in Cape Porpoise. Get your crew together and experience some of the best views Maine has to offer for 3 hours. Cruise through the picturesque waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery, all while soaking in the sun and exploring the variety of wildlife in the area. Have a half-day adventure in Cape Porpoise, the quintessential Maine harbor and a great launch site to start your kayaking excursion. Paddle out to Goat Island to tour its famous lighthouse, explore the picturesque landscaping of Turbats Creek, observe all the incredible animals who thrive in its waters, and so much more. Enjoy a perfect tour for outdoor adventurers of various skill levels and take in the beautiful scenery while enjoying fresh air and sunshine.

Portland, Maine: Walking Tour Audio Guide

8. Portland, Maine: Walking Tour Audio Guide

Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Once downloaded, your tour begins outside the Visit Portland Center. Here, you'll get your first introduction to Portland's intriguing history, from its dual founding to its reconstruction following the Great Fire. Walking down the city streets, you'll learn about the Burning of Portland, the landmark United States Custom House, and the only newspaper published at sea! You'll delve into the fascinating tales of the Portland Rum Riot and the city's history of conflagration, then journey back to the times of the Underground Railroad and the life of Daniel Colesworthy, a key abolitionist voice in Portland. Stepping into the world of the Wabanaki people, you'll also gain insight into Portland's original inhabitants. The next stop is the beautifully preserved Victoria Mansion, a symbol of the city's architectural wealth. After that is the equally grand Cathedral Church of St. Luke. Stroll by the Augusta Hunt House, take a moment to admire the statue at One Longfellow Square, and learn about the struggle for Women's Suffrage in Maine. Then, pick up some trendy souvenirs in the vibrant Art District! At the Maine Historical Society, explore the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, a reminder of the city's literary heritage. After that, lounge in the beautiful Lincoln Park as you hear the thrilling tale of the Battle of Portland Harbor. Finally, you’ll pass by the University of Maine School of Law, a striking building with a lot of history. Your tour concludes here, back in Old Port where you began.

Sebago Lake: Half-Day Kayak Rental

9. Sebago Lake: Half-Day Kayak Rental

Explore Sebago Lake and the surrounding streams and ponds from a private launch site, conveniently located between the meandering stream of Panther Run and the north end of Jordan Bay on Sebago Lake. Discover multiple beaches for swimming, man-made canals, natural coves and inlets, and islands to explore on your own. Alternatively, sit back and take in the vast and natural beauty of this renowned Maine lake. After checking in at the rental desk, you will be briefed with a safety demonstration and provided a map of the local waterway. Be provided with a fitted lifejacket and paddle and walk to the launch site to be assisted into a kayak. Then you are cleared to explore Sebago Lake.

Biddeford Pool: Half Day Kayak or SUP Rental

10. Biddeford Pool: Half Day Kayak or SUP Rental

Discover Biddeford Pool at a relaxed pace with a rented kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Explore the beautiful waters of the area and see the sandy shores of Hills Beach or the stunning views along the Saco River. Cruise through the picturesque waters of Biddeford and be prepared for an exciting excursion. Meet your host and receive all the equipment you will need to explore this large tidal pool. Take part in a short training session to get comfortable on your kayak or paddleboard. Once you are ready, set off on your own adventure. Paddle towards the vast sea marshes of Maine's coast. Discover the tranquil shores of Hills Beach. Admire the views along the serene Saco River. Wherever you choose to explore, you will discover scenic views at every turn.

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Frequently asked questions about Maine Family-friendly activities

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Other Sightseeing Options in Maine

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What people are saying about Maine

Definitely not a sailor so when the boat tilts it’s a bit disconcerting until you realize that’s what sailing is supposed to be. We apparently had real good wind on our trip so got to go out past where most end up. Very cool activity, got to see three lighthouses, some very cool houses along the coast and the rugged coast line without the drone of an engine. Captain and the other crew were knowledgeable and very cool, a nice peaceful adventure, definitely worth it in my book

This was the perfect way to end our Maine trip. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable and the boat itself was stunning. Learned A lot of history about the boat. My partner and I Loved every minute of it . Take advantage of the byob.

Really enjoyed learning about Portland. Easy to use. The directions were easy to follow.

Very relaxing! Lots of nice views! The crew is knowledgeable and funny!

Great sailboat rode around Casco Bay! Beautiful. Wonderful crew!