Things To Do in Maine

Top Things to Do in Maine

Planning a visit to Southern Maine gives you easy access to coastal views, family attractions, local food, museums, parks, and classic New England culture. Whether you are staying near South Portland, exploring Portland, or planning a day trip around the coast, there are plenty of Maine attractions to enjoy before or after your trip with Maple Pond Outdoors.

Maple Pond Outdoors is based around the kind of Maine experience visitors are looking for: local knowledge, outdoor scenery, and time spent near the water. Use this guide to plan the best things to do in Maine, including family-friendly stops, cultural attractions, dining areas, and easy day trips that pair well with a Southern Maine visit.

Visit Portland Head Light and Fort Williams Park

Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth is one of the most iconic Maine attractions near South Portland. It sits along the shore at Fort Williams Park and is known as Maine’s oldest lighthouse, making it a must-see stop for visitors who want classic coastal views and photo opportunities.

Fort Williams Park also gives families plenty of room to walk, picnic, explore the Cliff Walk Trail, visit the Children’s Garden, and enjoy open green space. It is one of the best things to do in Maine if your group wants a relaxed outdoor stop without booking a full-day activity.

Explore the Portland Museum of Art

For visitors interested in local culture, the Portland Museum of Art is a strong choice in downtown Portland. The museum features art, films, and rotating programs, making it a great indoor option when the weather changes or your group wants a slower-paced afternoon.

This is a good stop for couples, families with older kids, and anyone looking for cultural things to do in Maine beyond the coast. After visiting the museum, you can enjoy nearby Portland restaurants, shops, and walkable downtown streets before heading back toward South Portland.

Plan a Family Stop at the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine

The Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine is located at Thompson’s Point near downtown Portland and is built around interactive exhibits, daily activities, and live children’s theatre. It is one of the best Maine family activities for younger kids who need hands-on fun during a travel day.

Families visiting Maple Pond Outdoors can make this a smart add-on before or after outdoor plans in South Portland. It gives kids a place to play, learn, and reset while parents enjoy a low-stress indoor attraction close to Portland dining and hotels.

See Native Animals at Maine Wildlife Park

Maine Wildlife Park in Gray is a great zoo-style family activity for visitors who want to see native Maine wildlife up close. The park features more than 30 wild species and gives guests a chance to learn about animals that live across Maine’s forests, wetlands, and open spaces.

This is a helpful stop for families who want outdoor things to do in Maine without hiking a long trail. It also pairs well with a Southern Maine vacation because it gives visitors a better feel for the natural side of the state before they spend time on the water with Maple Pond Outdoors.

Spend the Day at Funtown Splashtown USA 

Funtown Splashtown USA in Saco is one of the top amusement park options in Southern Maine. The park offers rides, water slides, pools, and games, making it a fun choice for families visiting during the warmer months.

If you are searching for Maine family activities with more energy, this is a good day trip from Portland or South Portland. Plan it as a separate activity from your time with Maple Pond Outdoors so your group can enjoy both a lively park day and a more natural Maine outdoor experience.

Walk, Shop, and Eat Around Portland’s Old Port

Portland’s Old Port is one of the best places to enjoy Maine food, shopping, and local character. Visitors will find restaurants, bars, shops, arts and entertainment, and walkable streets that make it one of the most popular things to do in Maine.

This is also a great stop for seafood, casual dining, coffee, and gifts after a day in South Portland. For guests booking with Maple Pond Outdoors, the Old Port is an easy way to round out the trip with local flavor and a classic Portland waterfront feel.

Ride the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. and Museum in Portland offers scenic train rides and family-friendly events, making it a good choice for visitors who want something relaxed, historic, and easy to enjoy with kids.

This attraction is especially helpful for families building a flexible Southern Maine itinerary. You can spend part of the day learning local history, take in Casco Bay views, and still have time for dinner in Portland or plans near South Portland.

Make the Most of Your Maine Visit

Southern Maine has a strong mix of coastal scenery, museums, family attractions, local food, and outdoor stops. From Portland Head Light and downtown Portland to wildlife parks, amusement parks, and family museums, there are plenty of Maine attractions to enjoy during your stay.

When you are ready to add a guided outdoor experience to your visit, book your trip with Maple Pond Outdoors in Southern Maine. Captain Mark Root brings local knowledge, safe guidance, and a personal approach that helps guests enjoy Maine’s waters with confidence.