Maine is a beautiful destination in New England packed with outdoor activities, history and culture, and plenty of fun places to stay. From its stunning coastline to the historical sites around the state, there’s no shortage of things to do here. The best part? It makes for an amazing family vacation! If you’re looking for sandy beaches or waterfront views, a handful of delicious lobster dishes on your plate each night, or easy access to top attractions like lighthouses and small towns—Maine has it all.
Are you looking for the perfect getaway this summer?
Anchor Inn and Cottages is your perfect vacation destination in Southern Maine with your Kids and loved ones. Our cottages have all the amenities you need to relax. There are also a variety of attractions nearby, from hiking trails to golf courses, for everyone to enjoy.
Our cottages are spacious enough to comfortably accommodate your entire family, making them an excellent option for larger families or multi-generational trips. With many years in business serving families like yours, we take pride in offering comfortable lodging and outdoor activities within a safe environment that will make memories last forever.
Book your stay at Anchor Inn & Cottages today and experience the perfect Maine getaway with your family!
Anchor Inn and Cottages: Your Choice for Maine Family Vacation
Anchor Inn and Cottages is the perfect choice for families planning a vacation in Maine. York County’s sandy beaches, including Moody Beach, Footbridge, and Ogunquit Beach, are world-renowned and easily accessible from the inn. Families can also enjoy nearby attractions such as York’s Wild Kingdom for a remarkable vacation time. Anchor Inn and Cottages provide beautiful views of Wells Harbor and offer easy parking, swimming pools, and picnic areas to keep guests entertained.
Here are 12 Family Friendly Activities When You Visit Maine
1. Acadia National Park
The Eastern Seaboard’s most diversified species and stunning landscapes are at the Acadia National Park, which welcomes visitors year-round. Most of the park is on Mount Desert Island along the coast, with smaller sections on Isle au Haut and the Schoodic Peninsula.
Acadia National Park can be considered the ideal outdoor playground with chances for skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, fishing in the spring, and viewing the fall foliage.
2. Ogunquit Beach
Casual families seeking a warm, exciting vacation resort will find Ogunquit the perfect choice. Ogunquit’s picture-perfect shoreline draws tourists and creative types alike. The exciting water sports practicable at Ogunquit Beach will also be a hit with kids and teenagers.
Each of Maine’s coastal communities appears to have a unique waterside walkway. You can head to Footbridge Beach if you desire less crowded areas. If you are looking to have a walk in addition to beach time, then you can hike the nearby Marginal Way. It is a fenced-in walking path that snakes along the rocky coasts from the small community of Perkins Cove to Long Sands Beach. Its main draws are the dramatic views and the clean coastal town air.
3. Native Maine Wildlife Park
Children might thrill from seeing more moose creatures at the Maine Wildlife Park one day than they could see in the wild. The Maine Wildlife Park is home to more than thirty different natural wildlife species of Maine.
These are animals that are unable to go back to their original environments. Some are dependent on humans, while others are abandoned or harmed. The park’s visitor center offers a variety of activities for visitors, including handling bears, moose, and other animal pelts, weighing moose antlers, and viewing reptiles.
4. Downtown Bar Harbor
For a relaxing vacation, take your family to Bar Harbor. In the charming town and laid-back beachside community of Bar Harbor, you may unwind with your family. While there, unwind and stroll along the picturesque Shore Path to see seaside parks and luxurious boats.
During low tide, you can also look for crabs and other aquatic life on the picturesque Main Street. The entire family is welcome to dine at Bar Harbor’s top dining destinations together on the lawn and indulge in mouthwatering popovers with blueberry jam–or any meal desired!
5. Mount Desert Island
Small parties, families, and individuals can take individualized nature trails and birdwatching trips across Down East Maine and Mount Desert Island thanks to Down East Nature Tours.
The trips emphasize education and enjoyment while providing opportunities to see some of the rarest plants, birds, and other species in their native settings. Seabirds, Shorebirds, Warblers, Bald Eagles, and native birds are given particular attention. Your kids and teens will definitely love this fun family vacation activity.
6. Maine Discovery Museum
The Maine Discovery Museum, located in the center of Bangor, allows kids to take part in painting projects, use their imaginations to make things out of trash, become science investigators, and much more.
Kids can learn about technology, nature, geography, science and even programming through the experience’s more than 30 interactive exhibits incorporating the elements of nature and science. At the Maine Discovery Museum, these interactive displays explore the worlds of art, music, children’s books, science, anatomy, geography, and nature.
7. Baxter State Park
The greatest time to visit Kennebunkport is anytime between June and October because of the lovely, mild weather. However, the cost of accommodations tends to soar during these times. Visit Kennebunkport between March and May for a reasonably priced family holiday.
Families who appreciate the environment and wildlife are drawn to Baxter State Park because of its vast wilderness area. You’ll have many chances to see black bears, moose, and white-tailed deer here.
8. Boothbay Harbor
Families may view famous lighthouses at Boothbay Harbor. Take advantage of a trip to the Burnt Island Light, one of Maine’s oldest surviving lighthouses, which is reachable by kayak or ferries like Balmy Day Cruises. Guarded by three lighthouses, the boating capital of New England offers a lot of fun and exciting family activities for a Maine Vacation. You may plan a journey from its busy harbor to add extra spice to your vacation in Boothbay Railway Village. Puffin, seal, and whale viewing excursions and romantic twilight cruises for parents are available.
9. Lobster Boat
Going out on a lobster boat and experiencing Maine lobstermen’s everyday activities is a unique experience that can be had in several of the state’s well-known vacation spots. It is an exceptional vacation activity for the entire family.
Several outfitters provide an unforgettable opportunity for your family to take part in bringing the ocean to your community, whether hauling traps is your thing or your goal is to learn to distinguish hard shells, shedders, shorts, culls, and keepers differently.
10. Cape Elizabeth Portland Harbor
Cape Elizabeth is the perfect place for a beach vacation. Families can build sandcastles, explore tide pools, and watch the waves in this family-friendly spot. In addition to the mile-long Crescent Beach State Park’s miles of white sand, Cape Elizabeth also has two nearby lighthouses that you should visit while you’re there.
There are various activities that families can engage in while staying in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Fort Williams Park, which houses the Portland Harbor Marina, is still a great place to visit for scenic views and picnics. Maine Windjammer Cruises offer tours on authentic schooners for those looking for a unique experience. Other fun activities for families in Cape Elizabeth include hiking trails and visiting local attractions such as the Portland Head Light.
11. Whale Watching Tour
Maine offers various locations for whale watching, including Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, Kennebunkport, and Casco Bay in Portland. The state’s extensive shoreline and numerous islands provide an ideal habitat for these magnificent creatures. Several tour operators offer whale-watching tours, and you can choose the one that suits you best. Whale watching can be an exciting and educational vacation activity for families, as you can appreciate the breathtaking ocean views while learning about these fascinating species.
12. Cross-Country Skiing
Families who love outdoor winter activities can enjoy cross-country skiing in beautiful locations across Maine. The snowy trails of Rangeley Lakes, Penobscot River, and Acadia National Park offer unforgettable experiences with stunning scenery.
If your kids are nature lovers, join a guided tour to explore the trails. You’ll also learn about Maine’s wildlife, history, and culture. Maine offers many options, whether for a quiet mountain retreat or an action-packed family getaway.
Why Do People Choose Anchor Inn and Cottages?
Anchor Inn and Cottages is the perfect choice for families looking for a peaceful, family-friendly vacation. Anchor Inn offers clean and comfortable cottages with all the amenities you need inside, from fully equipped kitchens to wireless internet access. You’ll also find a variety of activities nearby, including golfing, fishing, kayaking, and whale watching.
The onsite swimming pool and picnic area are great options to keep kids entertained while parents relax and enjoy quality time together. Best of all, your four-legged friends are welcome here too! With lush green lawns surrounding each cottage and plenty of outdoor seating throughout the property, Anchor Inn promises an unforgettable experience in Maine’s natural beauty.
5 Benefits of Vacationing in Maine
- Unforgettable Scenery: Maine is home to some of the most breathtaking views in the country. From majestic mountains to beautiful beaches, there are plenty of opportunities for stunning family photos and unforgettable holiday memories.
- Abundant Outdoor Activities: With its miles of trails, lakes, forests, and coastline, Maine offers many outdoor activities to keep your family busy. Whether looking for a stroll or an adrenaline-pumping hike, you’ll find something to suit everyone’s needs.
- Delicious Seafood: Maine is famous for its seafood, and it’s easy to see why! From succulent lobster to savory crab cakes, there are plenty of delicious dishes to sample during your family vacation.
- Friendly People: Maine is known for its friendly, welcoming locals. Whether you’re exploring a small town or a big city, you can expect a warm welcome wherever you go.
- Variety of Accommodations: From cozy cabins to full-service resorts, there’s something to suit every taste and budget in Maine. You’ll find it here whether you’re looking for a luxurious escape or a no-frills stay. No matter what type of vacation your family dreams of, Maine has something that will make it all the more memorable.
So explore the stunning natural beauty and diverse attractions of Maine this summer! So pack your bags and head for Maine – it’s time to make lasting memories with your family!
Some Tips on Packing for the Whole Family
Packing for a Maine family vacation can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to make packing for everyone easier:
- Pack light: Bring only the essentials and leave extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs.
- Don’t forget layers: The weather in Maine can change drastically from day to night, so be sure to bring plenty of lightweight clothes that can be easily layered.
- Remember the essentials: Ensure each person has their toiletry bag with all their items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).
- Bring rain gear: While you may luck out and get sunshine during your trip, it also pays to be prepared with an umbrella or raincoat.
Frequently Asked Questions about Where to Go in Maine for Family Vacation
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Maine?
A: The best time of year to visit Maine varies depending on the type of activity you’re looking for. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or whale watching, summer, and fall are the best times to visit. Winter is the best time to visit if you’re looking for skiing and snow activities.
Q: Are there pet-friendly accommodations in Maine?
A: Yes, Anchor Inn and Cottages offer pet-friendly accommodations so you can bring your four-legged friends with you on summer vacation.
Q: What is the best way to get around Maine?
A: The best way to get around Maine depends on your destination and the activities you plan to do. If you’re staying in one place, renting a car may be the most efficient option.
Final Thoughts
Each region of Maine offers something different for visiting families. Whether it’s down-east coastal regions laden with seafood, midcoast summer festivals, or snow sports in the north, there is something for everyone.
For opulent getaways, special events, and even extended weekends, consider Anchor Inn and Cottages. It provides a wide range of unparalleled lodging options in beauty and tranquility. Visitors will enjoy a degree of comfort that is difficult to find elsewhere—all for a reasonable price.
