Visiting this Summer for Vacation (Portland, Saco: amusement parks, house, theater)

[WayneMeyers]

I was wondering if anyone had some tips to share, things that we must see, restaurants we should try, etc.

I was planning on taking a whale watching boat trip, any recommendations there?

Thanks in advance for any help!

[genmomto5]

Will you be coming with or without children? If you have children, how old?

[WayneMeyers]

1 child, 12. Thanks for replying!

[island mermaid]

If you're planning on staying in Southern Maine, whale watching trips can be found on Commercial Street in Portland and right in the village in Boothbay Harbor.

As far as restaurants, the world is your oyster. There are many wonderful places to eat local native seafood. You'll see the signs. Stay away from chains and eat local, right on the waterfront in any town you choose. If you travel inland, you'll also find some great places to dine.

Enjoy your stay.

[WayneMeyers]

Any suggestions? I'm sure some local places are better than others. I don't want to eat in the chains but I don't want to miss out a great local favorite for a mediocre local place either. We'll only be there a few days and I want to make the most of it!

[genmomto5]

I like Bar Lola on Congress street. They do Tapas there. You order a bunch of different things separately, not just one meal all together. Plan on desert because everything they do is great but the deserts are sublime.

A nice lunch stop in the old port is Mim's Brasserie. Follow that up with an ice cream cone from Beal's, choose one of their summer flavors.

Silly's is another lunch spot that is just plain fun and great food. Their menu is hard to describe as it has so much. They have fried pickles, which I was not gaga over but at Silly's you can definitely try a food combination you have never tried before if you are adventurous. They have great old stand by comfort food too.

To appeal to a 12yo I would suggest going to the drive-in. We moved from an area where these don't exist any longer so it is a novel experience for my kids and they love it. There are 2 near the city. Pride's Corner and Saco. Bring insect repellent, lawn chairs, blankets. People who were waiting with kids were tossing balls and frisbees around too.

My 12 yo is outdoorsy and sporty. She never tires of riding her bike/scooter/unicycle whatever around. There are wonderful trails for hiking all over the area. I'm usually out with a 2 year old so our trail exploration has centered on short walks. Others can suggest more rigorous scenic spots you may enjoy but we love it on Mackworth Island. Parking is hit or miss here so plan a secondary destination in case you can't get on the island.

No matter when you come in the summer you should be able to get to a free concert somewhere nearby. The summer theater options are plentiful too.

[The Garrison]

I live in MA and come to the Sebago Lake area (Casco,ME) every weekend with my 12 yr old daughter. I would like to recommend you pick up the book "In and Out of Portland with Children" 3rd edition 2006. The book lists over 300 ideas from Kittery to Camden. I found a lot of things listed in the book are just as good for adults as kids. If you can't get it before you arrive, think about checking it out at a local library when you arrive. That's where I first saw it and then bought one for our house so my friends and relatives could use it as a reference. Everything from state parks, museums, amusement parks, theater and dance, history, sports, and excursions are covered. I love this state and hope you enjoy your trip. Exactly where are you headed and when?

[WayneMeyers]

Thanks everyone. Any suggestions regarding whale watching ships?

[Mainer61]

Originally Posted by WayneMeyers

Thanks everyone. Any suggestions regarding whale watching ships?

Check with the Balmy Days or Captain Fish's in Boothbay Harbor...if they don't do them, they may be able to direct you.

[genmomto5]

I was walking by Bar Lola last night and noticed their hours are changed. They are open Weds to Saturdays from 5 - 10.