Old Orchard Beach Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Experience the nostalgia of New England's last grand beach resort, featuring a seven-mile stretch of pristine sand and the region's only beachfront amusement park. From the historic pier to legendary boardwalk fries, Old Orchard Beach offers the quintessential American summer escape.
Old Orchard Beach is more than just a destination; it is a time capsule of the classic American summer. For over a century, families have flocked to this seven-mile crescent of sand to escape the heat of the cities and embrace the cool Atlantic breeze. The air here smells of salt spray, vinegar-doused fries, and sweet cotton candy, creating a sensory experience that instantly triggers nostalgia.
At the heart of the town lies “The Pier,” a wooden structure that has weathered storms and fires to remain the social hub of the coastline. By day, it is a fisherman’s vantage point and a shopper’s delight; by night, it transforms into a lively venue with music drifting over the water. Whether you are riding the Ferris wheel at Palace Playland or simply walking the tide line looking for sand dollars, Old Orchard Beach offers an unpretentious, joyful escape.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
The Soul of the Seaside
What makes Old Orchard Beach truly unique is its accessibility and its history as a “playground for the people.” Unlike the more reserved and private rocky coasts further north in Maine, OOB is wide open and welcoming. The town owes much of its development to the railroad, and to this day, the Amtrak Downeaster train pulls right into the center of town, depositing visitors just steps from the sand, a rarity in modern American travel.
The town is also a tale of two vibes. The central district near the pier is electric, neon-lit, and bustling with energy, perfect for those who love action. However, just a mile in either direction, particularly toward Ocean Park, the atmosphere shifts to a quiet, 19th-century tranquility with wooden gazebos and religious heritage sites. This duality means you can have a raucous night out and a peaceful morning meditation all in the same weekend.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Palace Playland
The only beachfront amusement park in New England, featuring a classic Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and an enormous arcade.
Walk the Old Orchard Beach Pier
Extending 500 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, this historic wooden structure hosts restaurants, bars, and shops with panoramic views.
Explore Ocean Park
Visit this historic Chautauqua-style community just down the beach, featuring the iconic Temple, soda fountain, and Victorian cottages.
Dunegrass Golf Club
A premier 18-hole golf course winding through wooded areas and dunes, offering a challenging game just minutes from the surf.
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The Icons You’ll Want to See
The Pier - Extending nearly 500 feet over the Atlantic, this is the town’s most recognizable landmark. It features multiple restaurants, bars, and gift shops. Access is free, but bring money for the arcade games and drinks. It is located directly at the end of Old Orchard Street.
Palace Playland - As New England’s only beachfront amusement park, this spot is legendary. It features the Electra Wheel, which offers views all the way to Portland on a clear day. Entrance to the park is free; you pay per ride using a pass card. Rides range from $4 to $8 each.
Ocean Park Temple - Located about 1 mile south of the Pier, this architectural gem is an octagonal wooden building constructed in 1881. It serves as a cultural and religious center for the Ocean Park community. It is a peaceful spot for photography and history, with free entry to the grounds.
Old Orchard Beach Historical Society - Situated at the top of Old Orchard Street, this small museum offers a fascinating look at the town’s past, including the era of big bands and the devastating fires that shaped the landscape. Admission is by donation, typically suggested at $5.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Old Orchard Beach is incredibly straightforward. The Amtrak Downeaster offers service from Boston’s North Station to the OOB platform from May through October, making a car-free vacation entirely possible. If you are driving, be aware that street parking near the pier is metered and aggressively enforced; daily lots are available for $20-$40 depending on the season and proximity to the water.
Pack for variable weather. Even in July, the ocean breeze can drop evening temperatures into the 60s, so a hoodie or windbreaker is essential. While credit cards are widely accepted, many of the smaller boardwalk food stands and arcades prefer or require cash, so keeping small bills on hand is a smart move for buying fries and tokens.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (July - August)
Pros
- All attractions and restaurants are open
- Warmest ocean temperatures for swimming
- Weekly fireworks and lively nightlife
- Amtrak Downeaster stops frequently
Cons
- Accommodation prices are at their highest
- Traffic congestion on Saco Avenue
- Crowded beaches near the Pier
- Long lines for popular food stands
Shoulder Season: June & September
Pros
- More affordable hotel rates
- Comfortable weather for walking
- Easier to find parking
- Local atmosphere returns
Cons
- Water is often too cold for swimming
- Some seasonal shops operate limited hours
- Amusement park hours may be reduced
- Evenings can get chilly quickly
Off-Peak: Winter (October - May)
Pros
- Complete solitude on the beach
- Lowest possible accommodation rates
- Beautiful winter photography opportunities
- Peaceful escape from city life
Cons
- Most restaurants and shops are closed
- The Pier is closed to foot traffic
- Very cold temperatures and wind chill
- Limited public transit options
Old Orchard Beach captures the essence of summer freedom. Whether you are there to brave the chilly Atlantic waters, scream your lungs out on the roller coaster, or simply sit on a bench devouring a box of hot fries, it is a place that invites you to let your guard down and enjoy the simple pleasures of the coast.
Sample Itineraries
Classic Old Orchard Beach Weekend
A quintessential summer weekend focusing on the boardwalk, the beach, and the nightlife.
Day 1: Arrival and The Boardwalk Beat
- Morning: Arrive via the Amtrak Downeaster or car and check into your hotel, then head straight for a walk along the 7-mile stretch of sand to stretch your legs. Grab a box of the famous Pier French Fries for about $8 and sit on the benches to watch the waves.
- Afternoon: Spend the heat of the day lounging on the beach near the Pier where the energy is high, renting chairs and an umbrella for approximately $30. Cool off with a slice of pizza from Lisa’s Pizza for $5 before browsing the souvenir shops along Old Orchard Street.
- Evening: Walk out onto The Pier as the sun sets to enjoy drinks and live music at one of the open-air bars. Have a casual seafood dinner at The Brunswick’s patio for around $60, enjoying the lively atmosphere and sea breeze.
Day 2: Thrills and Ocean Views
- Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast at The Bell Buoy Restaurant for about $35, then head over to Palace Playland as it opens. Purchase a ride pass for roughly $40 per person and enjoy the Galixi Coaster and the giant Electra Wheel for sweeping views of the coast.
- Afternoon: Escape the noise of the center and walk south toward Ocean Park to see the historic wooden Temple and Victorian cottages. Stop at the Ocean Park Soda Fountain for a traditional ice cream sundae costing about $7 in a quiet, nostalgic setting.
- Evening: For your final night, book a reservation at Joseph’s by the Sea for an upscale dinner featuring fresh Maine lobster, costing approximately $120 for two. End the trip with a final moonlit stroll along the water’s edge before departing.
Family Fun & Nature Escape
A family-focused itinerary balancing amusement park thrills with mini-golf and quieter nature spots.
Day 1: Sandcastles and Arcades
- Morning: Set up base camp on the beach near the Ocean Park section where it is quieter and more family-friendly, free of charge if walking from your lodging. Spend the morning building sandcastles and swimming in the refreshing Atlantic waters.
- Afternoon: Head to the Palace Playland Arcade to play classic skeeball and video games, budgeting about $50 for tokens. Afterwards, grab a casual lunch of burgers and hot dogs at a boardwalk stand for approximately $45 for the family.
- Evening: Enjoy a round of mini-golf at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, which costs about $40 for a family of four and features fun obstacles. Cap off the night with saltwater taffy from Dickinson’s Candy factory, spending around $15 for a bag of mixed flavors.
Day 2: Nature Trails and Fireworks
- Morning: Drive or take the trolley north to the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center to rent a canoe or kayak for a two-hour paddle, costing roughly $45. This offers a peaceful break from the neon lights and a chance to see local wildlife like egrets and herons.
- Afternoon: Return to Old Orchard Beach for lunch at Big Daddy’s, known for hearty sandwiches, costing about $50. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the hotel pool or playing beach volleyball at the designated nets.
- Evening: If it is a Thursday, secure a spot on the beach by 8:00 PM for the weekly fireworks display which is free to attend. Dinner is a pizza party on the beach with takeout pies from a local favorite, costing around $35.
Day 3: The Historic Loop
- Morning: Walk to the Ocean Park area to visit the historic communal buildings and enjoy the slower pace of life. Have a light breakfast at a local bakery for $25 before exploring the unique architecture of the seaside cottages.
- Afternoon: Visit the Old Orchard Beach Historical Society Museum to learn about the town’s history as a major destination for Canadians and Americans alike, with free admission. Take one last ride on the antique carousel at Palace Playland for $5 per rider.
- Evening: Pack up and prepare for departure, grabbing a final box of fried dough for the road for $8. Depart with memories of a classic New England summer vacation.
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