In this article we will share a variety of resources to learn more about local events. If you do not see your city or town listed, try visiting your towns website and look for their parks and recreation department.
Beaches and State Parks:
Southern Mainers are spoiled with a gorgeous coastline, and multiple state parks. York and Cumberland County’s coastlines offer numerous beaches, with differing experiences. This article from visitmaine.net gives you some options, as well as brief descriptions of the area.
There are 6 state parks in Cumberland County, and 2 in York County. These offer the opportunity for hiking, beach days, or walks on the rocky coast. For a quick ‘at a glance’ of all parks and public lands, and what they have available, check out this overview. If you plan on visiting multiple times per year, you may save money by purchasing a yearly pass here.
Biddeford:
Downtown Biddeford has a variety of free or low-cost community events throughout the summer. They have a popular Music in the Park series, that offers live music outdoors from a variety of local bands.
The heart of Biddeford website has upcoming events listed for the remainder of the year, and highlights local businesses. To learn more, you can visit their website here.
The Biddeford Recreation website enables you and your children to sign up for a variety of activities and programs.
Interested in leaving downtown, and heading to the beach? Biddeford has 3 public beaches- Fortune’s Rocks Beach, Middle Beach, and Biddeford Pool. You are able to purchase a parking pass for these beaches, and residents receive a discount.
Buxton: Buxton Recreation offers everything from summer camps, cribbage nights, childcare, and more. If you are looking to play basketball, or take your kids to the playground, check out Carroll Park. If you enjoy tennis, head on over to Weymouth Park. If you enjoy nature, walking, and hiking, All Trails lists 5 walks you can do in Buxton.
Portland: Portland is known for its many restaurants and bars, but there are plenty of other outdoor activities to partake in as well. You can spend the day at the East End Beach, explore the Western Prom, or walk the Back Cove Trail to get some exercise with a view of the water. There many other parks that have basketball hoops, tennis courts, and playgrounds. You can also check out the many trails available in the greater Portland area here.
VisitPortland.com lists upcoming events, and things to do in the greater Portland area. With their event calendar, you can filter events to fit your interests, and find things to do that you will enjoy. Another resource is portlandmaine.com, that has events listed as well. To join a city sponsored program take a look at Portland Recreation, or check out Casco Bay Sports Leagues to join an adult sports team.
If your kids enjoy the playground, check out the city’s park and play program.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Maine without having to break the bank.