Taking the kids (7, 9, 11) up Route 1 next month for a week. We want to stop at some cool stuff that's actually interesting for them, not just another Target parking lot. Thinking lighthouses, tide pools, maybe a beach day? Anyone done this route? Best stops that aren't total tourist traps?
Definitely check out Old Orchard Beach if you want a beach break. Not as crowded as some spots, has amusement games, and the boardwalk is fun to walk around with the kids.
Portland Head Light is a must if you're heading up that way anyway. Plus there's a ton of lighthouses along the coast so your 7 and 9 year olds might get into finding them all.
Pro tip: take the scenic route through smaller towns instead of staying on 1 the whole time. We stopped in Ogunquit and there's this great mini golf place with a mini lighthouse that the kids went crazy for.
Oh man, Route 1 has so many hidden gems. Stop at Cape Neddick Lighthouse in Maine, it's like 45 mins off 1 but totally worth the detour. The kids loved climbing around the rocks there.
We did this same trip last summer. Hit up Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge near Wells and it was perfect for that age range. Not too strenuous, lots of birds and nature stuff to keep them engaged.
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How many days are you planning? Route 1 can eat up time if you stop a lot but that's kind of the point with kids that age.