3 Maine Places Kids Will Really Love If You Take them

What to do over summer vacation? That's the question on a lot of Maine parents' minds as school quickly closes out for the season, in the next 2 weeks.

While beach hopping, playing by the pool, and trips to visit grandparents or cousins are definitely fun, sometimes it's also enjoyable to hit up a spot you know you'll make some special memories. Here are 3 Maine places kids will really love, if you take them there.

York's Wild Kingdom- York

It's pretty easy to navigate and full of spots to stop and take pictures. Plus there's something new to see around every corner!

For those who like the fun of visiting the zoo with the thrill of visiting an amusement park, York's Wild Kingdom offers families a bit of both.

They have go-karts, roller coasters, mini-golf, a midway, and plenty of kiddie rides for the littles. But what my kids loved the best when we went was the chance to see so many cool animals!

According to their website, they have everything from Alligators to Zebra Longwing butterflies and everything in between! Their Butterfly Kingdom is a must if you're going to stop by.

As you make your way through the park, you will often have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the more docile animals.

York Kingdom opened for the season on Memorial Day weekend. It will stay open throughout the summer until Labor Day weekend.

Funtown/Splashtown USA- Saco

Whether you're from Maine or from away, those with kids who spend time in the Pine Tree State in the summer have typically heard of Saco's double amusement parks, Funtown/Splash Town USA.

There are signs for it everywhere once you cross the border into the state. And who could forget those super catchy jingles?!

Read More: Musician Turns Iconic Funtown Jingle Into a Pop-Punk Sing-along

Boasting 50 different rides, slides, and pools, Funtown Splashtown USA has been a must-visit destination for most Maine families for decades.

"From thrill rides to kiddie rides, there is fun for all ages. The huge selection of games, shops, and family fun-filled activities provides excitement for everyone!" 

For many of us who grew up going there, some of the songs from some of those rides are burned forever into our memory, in a good way!

There's even a creepy haunted house and an interactive family ride called Whispering Pines Hotel, which gives nods to Stephen King's The Shining.

Meanwhile, the Splashtown side of things offers families refreshing water play activities for when Mother Nature decides to turn up the thermostat.

"Splashtown USA is filled with slides, pools, and splash pads, ensuring fun for everyone! Reserve time in the sun and cool off from the summer heat."

The Funtown park opened on May 26th. The Splashtown side of things is set to start its season on June 14th.

Timber Tina's Great Maine Lumberjack Show-Trenton

Opening for the 30th Season this year, the Timber Tina's Great Maine Lumberjack Show will kick off early shows during the first week of June, and by then, add in evening shows the week of 6/14.

Tina knows how to wow a crowd, and she's assembled a top-notch team of athletes who are happy to show what they're made of while also teaching visitors the history and ways of timber sports.

But what makes the Lumberjack show even more fun, especially for the kids, is how interactive and hands-on it can be.

Typically, the show features a dozen events that include everything from log-rolling to ax throwing. It's about an hour and a half, which is a great timeframe to get people's attention and keep it for a while.

And the show takes place, Rain or Shine--which I think my kids liked, too.

So if you're looking for ideas of fun things to do with kids this summer, they're bound to love these 3 spots, like mine did.

If you need more inspiration, here are some other activities you could try.