York, Maine: Family Fun in Any Weather
Found yourself stuck in the rain on your beach vacation? Fear not. You’re in luck when you’re on the beautiful coastline of Southern Maine, where not even the rainiest of days can’t spoil your summer family fun. York, Maine has so much to offer beyond its gorgeous beaches. This well known summer Maine destination has it all. From the classic New England candy shops and downtown shopping, to trolley tours and fabulous dining, there’s something for everyone in this small nostalgic Maine town- in any kind of weather. Check out this family friendly daily itinerary for those not so sunny days in York.
Start your morning right at the headquarters of Stonewall Kitchen, located right here in York. This location boasts a reputation of one of Maine's largest tourist destinations, welcoming over 500,000 visitors every year. Grab a coffee and breakfast (a must try is the Belgian Waffle) at the in house cafe before exploring the large retail store to stock up on those quintessential Maine souvenirs.
After breakfast, climb aboard a scenic trolley tour with The York Trolley Company. You can choose a 30 minute tour (easier with little ones) or a 60 minute tour for a more in depth sightseeing experience. These narrated tours offer a unique way to explore York, highlighting both hidden gems and historic landmarks, like the picturesque Nubble Lighthouse. Tours con
veniently leave right from Short Sands beach. Fortunately, these trolleys are able to pull down the plastic windows in inclement weather.
Luckily enough, a little rain can’t spoil some of the most fantastic seafood that New England has to offer. After taking in the York scenery trolley style, grab lunch at the no-frills Fox’s Lobster House. Enjoy breathtaking views of Nubble Lighthouse while indulging in some of the best fried seafood around. Don’t skip the homemade desserts. The Blueberry Cheesecake in a jar is a must-try.
In Maine, ice cream is acceptable in any kind of weather. After your seafood feast at Fox’s Lobster House, head right down the road to Dunne’s Ice Cream. You'll have a tough time deciding from the huge menu of ice cream choices. The servings are plentiful. Maple Walnut flavor has a large fan base, with ice cream goers raving over the walnuts in every bite.
After getting your seafood fix, grab your ponchos and head to Downtown York for shopping, dining, and more. Watch candy being made at The GoldenRod, a 100 year old establishment famous for their salt-water taffy, better known around York as
“Goldenrod Kisses.” The kids will love picking out toys at the Beach Funatic, and getting a sugar rush penny candy style at The Candy Corner. Stop by Ro’s Shirts by the York Shore, because no vacation is complete without some local apparel and fun souvenirs.
Next, get ready for some old school family time at Fun-O-Rama, a nostalgic beach arcade with classic games like Skeeball and Pacman. Get ready for loud music and flashing lights. Fun-O-Rama is an iconic part of the York community that dates back to the 1940s. A bowling alley is conveniently located adjacent to the arcade for more rainy day indoor entertainment.
If you’re up for some more shopping, check out The Shops at Cape Neddick. This renovated 5,000 square foot barn has been converted into a beautiful retail shopping destination. Browse highly curated items, from baby clothes to home decor.
Options for night time dining in York are endless. The York Beach Beer Company is a favorite, located right downtown with a fabulous water view, serving beer on tap, hard cider and wine, and offering an eclectic cuisine via rotating local food trucks. You can even choose to BYOF (bring your own food). The York Beach Beer Co. hosts a variety of live entertainment events, and is dog friendly!
Feeling fancy? Check out The Cliff House, York’s premiere resort perched high on the cliffs with sweeping, panoramic views of the ocean. Experience fine dining at its best at The Tiller House Restaurant, boasting a seasonal, farm fresh, local menu with live music and events offered throughout the summer. Or relax at Nubbs Lobster House, a more casual dining experience in the resort, offering a wide selection of craft beer and local Maine inspired dishes. The Cliff House also hosts a wide variety of events during the summer, including everything from live bands and musicians, to stargazing and yoga.
There’s nothing quite like staying in on a rainy, cozy evening in a Coastal Maine town. If family game night is your evening vibe, grab takeout from Shore Road Market, a hidden gem in the Cape Neddick area of York, serving up the best inexpensive lobster roll and house made chips in the area. For a more upscale indoor soiree, Foster’s Clambake and Catering is your best bet, offering plenty of options for groups of all sizes, including their signature New England style lobster and clambakes.
If seafood's not your thing, check out Wild Willy's Burgers right on Route 1, a favorite spot among the locals, featuring large, juicy burgers and seasoned fries.
There are plenty of opportunities for fun on a rainy night in York, even after dinner. Catch a show at The Ogunquit Playhouse, listed on the historic registrar as one of the last original off Broadway summer theaters. Just a short ten minute drive from York, this theater features many family friendly shows during the summer.
A little further along is the Wells Movie theater, a perfect activity for a drizzly night in Maine.
Whatever the weather brings, you’ll be prepared for a fantastic vacation in York with this rainy day itinerary. As we say in Maine, it’s the way life should be.