Old Orchard Beach

Despite its popularity as a summer destination for families, Old Orchard Beach is a small-town at heart. This is evidenced by the constant nostalgia that seems to pervade every aspect of the town's attractions, from the traditional ocean-view Ferris wheel to the old-fashioned carousel. While there is no traditional wooden boardwalk at Old Orchard Beach, there is an Old Orchard Beach Pier. With its restaurants and shops, the pier, which was built in 1898, resembles a boardwalk on stilts.

The main amusement park, Palace Playland, is right next to the pier. There is a variety of family fun here, such as bumper cars, a roller coaster, kiddie rides, and carnival games. All of this, of course, is in addition to the seven miles of sand and surf that, due to its cleanliness and accessibility, is considered one of New England's best beaches. Visitors seeking a slower pace can take one of the local whales watching tours or play a round of golf at the nearby Dunegrass Club. Restaurants on Old Orchard Beach range from small places serving great pizza by the slice to sit-down establishments with spectacular sea views. Hotels and accommodations in Old Orchard range from seaside resorts to campgrounds to classic, family-owned motels.