When it’s too cold to enjoy the outdoors, or the snow conditions are not quite up to snuff, we try to find active indoor spaces that have something for all of us. Following are a few new favorites and suggestions for where you can find similar locations throughout the state.
Photo courtesy 33 Elmwood
This awesome bowling alley also has bocce and corn hole, plus a restaurant that sources from local farms. The inspired pub fare menu offers vegan, gluten-free and vegetarian options. Our family had a blast bowling and enjoying good food. The kids especially liked the sea-salted soft pretzel sticks with mustard, and we parents welcomed the local beers on tap. If you go on a Sunday, kids eat free from 4-8 p.m. with the purchase of two $25 adult meals.
Prefer candlepin bowling? Try the delightfully old school Oakland Park Bowling Lanes in Rockland or the newly updated Bolos Kitchen, Cantina & Candlepin in Brunswick.
The Point Indoor Turf, South Portland
While located in a strip mall, this church-affiliated indoor turf is really impressive. Kids can BYO balls and let loose on the field for free (!) while parents can sip coffee in viewing distance at Rwanda Bean cafe. The Point also offers a 6-hoop basketball court with open gym times Monday-Thursday. Parents of little ones can experience a 3-level playscape with climbing, sliding and interactive play. Check the calendar for open gym times.
For a fee, The Maine Pitch in Warren also offers open turf play Monday-Friday, and a toddler play room seven days a week. Or check out the Sugarloaf Anti-Gravity Complex in Carrabassett Valley for a skate park, trampolines, a climbing wall, basketball court and more options for fun.
When this Mom thinks about roller skating, she’s immediately reminiscent of her 1980’s childhood. There’s nothing like skating with your friends to Madonna’s Holiday. Happy Wheels provides that same bright feeling, and for this reason alone, you should bring your kids. Visitors can choose between classic roller skates and in-line skates.
For more roller skating options, try the RolloDrome in Auburn (circa 1954) or the Melody Roller Rink in Caribou.