Maine kids trails in South Coast Region are a trove of adventure

Palace Playland

1 Old Orchard St. Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064 Phone: 207-934 2001

Family amusement park on the beach with dozens of rides and attractions. The 24,000-square-foot video arcade contains more than 200 games like Skeeball, coupon skill games, and coin-operated video. The park also offers midway games, gift shops, old-fashioned photos, a palm reader, and more. Free admission to the park. Many ticket options for rides and amusements.

Rugosa Coastal Cruises

95 Ocean Ave. from the dock of the Nonantum Hotel Kennebunkport, ME 04046 Phone: 207-967-5595

Coastal cruises and scenic lobster tours aboard the lobstering vessel Rugosa. Two-hour trips along the Maine coast, passing the Goat Island Light. Real lobstermen haul up traps and show kids and adults a close-up view of the captured lobster. All lobsters are returned to the water.

Seashore Trolley Museum

195 Log Cabin Road Arundel, ME 04046 Phone: 207-967-2712

Open: May 27-October 10, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; May6-May 21 and October 14-29, Saturday and Sunday.

This electric railway museum has a collection of more than 250 transit vehicles, most of them trolleys, from all over the United States, Canada, and other countries. Museum admission includes unlimited streetcar rides, access to the museum grounds and exhibit buildings, and use of picnic areas.Cost: Adults, &8; seniors, $6; children, age 6-16, $5.50.

Wells National Estuarine Reserve at Laudholm Farm

342 Laudholm Farm Road Wells, ME 04090 Phone: 207-646-1555

Seven miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails provide access to woodlands, fields, wetlands, beach, and dunes. Spectacular views and diverse habitats make the reserve an especially popular destination for nature photographers and birdwatchers. The Visitor Center, located in a 19th-century farmhouse, has exhibits, videos, brochures, trail maps, and a gift shop. Open year round.

York’s Wild Kingdom

Route 1 York Beach, ME 03910 Phone: 207-363-4911

With exotic animals from around the world, this zoo and amusement park is recognized for its rare species and knowledgeable curators. The park offers family rides, paddle boats, 18 holes of miniature golf, a petting zoo, picnic grounds, and a haunted house. Educational programs take place throughout the day. Kids should not miss the new Butterfly Kingdom.