The Timeless Charm of Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach, located in the picturesque state of Maine, is a treasured seaside destination that offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. Known for its iconic seven-mile stretch of sandy beach, it provides a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean make it an ideal spot for families and beach lovers alike. In addition to its natural beauty, Old Orchard Beach features the historic Old Orchard Pier, which has been a focal point of the area since 1898. The pier extends 500 feet into the ocean and is lined with shops, restaurants, and amusement rides, providing endless entertainment for visitors of all ages. The charm of the pier, combined with the lively atmosphere of the beachfront, creates a nostalgic seaside experience. For those seeking more adventure, Old Orchard Beach offers a variety of activities, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The nearby Palace Playland amusement park boasts thrilling rides and classic arcade games, making it a must-visit for families. As the sun sets, the town comes alive with vibrant nightlife, featuring live music, fireworks, and local eateries serving up delicious seafood and classic New England fare.
Local tips in Old Orchard Beach
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful beach experience.
- Check the schedule for the weekly fireworks display during the summer months for a magical evening by the sea.
- Parking can be challenging, so consider using public transportation or arriving early to secure a spot.
- Don't miss out on trying a classic lobster roll from one of the local seafood shacks.
- If you're visiting with children, make sure to spend some time at Palace Playland for fun rides and games.
The Timeless Charm of Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach, located in the picturesque state of Maine, is a treasured seaside destination that offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. Known for its iconic seven-mile stretch of sandy beach, it provides a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean make it an ideal spot for families and beach lovers alike. In addition to its natural beauty, Old Orchard Beach features the historic Old Orchard Pier, which has been a focal point of the area since 1898. The pier extends 500 feet into the ocean and is lined with shops, restaurants, and amusement rides, providing endless entertainment for visitors of all ages. The charm of the pier, combined with the lively atmosphere of the beachfront, creates a nostalgic seaside experience. For those seeking more adventure, Old Orchard Beach offers a variety of activities, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The nearby Palace Playland amusement park boasts thrilling rides and classic arcade games, making it a must-visit for families. As the sun sets, the town comes alive with vibrant nightlife, featuring live music, fireworks, and local eateries serving up delicious seafood and classic New England fare.
When is the best time to go to Old Orchard Beach?
Unmissable attractions to see
Funtown Splashtown USA
Discover the ultimate amusement and water park experience at Funtown Splashtown USA in Saco, Maine, where fun awaits for every family member.
Palace Playland
Discover the excitement of Palace Playland, Old Orchard Beach's premier amusement park, offering rides, games, and entertainment for all ages.
Casco Bay Lines
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Casco Bay with Casco Bay Lines, your gateway to scenic islands and unforgettable maritime adventures in Portland, Maine.
Portland Paddle
Experience the beauty of Portland, Maine, with kayaking, canoeing, and unique paddleboard yoga at Portland Paddle, your ultimate water adventure hub.
Ferry Beach State Park
Explore the stunning coastal scenery and diverse wildlife at Ferry Beach State Park in Saco, Maine, perfect for outdoor adventures and family outings.
Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf
Experience the thrill of pirate-themed miniature golf at Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf in Old Orchard Beach, Maine—fun for the whole family!
Shipyard Brewing Company
Discover the rich flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Shipyard Brewing Company, a top brewery destination in Portland, Maine.
Willard Beach
Discover the tranquil beauty of Willard Beach in South Portland, Maine, where sun-soaked sands meet stunning ocean views for a perfect getaway.
Portland Beer Hub
Explore a diverse selection of Maine's finest craft beers at Portland Beer Hub in the heart of the Old Port district.
Veteran's Memorial Park
Experience the serenity and historical significance of Veteran's Memorial Park in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, a perfect blend of nature and tribute.
Bunker Brewing Co
Experience the best of Portland's craft beer culture at Bunker Brewing Co, where innovation meets tradition in every pint.
Old Orchard
Discover the charm of Old Orchard Beach, Maine - a vibrant coastal paradise with stunning shores, delicious seafood, and endless family fun.
Walkers Point
Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty and serene atmosphere of Walkers Point in Kennebunkport, Maine - a true gem for travelers and nature lovers alike.
Old Orchard Pier
Discover the iconic Old Orchard Pier in Maine, where stunning ocean views meet vibrant local culture and delicious seafood delights.
Wedding Cake House
Discover the enchanting Wedding Cake House in Kennebunk, Maine, a historical landmark with whimsical architecture and rich heritage.
Essential places to dine
Hooligans Steak and Ale
Discover delicious American cuisine in a lively pub setting at Hooligans Steak and Ale in Old Orchard Beach, Maine.
Jimmy the Greek's
Discover Old Orchard Beach's culinary gem at Jimmy the Greek's - where delicious pizza meets local craft beer in a vibrant pub atmosphere.
Joseph's By the Sea
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Joseph's By the Sea in Old Orchard Beach—where fresh flavors meet breathtaking ocean views.
JJ's Eatery
Experience the best of local cuisine at JJ's Eatery in Old Orchard Beach – where every meal tells a story.
The Shack
Experience coastal dining at its best at The Shack in Old Orchard Beach - fresh seafood and American classics await you!
Birdies Grill & Tavern
Experience exceptional American cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Birdies Grill & Tavern in Old Orchard Beach, Maine - perfect for family dining or special events.
Good Thyme Cafe and Catering
Discover delightful breakfasts at Good Thyme Cafe in Old Orchard Beach - where local flavors meet cozy charm!
Tami Lyn's Place
Experience delicious breakfasts and fresh seafood at Tami Lyn's Place in Old Orchard Beach - a must-visit dining spot for tourists.
Bell Buoy Restaurant
Discover fresh seafood delights at Bell Buoy Restaurant in Old Orchard Beach - where coastal flavors meet charming ambiance.
Big Daddy's Bar and Grill
Experience the best of New American cuisine at Big Daddy's Bar and Grill in Old Orchard Beach—where great food meets vibrant beachside vibes.
Jumpin Jake's
Discover Jumpin Jake's: A charming seafood haven offering fresh catches and delightful views in Old Orchard Beach.
Pier Patio Pub
Experience coastal dining at its finest with fresh seafood and breathtaking ocean views at Pier Patio Pub in Old Orchard Beach.
Surf 6
Experience the best of Maine's coastal flavors at Surf 6 – where fresh seafood meets a vibrant bar atmosphere in Old Orchard Beach.
Bua Thai
Experience the best of authentic Thai cuisine at Bua Thai in Old Orchard Beach, where flavor meets warmth in every dish.
Pirates Patio and Galley
Experience delicious American cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Pirates Patio and Galley in Old Orchard Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Landry's Shop'n Save
Discover local flavors and convenience at Landry's Shop'n Save, the go-to supermarket in Old Orchard Beach for tourists and locals alike.
Dickinson's Candy
Explore the sweet side of Old Orchard Beach at Dickinson's Candy, offering a delightful selection that caters to every candy lover's dreams.
Old Orchard Beach Airbrush
Create unforgettable memories at Old Orchard Beach Airbrush, where custom t-shirts come to life with your unique designs.
Beachology
Explore Beachology in Old Orchard Beach for unique gifts, collectibles, and boutique treasures that embody the spirit of Maine's coastal charm.
Friendly Market
Experience the local flavor of Old Orchard Beach at Friendly Market - your one-stop grocery shop for essentials and local products.
Harold's Cut Rate
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Harold's Cut Rate in Old Orchard Beach, your ultimate shopping destination for beach essentials and local crafts.
Bigsal’s Smoke Shop
Explore Bigsal’s Smoke Shop in Old Orchard Beach for a diverse selection of tobacco products and a welcoming shopping experience.
Maine Country Woods
Explore the enchanting Maine Country Woods, your go-to gift shop for unique, locally crafted treasures in Old Orchard Beach.
Cottage Decor
Explore Cottage Decor in Old Orchard Beach for unique furniture and home decor that captures the essence of coastal Maine.
Coastal Convenience Store and Smoke Shop
Explore Old Orchard Beach with ease at the Coastal Convenience Store and Smoke Shop, your essential stop for snacks, gas, and local goods.
Cottage Designs
Explore Cottage Designs in Ocean Park for unique gifts and local artisan treasures that capture the spirit of Maine's charming seaside culture.
Beach Fantasy Henna Tattoo Boutique
Experience the art of henna at Beach Fantasy Henna Tattoo Boutique in Old Orchard Beach, where creativity meets tradition in every intricate design.
Sunsations Beach Department Store
Explore Sunsations Beach Department Store in Old Orchard Beach for all your beach essentials and unique souvenirs to capture your seaside memories.
Retail Strip Center
Discover the Retail Strip Center in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, where shopping, dining, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Sea The Sun
Explore Sea The Sun, your premier clothing destination in Old Orchard Beach, offering stylish beachwear and apparel for every summer occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hooligans Steak and Ale
Experience the taste of America at Hooligans Steak and Ale, where delicious steaks and vibrant atmosphere come together in Old Orchard Beach.
Jimmy the Greek's
Discover the vibrant ambiance and delicious flavors at Jimmy the Greek's, a must-visit pub and pizza restaurant in Old Orchard Beach.
Joseph's By the Sea
Experience the finest seafood dining with stunning ocean views at Joseph's By the Sea in Old Orchard Beach, Maine.
JJ's Eatery
Discover the flavors of Maine at JJ's Eatery, where fresh seafood meets charming coastal dining in Old Orchard Beach.
The Shack
Experience the best seafood in Old Orchard Beach at The Shack, where fresh flavors meet a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
Birdies Grill & Tavern
Discover Birdies Grill & Tavern in Old Orchard Beach for a delicious American dining experience filled with warmth and local flavors.
Tami Lyn's Place
Experience the charm of Tami Lyn's Place, where breakfast meets coastal Maine vibes, offering a variety of hearty meals and cozy ambiance.
Bell Buoy Restaurant
Discover the charm of Old Orchard Beach at Bell Buoy Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets a friendly atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Big Daddy's Bar and Grill
Experience the vibrant flavors of Big Daddy's Bar and Grill in Old Orchard Beach, where New American cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Jumpin Jake's
Savor the taste of Maine's coastal cuisine at Jumpin Jake's Seafood, a charming restaurant in Old Orchard Beach offering fresh seafood and stunning views.
Pier Patio Pub
Experience the flavor of Maine at Pier Patio Pub - where delicious seafood meets stunning ocean views in Old Orchard Beach.
Surf 6
Experience the best of Maine's seafood at Surf 6, where fresh flavors meet ocean views in Old Orchard Beach.
Pirates Patio and Galley
Delight in American cuisine with an ocean view at Pirates Patio and Galley, a must-visit destination in Old Orchard Beach, Maine.
GFB Scottish Pub
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and a lively atmosphere at GFB Scottish Pub in Old Orchard Beach, where culture and community blend seamlessly.
Local Phrases about Old Orchard Beach
-
- HelloHey
[hay] - GoodbyeSee ya
[see yuh] - YesYup
[yup] - NoNah
[nah] - Please/You're welcomeSure thing
[shore thing] - Thank youThanks
[thanks] - Excuse me/SorryPardon me
[pahrdun me] - How are you?How you doin'?
[how yuh doin] - Fine. And you?Good. You?
[good. yuh] - Do you speak English?Y' speak English?
[y' speak ing-glish] - I don't understandI don't get it
[I don't get it]
- HelloHey
-
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
[can I check out the menu] - I don't eat meatI'm veggie
[I'm vegg-ee] - Cheers!Cheers!
[Cheers] - I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up?
[can I settle up]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
-
- Help!Help!
[Help] - Go away!Get lost!
[get lost] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[call the cops] - Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
[get a doctor] - I'm lostI'm lost
[I'm lost] - I'm illI'm sick
[I'm sick]
- Help!Help!
-
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
[I wanna buy] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[just browsing] - How much is it?How much?
[how much] - That's too expensiveThat's pricey
[that's pricey] - Can you lower the price?Can ya cut me a deal?
[can ya cut me a deal]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
-
- What time is it?What's the time?
[what's the time] - It's one o'clockIt's one
[it's one] - Half past (10)Ten-thirty
[ten-thirty] - MorningMorning
[Morning] - AfternoonAfternoon
[Afternoon] - EveningEvening
[Evening] - YesterdayYesterday
[Yesterday] - TodayToday
[Today] - TomorrowTomorrow
[Tomorrow] - 1One
[One] - 2Two
[Two] - 3Three
[Three] - 4Four
[Four] - 5Five
[Five] - 6Six
[Six] - 7Seven
[Seven] - 8Eight
[Eight] - 9Nine
[Nine] - 10Ten
[Ten]
- What time is it?What's the time?
-
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
[where's the] - What's the address?What's the address?
[what's the address] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
[can you show me on the map] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
[when's the next bus] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[a ticket to]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
History of Old Orchard Beach
-
Old Orchard Beach, located in York County, Maine, was first settled in 1657 by Thomas Rogers. The name 'Old Orchard' comes from an old apple orchard that Rogers planted near the beach, which served as a landmark for sailors and travelers. The area remained largely undeveloped for many years, serving mostly as farmland and a small local community.
-
The introduction of the Portland and Rochester Railroad in 1873 marked a significant turning point for Old Orchard Beach. This new transportation link made the beach accessible to tourists from the nearby cities of Portland and Boston, leading to a surge in visitors and the development of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The beach quickly became a popular summer destination.
-
Old Orchard Beach's iconic pier was first constructed in 1898. Initially a wooden structure extending 1,825 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, it featured a casino, ballroom, and theater, attracting performers and visitors from all over the country. Despite being shortened and rebuilt several times due to storms and fires, the pier remains a central feature of the beach's landscape and a hub of activity.
-
One of the most pivotal events in Old Orchard Beach's history was the Great Fire of 1907. The fire devastated much of the area, destroying many hotels, businesses, and homes. However, the community's resilience shone through as residents and business owners quickly rebuilt, leading to a period of modernization and growth. The fire is a testament to the town's enduring spirit and ability to overcome adversity.
-
The early 20th century saw the rise of amusement parks in Old Orchard Beach. Palace Playland, one of New England's last remaining beachfront amusement parks, opened in 1905. The park has been a beloved destination for generations of families, offering rides, games, and other attractions. It plays a crucial role in the cultural and social life of Old Orchard Beach, symbolizing the town's commitment to fun and entertainment.
-
During World War II, Old Orchard Beach saw a decline in tourism as the nation focused on the war effort. The area hosted military training exercises, and local hotels were used to house soldiers. After the war, the return of peacetime brought a resurgence of visitors. The 1950s and 60s were marked by a boom in tourism as families flocked to the beach for summer vacations, establishing Old Orchard Beach as a quintessential American seaside resort.
-
In recent decades, Old Orchard Beach has continued to evolve while maintaining its historic charm. Efforts to preserve the town's historical landmarks and promote sustainable tourism have been successful, ensuring that Old Orchard Beach remains a vibrant and attractive destination. Today, it is known for its beautiful seven-mile stretch of sandy beach, lively pier, and family-friendly atmosphere, drawing visitors from around the world.
Old Orchard Beach Essentials
-
Old Orchard Beach is located in York County, Maine. The nearest major airport is Portland International Jetport (PWM), approximately 16 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services to reach Old Orchard Beach. Alternatively, Amtrak's Downeaster train service connects Boston and Brunswick with stops at Old Orchard Beach, making it a convenient option for travelers from the Northeast.
-
Old Orchard Beach is a walkable town, especially during the summer season when most attractions are within easy reach. For longer distances, local taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. The town also offers a seasonal trolley service that runs through key areas, making it easy to get around without a car. Renting a bike is another popular option for exploring the beach and surrounding areas.
-
The official currency in Old Orchard Beach is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the town for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small vendors or in situations where card payments may not be accepted.
-
Old Orchard Beach is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard safety precautions. Avoid leaving belongings unattended on the beach and be cautious when walking alone at night. While the town does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
-
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Old Orchard Beach has a local police department and medical facilities to handle emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
-
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Avoid overly formal attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although Old Orchard Beach is not particularly religious. Public Transport: Do be respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a simple 'hello.' New Englanders appreciate straightforward and friendly interactions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and beach fare. Don't forget to tip your servers, as tipping is customary in the United States.
-
To experience Old Orchard Beach like a local, visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds. Engage with locals at the weekly farmers' market for fresh produce and homemade goods. Don’t miss the Thursday night fireworks during the summer, a local favorite. For a unique experience, take a stroll on the seven-mile stretch of sandy beach at sunset or enjoy a ride on the historic pier.
Nearby Cities to Old Orchard Beach
-
Things To Do in Biddeford
-
Things To Do in South Portland
-
Things To Do in Kennebunkport
-
Things To Do in Ogunquit
-
Things To Do in Brunswick
-
Things To Do in Dover
-
Things To Do in Lewiston
-
Things To Do in Exeter
-
Things To Do in Laconia
-
Things To Do in Augusta
-
Things To Do in Gloucester
-
Things To Do in Lawrence
-
Things To Do in Rockland
-
Things To Do in Nashua
-
Things To Do in Lowell