Palace Playland

About

Palace Playland is New England's only beachfront amusement park, sitting right on the sand at Old Orchard Beach, Maine. It's been a summer destination for families since the early 1900s, and the combination of ocean views, carnival rides, and salty air creates an atmosphere that's hard to beat.

The park features a mix of attractions for every thrill level. Kids can enjoy gentle rides while older visitors take on roller coasters and other high-energy options. The sprawling arcade is a highlight in its own right, packed with modern games, classic skeeball lanes, photo booths, and vintage machines that give the place a nostalgic charm.

Beyond the rides and games, Palace Playland's location is a big part of the draw. Old Orchard Beach is one of Maine's most popular stretches of sand, with a long pier, local restaurants, and shops within easy walking distance. You can spend a morning on the beach, grab lunch at a nearby spot, and then head into the park for an afternoon of fun. The town has a relaxed, welcoming energy that makes it easy to settle in for a full day or even a longer visit.

The park typically operates from late spring through early fall, with hours varying by season. Weekends and holidays tend to be the busiest times, so visiting on a weekday can mean shorter lines. Ride tickets and wristband options are available, making it flexible whether you want to try a few attractions or go all out.

Old Orchard Beach itself is about 15 minutes south of Portland, making it an easy day trip or a stop on a longer Maine coast vacation. There's ample parking in the area, though arriving early on peak days is a good idea. Whether you're chasing thrills on the coaster, competing for high scores in the arcade, or just soaking in the beachside atmosphere, Palace Playland delivers a classic summer experience.

Accessibility

Palace Playland does not publish detailed accessibility information on its website, so visitors with mobility needs should contact the park directly before visiting to ask about specific ride accessibility, accessible pathways, and any accommodations they provide.

The park sits on the Old Orchard Beach boardwalk area. Paved surfaces along the main walkways are generally navigable for wheelchair users, though the transition to sand near the beach itself can present challenges. The town of Old Orchard Beach offers free beach wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis, which can help visitors access the sandy beach areas adjacent to the park.

Public restrooms in the Old Orchard Beach area include ADA-accessible facilities. Parking is available in nearby lots, and accessible parking spaces are typically provided in accordance with ADA requirements, though availability can be limited during peak summer days.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, be aware that amusement parks are inherently loud and visually stimulating environments. The arcade area in particular features flashing lights and continuous sound. Visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings early in the season, may offer a calmer experience.

Maine's broader tourism resources note that travelers with disabilities will find a range of wheelchair-friendly and ADA-accessible activities across the state. For the most current and specific information about Palace Playland's accessibility features, including which rides accommodate wheelchairs or have transfer options, contact the park directly before your visit.

More accessible places in Maine

• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (Boothbay)
• Acadia NP & coastal hikes & food scene (Acadia National Park / Bar Harbor)
• Acadia National Park (Bar Harbor)
• Maine Maritime Museum (Bath)
• Portland Museum of Art (Portland)
• Southern Maine Beach Towns (Ogunquit)