Canobie Lake Park
About
Canobie Lake Park is a classic New England amusement park offering the perfect blend of thrilling rides, gentle kiddie attractions, and refreshing water features. With over 85 rides and attractions spread across beautifully landscaped grounds, families can enjoy everything from nostalgic carousel rides to modern roller coasters, plus live entertainment and midway games that create lasting memories.
Highlights
- ✓Untamed wooden roller coaster with thrilling twists and turns
- ✓Castaway Island water park with slides, wave pool, and lazy river
- ✓Kiddie Land featuring over 10 pint-sized rides perfect for little ones
- ✓Classic Canobie Corkscrew coaster, a park favorite for decades
- ✓Live entertainment including magic shows and musical performances
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive at opening time (typically 10 AM) to hit the most popular rides like the Untamed coaster before lines build up in the afternoon.
- 2.Pack swimsuits and towels under your regular clothes since the water park area is included with admission. Lockers are available for storing belongings.
- 3.Download the park app to check real-time wait times and plan your route efficiently around the park.
- 4.Bring refillable water bottles as there are free water stations throughout the park, helping you save money on drinks.
- 5.Skip the lines at food stands by eating an early lunch around 11 AM or late lunch after 2 PM when crowds thin out.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekdays in late May or early June for the shortest lines and pleasant weather. Arrive right at opening to experience popular attractions with minimal wait times, and save water rides for the warmest afternoon hours.
What to Know
Admission is around $40-50 per person with height restrictions on certain rides (children under 48 inches get discounted tickets). Parking is free, and while outside food isn't allowed, the park has numerous dining options from pizza to fried dough. Stroller rentals and accessible accommodations are available.
Seasonal Notes
Open weekends from April through October, with daily operations during summer months (mid-June through Labor Day). The park hosts special Halloween events in October with family-friendly daytime activities and evening scares for older kids. Water attractions typically close after Labor Day.
Nearby Eats
Head to Tuscan Kitchen in Salem (10 minutes away) for excellent wood-fired pizzas and pasta that kids love, or try Cask and Vine for casual American fare with a great kids menu and relaxed atmosphere.
More Activities Near Portland ME
The Spotted Pig
The Spotted Pig in Portland offers families a relaxed dining experience where kids are genuinely welcome. With a menu designed to please even picky eaters and a casual atmosphere that doesn't require perfect behavior, parents can actually enjoy their meal while the little ones are happy and comfortable.
Portland Public Library
Portland Public Library is a welcoming haven for families, featuring a thoughtfully designed children's section with interactive learning spaces that encourage exploration and discovery. The library offers engaging storytimes, age-appropriate reading programs, and a modern environment that makes it easy for kids to develop a love of reading while parents can relax knowing their children are in a safe, educational space.
Maine Audubon
Maine Audubon at Gilsland Farm offers families a wonderful opportunity to explore 65 acres of trails, meadows, and salt marshes while discovering native Maine wildlife up close. Kids can observe birds at feeding stations, explore interactive nature exhibits in the visitor center, and walk scenic trails perfect for little legs, making it an ideal introduction to wildlife conservation and outdoor exploration.
Presumpscot River Preserve
Presumpscot River Preserve offers families an accessible nature escape right in Portland with gentle, well-maintained trails perfect for little legs. Kids can explore the forest, spot wildlife along the scenic river, and enjoy hands-on nature discovery without the challenge of steep terrain or long distances.