When planning a family trip, it’s important to find activities that keep the kids entertained and engaged. By choosing a destination that aligns with their interests, you can create an unforgettable experience for everyone. Whether your kids love exploring the great outdoors or prefer indoor adventures, Rangeley, Maine, offers a variety of activities to suit all preferences.
Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of expansive lakes, majestic mountains, and lush forests, Rangeley is the perfect family getaway. Here, children can enjoy water activities like kayaking, paddle boating, and swimming or embark on stroller-friendly hiking trails. Older kids will love exploring more challenging paths with moderate elevations. From nature walks to lakeside picnics, Rangeley has something for everyone.
Exciting Activities for Kids in Rangeley, Maine
1. Go for a walk or hike
Rangeley boasts numerous kid-friendly walking trails. Highlights include:
- Mingo Springs Trail and Bird Walk: Spot local wildlife! Bring a magnifying glass or bug catcher from the Rangeley Adventure Company for added fun.
- Hatchery Brook Preserve: Ideal for a picnic with three designated spots along the trail.
- Bonney Point Trail & Hunter Cove Wildlife Sanctuary: Peaceful trails for kids of all ages.
- Cascade Stream and Gorge: A relaxing hike with plenty of stream-side spots for kids to play and explore.
- Smalls Falls: A family favorite with fun hiking trails, river pools for swimming, and picnic tables for a perfect outdoor lunch.
For a more adventurous hike, visit Bald Mountain, where kids can climb the Fire Tower for stunning panoramic views of the mountains and lakes.
See more details on the walking and hiking trails in Rangeley here: Hiking in Rangeley
2. Rent a boat
If your kids love spending time on the water, renting a boat is a great option! Children of all ages can enjoy a close-up experience with nature while having fun on a boat ride. Oquossoc Cove Marina and Lakeside Marina rent boats for Rangeley Lake while Bald Mountain Camps has boat rentals on Mooselookmeguntic Lake. Be on the lookout for ducks, loons, seagulls, eagles, and jumping fish!
3. Visit a Museum
You won’t want to miss the popular Rangeley Outdoor Heritage Museum, a perfect destination for families! The museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the rich history of the Rangeley area. Kids can explore the history of outdoor activities like camping, hunting, fishing, and water adventures. It’s also a great place to learn about the region’s logging and forestry history. With interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity, the museum is sure to captivate children of all ages!
4. Go for a canoe or kayak ride
Canoes and kayaks are available to rent at Rangeley Adventure Co. right on Haley Pond! They have tandem kayaks, single kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and paddle boats. Explore the pond and be on the watch for ducks, loons, gray herons, seagulls, beavers, frogs, and jumping fish! You can also sign up for a guided canoe or kayak trip at Rangeley Adventure Company – they offer weekly children’s programs and activities and guided Kennebago / Cupsuptic River trips. More information on canoe and kayak trips here: Explore with a Canoe or Kayak
5. Visit a park
First, visit Rangeley Town Park, which boasts a brand-new jungle gym, a sandy beach, a dock, restrooms, covered picnic tables, and charcoal grills. Pack a beach bag and lunch, as this park is an ideal spot to spend the whole day—kids can play, swim, and embrace lake life. Next, head to Rangeley State Park on South Shore Drive. This park offers scenic walking trails, private picnic areas, soft green grass, and excellent swimming opportunities. It’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature. Finally, check out the Oquossoc Park, where you’ll find a fun jungle gym right across from Oquossoc Grocery. Let the kids burn off some energy, then grab a snack or drink from the grocery to recharge!
6. Go sight seeing!
The best sight seeing locations are the Whip Willow Farm Overlook, Quill Hill, Height of the Land, or Shelton Noyes Overlook! As you journey to these scenic vistas, keep an eye out for deer and moose along the way. Kids can enjoy taking in the majestic mountain views and learning about the area’s rich history from informational plaques. For directions and more details, check out Quick Trips to Scenic Vistas
7. Visit a Farmers Market
Experience the charm of Rangeley’s local farmer’s markets and treat yourself to fresh produce, delicious baked goods, and more!
- Every Thursday: 10 AM–2 PM on Depot Street (late spring- early fall)
- Every Tuesday: 10 AM–2 PM on South Shore Drive (late spring- early fall)
These markets are the perfect way to support local farmers and enjoy some special treats during your visit!
8. Bowling
Don’t miss out on the fun at Moose Alley, a popular spot in Rangeley that features a full bowling alley, restaurant, and arcade. It’s the perfect destination for a family-friendly outing.
9. Rangeley Public Library
The Rangeley Public Library is a treasure trove of fun and educational activities for children of all ages! Whether your family is visiting for a short stay or you’re a local looking for enriching experiences, the library offers something for everyone:
Preschool Story Hour- Every Friday 10 AM – 11 PM (September through April Vacation) – For preschool aged children, story hour meets weekly to share stories, crafts, games, or other fun activities!
OWL Club – Every Thursday at 2:45 PM OWL (September through April Vacation). OWL (Our Weekly Library) Club is for K-2nd grade. It meets each week for stories, crafts, snacks, games, and other fun adventures.
Kids’ Reading Corner – The library features a cozy children’s area filled with books for every age and interest. From picture books to chapter books, young readers can explore new worlds and stories at their own pace.
Seasonal Programs and Events – The library organizes seasonal activities such as holiday-themed crafts, summer reading challenges, and special guest presentations like puppet shows or author visits. Visit their events page to see what’s going on!
Free Wi-Fi and Digital Resources – Older kids and teens can access free Wi-Fi and use digital tools or e-books for school projects, learning apps, or just exploring topics that interest them.
10. Catch a movie or play
Head over to the Rangeley Lakeside Theater for entertainment! Catch movies every Friday through Sunday night or enjoy a local play. Check their website for updated schedules and performance details.
11. 3rd of July Festivities in Rangeley!
Rangeley celebrates Independence Day on the 3rd of July each year, making it the perfect time for families to visit and enjoy a full day of fun events and activities. Here’s what’s happening:
Craft Fair in the Park – Starting at 10AM – Explore an array of handmade crafts and tasty treats from local vendors in the Town Park.
Doll Carriage Parade – 10 AM – Starts at the Rangeley Inn & Tavern and ends at the Town Park. Come to watch or sign up to participate! Registration is from 9 AM – 9:30 AM at the field next to the Rangeley Inn. Judging ends at 9:45 AM. Late entries will be allowed in the parade but will not be judged. Please note that there will be no parking in the Rangeley Inn parking lot for the parade! The categories will be Walkers, Bikes and Wheels, Carriages, Wagons, Groups, and Children Driven Battery Operated Vehicles. All entrants receive a free Ice Cream at the Pine Tree Frosty! NO flatbeds, jeeps, or motorized vehicles. We focus on making this the kid’s parade, as it was intended in its inception. Questions don’t hesitate to get in touch with Ashley, Shelly, Jaycee, or Hudson at (207) 858-1943.
Rangeley Health and Wellness Rubber Duck Race– 11 AM – $5.00/duck! Purchase a duck through Rangeley Health and Wellness and test your luck! Duck Race starts at the Haley Pond Sluiceway (near Pine Tree Frosty).
Great American Dog Parade – 1 PM – Celebrate patriotic pups as they march through town in creative costumes. This family-friendly event is a heartwarming favorite for dog lovers and spectators alike.
Live Music in the Park – 3 PM – Enjoy live music in the Town Park in front of the tennis courts until dark! Sing, dance, and enjoy the tunes!
Firework Show – 9 PM – The fireworks show is a spectacular highlight of the Independence Day celebrations, lighting up the sky over the serene waters of Rangeley Lake. This dazzling display draws families, friends, and visitors from near and far. Whether viewed from the lakeshore, a boat, or a cozy spot in town, the vibrant colors and reflections on the water create an unforgettable experience. Bring a blanket or chair, and get ready to be wowed by this quintessential summer tradition!
12. Scenic lift ride
During September and early October, take a scenic lift ride at Saddleback Mountain. For just $20, enjoy unlimited rides and soak in the spectacular mountain views and vibrant fall foliage.
13. Ski Saddleback
Winter in Rangeley offers as much adventure as summer! Hit the slopes at Saddleback Mountain, a premier destination for skiers of all levels. New to skiing? Saddleback offers beginner classes, making it the perfect place to learn. Plus, kids under 5 ski for free! Visit Saddleback Maine online for more information and to plan your trip.
14. Horse-drawn carriage ride
Every Saturday evening from 4–6 PM, enjoy a charming horse-drawn carriage ride down Main Street. Meet Bert and Ernie, the beloved horses that lead the wagon! Rides start and end next to the Rangeley Adventure Company (7 Pond Street).
Rangeley Kids Summer Bucket List:
Build a Fairy House
Catch a Firefly
Spot a Deer
Spot a Moose
Swim in Rangeley Lake
Go for a hike
Learn to loon call
Pick blueberries
Walk in a field of Lupines
Skip rocks
Catch a fish
See a shooting star
Rangeley Kids Winter Bucket List:
Ski Saddleback
Ride in a horse-drawn carriage
Build a snowman
Spot a Deer
Spot a Moose
Ice Skate on Haley Pond
Go Ice fishing
See the Northern Lights
Go sledding down Mingo Springs Golf Course
Go shoe shoeing
Go snowmobiling
Arts and Craft Activities at local gift shops
Book Your Kid-Friendly Escape
With countless activities for kids, Rangeley is the ultimate family adventure destination. When planning your stay, choose accommodations through Morton & Furbish Vacation Rentals. Our vacation homes offer spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and fantastic amenities. Whether you want a private waterfront retreat or a convenient downtown location, we have the perfect rental for you.
Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable Rangeley escape!