Kid friendly places - evenings, next weekend

Question

Hey,

We will be in Portland the weekend after Thanksgiving, we have an 8 and 4 year old. Are there any evening activities that would be kid friendly downtown?

Usually when we are on holiday (generally Europe) we are at a restaurant or bar/grill for dinner and stay for drinks after and usually til late, though I know in America this is generally frowned upon! Are there any "kid friendly" lively restaurants with maybe live music that we can spend the evening in? They're good kids, no screaming or moaning, usually happy with a juice and chatting away to us or other kids/people!

Any ideas? Thanks!

Answer

Portland, Maine is a great city to visit with kids, and while the restaurant and bar culture here can be more family-friendly than some places, there are still plenty of options where you can enjoy an evening out while keeping your kids entertained. Here are a few kid-friendly restaurants with lively atmospheres where you can relax and have a meal with the family:

Gritty’s Portland Brewpub – Located in the Old Port, Gritty’s is a casual, family-friendly brewpub with a fun and lively atmosphere. It has a great mix of craft beers for the adults and a kid-friendly menu with burgers, pizza, and mac & cheese. They often have live music or entertainment in the evening, and kids are welcome until late. It’s a great spot for a relaxed dinner with a vibrant atmosphere.
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub – A classic Portland favorite, this waterfront restaurant offers a kid-friendly menu and great views of the harbor. They sometimes feature live music in the evenings, which is a fun way to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy a meal. They also have a fun, casual vibe with plenty of space for families.
Duckfat – While Duckfat is a little more low-key, it’s still a great option for families, especially if you’re looking for something different. Known for their delicious Belgian fries and comfort food, Duckfat has a cozy but lively vibe. They’re open late, so you can enjoy a casual dinner while your kids enjoy some of the best fries in Portland. There’s often a good crowd, but it’s definitely family-friendly.
Portland Pie Company – If your kids love pizza, Portland Pie Company offers a fun, casual atmosphere with a good selection of pizzas, pasta, and other kid-friendly fare. They sometimes have family-oriented events and live music, making it a great place for a family dinner that’s lively but still relaxed.
Five Fifty-Five – A bit more upscale, but still very welcoming to families, Five Fifty-Five is a great option if you're looking for a more refined dinner experience with a lively atmosphere. They have a kid-friendly menu, and the ambiance is relaxed enough to enjoy with kids in tow. Check to see if they have any live entertainment on the weekend, as they sometimes host local musicians.

In addition to dining, here are a few other evening activities in Portland that could be fun for your kids:

Portland’s Old Port – A walk around the Old Port district can be a great way to spend an evening with the family. The cobblestone streets are beautiful, especially at night when the area is lit up. Many shops stay open in the evening, and you can browse, grab a hot chocolate, or even just enjoy the scenery.
Ice Skating at Portland’s Outdoor Rink – If the weather is chilly, you can check out the outdoor ice skating rink at the Portland Ice Arena, which usually opens in late November. Ice skating can be a fun family activity to enjoy after dinner and is perfect for kids who are full of energy.

Overall, Portland is a very family-friendly city, and you won’t have trouble finding a lively, welcoming place to enjoy dinner while keeping your kids entertained. Whether it’s a casual pub, a lively pizza spot, or an outdoor stroll, there’s plenty to do to make your evening enjoyable for everyone.