Need a family friendly and fun winter field trip in Southern Maine? Consider trying out Thompson’s Point Ice Skating rink, followed by a tasty meal at Becky’s Diner.
Thompson’s Point
Thompson’s Point is an up and coming peninsula in Portland Maine. In the summer they host the outdoor State Theatre Concert Series and other and events on the water. The peninsula is also home to the Portland Transportation Center. It currently houses the Amtrak train station, and Concord and Greyhound bus stations.
Ice Skating
There are few other activities that compare with classic New England ice skating while watching the tide come in. The ice skating rink is on the very tip of Thompson’s Peninsula. They offer both figure skate and hockey skate rentals. The skates are good quality and comfortable. ($12 admission to ice, $6 skate rental).
The rink is open air but COVERED 🙂 I suggest reserving your time slot as only a limited number of skaters are allowed on the rink during the 2 hours public skate sessions. Skating schedule, tickets
There are red ice skating aides lined up near the rink for any beginners. These really helped my kids get comfortable with the sensation of gliding on the ice. My back says it was DEFINITELY better than trying to help them balance and hold them up, safer too.
There are snacks and hot chocolate available for purchase during some skating sessions. For a fun date, grab a spiked hot chocolate or beer from a Maine brewery. Basecamp food and drink at Thompson’s Skating Rink
Best of all, the view from the rink is fantastic. You can see the tide rolling in and out of Fore River as it empties into the bay. it’s right across the river from the Portland Airport. Kids are entertained between laps watching the airplanes take off and land.
Becky’s Diner
This reliable Portland institution is well known for its generous portions and friendly staff. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Becky’s is open 7 days a week, 365 days per year!
They have a children’s menu. You can also order things a la carte. My kids love their pancakes.
The coffee is hot and refills are frequent. The food appears quickly. They serve rotating homemade desserts in one of those rotating glass cases right as you walk in. It’s the diner you remember from your childhood.
Tips:
It can be windy at the rink. Bring hats (or helmets for young/inexperienced skaters).
Bring some waterproof gloves. My kids like these as the fleece insides are warm and do not easily come out when they pull their gloves off. Reasonably priced. Lands End Kids Squall Gloves. (#ad)
There is a changing tent so stay warm while changing into your skates. I felt comfortable leaving my shoes there but probably would not leave any valuables there unattended.
If possible, try going to the rink on a less crowded weekday, but check the website for seasonal hours.
Becky’s is very well known. Try to avoid Becky’s during peak meal hours on days that cruise ships pull in to port. You can always call and see how long the wait is.
Consider a field trip! Take a regional bus or the Amtrak Downeaster into Portland for the day. Enjoy Thompson’s Point (see future blogs for other fun activities at the Point). Consider taking a rideshare or the Greater Portland Metro Bus into Old Port Portland to extend the day.
Portland Transportation Center, Maine – Google Maps
Do you have a favorite ice skating location? Tell me about it!
Astray Fish 
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