Kids are naturally drawn to animals, and fortunately there are plenty of places around the Sebago Lake region where families can get up close to everything from moose and bears to goats, alpacas, cows, and even reptiles.
Whether you’re looking for a quick stop on a summer afternoon or planning a full family outing, these local destinations offer opportunities to learn about animals, connect with nature, and create lasting memories.
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Maine Wildlife Park (Gray)
If your kids are hoping to see some of Maine’s most iconic wildlife, Maine Wildlife Park is hard to beat. The park is home to animals that cannot survive in the wild due to injury or other circumstances, giving families a chance to see species they might never encounter otherwise.
Animals commonly seen here include:
- Moose
- Black bears
- White-tailed deer
- Raccoons
- Foxes
- Bobcats
- Owls
- Eagles
- Beavers
Wide gravel paths make it stroller-friendly, and educational exhibits throughout the park help children learn more about Maine’s wildlife and conservation efforts.
Read the full guide here:
https://lakeregionkidscalendar.com/2026/04/17/maine-wildlife-park/
Mr. Drew and His Animals Too (Poland)
This hidden gem is one of the most unique animal experiences in the region. Mr. Drew’s collection focuses on reptiles, amphibians, fish, birds, and other exotic animals that many children have never seen before.
Animals may include:
- Snakes
- Lizards
- Turtles
- Fish
- Birds
- Other exotic creatures
The exhibits are designed to be educational, making this a fun stop for curious kids who love learning about unusual animals.
Read the full guide here:
https://lakeregionkidscalendar.com/2025/12/22/mr-drew-and-his-animals-too-poland-me/
Orchard Ridge Farm (Gorham)
One of the best free animal-viewing opportunities in the region, Orchard Ridge Farm welcomes visitors to stop by and see many of the farm animals that call the property home.
Animals often seen include:
- Cows
- Goats
- Donkey
- Chickens
- Other farm animals
Families can enjoy the farm store, browse local products, and visit the animals without paying admission, making this an easy and budget-friendly outing.
Read the full guide here:
https://lakeregionkidscalendar.com/2026/01/08/orchard-ridge-farm-in-gorham-me/
Smiling Hill Farm (Westbrook)
Smiling Hill Farm combines a working dairy farm with one of the area’s most popular family destinations. In addition to seeing animals, kids can enjoy play structures, open space to explore, and of course a stop for ice cream.
Animals commonly found here include:
- Goats
- Highland cows
- Alpacas
- Pigs
- Chickens and other poultry
- Cattle
The farm’s animal area and family-friendly atmosphere make it a favorite destination for young children.
Pineland Farms Barnyard (New Gloucester)
The barnyard at Pineland Farms gives families the opportunity to meet a variety of friendly farm animals while exploring one of Maine’s most beautiful agricultural properties.
Animals often include:
- Goats
- Chickens
- Peacocks
- Pigs
- Sheep
- Other farm animals
After visiting the animals, families can explore trails, the market, and seasonal farm activities.
Meow Lounge (Westbrook)
For cat lovers, Meow Lounge offers a completely different animal experience. Visitors can spend time interacting with adoptable cats in a comfortable indoor setting while helping support local animal rescue efforts.
Please note that children must be at least 5 years old to enter.
This can be a fun rainy-day option for older kids who love animals and want a quieter experience than a traditional farm visit.
Planning Your Animal Adventure
If you’re looking for Maine wildlife, start with Maine Wildlife Park. For farm animals, Smiling Hill Farm and Pineland Farms offer some of the best experiences in the region. Families interested in reptiles and exotic animals should make time for Mr. Drew and His Animals Too, while Orchard Ridge Farm provides a simple free option for seeing farm animals. And for cat lovers, Meow Lounge offers a unique indoor experience.
No matter which destination you choose, these animal encounters are a great way to encourage curiosity, learning, and a connection with the natural world.
👉 View the full calendar of family events happening this week:
Lake Region Kids Calendar Event Calendar
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Lake Region Kids Calendar Local Directory
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