If you’re lucky enough to be planning a birthday in Greater Portland, Maine during any season, here is the list for you! There are so many great options available in our area making it easy to plan something unique and special. Please don’t forget to tell these businesses you found them through Real Maine Mom! Thank you to the following sponsors for making this page possible:
Castles in the Sky Events
Let Castles in the Sky Events handle all of the details of your next birthday party. We used Castles for a play tent set-up for my daughter’s 5th birthday and it was spectacular. Whether it’s a glamping party, a bell tent set-up, bubble domes, or a white jump castle, Castles has you covered and can customize to any theme!
Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine
Book a Friday Fun Celebration at the Children’s Museum for your child’s birthday for an unforgettable evening of fun. We did this for my daughter’s 6th birthday party and having the 1st and 2nd floors to ourself was so special.
MePowered Pastries
We have used Laura and her team to offer a cooking activity for my daughter’s 5th birthday party. Rent out the entire space for your party and you have the entertainment built right in! Or have them come to you! MePowered Pastries is located right on Route 1 in Scarborough.
207 Bounce Event Center) – you can rent out their party space in Windham and it includes a bounce house, obstacle course, a giant connect-4 and more! I haven’t personally done this but I have heard directly from others who have and they recommend it. We have rented inflatables from 207 Bounce a couple of times and it is always a simple process with no hassle at drop off or pick up.
Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland– Is your kiddo an animal lover? Book a Critter Crazy Party with ARLGP that is well planned with 1.5 hours of programming.
Atlantic Dance Arts LLC– Ask about the themed dance parties!
Aquaboggan- Birthday Party discount available for parties of 10 or more. Prices include an assigned picnic area. The birthday child is free of charge, and can be included in the count.
Bayside Bowl– Rent a couple of lanes or rent them all in this amazing facility. This option would work for kids and adults alike.
Big 20 Bowling Center– Located in Scarborough, offering candlepin bowling and party package options priced per bowler.
Brio Dance Studio– Book an awesome themed party like Frozen, Princess or Hip Hop!
Build-A-Bear Workshop– Build a special memory for you and your guests with a Build-A-Bear party.
Dragonflower Ranch – Located in Yarmouth, this is where we held our daughter’s 5th birthday party– the great room is located above a very well-kept horse barn and it offers a picturesque view of the property. Opportunities at the ranch extend beyond this event space for a summer or fall party with use of the deck, or planning an activity with the horses, etc. The possibilities are endless with this one.
Cape Elizabeth Pool & Fitness Center– We rented out this space for my daughter’s 4th birthday as well as the cafe (available at an additional charge) and if you choose you can include the blow up obstacle course for an added fee. Unfortunately it was out of service for our party but I later learned at another party we attended that the obstacle course is quite difficult and I don’t personally recommend it for ages 6 and under.
Casco Bay Movers – choose from available themed parties which include crafts for the younger dancers, dance instruction to fit the party’s theme, goody bags and set up/clean up. Parties can accommodate up to 14 children.
Centerpoint Martial Arts – A variety of themed parties are available and parties are customizable as well. Centerpoint will take care of everything including cake cutting and clean up. They also provide all paper products and decorations (balloons, banners) in the theme of your choice and Pizza, drinks and fun group games and activities.
Children’s Museum & Theater of Maine– Offering Friday Fun Celebrations with a limited rental of the facility ideal for a small birthday party celebration.
Color Me Mine Portland – Guests of your party will be able to paint a piece of pottery of their own and have cake and celebrate afterwards! They have 2 spaces separated by partitions that you can host your party at semi-privately. If there is overflow with your guests, or larger families that attend, they can consider breaking off into the public painting space. They can host a smaller number of kids when parents are in attendance, and a larger amount if a parent drop-off option works for your age-group. This can also be a fun party option for teens or adults!
Dragon Fire Martial Arts – Multiple party package options available, all including some karate fun!
Drouin Dance Center– Available on Sundays and includes dance class and craft time in addition to cake/gift time.
EVO Rock + Fitness Portland – Birthday parties for ages 5+. Come with your party guests to scale the 24 to 40 foot walls. They provide belayers, equipment, and a separate space that all help make your party experience as easy as possible.
Evolution Athletix– Offering birthday parties for kids ages 4 and up! The party is structured around the age group, with fun games and obstacles on the 3,500 square foot mat area. Birthday parties are available for booking on all Saturdays & Sundays.
Falmouth Martial Arts – Invite up to 12 friends to participate in 45 minute martial arts training classes, ninja warrior obstacle course and the facility will provide a special birthday cake with candles, Ice cream, water and a thank you gift for all. Parents are welcome to coffee and tea.
Fiddlehead Center for the Arts– Choose from arts and science projects within themed parties like extreme science, unicorn, fairies, princesses, dinos & volcanos.
Fort Williams Park– I have attended a family party here where we rented out a covered pavilion years ago. It was actually pretty cool, and lessened the stress about the weather. It was a good walk away from the lighthouse, and pretty private from the public and crowds. We had dogs, kids, adults, but as with any party at a park, plan on bringing everything that you need because there isn’t much there aside from a shelter.
Fournier’s Leadership Karate– Parties include Karate, Board-breaking, pizza, all the decorations and set up and clean up. You provide the cake!
Gorham Sports Center – Exclusive use of a half field as well as a party room which can be used simultaneously for 2 hours. No limit on the number of guests! Some equipment available for use as well including soccer balls, kickball bases, parachute, and volleyball set-up.
Greater Portland YMCA– Offering splash parties, sports & gym parties and art, dance & yoga parties.
Happy Wheels Skate Center– Located in Westbrook, and they handle the set up and clean up and also cater the event with a personalized cake, drink, Ice Cream and provide all paper goods too! So easy!
Junction Bowl– If Bowling & an Arcade sound fun for your party plans, check out Junction Bowl. They cater too!
KidPowered Pastries– We have used Laura and her team to offer a cooking activity for my daughter’s birthday party. Rent out the entire space for your party and you have the entertainment built right in too! (Alternatively, they can come to you too. That is what we did. More on this under Entertainment below) MePowered Pastries is located right on Route 1 in Scarborough. I love planning an activity like this at parties and having someone else entertain the kids for a bit (and Laura and Kelsey happen to be great at that).
Mad Science of Maine– At home or at the lab, lots of party options to choose from for the science loving child.
Maine Academy of Gymnastics – This is a popular party option that books out pretty far in advance usually. 2 Gymnastics coaches lead an hour long party, and 30 minutes in a private party room. A bounce house is included in addition to the regular equipment. Available Sundays only, located in Westbrook.
Maine Athletic Complex – 2 hours of exclusive field and party space use and access to sports nets, balls, parachute and more.
Maine Warrior Gym– Get the entire gym to yourself for 90 minutes with coaches available to assist. This is a fun “play-place” with equipment that works best for kids ages 4 and up (in my opinion). My daughter is 5 and loves it there (did a tiny ninja class) but where the equipment requires a bit more skill than, say, a trampoline park, I personally wouldn’t want to have a free-for-all there with the toddler-aged crowd for a party, but I think it would the perfect party spot for ages 5 and up where parents can hang out by the picnic tables and just watch.
Maine Wildlife Park– In the summer months and shoulder seasons, you could set up your smaller or family party at the large picnic/ BBQ area at the Maine Wildlife Park! I do believe these areas are first-come, first-serve but if you are looking for something affordable and can go with the flow a bit, this might be for you!
Mr. Drew Exotic Animal Education Center– Mr. Drew moved to his new and bigger location in Lewiston, Maine with expanded space and programming. You can see, touch and learn about exotic reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates from around the world.
Muse Paintbar- Portland – Leave the party planning to the artists at Muse with fun add-on options.
Pineland Farms– If you have a farm loving child, this could be a great option! As birthday parties go, this is a pretty affordable option too and I do believe they have an indoor “classroom” space that you are able to decorate for your party.
Portland Pottery– Includes demonstrations on the potters wheel and the opportunity to make 2 pieces during the 2 hour party. As an added bonus, cakes and refreshments are available from the onsite cafe.
Raise Playspace– Rent out the entire play space and a party room on a Saturday or Sunday for up to 30 guests. Located in Scarborough. I’d personally recommend Raise for a birthday for ages 1 through 4, but if you have party guests that are even ages 5 or 6 (like older siblings), I still think they would still have fun.
Roots Learning Studio– Located in Cape Elizabeth, Roots has a great studio space available for rental. Let one of their children’s yoga instructors lead the little ones through a fun class followed by snack and a craft.
Salt Pump Climbing Co.– This is a super cool party option for ages 5 and up. Located in Scarborough, climbing parties include 90 minutes of climbing and 30 minutes in the community room. They have a great auto-belay space that is easy for the kids to get started quickly on, and beyond that, they also can have some staff available to help with additional belaying for the party to make sure more kids can be playing at once.
Smiling Hill Farm– They have a covered outdoor space for your party and afterwards you can venture to the barnyard to check out the animals. You’ll have to clean and pack up your party space before visiting the animals though so for me that felt a bit overwhelming. The risk of bad weather is less intimidating knowing there will be a roof over your head, but it could put a damper on your visit to the barnyard.
Smitty’s Cinema– Located in Windham, Sanford and Windham. Schedule a party during a regularly scheduled showing and include movie admission for all guests, unlimited popcorn and soda, a meal, Ice Cream Sundae and a private personalized table for the birthday special guest.
Southworth Planetarium– The planetarium would be a great party option for solar system-loving kids ages 5 and up, any younger and it is more tricky to fully appreciate & enjoy since there is a sitting still component. Reserve the dome for 1 hour with any available planetarium show, as well as the gallery for 1 hour for food/cake/pinata etc.
Spare Time Portland – Choose from available party packages including bowling, laser tag or both. Pizza, soda and Game Zone cards included in each party package.
Studio Artisane– Have you considered a birthday woodworking workshop? This is a perfectly unique birthday party idea for ages 5+.
Swim Time– Locations in Westbrook and Scarborough. Party package includes 1 hour in the pool, and 1 hour in the party room. We did this for my daughter’s 1st birthday (pre-pandemic) and it was great for all ages making it a good 1st birthday party spot since there is often a wider age-range in attendance in our experience.
The Drawing Room– Located in Dana Warp Mill in Westbrook, this space is part of a caricature art studio. Incorporate it with a caricature artist for your party or host a different type of event within the space.
The Point Community Center – Parents like this option because renting out a party room, big or small is actually pretty affordable compared to other options. You have access to the indoor playscape, which is great for ages 2 – 5 or 6 in my opinion. Do expect that it will be busy though with multiple parties likely happening at once. You also have access to the turf field if that is not privately rented. Weekend parties can only be held on Saturdays since this is all part of a church.
The Playlot– A fun indoor playground space, lots of different party options available including playground parties and nerf parties too. Private and semi-private options available.
The Saco Scoop– Choose from multiple packages, each child builds their own sundae among other special surprises and even character options.
Treehouse Toddler Room at Westbrook Community Center– To book a Big Bounce Party, which includes use of the Treehouse Toddler Room AND the Birch Room for food and drink, please e-mail gpost@westbrook.me.us
Urban Air Adventure Park– This place is a birthday-party-producing machine, but the kids love it. Definitely a popular option that will make the kids happy. We have been invited to about 6 birthday parties here in total and my oldest is only 5. Choose from multiple attractions as well as various party spaces, some more private than others. My daughter loved playing on the big playground more than the trampolines, but each kid is different.
William B. Troubh Ice Arena– Private ice rental fees include ice time, rental skates, private room, hockey pucks & nets.
XL Sports World– Multiple party packages available based on party size, activity and age-group. Pick a favorite sport or even choose a nerf party. Each party has it’s own party host and includes paper goods. Bring your own cake and the facility can include pizza for you if you so choose.
Balloon Decor by Laur– Lauren created the most beautiful balloon garland for my daughter’s 1st birthday party. These special touches can make all the difference for the look and feel of our party, at least I found that to be true for us. Everytime I picture my daughter’s 1st birthday, I just know I will picture that gorgeous balloon backdrop.
Castles in the Sky Events – We used Castles in the Sky Events for my daughter’s 5th birthday party and Keri was a dream to work with, went above and beyond. Offering teepee tent sleepovers (and sleep-unders!) and more (we got a super fun play tent and boho-table set up)! Keri fully-customizes every single event. If you prefer a party outdoors, Keri can set you up for the full glamping experience or party lounge in her huge 20′ bell tent! Like many other popular local options, popular dates can book out fast so try to secure your dates as soon as you know.
Maine Party Pop– Leave your decor to the experts. Maine Party Pop offers professional event styling and decor including, but not limited to, balloon garlands.
Party Cute Balloons– Offering Balloon art and 4 foot letter marquees.
Jurassic Jo’s Dinos– Jurassic Jo’s provides interactive and educational entertainment experiences that give dinosaur-loving kids the opportunity to meet and learn all about our favorite prehistoric pals!
MePowered Pastries– Did you know they will come to you! Host a baking class at your own venue or at theirs.
Maine Foam Parties– This is a new and unique party experience in Maine! Let the kids have a blast in some foam!
M & M Entertainment– This DJ offers Kid’s Bubble parties! We have attended one and it was pretty fun, as was the DJ service that was provided simultaneously.
Mr. Drew & Animals Too– Mr. Drew will come to you with 12 to 15 animals that your guests can touch and hold (if they choose). Party Palooga– Balloon twisting, face painting, glitter tattoos, photo booth, DJ services and more!
207 Bounce– Lots of bounce houses to choose from, as well as other types of rentals like slides, interactive games, obstacle courses, tents, concessions, dunk tanks and more.
Andrews Amusements– rent concessions, inflatable lawn games, tables, chairs, etc.
Castles in the Sky Events – We used Castles in the Sky Events for my daughter’s 5th birthday party and Keri was a dream to work with, went above and beyond. Offering teepee tent sleepovers (and sleep-unders!) and more (we got a super fun play tent and boho-table set up)! Keri fully-customizes every single event. If you prefer a party outdoors, Keri can set you up for the full glamping experience or party lounge in her huge 20′ bell tent! Like many other popular local options, popular dates can book out fast so try to secure your dates as soon as you know.
Inflate Maine– Inflate Maine opened their Kennebunk location in 2023 after a successful first year of their Lisbon location. I had the pleasure of using this business for my daughter’s 1st birthday party and specifically chose them because I needed a certain size bounce house and I was looking for a certain look too to match my theme. Their pink castle fit the bill for us (it was actually brand new) and we lucked out too because we got to keep the castle all weekend long for the same price! We’d definitely use them again! Sharper Events and Tent Rentals– So many party rental options here including tents, bounce houses, waterslides, obstacle courses, concessions, carnival themed games and lots of fun and unique interactive options like a dance dome and jousting arena!
Crider’s Creations– Goodies beyond cake at this at home bakery! Decorated sugar cookies from basic to extravagant and other treats too that would be great for favors including brownie cookie sandwiches!
Gladly Craft– Custom cups, t-shirts and small gifts!
Len Libby’s Chocolates– Don’t forget your favorite local candy shop when it comes to favors! This is a great last-minute option.
Mainely Cookies by Kim– Custom sugar cookies for every occasion.
Sugar ME– This at home bakery in Yarmouth makes the cutest custom sugar cookies, gourmet cookies and cookie cakes too! Meredith created a custom cookie set for my daughter’s 6th birthday. We tried the paint your own cookies and they were so fun!
Wicked Whoopies– Mini whoopie pies are a great favor option and you can go grab a bunch from their Freeport store anytime with no advanced l planning needed!
Cakes Extraordinaire– This business is located in Yarmouth and helped me out for my daughter’s 5th birthday party. When another bakery cancelled my order the day before our party, I called Cakes Extraordinaire and Steve offered to decorate a cake he had in the bakery for us as a unicorn and also pulled together a variety of cupcakes. When trying to coordinate pick-up during a snowstorm, I learned Steve and I lived nearby and he delivered my cake and cupcakes to my house that day, during the snowstorm. As if that wouldn’t be enough for me to swear by this bakery for life, the cake was absolutely, melt in your mouth, delicious. We didn’t hesitate using them again for my other daughter’s party a few months later!
Crider’s Creations– We used this Gorham baker for my daughter’s birthday a couple of years ago and if you are looking for truly beautiful cakes with that wow factor, this is a great option. The cake was delicious too (which hasn’t always been our experience with the pretty cakes).
Grants Bakery– My family has been ordering cakes from Grants Bakery of Lewiston for many years… and we also ordered our wedding cake from them. I probably eat 4 or 5 grants cakes a year, no joke. They absolutely never disappoint. They are great if you are looking for taste over design, and if you trying to get an excellent cake on short notice. Do yourself a favor and grab a whole box of pastries while you are there!
MePowered Pastries– Laura can make some delicious desserts, but I have here here because she also specializes in smash cakes! We used them for my youngest daughter’s 1st birthday and I loved how Laura customized the ingredients to my daughter’s favorite things! Why feed your baby ingredients they’ve never tried or that you’ve never heard of. Laura will be very transparent about what is going in the cake for your peace of mind.
Sam’s Club– I know, I know… big box store, but in a pinch, if you need a themed cake and didn’t plan in advance, this can be a decent option. I usually use Sam’s if I need to bring a lot of cupcakes somewhere like a class party or a graduation party because the price is right and people usually enjoy the cake too.Wicked Whoopies– I have used the jumbo Wicked Whoopie pie for multiple birthday parties. I just call ahead to reserve a jumbo and pick it up in Freeport. It is always a crowd-pleaser. Alternatively you could always go in there and grab an assortment of regular or mini-sized whoopies for your party.
Fred’s Fried Dough– What kid (or adult) doesn’t love fried dough! Book Fred’s Fried Dough cart for your next family event!
Kelly’s Ice Cream Truck– Kelly’s Ice Cream Truck is an ice cream truck for hire serving the Southern Maine area.
Mainely Treats Ice Cream Truck– Portland, ME based food truck serving gourmet ice cream sandwiches, root beer floats, brownie sundae