Traffic jams, crowded parking lots, and the stress of navigating holiday crowds—Memorial Day weekend in Old Orchard Beach can quickly go from fun to frustrating if you’re relying on your car to get around. For families trying to wrangle kids, visitors unfamiliar with the area, or anyone just hoping to enjoy a laid-back start to summer, driving through packed streets isn’t exactly how you want to kick things off.
That’s where the Memorial Day Trolley Service in Old Orchard Beach (OOB) steps in. Running on Saturday and Sunday, May 25–26, this seasonal trolley makes it easier to enjoy everything the town has to offer—without the parking headaches. It’s affordable, scenic, and lets you soak in the beach-town vibe from the moment you hop on. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for the weekend, it’s a smarter way to explore.
Why Take the Trolley This Memorial Day Weekend?
Old Orchard Beach is known for its charm, from the iconic pier and amusement park to miles of sandy shoreline. But it’s also no secret that holiday weekends draw huge crowds. With limited parking near the beach and popular attractions, trying to drive from one spot to another can eat up hours of your day.
The OOB Memorial Day Trolley offers a practical solution. It’s more than just a fun ride—it’s a convenient and relaxing way to get to the beach, restaurants, local shops, and entertainment spots without the need to stress over directions or where to leave your car. Instead of getting stuck in traffic, you can enjoy the ride, take in the scenery, and hop off right near your destination.
What You Need to Know?
Here’s a breakdown of the essential info to help you make the most of the service:
Service Dates
The Old Orchard Beach trolley service will run on Saturday and Sunday, May 25–26, over Memorial Day weekend, with trolleys operating throughout the day and making stops across key points in Old Orchard Beach, parts of Saco, and Scarborough. You can view the full route, check stop locations, and even track the trolley in real-time by visiting the official BSOOB Transit Seasonal Trolley Schedule.
Fares
Fares for the Memorial Day Trolley Service are simple and affordable. Adults ride for $2.00, while a reduced fare of $1.00 is available for seniors (65+), children aged 6–18, veterans, Medicare cardholders, SSI/SSDI recipients, and individuals with verified disabilities. Children aged 5 and under can ride free when accompanied by an adult. Please note that exact change is required, as drivers do not carry change.
Accessibility
Accessibility is a key feature of the Memorial Day Trolley Service. All trolleys are ADA accessible, ensuring that passengers with mobility challenges, including those who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices, can ride comfortably and safely. Each trolley is equipped with ramps or lifts, designated seating areas, and space to accommodate mobility aids. Drivers are also trained to assist passengers as needed, making the experience inclusive for everyone.
This makes the trolley a convenient option not just for individuals with disabilities, but also for older adults or anyone who may find walking longer distances difficult during the busy holiday weekend. If you’re planning your ride in advance, reviewing the trolley schedule can help you find the most accessible and convenient stop near you.
Where Does the Trolley Go?
This isn’t just a loop around town. The trolley’s Route 8 – Old Orchard Beach Seasonal Trolley covers a wide area, including:
- Old Orchard Beach Pier & Downtown: Right in the heart of the action.
- East Grand Avenue: Running parallel to the beach, ideal for seaside access.
- Scarborough’s Pine Point: A quieter area great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and seafood dining.
- Route 1 in Saco: Including stops near Funtown/Splashtown USA, so families can easily reach the amusement parks.
There are over 40 designated stops, so chances are good that one is close to your hotel, Airbnb, or that must-try clam shack. For guests staying at the best hotel in Old Orchard Beach, this trolley offers an added perk—no car needed to reach most of the town’s top spots.
You can view the full route map and stop list online, along with estimated times for each loop.
Real-Time Tracking
No need to stand around guessing when the next trolley will arrive. BSOOB Transit offers real-time tracking through their website and mobile-friendly platform. You can see where the trolley is, how many minutes until it reaches your stop, and avoid unnecessary waits.
Meet the Mascot: Ted E Bear
New for this year’s Memorial Day weekend is Ted E Bear, the official Trolley Ambassador. This friendly mascot will be making appearances around Old Orchard Beach and on the trolleys themselves, creating a bit of buzz and plenty of Instagrammable moments. If you spot him, don’t forget to snap a selfie and tag your post—your photo could be featured on local pages or even used in future promotions.
For families with younger children, this adds a bit of extra fun to the ride. It’s not just a trolley—it’s part of the holiday experience.
Tips for a Smooth Ride
To get the most out of your trolley ride, keep these tips in mind:
- Arrive early: Be at your stop 5 minutes before the Old Orchard Beach trolley scheduled time.
- Expect delays: During peak travel hours or in bad weather, minor delays can happen.
- Have exact change ready: Drivers do not provide change for cash fares.
- Keep things tidy: Fold strollers and keep bags tucked away to ensure space and comfort for all riders.
- Know your stops: Use the online map to plan your route and know where to get off.
Save Time, Save Stress
Let’s be honest—parking in Old Orchard Beach during Memorial Day weekend can feel like a full-contact sport. Lots fill up quickly, street parking is limited, and it’s not always easy to find a legal spot close to where you’re headed. By hopping on the trolley, you bypass all that and get more time to actually enjoy your trip.
Whether you’re headed to the beach, Funtown/Splashtown, Palace Playland, or just grabbing an ice cream on the pier, the trolley lets you do it all without worrying about moving your car or feeding a metre.
Who Should Ride?
This service is ideal for:
- Families with small children or elderly relatives
- Tourists unfamiliar with OOB’s layout
- Locals who want to support public transport and avoid traffic
- Eco-conscious visitors looking to reduce car use during busy weekends
Catch the Trolley, Stay at Seagrass Inn!
If you’re spending Memorial Day weekend in Old Orchard Beach, the trolley is more than just a ride—it’s part of the experience. With friendly service, scenic routes, and stops near all the best spots, it’s a hassle-free and affordable way to explore. For only a couple of dollars, you’ll gain back time and peace of mind—and who doesn’t want more of both during a long weekend?
To make the most of your trip, book your stay at Seagrass Inn—located just steps from trolley stops and the beach. It’s the ideal spot to relax, recharge, and stay close to all the Memorial Day action without the parking stress.
FAQs
Can I bring food or drinks on the trolley?
Yes, you can bring small snacks or non-alcoholic beverages on board, but please stay mindful of other passengers. Keep food sealed and avoid strong-smelling items. Beverages should have lids to avoid spills, especially during busy times or bumpy rides.
Can pets ride the trolley during Memorial Day weekend?
The trolley permits only service animals. Due to space and safety limitations, it does not allow non-service pets—like dogs or cats—even in carriers. This helps keep the trolley comfortable and accessible for all riders.
Is the trolley service available late in the evening?
Trolley hours vary based on traffic conditions and rider demand, but the Memorial Day weekend service typically ends in the early evening. If you’re planning a night out, it’s a good idea to check the real-time tracker in advance or arrange a backup option like a local taxi or rideshare.
What should I do if I lose something on the trolley?
BSOOB Transit collects and holds lost items. If you leave something behind, you can contact their customer service through their website or social media channels. Providing details such as the route, time, and a description of the item can help speed up the recovery process.
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