Having just thrown a pretty involved birthday party for our 10-year-old, it got me thinking - aren't there places that do it for you? Yup. Here are the most recommended places when I asked on Facebook! 

I can't personally vouch for any of these places as I haven't tried them. But let me tell you what - they all seem really awesome!

GET AIR

A lot of people said head to 'Get Air' in Portland (over by the dump on Riverside Street) I've dropped kids off to 'Get Air' for a party - but have never had one. This was probably the most recommended and the most controversial of all the places. People have some strong opinions on either loving the place, or thinking it's too dangerous with an staff that is not involved enough..and it was about 50/50 for those for it and those against it. Mmmm....

SPARE TIME PORTLAND

Spare Time Portland came very recommended with no complaints from anyone. Everyone who has had a party here absolutely loved it for the price, the food and the entertainment. Uh, I love me a cheap entertaining place with good food! This is also on Riverside Street in Portland.

ESCAPE ROOM

I've wanted to do this! Lots of people said The Escape Room was great fun. There was one person who said it was a tad hard for younger kids. She was thinking 14 and up. Heck, I would think this could trip me up and I'd be stuck in the room for a couple of days! This is a very popular concept right now and there is an escape room in South Portland called, GTFO Escape Room. Neither 'room' had specifics on birthday parties, but people have done it!

MAINE BACKYARD DRIVE IN

Okay, this one...this one is a must! How cool to have a movie in your backyard? The only thing is that the birthday party happens in the dark at night and there's no talking. So I'm thinking ya have a BBQ in the ol' backyard, then break out the movie night with Maine Backyard Drive In. I thought the prices were really reasonable for 20 (considering I JUST threw a party...for 20!)

THE GAME PARTY TRUCK

I haven't book these guys, but I've been lucky enough that they have been at a couple of Q events - so I've been inside the Game Party Truck! It IS so cool. And kids WOULD love this.

So there ya go. We've got 3 kids...and all in that classic birthday age. Of course, I may want something like this too...mmm....