It's sort of trendy to hate malls.

But I look at the mall as a veritable variety pack of free entertainment for little kids.

And this time of year, when it might actually get sticky enough for a soul to seek out air-conditioning in Maine, the mall has that for free too.

So on a hot day this month, when the kids are bored and sticky, you might try heading out to the Maine Mall in South Portland.

It's counter-intuitive too, because most people head outside on a nice summer day.

Here's what Sophie (almost 5) likes to do when she takes me to the mall:

Ride the escalator at Sports Authority;

Ride the mini-carousel for $1;

Sit on the little kiddie rides near Linens 'n Things, which are apparently just as much fun when you don't put money in them;

Go to Build-A-Bear and take one of the bears around to the dressing table, brushing station, etc.;

Seek out free samples at the Food Court;

Watch people.

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