Maine Discovery Museum

Imagine a place where curiosity knows no bounds and learning turns into a thrilling adventure. The Maine Discovery Museum is the largest children's cultural space in the state and the most significant museum of its kind north of Boston. Located in the heart of Bangor, it occupies three floors of the historic Freese's Building.

At this museum located in the USA, science, nature, and art intertwine in interactive exhibits. Here, you can study anatomy, dive into the world of children's literature, experiment with music, or uncover the mysteries of geography. The entire space is designed to stimulate skill development through play, making it a must-visit for the whole family.

The museum's significance is highlighted by prestigious awards: in 2026, it was honored with the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The museum actively collaborates with local schools and communities, bringing educational programs even to the most remote corners of the state, underscoring its vital role in the region's cultural life.

For information about special events or group visits, you can contact the museum administration directly. The Maine Discovery Museum is always happy to connect with visitors.

Three floors of pure delight and discovery await visitors. On the first level is the Reptile Room, home to exotic reptiles like pythons, bearded dragons, and agile geckos. Nature lovers will enjoy the trails featuring a real "river," a two-story treehouse, and even a life-size beaver dam.

The second floor invites you into the world of books. In the Booktown area, little ones can step into a cozy room inspired by the classic story "Goodnight Moon," put on a show in the puppet theater, or play at being farmers. Role-playing continues in the "kitchen" and a mock grocery store, where children learn social interaction through everyday activities.

The third floor is a paradise for young scientists and explorers. Here, you can build your own rocket, head to the Dino Dig area to search for fossils, or step into the role of a veterinarian at the Pet Vet clinic. Special attention should be given to the exhibits dedicated to nanotechnology and neuroscience in the Body Journey hall, where the complex processes of the human body are explained in simple and understandable language.

The attraction is located in the heart of the business district at 74 Main St. If you are already in downtown Bangor, the museum is easily reachable on foot, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere of the historic streets.

For those arriving from other parts of the USA by car, the highway route is quite straightforward; however, keep in mind that on-street parking downtown can be limited. It is recommended to look for a spot in nearby parking garages in advance.

Travelers flying into Bangor International Airport (BGR) can reach the museum by taxi or rental car in just 10–15 minutes. The city also has a public transportation network that provides convenient access to the downtown area.

The story of this remarkable place began in 1996 through the initiative of Sean Faircloth, who led a major fundraising campaign. Thanks to community support, approximately $4.5 million was raised, allowing the empty former Freese's Department Store building to be transformed into a modern educational center.

The official opening took place in 2001. As noted by local authorities, the museum's arrival brought life back to the city's business district. At the time, it was the largest children's museum project in New England outside of Boston, immediately making it a significant cultural landmark on the state map.

Over the years, the museum has repeatedly confirmed its high status. In 2012, it was named "Nonprofit of the Year" by the regional Chamber of Commerce. In 2026, the institution's achievements were recognized at the national level: the museum received the National Medal for outstanding contribution to library and museum service, becoming the only laureate in the country's northeast region.

To make the most of your visit, the average visitor is recommended to set aside at least 2–3 hours to explore all the exhibits. This is enough time for children to play in the main areas and for adults to look through the information displays.

For families with young children, the visit can easily last half a day. The museum's interactive format encourages active participation in experiments and role-playing, so it is best not to plan a rushed visit to give your child the chance to fully immerse themselves in the process of discovery.

The museum typically welcomes guests Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Keep an eye out for the special My Day to Play sessions, which take place on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Before planning your visit, it is highly recommended to check the current schedule on the museum's official website, as hours of operation may change due to holidays or private events.

The museum's central location allows tourists to combine an educational visit with a stroll to other interesting sites. Exploring the surroundings of Bangor will help you get a better feel for the history and culture of this northern corner of the country.