Maine State Museum
4.7(481)google
4.6(17)yelp
HistoryEducationalInteractiveGuided TourIndoorFamily
Overview
The Maine State Museum is the official Maine government's museum and is located at 230 State Street, adjacent to the Maine State House, in Augusta. Its collections focus on the state's pre-history, history, and natural science. Permanent exhibits include dioramas of Maine's animals, birds and plants in different ecosystems; gems and minerals; displays about the state's natural resources and industries, including forestry, granite, fishing, and agriculture; Clovis culture and archaeological artifacts; and settlement and state history.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration2-3.5 hours
Best TimeAn all-weather indoor attraction open year-round. It is highly recommended during Maine's harsh winter months (November to March) as an educational retreat. Aim for a weekday morning at 10:00 AM to explore the massive, multi-floor exhibits detailing Maine's indigenous cultures, natural history, and historic logging industries before school field trips arrive.
Getting ThereLocated in the State Capitol Complex in Augusta. By car, take I-95 to Exit 109, merge onto ME-17 East/Western Avenue toward downtown, then turn right onto State Street into the large, free state complex parking lots next to the State House. Kennebec Valley Explorer transit buses serve the state complex with a dedicated stop at the State House loop.
Travel Tips
- Critical closure notice: Due to complex foundational leaks, life-safety, and HVAC overhauls of the Cultural Building, the museum is currently entirely closed to the public, with its Phase 1 Grand Reopening scheduled for October 24, 2026.
- Upon reopening, a new 4,130-square-foot Whale Gallery will debut featuring a 45-foot adult female humpback whale skeleton; entry will require booking timed-entry tickets via the official website or the museum's dedicated mobile application.
- The museum sits adjacent to the State House with shared state complex lots that fill up with government staff on weekdays; park along the perimeter of Capitol Park, where free 30-minute historical walking tours depart on Wednesday mornings in July and August.
Reviews
Positive
- There are so many displays to see and learn about Maine's natural and cultural history. Great interactive elements for kids to enjoy while learning.
- The admission fee is only a few dollars for three floors of amazing exhibits. Incredibly high value and absolutely worth more than the price.
- The mammoth fossils and the replicated working water mill are impressive. It's a perfect indoor attraction for the family on a rainy or cold winter day.
- The museum is well-maintained with clear signage. Free parking is available nearby at the legislative garage, making the visit very smooth.
Heads up
- Due to major ongoing long-term renovations and facility maintenance, some core exhibit areas were closed. Check updates before visiting.
- The dining options and snack selections inside are very limited. It is recommended to bring your own food and water if you plan to stay long.
- During weekends and school field trip peak seasons, the density of schoolchildren is high, making the environment noisy and disrupting a quiet viewing atmosphere.
- As a comprehensive state museum, some modern history exhibits update slowly and some tech interactives feel slightly outdated due to space limits.