Top 100 best museums in Maine

Portland Head Light, located in the US state of Maine, holds the distinction of being the oldest lighthouse in the region. Its construction began as early as 1787, making it a significant historical landmark.

The Portland Observatory, located at 138 Congress Street in the Munjoy Hill section of Portland, Maine, is a historic maritime signal tower. Constructed in 1807, it holds the distinction of being the only known surviving tower of its kind in the United States.

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, located in Portland, Maine, was established in 1993. This came after the Edaville Railroad, a museum railway in Massachusetts, was forced to close in 1991 due to financial difficulties. The museum's establishment was a way to preserve the history and legacy of the Edaville Railroad.

The Portland Museum of Art, situated in Portland, Maine, is a significant cultural institution that houses an extensive collection of over 15,000 artworks. These pieces span from the 18th century to the present, offering a comprehensive view of art history and contemporary artistic practices.

The Wadsworth-Longfellow House, located at 489 Congress Street in Portland, Maine, is a historic house and museum. It is managed by the Maine Historical Society and offers a unique glimpse into the past. The house holds both historical and literary significance, being the oldest standing structure on the Portland peninsula and the childhood home of renowned American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

The Sayward-Wheeler House, located in York Harbor, Maine, is a historic house museum that dates back to around 1718. It offers a picturesque view of the York River, providing a glimpse into the past. The house stands as a testament to the architectural style of the time and offers a unique insight into the history of the region.

The Maine Maritime Museum, previously known as the Bath Marine Museum, is a rich source of information about Maine's maritime heritage and culture. It also highlights the significant role that Maine has played in regional and global maritime activities. The museum offers a diverse collection of millions of documents, artifacts, and works of art, providing a comprehensive insight into the maritime history of the region.

The Pemaquid Point Light is a historic lighthouse in the United States. It is located in Bristol, Lincoln County, Maine, at the tip of the Pemaquid Neck. This lighthouse is a significant part of the region's history and offers a unique experience for visitors.

West Quoddy Head is a unique geographical location in the United States. Situated in Quoddy Head State Park, Lubec, Maine, it holds the distinction of being the easternmost point of the contiguous United States. This makes it a significant point of interest for tourists who are interested in geographical landmarks.

Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village, located near New Gloucester and Poland, Maine, is the last active Shaker community. The community was established during the peak of the Shaker movement in the United States, in either 1782, 1783, or 1793. This historical significance makes it a unique destination for those interested in the Shaker movement and its history.

The Seashore Trolley Museum, located in Kennebunkport, Maine, USA, is recognized as the oldest and largest museum of its kind in the world. It houses a vast collection of public transportation vehicles, making it a unique destination for those interested in the history and evolution of public transportation.

The Fifth Maine Regiment Community Center is a historic site located at 45 Seashore Avenue on Peaks Island, an island neighborhood of Portland, Maine in Casco Bay. This location offers a unique blend of history and scenic beauty, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Museum of African Culture, located in Portland, USA, was a unique institution that specialized in the art and tribal culture of Sub-Saharan Africa. It was a place where visitors could immerse themselves in the rich and diverse cultures of the African continent, offering a unique perspective on the traditions, art, and life of its people.

Fort McClary, located along the southern coast at Kittery Point, Maine, is a former defensive fortification of the United States military. It is situated at the mouth of the Piscataqua River, providing a strategic location for defense in the past. Today, it stands as a testament to the military history of the region.

The Burnt Island Light is a significant historical landmark in Maine, having been built in 1821. This makes it the second oldest surviving lighthouse in the state. Its long-standing history offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in maritime history and architecture.

The Old York Gaol is owned by the Museums of Old York and is open to the public for tours from May through October. Visitors can explore the historic building and learn about its past during these months.

The Penobscot Marine Museum, situated in Searsport, in Penobscot Bay, Maine, holds the distinction of being the oldest maritime museum in the state. It was established with the aim of preserving and educating people about Maine's and Searsport's rich and unique maritime and shipbuilding history.

Fort Knox, also known as Fort Knox State Park or Fort Knox State Historic Site, is a historic site located on the western bank of the Penobscot River in the town of Prospect, Maine. It is situated approximately 5 miles from the mouth of the river, making it a scenic location for visitors. The fort was built between 1844 and 1869, and it was the first fort in Maine to be constructed entirely of granite. It is named after Major General Henry Knox, the first U.S. Secretary of War and Commander of Artillery during the American Revolutionary War.

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, located in Boothbay, Maine, is a renowned botanical garden that opened its doors to the public in 2007. It has since been recognized as one of the top attractions in Maine. The gardens offer a unique blend of natural beauty and horticultural excellence, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

The Burnt Coat Harbor Light Station is a significant landmark located on Swan's Island, Maine. It is situated on Hockamock Head, marking the entrance to Burnt Coat Harbor and is found at the end of Harbor Road. This location offers a unique perspective of the island and the surrounding waters, making it a point of interest for visitors.

The Farnsworth Art Museum, located in Rockland, Maine, United States, is a renowned art museum that focuses on American art. This specialization makes it a unique destination for art enthusiasts and tourists interested in American art history.

The Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington Railway experienced a revival in the late 1980s when Harry Percival took over the company and planned to rebuild part of the route. This led to the establishment of the Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington Railway Museum, Inc. in 1989. The Sheepscot–Alna Center section was reopened in 2002 and has since been operated as a museum railway, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Maine's railway history.

The Bates College Museum of Art is situated on the campus of Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. The museum is maintained by the college and offers a unique blend of art from Maine and around the world, with a particular emphasis on modern and contemporary work.

The Blaine House, also known as the James G. Blaine House, is the official residence of the governor of Maine. It is situated at the intersection of Capitol and State streets in Augusta, directly across the street from the Maine State House. This location makes it a significant point of interest for visitors to the city.

The Jonathan Hamilton House, also known as the Hamilton House, is a historic landmark located at 40 Vaughan's Lane in South Berwick, Maine. This house was built between 1787 and 1788 by a merchant from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It is a well-preserved late Georgian country house that has undergone minimal alterations over the years. The house is now owned by Historic New England and serves as a historic house museum.

The Bowdoin College Museum of Art is a renowned art museum situated in Brunswick, Maine. It is a significant cultural institution that offers a wide range of art collections and exhibitions. The museum is a part of Bowdoin College and is a notable destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Nickels-Sortwell House, located at 121 Main Street in Wiscasset, Maine, serves as a historic house museum. This location offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore a piece of American history.

The Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site is a public historic property managed by the state of Maine. It is located near Pemaquid Beach in Bristol, Maine. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of the region and its early settlers.

The Sarah Orne Jewett House, located at 5 Portland Street in South Berwick, Maine, is a historic house museum. This location is significant as it was the lifelong home of the American author Sarah Orne Jewett, whose work was influential in regional writing during the late 19th century. The house itself is a high-quality example of late Georgian architecture and was built in 1774.

The Wiscasset Jail and Museum, located at 133 Federal Street (Maine State Route 218) in Wiscasset, Maine, is a historic jail that offers a unique glimpse into the past. Built in 1811, it is one of the oldest jail buildings in Maine and served as the state's first penitentiary between 1820 and 1824. Today, it operates as a museum, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the history of the jail and the region.

The Blaine House, also known as the James G. Blaine House, serves as the official residence of the governor of Maine and their family. This historic building is located at Capitol and State streets in Augusta, just across the street from the Maine State House. It was officially declared the governor's residence in 1919 and has been home to the state's governors ever since.

The Burnham Tavern, located at 14 Colonial Way in Machias, Maine, is a historic site with a rich history dating back to 1770. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the Machias area and played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War. This makes it a site of local historical importance.

The Olson House, located in Cushing, Maine, is a 14-room Colonial farmhouse that gained fame through its depiction in Andrew Wyeth's Christina's World. This iconic painting brought the house into the public eye and established it as a significant location in American art history.

The Brick Store Museum, situated at 117 Main Street in the town of Kennebunk, Maine, holds a unique place in history as one of the few museums that opened during the Great Depression in the United States. This historical significance adds a layer of intrigue to the museum, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in both history and art.

The McLellan-Sweat Mansion, also known as The McLellan House, is a historic house museum located on High Street in Portland, Maine. It forms an integral part of the Portland Museum of Art complex, serving as its rear component. This unique positioning allows visitors to experience both the rich history of the mansion and the diverse art collection of the museum in one visit.

The Winslow Homer Studio, located on Winslow Homer Road on Prouts Neck in Scarborough, Maine, is the historic studio and home of the artist Winslow Homer. This location served as the creative hub for the artist, where he lived and worked from 1884 until his death in 1910. The studio was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1965 and is now managed by the Portland Museum of Art.

The Depot House Museum, located at 114 Central Street in Pittsfield, Maine, is a historic former railroad station known as the Pittsfield Railroad Station. This location offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the history and architecture of the late 19th century.

The Major Reuben Colburn House, located on Arnold Road in Pittston, Maine, is a historic house museum and state historic site. Built in 1765, it served as the home of Reuben Colburn, a patriot and shipbuilder, from 1765 to 1818. This house is a significant part of the region's history and offers a glimpse into the life of one of its notable residents.

The Tate House Museum is a historic site located at 1270 Westbrook Street, near the Fore River in the Stroudwater neighborhood of Portland, Maine. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the history of the area. The house is one of the oldest in Portland, providing a unique opportunity to explore the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.

The John Hancock Warehouse, located at 136 Lindsay Street in York, Maine, is a historic warehouse built in the 18th century. It is notable for its association with Massachusetts politician John Hancock. This connection to a significant figure in American history adds a layer of intrigue and historical depth to the site, making it an interesting destination for those interested in the country's past.

The Maine Discovery Museum, situated in Bangor, Maine, holds the distinction of being the largest children's museum in the state and the largest located north of Boston, Massachusetts. This makes it a significant destination for families and children looking for educational and interactive experiences. The museum, which opened in 2001, offers a variety of exhibits and activities designed to engage and educate young minds.

The Skolfield–Whittier House, located at 161 Park Row in Brunswick, Maine, is a Victorian museum managed by the Pejepscot Historical Society. The house is often described as a 'time capsule' due to its preservation, remaining virtually untouched since the Victorian era.

The Cotton-Smith House, located at 42 High Street in Fairfield, Maine, is a historic house built in 1890. It is recognized as one of Fairfield's most distinguished Queen Anne Victorian houses. This architectural style is characterized by its ornate detailing, asymmetrical facade, and grand, sweeping form, making it a notable example of late 19th-century residential architecture.

The Baxter House Museum is located at 67 South Street in Gorham, Maine, United States. This historic house museum is a significant part of the town's history and offers a unique insight into the past.

The Frank Hutchins House, located at 47 High Street in Kingfield, Maine, is a historic house built in 1890. It stands as a unique architectural and decorative masterpiece by Lavella Norton, a renowned local builder. The house is considered the best-preserved example of Norton's work.

The Jonathan Fisher House, located at 44 Mines Road in Blue Hill, Maine, is a historic house museum. It was constructed in 1814 by Reverend Jonathan Fisher, who was the first settled minister of Blue Hill. The house stands as a testament to Fisher's life and work, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Conway House, located in Rockport and Camden, Maine, is a historic house and museum that dates back to the 1770s. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Knox County and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. This house provides a glimpse into the past and is a significant part of the region's history.

The Bucksport Railroad Station, located on Main Street in Bucksport, Maine, is a historic site that dates back to 1874. It was constructed by the European and North American Railway, making it a significant part of the town's history. Today, it stands as a testament to the rich railway history of the region.

Oakfield Station, located on Station Street in Oakfield, Maine, is a historic former passenger rail station. It was constructed in 1911 by the Bangor and Aroostook Railroad. This station serves as a significant reminder of Oakfield's past prominence as a railroad center.

The Nordica Homestead Museum is located at 116 Nordica Road in Farmington, Maine. This historic house museum is easily accessible and offers a unique glimpse into the past. It was the birthplace and summer home of Lillian Nordica, a renowned operatic soprano of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Acadian Village is a museum located on United States Route 1 in Van Buren, Maine. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the heritage of the Acadian people, who were early French-American settlers in the region. The museum is a significant cultural and historical site, offering visitors a unique insight into the life and work of 19th-century French-Americans.

The Holmes Cottage, situated at 521 Main Street in Calais, Maine, holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving structure in the town. It is believed to have been constructed around the year 1820, making it a significant piece of the town's history.

The Umbrella Cover Museum, located in Peaks Island, Maine, is a unique institution that celebrates umbrella covers. This museum is a testament to the often overlooked and underappreciated umbrella cover, showcasing a variety of covers from around the world.

Victoria Mansion, also known as the Morse-Libby House or Morse-Libby Mansion, is a significant example of American residential architecture. It is located in downtown Portland, Maine, United States. This mansion is a landmark that showcases the architectural prowess of the 19th century.

The Neal Dow House, also known as the Gen. Neal Dow House, is a historic landmark located at 714 Congress Street in Portland, Maine. Constructed in 1829, the house was built for the renowned politician and prohibitionist, Neal Dow. The house is recognized for its association with Dow and has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

The Portland Fire Museum is a unique attraction located in Portland, Maine. It is situated at 157 Spring Street, which was the former home of Fire Engine 4. This museum offers a glimpse into the history of firefighting in Portland, making it an interesting destination for those interested in history and firefighting.

The Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine, situated on Thompson's Point in Portland, Maine, offers a broad range of interactive exhibits and activities designed for children and families. This location provides a unique and engaging environment where children can learn and play simultaneously. The museum is designed to stimulate curiosity and foster an appreciation for various fields of knowledge, making it an ideal destination for families with children.

The Maine State Museum, the official museum of the Maine government, is conveniently located at 230 State Street, right next to the Maine State House in Augusta. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city and provides an opportunity to explore both the museum and the State House in one trip.

The Guy P. Gannett House, located at 184 State Street in Augusta, Maine, is a historic house built in 1911. The design was created by Boston architect James Thomas and it stands as the only significant example of Mediterranean Revival architecture in Kennebec County. This unique architectural style adds a distinct charm to the building, making it a point of interest for visitors.

Fort Western, located in Augusta, Maine, is a former British colonial outpost situated at the head of navigation on the Kennebec River. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the strategic importance of this location during the colonial era.

The Old Schoolhouse, also known as the York Corner Schoolhouse, is a significant historical site located on the grounds of the Old York Historical Society at York and Lindsay Streets in York, Maine. This one-room school building offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the simplicity and functionality of educational structures from a bygone era.

The Abbe Museum is a unique institution with two locations in the scenic town of Bar Harbor, Maine, situated on Mount Desert Island. This offers visitors the opportunity to explore the museum's collections and exhibits in two different settings, each with its own distinct character and charm.

The Colby College Museum of Art is an art museum situated on the campus of Colby College in Waterville, Maine. Founded in 1959, the museum has grown to include five wings and nearly 8,000 works of art. The museum specializes in American and contemporary art, with additional collections of Chinese antiquities and European paintings and works on paper.

Discover the Gulf of Maine at the Maine State Aquarium. The Gulf covers 36,000 square miles of ocean with 7,500 miles of coastline. Here water from 60 rivers meets the Atlantic Ocean. Shallow waters mix with nutrient-rich deep ocean waters. This creates a dynamic ecosystem home to over 3,000 species

The Ogunquit Museum of American Art is a quaint art museum nestled on the scenic coast of Ogunquit, Maine. Its location offers a unique blend of art and nature, providing a serene backdrop for the museum's extensive collection of American art.

Bangor Hose House No. 5, also known as the State Street Fire Station, is an important historic site located at 247 State Street in Bangor, Maine. This two-story brick building, which stands on the south side of State Street, east of downtown Bangor, is a significant part of the city's history. It was built in 1897 and served as a fire station for about a century before being converted into a museum.

The Joshua L. Chamberlain Museum, located in Brunswick, Maine, was the residence of the American Civil War general, Bowdoin College president, and Maine Governor Joshua L. Chamberlain for more than half a century. This historical site offers a glimpse into the life of this prominent figure and his significant contributions to American history.

The Pejepscot History Center, situated in Brunswick, is a significant historical institution in Maine. Established in 1888, the center's primary mission is to preserve and celebrate the rich history of the Pejepscot region, which encompasses the towns of Brunswick, Harpswell, and Topsham. This makes it an interesting destination for tourists interested in the history of Maine and the specific region.

Castle Tucker is a historic mansion located in Wiscasset, Maine, United States. This mansion is owned by Historic New England, a regional heritage organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the architectural history and material culture of New England's past. The mansion is a testament to the region's rich history and offers a unique glimpse into the past.

Grindel Point Light is a significant landmark in Islesboro, Maine. It marks the west entrance to Gilkey Harbor and is located at the westernmost point of the island. This lighthouse is not just a beacon for sailors but also a point of interest for tourists visiting the area.

Monhegan Island Light is an active lighthouse that has been serving the area since 1824. It is located on Monhegan Island, in Lincoln County, Maine. This historic lighthouse has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since May 7, 1980, marking its significance in the region's history. The current tower dates back to 1850 and was the last project of architect Alexander Parris.

The Katahdin is a historic steamboat that is berthed on Moosehead Lake in Greenville, Maine. This steamboat was built in 1914 at the Bath Iron Works and has a rich history of serving the tourist trade on the lake before being converted to a towboat for hauling lumber. It was fully restored in the 1990s by the nonprofit Moosehead Maritime Museum and is now again giving tours on the lake.

The Wilson Museum, located in Castine, Maine, United States, was established using the collection of Dr. John Howard Wilson, a geologist. This museum is a testament to Dr. Wilson's passion for geology and his extensive collection of geological specimens.

The Castine Historical Society, located in the Abbott School and Samuel P. Grindle House on the town common, is a 501(c)3 organization that serves as a window into Castine’s extraordinary past. Our permanent and summer exhibitions, lectures, and house and garden tours would not occur without the ene

The Desert of Maine has been a privately owned tourist attraction since 1925. The most recent change in ownership occurred in 2018, followed by a redevelopment campaign launched in 2020. This campaign aimed to enhance the site's appeal and provide a more enriching experience for visitors.

The Redington Museum, also known as the Redington House, is a historic house and museum located in Waterville, Maine. It holds a significant place in history as it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition underscores the museum's historical importance and its contribution to the preservation of local heritage.

The Museums of the Bethel Historical Society, located in Bethel, Maine, is a regional historical society and museum. It is housed in two historic buildings in Bethel's Broad Street Historic District, namely the 1821 O'Neil Robinson House and the 1813 Dr. Moses Mason House. These buildings themselves are a part of the region's history, adding to the overall historical experience of the museum.

The Page Farm & Home Museum is situated on the campus of the University of Maine in Orono, Maine. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are already exploring the university or those who are in the area. The museum's location on a university campus also adds an educational aspect to the visit, as it is surrounded by a hub of knowledge and learning.

The McCurdy Smokehouse, located on the waterfront of Lubec, Maine, is a former industrial fish processing facility. It was operational from around 1906 to 1991, making it a significant part of the region's history. Today, it stands as a testament to the area's industrial past.

The J. G. Deering House, also known as the Dyer Library/Saco Museum, is a historic house located at 371 Main Street in Saco, Maine. This building, completed in 1870, is a fine local example of the Italianate style. It was built for Joseph Godfrey Deering and was later given by his heirs to the city for use as a library. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

The Islesford Historical Museum and Blue Duck Ships' Store are located on Little Cranberry Island in Maine, USA. These historical exhibits are situated within the boundaries of the renowned Acadia National Park. The museum and store offer a unique insight into the history and culture of the island and its inhabitants.

Woodlawn, also known as the Black House, is a historic estate that spans 180 acres. It is conveniently located just a quarter mile from downtown Ellsworth, Maine, at 19 Black House Drive. This proximity to the city center makes it an easily accessible destination for tourists.

Eagle Island, nestled in Maine's Casco Bay, is a significant historical site as it was the summer home of renowned polar explorer Admiral Robert Peary. This island offers a unique glimpse into the life of this explorer, providing an enriching experience for those interested in history and exploration.

The Scarborough Historical Museum, formerly known as the Portland Railroad Company Substation, is located at 649 United States Route 1 in Scarborough, Maine. This building was once a power substation for the Portland Railroad Company, which provided trolley services.

The Fort Kent Railroad Station, located at the intersection of Main and Market Streets in Fort Kent, Maine, is a historic site that dates back to 1902. It was constructed by the Fish River Railroad and remained in service until 1979. This station is a testament to the region's rich railroad history and offers a glimpse into the past.

The L.C. Bates Museum is a natural history and cultural museum located in Hinckley, Maine, United States. It is situated on the campus of Good Will-Hinckley, an educational institution for underprivileged children. The museum was established in the early 20th century and offers a glimpse into the natural and cultural history of the region.

The Daniel Marrett House, located at 40 East Ossipee Trail (Maine State Route 25) in Standish, Maine, serves as a historic house museum. This location is a significant example of Greek Revival architecture and has been owned by the Marrett family for many years. Today, it is operated as a museum by Historic New England, having been donated to the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities in 1944. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

The Ruggles House, located at 146 Main Street in Columbia Falls, Maine, is a historic house museum that was built between 1818 and 1820. The house is designed in the Adamesque style and is particularly known for its unique 'flying staircase' and intricate handcrafted woodwork. This architectural gem provides a glimpse into the past, showcasing the craftsmanship and design sensibilities of the early 19th century.

The Gates House, located at 344 Port Road (Maine State Route 92) in Machiasport, Maine, serves as a historic house museum. This Federal period house, built in 1807, stands as a testament to the high-quality architecture of its time, even in what was then a frontier area. Today, it is owned by the Machiasport Historical Society and functions as its headquarters and museum.

The Museum documents and celebrates the lives of seafaring animals from earliest times to the present. Exhibits and public programs focus on the animal/human bond in a maritime context.

The Fay Hyland Botanical Plantation and The Lyle E. Littlefield Ornamentals Trial Garden are two distinct but interconnected green spaces located in Orono, United States. Managed by the University of Maine, these gardens span a total of 17 acres and offer a diverse range of plant species for visitors to explore. The botanical plantation and trial garden serve not only as a place of beauty and relaxation but also as a living laboratory for the university's research and educational programs.

The Alfred Shaker Historic District is a significant location in Alfred, Maine. It is a historic district with properties on both sides of Shaker Hill Road. This area is rich in history and offers a unique insight into the Shaker community that once thrived here.

Viles Arboretum, also known as Pine Tree State Arboretum, is a botanical garden and arboretum located in Augusta, United States. It spans an impressive 224 acres (90.6 hectares) and is managed by a private, non-profit organization. The arboretum is home to a diverse range of plant species and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the natural world.

Curtis Island Light, previously known as Negro Island Light, is a significant lighthouse that marks the entrance to the harbor of Camden, Maine. The lighthouse is situated on Curtis Island, a location that provides a protective barrier for the harbor against ocean storms. This strategic location not only makes it an important navigational aid but also a point of interest for visitors.