Maine Discovery Museum

Located in the heart of Bangor, Maine, the Maine Discovery Museum is a beacon of fun and learning for children and families. As the largest children's museum in Maine and the largest north of Boston, it offers an unparalleled experience of interactive exhibits and educational adventures. Housed in the historic Freese's Building, the museum has transformed the former department store into a vibrant space where imagination and curiosity thrive.

The History of Maine Discovery Museum

The idea for the Maine Discovery Museum was conceived in 1996 by Sean Faircloth. After several years of planning and fundraising, the museum opened its doors in 2001, unveiling a $4.5 million facility that brought new life to downtown Bangor. The opening was a significant event, with then-Congressman John Baldacci remarking that the museum had “restored the heart” to the area. Over the years, the museum has continued to grow and evolve, becoming a cornerstone of the community and a beloved destination for families.

In 2012, the Maine Discovery Museum celebrated its tenth anniversary and was honored as Nonprofit of the Year by the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce. The museum was also chosen as the Grand Marshal of Bangor's historic Independence Day Parade, a testament to its impact on the community. That same year, the museum launched its Capital Campaign to continue expanding and improving its offerings.

Exploring the Exhibits

The Maine Discovery Museum spans three floors, each brimming with interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and foster learning. From the wonders of nanotechnology to the mysteries of the natural world, there is something for every young explorer to enjoy.

First Floor Adventures

The first floor of the museum is a gateway to adventure, featuring the Reptile Room and Nature Trails. The Reptile Room is home to a variety of fascinating creatures, including Ball Pythons, Bearded Dragons, Crested Geckos, and Leopard Geckos. Children can learn about these reptiles up close and personal, fostering a sense of wonder and respect for wildlife.

The Nature Trails exhibit brings the great outdoors inside, with an indoor river, life-size explorable beaver dam, and a two-story treehouse. This immersive environment allows children to explore and learn about nature in a hands-on way, encouraging them to appreciate the natural world around them.

Second Floor Fun

The second floor is a hub of creativity and imagination. Booktown is a literary wonderland where children can step into the pages of their favorite stories. Highlights include the Good Night Moon room, where children can read beloved tales, and a vintage motorcycle and Vespa that add a touch of whimsy. The puppet show and play farm further enhance the storytelling experience, making Booktown a favorite among young visitors.

The Tradewinds exhibit transports children to a bustling marketplace, complete with a play kitchen, musical instruments, and a world floor map. The play cargo ship, complete with cargo and crane, allows children to engage in imaginative play and learn about global trade and transportation.

Third Floor Discoveries

The third floor is a treasure trove of scientific exploration and artistic expression. The Sun, Earth, Universe exhibit invites children to embark on a cosmic journey, where they can build their own rocket ships, decode secret messages using UV light and magnets, and learn about space.

Artscape is a creative haven where children can design a Light-Bright display, build structures from PVC pipe, and even try their hand at paper making. This exhibit encourages artistic expression and hands-on learning, making it a favorite among budding artists.

The Pet Vet and Doctors Office exhibits offer a unique blend of imaginative play and real-world learning. Children can care for stuffed animals like Pedro, Digger, and Tab.E.Cat in the play veterinary office, complete with a doctor's desk, exam table, and veterinary equipment. The Doctors Office exhibit allows children to step into the roles of patient or doctor, exploring human body parts and learning about health and wellness in a fun and engaging way.

NANO: A World of Tiny Wonders

One of the museum's most exciting additions is the NANO exhibit, a permanent installation donated by the NISE Network. This interactive exhibition delves into the fascinating world of nanoscale science, engineering, and technology. Hands-on exhibits present the basics of nanoscience and engineering, showcase real-world applications, and explore the societal and ethical implications of this cutting-edge technology. The NANO exhibit is a testament to the museum's commitment to science education and its role in inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Let's Move! Initiative

The Maine Discovery Museum is also a proud participant in the Let's Move! initiative, partnering with First Lady Michelle Obama's campaign to fight childhood obesity. In early 2012, the museum made a significant change by replacing traditional vending and dining options with healthier choices, including natural and organic snacks, juices, and soda, as well as gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. This initiative underscores the museum's dedication to promoting healthy lifestyles and creating a positive impact on the community.

Annual Fundraising and Community Engagement

The Maine Discovery Museum's largest and longest-running fundraising effort is its Annual Auction, held each fall. Artists from across the state and beyond donate works to be auctioned at a banquet, with proceeds supporting the museum's programs and initiatives. This event is a highlight of the museum's calendar and a testament to the strong support it receives from the community.

As a member of Bangor Arts, the Maine Discovery Museum is also committed to supporting the arts and cultural scene in the Bangor region. Through partnerships and collaborations, the museum plays a vital role in enriching the cultural fabric of the community and providing valuable educational experiences for children and families.

In conclusion, the Maine Discovery Museum is more than just a children's museum – it is a place where imagination takes flight, curiosity is nurtured, and learning is an adventure. With its diverse range of exhibits, commitment to education and health, and strong community ties, the museum offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Bangor, a day at the Maine Discovery Museum promises to be filled with discovery, wonder, and endless fun.