George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History
A charming, student-run museum on COA's campus showcasing Acadia's biodiversity through dioramas and taxidermy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Rainy day escape
George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History
Best Time
Rainy day escape
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, student-run museum on COA's campus showcasing Acadia's biodiversity through dioramas and taxidermy.
"Awesome museum! Bigger than it let's on a lot of specimens to see."
Donations Welcome!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this worthy cause. :heart:
Great for All Ages
Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the diverse exhibits and animal specimens. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Dioramas
Throughout the museum
Immersive scenes depicting Acadia's land and ocean ecosystems, crafted by talented students.
Student Taxidermy Collection
Various display cases
A remarkable collection of taxidermied animals, showcasing the skills of College of the Atlantic students.
Oceanic Art Showcase
Rotating exhibits
Unique, ocean-themed pottery and art pieces, often created by local artists and students.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
Student-Driven Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Donations Welcome!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this worthy cause. :heart:
Great for All Ages
Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the diverse exhibits and animal specimens. :child:
Student-Made Wonders
Appreciate the student talent behind the taxidermy and exhibits – it's truly impressive! :star:
Perfect Rainy Day Activity
This cozy museum is an ideal indoor escape when the weather doesn't cooperate. :umbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
Donations Welcome!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this worthy cause. :heart:
Great for All Ages
Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the diverse exhibits and animal specimens. :child:
Student-Made Wonders
Appreciate the student talent behind the taxidermy and exhibits – it's truly impressive! :star:
Perfect Rainy Day Activity
This cozy museum is an ideal indoor escape when the weather doesn't cooperate. :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the George B. Dorr Museum for its unique, student-driven exhibits and intimate portrayal of Acadia's natural history. While small, it's packed with engaging dioramas and impressive taxidermy, making it a delightful and educational stop for all ages. The free admission and donation-based model are also highly appreciated.
"Great little place. The exhibition is spread all over the space creating an all encompassing environment. It's also interactive. Great dioramas, a nice collection that represents both ocean and land dynamics of the parklands. Worth a visit. This place is special."
Bill D.
"Loved it. Would have enjoyed going to school here, appreciate the way all different disciplines are incorporated.
I do want to know why wasn't 'museum diorama maker' or 'museum taxidermy specialist' on my career list when I was looking at colleges?"
Gemini.BigDog
"Awesome museum! Bigger than it let's on a lot of specimens to see. What made it most interesting was the fact that the animals were taxidermied by students! 20/10 reccomend"
Jasmin Silvestry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the College of the Atlantic campus in Bar Harbor, Maine. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on campus. If you're exploring Bar Harbor on foot, it's a pleasant walk from the downtown area.
Yes, the museum is situated on the edge of Acadia National Park, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the park's natural wonders. Rangers sometimes lead tide pool talks here as part of the partnership.
Driving is the most straightforward option. If you're staying in Bar Harbor, walking is also a great way to experience the town and reach the campus. Public transportation options are limited in this area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History is free! However, they do gratefully accept donations to help support their operations and exhibits.
Opening hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's best to check the College of the Atlantic website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
The museum is often led by museum educators like Sofie Wise '25, who offer tours. For specific group arrangements or educational programs, it's advisable to contact the College of the Atlantic directly.
Admission is free for everyone, including children. The museum is very family-friendly and engaging for younger visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of exhibits created by College of the Atlantic students, including detailed dioramas of local ecosystems, taxidermied specimens of regional wildlife, and artistic interpretations of nature.
Yes, many visitors find the exhibits to be interactive and engaging, offering a hands-on learning experience about the natural dynamics of Acadia's parklands.
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the museum, though you could easily spend longer if you're particularly interested in the details of the exhibits or the student artwork.
Absolutely! Families with young children often have a wonderful time here. The animal exhibits and interactive displays are a big hit with kids aged 8 months to 11 years old.
The museum sometimes hosts special events, including tide pool talks led by Acadia National Park rangers, as part of their partnership with the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the museum for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography, especially near delicate exhibits.
The detailed dioramas and the unique student taxidermy pieces make for excellent photo opportunities. The oceanic-themed pottery also offers visually interesting shots.
While personal photography is usually fine, if you plan to use photos for commercial purposes or extensive social media promotion, it's best to inquire with the museum staff beforehand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate that the museum is small enough to navigate easily with younger children, and the student-created displays offer a unique educational experience. It’s a perfect spot for a rainy day activity or a quick, enriching stop that won't break the bank. Remember to check their hours, as they can vary seasonally.
🎨 Art & Nature Enthusiasts
It’s a chance to see how art can illuminate and celebrate the natural world.Visitors often remark on the impressive quality of the student taxidermy and the thoughtful design of the dioramas. It’s an opportunity to witness firsthand the talent nurtured at the College of the Atlantic and to gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Acadia's ecosystems through a unique artistic lens.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Student-Curated Experience
This approach fosters a deep connection between the exhibits and the educational mission of the college. Visitors often express surprise and admiration for the quality and depth of the student work, noting how it brings the local environment to life. It's a refreshing change from more traditional, professionally curated museums, offering a more personal and often more engaging encounter with natural history.
Beyond scientific accuracy, the museum also features artistic interpretations, such as oceanic-themed pottery, showcasing the multidisciplinary approach at COA. This blend of science and art makes for a richer, more memorable visit, appealing to a wide range of interests and ages.
Exploring Acadia's Biodiversity
The collection of taxidermied specimens is particularly noteworthy, providing a close-up look at the animals that call Maine home. These displays are not only educational but also a testament to the students' dedication to preserving and understanding these species. It’s a chance to learn about local wildlife in a way that’s both informative and visually striking.
Furthermore, the museum's partnership with Acadia National Park sometimes includes ranger-led talks, such as those on tide pools, further enhancing the visitor's understanding of the park's ecological significance.
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