Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine - Image 1
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Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine Portland Maine

4.5
·1k reviews·Portland, United States

An interactive wonderland in Portland, Maine, featuring a giant camera obscura, water play, and STEM exhibits for endless family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
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Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine - Image 1

Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine Portland Maine

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An interactive wonderland in Portland, Maine, featuring a giant camera obscura, water play, and STEM exhibits for endless family fun.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"This place will keep your kid busy for literally HOURS, offering a fantastic STEM-focused adventure."

Vertical photo
TIP

Membership Value

If you visit more than twice a year, a membership is highly recommended for cost savings! :moneybag:

Parking Strategy

Parking can be tricky; use the Passport app or arrive early. Parking is an additional cost. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura

Top Floor

Experience a unique optical illusion with this giant, interactive camera obscura that projects an inverted image of the outside world.

Water & Air Play

Water & Air Play

Second Floor

Engage with interactive exhibits that explore the properties of water and air, offering hands-on STEM learning for kids.

Outdoor Play Area

Outdoor Play Area

Outside

A fantastic space with sand, slides, and a jungle gym, perfect for burning off energy on a nice day.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Costs

Consider a membership if you plan to visit often, as admission can be steep for families.Reddit Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Look into EBT discounts for a more affordable experience.Reddit

Little Ones' Paradise

The second and third floors are particularly engaging for babies and toddlers, featuring soft play, light, and water areas.Reddit The outdoor playground is also a hit for younger children.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Toddlers are fresh and energetic
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Shows and activities are in full swing
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Just a tiny scientist in training 🧪🍼 Exploring the world one wonder at a time! #BabyAdventures #ScienceMuseumFun #CuriousLittleMind
@bailey_noelle_
1M likes • 13.5M views

Membership Value

If you visit more than twice a year, a membership is highly recommended for cost savings! :moneybag:

Parking Strategy

Parking can be tricky; use the Passport app or arrive early. Parking is an additional cost. :car:

“ZOINKS!”—Shaggy #scooby #scoobydoo #whatsnewscoobydoo #shaggyandscooby #scoobyandshaggy #childrensmuseum #indianapolis #indiana #indianapolisindiana #matthewlillard #gencon #gencon2022 #childrensmuseumofindianapolis
@childrensmuseum
878K likes • 4.6M views
10/10 this place was actually so epic #fyp #Minecraft #museum #indiana #foryou #gaming #minecrafttheexhibition #childrensmuseumofindianapolis #c418 @childrensmuseum
@taylor.ydg
333.1K likes • 1.5M views

Toddler Haven

Babies and toddlers adore the second floor's soft play and the third floor's light and water areas. :baby:

STEM Focus

The museum emphasizes STEM learning through interactive exhibits. :atom:

Love meeting you when im out and about 🥰 #toddlersoftiktok #toddlerparents #msrachel
@msrachelforlittles
244.3K likes • 2.9M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Membership Value

If you visit more than twice a year, a membership is highly recommended for cost savings! :moneybag:

Parking Strategy

Parking can be tricky; use the Passport app or arrive early. Parking is an additional cost. :car:

Toddler Haven

Babies and toddlers adore the second floor's soft play and the third floor's light and water areas. :baby:

STEM Focus

The museum emphasizes STEM learning through interactive exhibits. :atom:

Gift Shop Avoidance

The gift shop is unavoidable on the way out and can sometimes detract from the visit. :gift:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine for its engaging, interactive exhibits, particularly the camera obscura and water play areas, which keep children entertained for hours. The staff are frequently commended for their friendliness and knowledge. However, some find the admission price to be quite high, and the unavoidable gift shop on the way out can be a point of contention.

"An incredible experience. Made for hands on learning and imaginative play! My child could have stayed there all day and never got bored because there were so many activities and opportunities to be creative. A great place for multi aged children too. The baby area was conveniently next to the imaginative play area for toddlers and kids. Be sure to check out the arts and crafts section too!"

Rosanna Lograsso Doucette

"Really love the top floor where kids can interact with different elements, air, light, and water. The light exhibit is especially fun and includes a giant camera obscura.

The staff in the fish area are really friendly and knowledgeable. They're always engage my kids in conversations about fish and the environment.

We've seen shows there too and the staff are very patient and accommodating of my kids, who are in constant motion.

They introduced a gift shop this year and that has been challenging. It's unavoidable on the way out and has ruined otherwise lovely visits"

Sam Dooley

"Great place to bring your young ones to enjoy many different areas of play. Outside play area with sand, jungle gym, and music. Inside so much to explore! Water play area, interactive learning, and theater. They are all about STEM! And it is amazing! Check out their website for more information. They have an elevator and stairs. They have picnic tables outside near the outdoor play area. Many benches to sit on for parents to relax as they watch their children. Restrooms on each floor."

Verthosand Photography

What People Like

Engaging interactive exhibits
Camera obscura wonder
Friendly and knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

High admission price
Unavoidable gift shop

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Portland, Maine. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is common. Be prepared for paid parking, which can be managed via the Passport app for convenience.Reddit

Yes, parking is available, but it comes with an additional cost, typically around $2/hour.Reddit Arriving early or on a less busy day can make securing a spot easier. There's parking both in front and behind the museum.Reddit

Driving is the most common method. For those looking for alternatives, checking local Portland transit options might be beneficial, though many visitors opt for personal vehicles due to the convenience for families.Reddit

While specific transportation discounts aren't highlighted, the museum itself offers EBT discounts for admission,Reddit which can help offset overall costs for families.

The Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine is situated in Portland, Maine, offering a central location for families in the area and for day-trippers.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission can be a bit steep for some families.Reddit However, the museum offers significant discounts for EBT cardholders, making it more accessible.Reddit Consider a membership if you plan to visit multiple times a year.Reddit

Yes, the museum offers EBT discounts, which are a great way to save money.Reddit Purchasing a membership is also cost-effective if you anticipate frequent visits.Reddit

Operating hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times, especially for specific days or holidays.

While not explicitly stated, purchasing tickets in advance or checking the website for online booking options is generally recommended, especially for busy periods, to ensure entry and potentially save time.

Information on group rates is typically available on the museum's official website or by contacting them directly. This is a good option for school field trips or larger family gatherings.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the giant Camera Obscura on the top floor for a unique visual experience.Reddit The water play and air play areas on the second floor are also highly engaging for kids.Reddit The outdoor playground is another favorite.Reddit

Absolutely! The second floor is a haven for babies and toddlers, featuring a dedicated soft play area. The third floor also has water play and a light room that younger children will love.Reddit

Kids can explore interactive STEM exhibits, engage in water and air play, enjoy the outdoor playground, and even see shows in the theatre. The museum focuses on hands-on learning and imaginative play.Reddit

Yes, the museum is well-equipped with restrooms on each floor and benches for parents to relax while supervising their children.Reddit There are also picnic tables outside near the playground.Reddit

The museum has both an elevator and stairs, making it accessible for strollers and varying mobility needs.Reddit Focus on the second and third floors for younger children, and the outdoor area for active play.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum has picnic tables located outside near the outdoor play area,Reddit suggesting that outside food is permitted for consumption in designated areas. It's always good to confirm their specific policy.

While not explicitly mentioned as a full-service restaurant, many children's museums have snack bars or small cafes. It's advisable to check their website for current dining options.

Portland offers a wide array of dining options. You can find everything from casual eateries to family-friendly restaurants within a short drive or walk from the museum.

If there is a cafe or snack bar, it's likely to offer typical kid-friendly fare. Bringing your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy at the outdoor tables is also a great option.Reddit

Typically, museums do not offer food storage. It's best to consume any outside food at the designated picnic areas before or after your visit, or keep it in your car.

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas. Check for any specific signage.

The Camera Obscura offers a unique photographic opportunity.Reddit The vibrant exhibits, the outdoor play area, and the children interacting with the displays make for great candid shots.TikTok

Similar to photography, personal video recording is usually permitted. Capturing the joy and discovery on children's faces can make for wonderful memories.TikTok

While personal photos are usually fine, professional photography or filming for commercial purposes typically requires prior permission. Be respectful of privacy and avoid intrusive photography.

A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is usually sufficient for capturing the fun. If you have a DSLR, consider bringing a versatile lens that can handle both wide shots and close-ups of exhibits and kids.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine is a dream for families with young children, especially toddlers and babies. The second floor is a dedicated haven with a soft play area that’s perfect for little ones to explore safely.Reddit On the third floor, the water play and light room offer sensory experiences that are captivating for this age group.Reddit The outdoor playground is also a fantastic spot for them to burn off energy with slides and a sand pit.Reddit

Parents will appreciate the availability of restrooms on each floor and numerous benches for resting while keeping an eye on their little explorers.Reddit The museum's focus on STEM and interactive learning means even the youngest visitors are engaged in educational fun. Consider visiting on a weekday morning for a less crowded experience tailored to younger attention spans.

💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors

For families mindful of their budget, the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine offers a significant EBT discount, making admission much more affordable.Reddit If you plan on visiting multiple times a year, investing in a membership can also be a cost-effective solution, providing unlimited access for a set period.Reddit

While parking has an additional fee, exploring options like carpooling or checking for any local public transport routes could help manage costs. Bringing your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy at the outdoor picnic tables is another smart way to save money on food expenses during your visit.Reddit

Day-Trippers from Out of Town

If you're visiting Portland for the day, the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine is an excellent stop for families. It offers several hours of engaging entertainment, with highlights like the camera obscura Reddit and interactive water play Reddit providing memorable experiences. The outdoor playground is also a great way for kids to get some fresh air and physical activity.

To maximize your day, plan your visit around the museum's hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance. Be prepared for the parking fees, and perhaps pack a picnic to enjoy on-site to save time and money. The museum's central location in Portland makes it easily accessible as part of a broader day trip itinerary.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Interactive Exhibits

The Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine is renowned for its hands-on approach to learning, making it a prime destination for interactive kids' museum experiences. The top floor features a spectacular camera obscura, offering a fascinating glimpse into optics and perspective.Reddit This exhibit alone provides a unique educational moment that captivates both children and adults.

Beyond the camera obscura, the museum excels in its water play and air play exhibits, allowing children to experiment with scientific principles in a fun, engaging way.Reddit These areas are designed to encourage exploration and discovery, aligning with a strong STEM focus.Reddit The second floor is particularly geared towards younger visitors, with a dedicated soft play area perfect for babies and toddlers.Reddit

For families looking for a well-rounded experience, the outdoor play area provides a refreshing change of pace. It includes a sand pit, slides, and climbing structures, offering ample opportunities for physical activity and imaginative play.Reddit The museum's commitment to diverse learning environments ensures that children of all ages and interests can find something to spark their curiosity.

Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community

When planning a trip to the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine, understanding the practicalities can significantly enhance your visit. Many visitors recommend considering a membership if you anticipate visiting more than a couple of times a year, as the admission price can be substantial for families.Reddit This is a common piece of advice shared among frequent visitors looking to maximize value.

Parking is another key consideration. While parking is available, it comes at an additional cost, often around $2 per hour.Reddit Redditors suggest using the Passport app for easier payment and management of parking fees.Reddit Arriving early or on a less busy day can help secure a spot in the more convenient front lot, though additional parking is available nearby.Reddit

For those on a budget, the museum offers a significant EBT discount, making it a more accessible option for lower-income families.Reddit This inclusive approach is highly appreciated by the community. Additionally, the museum has restrooms on each floor and benches for parents, ensuring a comfortable experience.Reddit

The Theatre Experience

While the museum offers a wealth of interactive exhibits, the Theatre of Maine component adds another layer of engagement for young visitors. The museum hosts various shows and performances designed to entertain and educate children. These theatrical experiences are often interactive, encouraging participation and imagination.

Staff are noted for being patient and accommodating during shows, understanding that children are often in constant motion.Reddit This creates a welcoming atmosphere where kids can enjoy the performance without feeling overly constrained. Checking the museum's schedule in advance is recommended to see what performances are available during your visit.

The theatre aspect complements the museum's overall mission of fostering creativity and learning through play. It provides a different kind of engagement, focusing on storytelling, performance, and the arts, rounding out the educational offerings for a comprehensive family outing.

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