Maine State Aquarium Boothbay Harbor Me
Introduction
The Maine State Aquarium in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is a great place to learn about the marine life of Maine and to see some amazing creatures up close.
History
The Maine State Aquarium was first opened in 1937 as the Boothbay Harbor Fisheries Laboratory. It was run by the Maine Department of Sea and Shore Fisheries and was primarily focused on the study of lobsters and other crustaceans.
In the 1960s, the aquarium was expanded to include exhibits on other marine life, and it was eventually renamed the Maine State Aquarium. Today, the aquarium is run by the Maine Department of Marine Resources and is dedicated to educating the public about the marine life of Maine.
Exhibits
The Maine State Aquarium has a variety of exhibits that showcase the marine life of Maine. Some of the most popular exhibits include:
- The Gulf of Maine exhibit, which features a variety of fish, crabs, and other creatures that are found in the Gulf of Maine.
- The lobster exhibit, which showcases the life cycle of the lobster and includes a touch tank where visitors can handle live lobsters.
- The shark exhibit, which features several species of sharks and allows visitors to see these amazing creatures up close.
- The tide pool exhibit, which showcases the creatures that are found in tide pools along the Maine coast.
Activities
In addition to the exhibits, the Maine State Aquarium also offers a variety of activities for visitors. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Guided tours of the aquarium, which are led by knowledgeable staff members and provide visitors with a more in-depth look at the exhibits.
- Hands-on educational programs, which allow visitors to learn about marine life through interactive activities.
- Live animal demonstrations, which feature live animals and provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about their behavior and habitat.
- Behind-the-scenes tours, which give visitors a glimpse of the aquarium's research and animal care facilities.
Location and Hours
The Maine State Aquarium is located at 194 McKown Point Road in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. It is open from May through October, with hours varying depending on the season. Admission fees are reasonable, and discounts are available for seniors, children, and groups.
Conclusion
The Maine State Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for anyone who is interested in marine life and wants to learn more about the creatures that inhabit the waters of Maine. With its variety of exhibits and activities, there is something for everyone at this amazing facility.