Maine’s rugged coastline is not just a playground for lighthouse enthusiasts and lobster lovers—it is also home to a remarkable diversity of marine life. Tucked away in the charming town of West Boothbay Harbor lies one of the state’s most engaging attractions: the Maine State Aquarium.
Do not let the Maine State Aquarium’s modest size fool you. While it may not rival the sprawling aquariums of major cities, what it lacks in square footage it more than makes up for in character and educational value. Operated by the Maine Department of Marine Resources, this intimate facility focuses specifically on local marine life, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Maine’s coastal waters.
The aquarium sits on a picturesque waterfront location with stunning views of the harbor—a fitting backdrop for an institution dedicated to celebrating Maine’s maritime heritage. The building itself, with its weathered shingles and nautical charm, feels perfectly at home among the working fishing boats and coastal scenery.
Exhibit Highlights
The Touch Tank Experience
The undisputed star of the Maine State Aquarium is its touch tank—an interactive exhibit where visitors can roll up their sleeves and get hands-on with a variety of tide pool creatures. Under the watchful eyes of knowledgeable staff, visitors have the opportunity to gently touch starfish, sea urchins, and even small horseshoe crabs. The experience of feeling a sea cucumber’s surprisingly soft texture or watching a hermit crab peek out from its shell provides a connection to marine life that no book or video can replicate.
What makes this touch tank special is the educational component. Staff members don’t just supervise; they engage visitors with fascinating facts about each creature’s adaptations and ecological importance.
Lobster Heaven
Maine and lobsters go together like, well, lobster and butter, so it is no surprise that the aquarium features an impressive lobster exhibit. What is surprising, however, is the diversity on display. The collection includes a rare blue lobster (occurring in roughly one in two million). The 300-gallon Touch Tank is closed for the last 15 minutes of every hour to ensure safety and cleanliness for the animals. During that time, staff present a lobster talk with one of the aquarium’s own lobster ambassadors.
Informational panels explain the lobster life cycle, fishing practices, and conservation efforts—a comprehensive education on Maine’s most famous export.
The Learning Lab
New in 2025 is a Learning Lab right next door. The 2025 feature is sharks! While the Maine State Aquarium does not house massive sharks like some larger facilities, its collection of smaller species native to New England waters is no less impressive. The lab offers an opportunity to observe shark behavior up close—how they move, breathe, and interact with their environment. It is a powerful reminder that these often-misunderstood creatures are an essential part of healthy marine ecosystems.
Minke Whale Skeleton
When observing fish and other sea creatures, it is common to look down. At the Maine State Aquarium, do not forget to look up! The building is home to a 26-foot Minke Whale skeleton that is suspended from the ceiling. Minke Whales are one of the most common whales found in the Gulf of Maine. They are the second smallest baleen whale and they typically grow to 25-27 feet long.
Conservation Message
The aquarium weaves conservation messaging into every exhibit. From discussions about sustainable fishing practices to information about climate change’s impact on the Gulf of Maine, the facility doesn’t shy away from addressing environmental challenges.
What’s refreshing is how the messaging avoids doom and gloom, instead focusing on solutions and individual actions that can make a difference. The aquarium itself models these values through its own research efforts and rehabilitation work with injured marine animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Maine State Aquarium open to visitors?
The Maine State Aquarium typically operates seasonally from mid-June through August. Hours are generally 10 am to 3 pm, Wednesdays through Sundays, however, it is always best to check their official website for current operating hours before planning your visit. The 2025 season is scheduled for June 11 through August 31.
- How much does admission cost?
Admission prices are reasonable, with tickets running $10 for adults, and $7.50 for seniors and military. The aquarium also offers annual passes and group rates for larger parties.
- How long does a typical visit last?
Most visitors spend between 1-2 hours exploring the aquarium. The intimate size makes it digestible in this timeframe, though those who participate in scheduled talks or demonstrations may wish to allocate additional time.
- Is the Maine State Aquarium accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?
Yes, the facility is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and wide pathways throughout the exhibits. The touch tanks are designed at various heights to accommodate visitors of different abilities.
- Can I take photographs inside the aquarium?
Photography for personal use is permitted and encouraged throughout the aquarium. Flash photography, however, is prohibited as it can stress the animals. Professional photography or filming requires advance permission.
- Are there food options available at the aquarium?
The aquarium itself does not house a restaurant or café, but there are picnic tables outside where visitors can enjoy packed lunches. Additionally, West Boothbay Harbor offers numerous dining options within a short drive. Afternoon tea at Five Gables Inn is available each day at 3 pm. It is a perfect way for guests of the inn to chat about their aquarium experience.
- What makes the Maine State Aquarium different from other aquariums?
Unlike larger aquariums that showcase marine life from around the world, the Maine State Aquarium focuses exclusively on species found in the Gulf of Maine. This specialized approach provides visitors with an in-depth understanding of local marine ecosystems.
- Is there parking available?
The aquarium offers free parking in a lot adjacent to the facility. During peak summer season, the lot can fill quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
- Does the aquarium offer any behind-the-scenes experiences?
Yes, during certain times of year, the aquarium offers behind-the-scenes tours that provide insights into animal care, research activities, and facility operations. These tours typically require advance reservation and an additional fee.
- Are there any nearby attractions worth combining with an aquarium visit?
The Boothbay region offers numerous complementary attractions, including the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Ocean Point scenic drive, and several hiking trails. The working waterfront of Boothbay Harbor itself is worth exploring, with its shops, restaurants, and boat tours that make for a fulfilling day trip or weekend getaway.
