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What’s Been Going On at the Museum?
Gearing up for the first phase of our Grand Reopening on October 24, 2026!
Countdown to Reopening:
119Days
11Hours
02Minutes
38Seconds
MEET MAINE HERE
Get ready to experience a reimagined Maine State Museum, with more than 19,000 square feet of new exhibits, displays, and gathering spaces.
A sparkling, dynamic, engaging, and more comfortable Maine State Museum is about to be unveiled…Stay tuned for more details and mark your calendars for October 24, 2026!
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NEW EXHIBITS TAKING SHAPE!
VECTOR: A WHALE’S LIFE IN THE GULF OF MAINE
Dive into the 4,130-square-foot whale gallery to see the only display in the world featuring humpback whale skeletons of this size and scale.
BEYOND THE POSTCARD: STORIES OF THE MAINE EXPERIENCE
Greeting visitors the moment they enter, Beyond the Postcard explores diverse stories of historical and contemporary Maine people.
THE LUNDER EDUCATION CENTER
Children of all ages are invited to discover the museum’s first-ever dedicated space for learning, curiosity, and play.
MAINE QUILTS: 250 YEARS OF COMFORT & COMMUNITY
Uncover the extraordinary contributions to the art of quilting by Maine women and community groups.
PLUS the return of…
AT HOME IN MAINE
The beloved landmark exhibit is back! At Home in Maine returns refreshed with new stories, collection items, and immersive experiences – but with the same nostalgia you’ve missed.
LOOKING AHEAD
Find out about the stories, objects, displays, and exhibits that Maine State Museum staff members are eagerly awaiting for the public to see when the museum reopens.
ABOUT THE RENOVATION
The renovation of the Cultural Building, the 55-year-old structure that houses the State Museum, State Archives, and State Library, was more complex than anyone expected. The building required a down-to-the-bones rebuilding to comply with new building codes, achieve energy efficiency, create a safe and stable interior environment, upgrade technology systems, and provide better accessibility for all visitors.
