Maine State Aquarium

Maine State Aquarium is a compact marine education facility operated by the Maine Department of Marine Resources as part of its Gulf of Maine Discovery Center. The public aquarium occupies one approximately 1,800-square-foot room, while the surrounding property contains marine science laboratories and offices that are not open to visitors. Its focus is distinctly regional, using exhibits to introduce the Gulf of Maine and the ecosystem that supports Maine's coastal communities and fisheries.

The aquarium's large ecosystem display tanks focus on aquaculture and innovative research gear, with interpretation covering kelp and scallop aquaculture and the tools scientists use to study marine ecosystems. Visitors can also see a 26-foot minke whale skeleton and life-size harbor porpoise displays, connecting the exhibits to species found in the Gulf. Educational activities and a Learning Lab add opportunities for younger visitors to explore marine science. Maine State Aquarium suits travelers interested in the ecology, fisheries, research, and marine life of the Gulf of Maine rather than a large aquarium with extensive collections from around the world.