Portland ~ Tons of Fun at the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine

Last week we went to Portland Maine and had an absolute blast. I have been to Portland before (I love the city!), but this was our first trip with the boys. We had already planned to visit the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine and it did not disappoint!

To give you an idea, we spent almost 5 hours there (with a lunch break of course!)!! The Children’s Museum and Theatre is located in the Arts District, right next to the Portland Museum of Art. We got to the museum right after it opened, after a short walk from the parking garage. The garage next door was full, so we parked further up the street.

My oldest could barely contain himself when we entered the door! We were greeted by the friendly staff at the desk, stowed our coats, and headed into the fun. The museum has a lower level, 1st floor, and 2nd floor with exhibits. You can park your stroller in the front, or take it with you. If you keep it with you, you will need to use the elevator, as there are no ramps between floors.

We started our adventure on the second floor with a star show in their mini planetarium. This igloo-like structure has a screen inside (along with a super cool space shuttle cockpit) that allows the kids to see the stars and constellations. The museum employee who gave the presentation was AWESOME! She kept the presentation very interactive and kept the kids engaged.

We then hit up the rock wall and the water play area, along with the Ranger Room for some spring songs. We took a break for a quick lunch at Local Sprouts Cooperative (delish!) and then headed back for some afternoon fun on the first floor. The fire engine and fire station and the mini Whole Foods Market were a huge hit!

William had a good time playing in the sizable toddler area for kids 3 and under. I love how it’s located in the center of everything, so they can be safe and still see what’s going on in all of the other exhibits. Inside the toddler exhibit, is a smaller space for infants. The enclosed area even has magazines for you to read! 🙂

I can’t even begin to capture all of the fun at the Children’s Museum and Theatre, suffice to say that we ended the afternoon with face painting and play doh time. I would HIGHLY recommend putting this place on your list if you plan to visit the Portland area with your kids– they’ll LOVE it! Admission is $9, children 18 months and under are free. Click HERE for museum hours and directions.

30 Something Mother Runner received complimentary admission to the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine. All opinions and writing are 100% own.