At the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, we celebrate the joyful exploration of childhood at our award-winning and vibrant three-story destination in Portland, ME. Home to over 15 interactive exhibits and a robust calendar of professional theatrical performances for young audiences, our goal is to inspire and delight children of all ages and ensure everyone feels welcomed and celebrated. With one hundred years of children’s theatre history and nearly fifty years as a children’s museum, we are recognized as one of the state’s top destinations for fun, interactive play, and learning. Everyone belongs at CMTM. Visit kitetails.org to learn more and support our work.
Fall hours:
Monday: Closed (Open for Members 10 am – 1 pm)
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 9 am – 4 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 4 pm
Friday: 9 am – 4 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 4 pm
Sunday: 9 am – 4 pm
Based on 1158 reviews
Julie Kibbe
1713868483
Fun place, lots of space to run around. Had to pay for parking, which was disappointing. But the kids loved the water play, aquarium, and craft room. It was not packed like I thought it would be during spring break.Worth the trip
Lauren Lilyestrom
1713705673
Stopped by here on my way home to Massachusetts to see a show with the kids, after the spent the week with family in northern Maine. The show was excellent- well cast, well acted, well costumed, and we all enjoyed it.... Until I herded the kids to the car only to find a $23 ticket on my windshield.Parking is $2/hr. We were there for 1.5 hrs. To add further insult, if you don't pay within 3 days the fee increases by $10. And if you pay online they charge an additional $3.50 credit card processing fee... Without giving a bank debit option (you can mail it in, but that information is buried in the FAQs and if I'm mailing on day 3 then what?).There is signage. I saw it driving in (while negotiating world peace with the 3 and 7 year old, after having been driving for ~4 hours). I didn't park in front of a sign or pay station and forgot to hunt one down. That's all on me.But I'm pretty sure I'm not the only tired, frazzled mother who tries to do something nice only to find that I'm being slapped with a fine that seems disproportionate to the "crime"... and also fairly callous.I recognize it's not the museum's responsibility to remind patrons or post additional signage, as the lot is not theirs. But... It was a cuss-inducing end to an otherwise enjoyable experience.
Leah Cross
1713383603
We had a magical time at the museum with our 2.5 and 5yo's. The staff was all so engaging with the kids and seemed genuinely interested in them. The kids spent hours giggling and experimenting. I would highly recommend it!
Eric Manly
1712441460
This children's museum in Portland, Maine is a delightful port of discovery for curious kiddos. Packed with three floors of interactive exhibits, it offers a mix of science, local flavor, and imaginative play.* Dive into Discovery! The museum offers more than just lobsters! Explore the wonders of Maine's natural world, from the engaging aquarium on the third floor to interactive science exhibits throughout.* Cast Off for Fun! Of course, a trip to a Maine children's museum wouldn't be complete without a lobster adventure. The "Our Neighborhood" exhibit on the second floor features a beloved lobster boat exhibit, complete with a mini lobster shack for dramatic play.Tips for Landlubbers:* Parking is difficult, so be prepared to search for a spot.* Bring a change of clothes if you plan to visit the water exhibit on the third floor.* Check the schedule for interesting classes offered on the second floor.
M P
1708568823
Clean, bright, and a very friendly staff. It's definitely one of the best children's museums we've visited. The spaces are nicely divided, making it easy to corale our 2 kids into a singular area without losing track of them while also allowing them some freedom to go explore. The place isn't giant, but it's big enough. We especially love the makers' space open 1-2 times daily.
Scott Carlson
1707908664
Super fun for the kids. I was a little disappointed and thought there would be more but the kids had a blast so thats all that matters.
Ethereal Opus Design
1707617902
My daughter loves this place! She especially loves the top floor with the ball learning and play areas as well as the dark room with various light up activities. She could spend the whole day playing with the water balls.The only thing I personally don't like is the field trip groups. Every time we go there are bus loads of kids that are so excited they become rude unmanageable towards the younger kids. I wish we could figure out what days to go, if any, that don't have field trip groups. But kids will be kids and I can understand their excitement
Kelly Hall
1706542834
Our family had a great time at the Children's Museum! It was our first time. The kids had a blast on the climbing structure on the first floor and also spent a long time on the second floor doing dress up and playing at the different neighborhood exhibits. My kids are 5 & 7. There was lots to do for younger ones too with a dedicated toddler only area. There is an aquarium and another area for water play on the third floor. We ended the day outside on the playground. Even though it was winter it was a mild day so it was nice to have them get some energy out. We will definitely be back!
Michael Manley
1706446337
Awesome experience! But not a lot of onsite parking available so had to park on nearby street for small fee. Kids, 4 and 10, thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a little crowded for my liking but kids didn't seem phased by the amount of other guests.
Craig D Colby Jr
1705505411
The ONLY complaint I have is that there isn't enough playtime for children with autism that can't handle the crowds. My boy usually wants to leave early because he can't handle the massive noise and crowd. They DO have certain days for these types of kids but I think they need more. But ...5 stars all around. The staff is exceptional and caring. Love this place
Jill Shaw
1704022502
Always a great time. With a variety of exhibits both my 3 and 7 year old are entertained. It’s very clean, with plenty on hand washing and sanitizing stations. The staff is always so helpful and kind. Sometimes it’s a little hectic during peak hours but it never seems “too crowded”
Chris
1700186601
Had a great time here seeing everything. It was busy due to it being a holiday weekend. We went as to find out if it would be worth getting a family season pass. Our conclusion is yes, our 2 - and 3 year old sons absolutely had a blast. Especially when we made it to the 3rd floor where the fish and water center was. We will be purchasing this family pass.
Sandra Hermosilla
1700181694
Super nice museum many activities and hands on for the kids my grandsons loved it.
Amanda Guzik
1696662632
Lots of kids but so much fun! Has three levels. Water play and air play with balls was our favorite. Town with fishing boat and market to cook it up made her day. Very cool colored lights exhibit and lots of climbing. Not really for adults, centered around children but had a good time watching her play.
Tiffany Whaley
1694390661
My two boys had a great time. We drove from Lincoln to visit, well worth the drive it's way better than the one in Bangor. Make sure you bring a extra pair of clothes for the little ones the 3rd floor they will get wet with the water stuff, but so worth it. They do have a section for kids 3 and under my 1 year old had a great time too. Highly recommend going.
Kristen White
1690671137
I took my two Autistic kids here for their Play Your Way time slot, and they had a WONDERFUL time!! The staff was super friendly, understanding and accommodating, and the third floor with the water station and ball sculpture were a HUGE hit. So nice to have a neurodivergent-friendly place to take my kiddos, and feel truly welcome. Can't wait to go back!
Samuel hawkes
1690310865
Great place to bring kids. There are tons of different activities and themed rooms to entertain kids with just about any interests. The water room is always a big hit. Also the animal/aquarium area is nice. My kids have fun here every time we go. All the parking is paid. There is not much for food options really close.
Lauren Crawford
1687640805
Tickets were sold out for every slot the day we visited. Thank goodness as it was PACKED. Crazy loud, little bodies running everywhere. It was a rainy day. Kiddo loved the third floor water tables. Loved the local themes.
Melissa Yunke
1687000095
My 3.5 year old daughter and I are annual pass holders and have an amazing time every time we go. There’s always something new to do between the theater and all of the wonderfully thought out exhibits. The only thing I wish they would do is add the flip down potty seat for toddlers in their bathrooms. Note for parents, if you have a 2,3 or 4 year old, you’ll want to make sure and pack your travel potty seat. I’ve only made the mistake of forgetting it once.
Craig Colby
1686457882
Classy organization, to say the very least. I wish we could just show up and get tickets by the door though. That's a very minute detail I am willing to overlook. My four year old son absolutely loves this place, which is why we got a membership recently. We live over an hour away but it's well worth the time travelled.
Shenelle Letourneau
1677367746
Very fun. The most interactive part was 3rd floor. I think 2nd floor was more for younger kids and to play with friends. It was cool to see the art and culture area, but my 9 year old wasn't as interested. He did learn to write his name in Korean, which was a cool experience. Bathroom on every floor, which was easily accessible. They also had water bottle refile stations. There is no food in the museum, but they do allow bottles and water. We went 12-3 but only stayed until 2:30 and were definitely hungry, but we could have stayed longer with the water play area.
Katie Shaw
1673736244
So much fun for our 6.5 and 2.5 year olds. There's an aquarium, water fun, a mini imaginary world with a firetruck, boat, train, kitchen and airplane. Small well padded play area for little little ones. Makers space to create something with paper or recycled materials. There's a climbing wall that is like a large crawlspace wall. So much education, free play and fun. Excellent place to go. I'd recommend it 100%!
May
3
Fri
May 3 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
It’s Children’s Book Week at CMTM!
Dive into the world of stories with daily pop-up storytimes, meet real children’s book authors during our special guest appearances on Friday and Sunday, and explore the artistry behind the books with our Art for Tots sessions highlighting illustrators’ work. Plus, unleash your creativity in our MakerSpace with a week-long Make-Your-Own-Book takeover. It’s a celebration of reading and creativity you won’t want to miss!
All activities are included with admission.
Check the chalkboard upon arrival for activity times and schedule.
Plan your visit: www.kitetails.org
May
4
Sat
May 4 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
It’s Children’s Book Week at CMTM!
Dive into the world of stories with daily pop-up storytimes, meet real children’s book authors during our special guest appearances on Friday and Sunday, and explore the artistry behind the books with our Art for Tots sessions highlighting illustrators’ work. Plus, unleash your creativity in our MakerSpace with a week-long Make-Your-Own-Book takeover. It’s a celebration of reading and creativity you won’t want to miss!
All activities are included with admission.
Check the chalkboard upon arrival for activity times and schedule.
Plan your visit: www.kitetails.org
May
5
Sun
May 5 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
It’s Children’s Book Week at CMTM!
Dive into the world of stories with daily pop-up storytimes, meet real children’s book authors during our special guest appearances on Friday and Sunday, and explore the artistry behind the books with our Art for Tots sessions highlighting illustrators’ work. Plus, unleash your creativity in our MakerSpace with a week-long Make-Your-Own-Book takeover. It’s a celebration of reading and creativity you won’t want to miss!
All activities are included with admission.
Check the chalkboard upon arrival for activity times and schedule.
Plan your visit: www.kitetails.org
May
6
Mon
May 6 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
It’s Children’s Book Week at CMTM!
Dive into the world of stories with daily pop-up storytimes, meet real children’s book authors during our special guest appearances on Friday and Sunday, and explore the artistry behind the books with our Art for Tots sessions highlighting illustrators’ work. Plus, unleash your creativity in our MakerSpace with a week-long Make-Your-Own-Book takeover. It’s a celebration of reading and creativity you won’t want to miss!
All activities are included with admission.
Check the chalkboard upon arrival for activity times and schedule.
Plan your visit: www.kitetails.org
May
7
Tue
May 7 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
It’s Children’s Book Week at CMTM!
Dive into the world of stories with daily pop-up storytimes, meet real children’s book authors during our special guest appearances on Friday and Sunday, and explore the artistry behind the books with our Art for Tots sessions highlighting illustrators’ work. Plus, unleash your creativity in our MakerSpace with a week-long Make-Your-Own-Book takeover. It’s a celebration of reading and creativity you won’t want to miss!
All activities are included with admission.
Check the chalkboard upon arrival for activity times and schedule.
Plan your visit: www.kitetails.org
May
8
Wed
May 8 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
It’s Children’s Book Week at CMTM!
Dive into the world of stories with daily pop-up storytimes, meet real children’s book authors during our special guest appearances on Friday and Sunday, and explore the artistry behind the books with our Art for Tots sessions highlighting illustrators’ work. Plus, unleash your creativity in our MakerSpace with a week-long Make-Your-Own-Book takeover. It’s a celebration of reading and creativity you won’t want to miss!
All activities are included with admission.
Check the chalkboard upon arrival for activity times and schedule.
Plan your visit: www.kitetails.org
May
10
Fri
May 10 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Flying Colors: Benefit Art Auction at the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine!
Location: CMTM, 250 Thompson’s Point Rd, Portland, ME, 04102
Ages: 21+
Tickets: https://www.kitetails.org/
Date
- Friday, May 10, 2024
Time
- 6 pm – 7 pm – Host Committee Art Preview + Cocktail Hour
- 7 pm – 10 pm – Main Event
- 8 pm – Live Art + Experience Auction
Tickets
- $75 – General Admission: ON SALE MARCH 1
- $150 – Single: Host Committee: ON SALE NOW
- $300 – Couple: Host Committee: ON SALE NOW
Please note that Wednesday, February 28, is the deadline for Host Committee names to be included in the printed invite. Tickets purchases after this date are welcome!
Host Committee tickets on sale now. General Admission tickets on sale March 1, 2024.
The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine is proud to present Flying Colors: Benefit Art Auction, an in-person and online auction celebrating the incredible talent of local Maine artists while raising funds for CMTM’s Community Fund. Eat, drink and make merry while bidding on more than 100 works of art! Guests will enjoy full access to three floors of exhibits, art activities, and delicious food and drinks for purchase.
-
Host Committee tickets on sale February 1, 2024
-
General Admission tickets on sale March 1, 2024
Host Committee members are invited to a pre-event art preview and cocktail hour from 6 pm to 7 pm.
Come be a part of this memorable celebration of local artistry and community spirit. RSVP now for a night filled with color, creativity, fun, and the joy of giving.
For more information, please visit https://www.kitetails.org/
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