Maine Zoos, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Explore Maine's diverse collection of zoos, aquariums, and wildlife centers featuring native Maine animals, exotic species, and marine life from the Gulf of Maine. From moose and black bears at the Maine Wildlife Park to exotic animals at York's Wild Kingdom, Maine offers exceptional opportunities to learn about wildlife conservation and get up close with animals from around the world.

10+

Zoos & Wildlife Centers

30+

Native Species at Wildlife Park

200+

Animals at Rescue Centers

5

Aquariums & Marine Centers

Quick Navigation

York's Wild Kingdom Top Rated

Location: Route 1, York Beach, ME 03910

Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (seasonal, late May - early September)

Admission: $18 (zoo only), combo packages available

Maine's largest combination zoo and amusement park featuring exotic animals from around the world. See lions, Bengal tigers, gibbons, ring-tailed lemurs, and more. The 5,500 square foot Butterfly Kingdom features butterfly species from South and Central America. Includes petting zoo, hand-feeding opportunities with deer and goats, parakeet aviary, miniature golf, family rides, and concessions. Over 200,000 visitors annually.

Visit Website

Maine Wildlife Park Native Species

Location: 56 Game Farm Road, Gray, ME 04039

Hours: Daily 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (April 15 - November 11, stay until 6:00 PM)

Admission: Adults (13-59) $10, Children (3-12) $7.50, Seniors (60+) $7.50, Under 3 Free

State-operated wildlife park featuring over 30 species of native Maine animals that cannot be returned to the wild. See moose, black bears, white-tailed deer, coyotes, bald eagles, owls, lynx, mountain lions, turtles, and brook trout. Self-guided tour available by phone. Educational exhibits about Maine ecosystems and conservation. Cash or check only for admission (ATM on-site). Located just 3.5 miles from I-95, Exit 63.

Visit Website

DEW Haven - Maine Zoo & Rescue Non-Profit

Location: 918 Pond Road (Route 41), Mount Vernon, ME 04352

Hours: Seasonal (weather dependent, all outdoor)

Admission: Check website for current pricing

Small family-run non-profit zoo and animal rescue on 42 acres featuring over 200 animals from around the world representing 45+ species. Animals come from closed zoos, rescues from mistreatment, illegal ownership, and USDA licensed facilities. Working farm environment (rustic, not commercial). Founded by Bob and Julie Miner in 1980. Natural walking path through the property. Ticket proceeds go directly to animal care. Educational interactive tours available.

Visit Website

Acadia Zoological Park

Location: Trenton, ME 04605

Hours: Seasonal hours (contact for current schedule)

Admission: Contact for pricing

Exhibits 45 species on 15 acres near Acadia National Park. Features Maine natives including white-tailed deer, foxes, porcupines, moose, and local birds, plus exotic wildlife like leopards, reindeer, colobus monkeys, and gibbons. Family-friendly educational environment showcasing both regional and international animals.

Note: Contact directly for current hours and admission rates

Aquariums & Marine Centers

Maine State Aquarium

Location: 194 McKown Point Road, West Boothbay Harbor, ME

Hours: Check current seasonal schedule

Features: Gulf of Maine ecosystem exhibits

Operated by Maine Department of Marine Resources. Redesigned facility (2023) explores the Gulf of Maine ecosystem with tanks ranging from 100 to 1,400 gallons. Features 26-foot minke whale skeleton, touch tank with regional sea life, and interactive displays. "Aquariums for All" program available for SNAP/EBT, WIC, Medicaid, and MaineCare participants. One-room facility with hands-on exhibits showcasing Maine's marine biodiversity.

Visit Website

The Oceanarium and Education Center

Location: 1351 State Route 3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609 (Mount Desert Island)

Hours: May - November, Monday - Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (seasonal variations)

Admission: Contact for current rates

Non-profit marine education center featuring 2,000 gallons of Gulf of Maine habitat across nine tanks (including rare lobsters) and 650-gallon touch pool with sea stars, crabs, and other marine life. Climb aboard authentic 29-foot indoor lobster boat. Marine museum features Piccolina, a juvenile humpback whale skeleton. Focuses on Maine's renowned lobsters with Lobster Hatchery, Discovery Pool Touch Tank, Salt Marsh Tour, and Lobster Fishing Program. Located next to Acadia National Park.

Visit Website

Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI)

Location: 350 Commercial Street, Portland, ME 04101

Hours: Contact for visitor center hours

Type: Research & Education Facility

Non-profit marine science center with 44,000 square feet of research and education laboratory. Features Cohen Center for Interactive Learning with climate-focused content. Engages middle school students from all 16 Maine counties in authentic inquiry experiences. Promotes ecosystem stewardship, sustainable seafood, science literacy, and coastal community strengthening. Gulf of Maine is warming faster than 99% of global ocean.

Visit Website

Animal Sanctuaries & Rescue Centers

The Center for Wildlife

Location: Cape Neddick, ME (base of Mount Agamenticus)

Hours: Thursday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Nature Center & trails)

Admission: Free trails, check for program fees

Wildlife rehabilitation center treating over 90,000 injured and orphaned wild animals in 39 years. Nature Center and Ambassador Village open for public visits. Free outdoor trails available. Nature-based education programming for community members. Focus on successful return of wildlife to natural habitats.

Visit Website

Avian Haven

Location: 418 North Palermo Road, Freedom, ME

Hours: Monday - Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Type: Wild Bird Rehabilitation

Non-profit rehabilitation center for wild birds dedicated to successful return to the wild. Has treated 3,840 birds. Specializes in avian care and rehabilitation. Educational opportunities about Maine's bird populations and conservation efforts.

Visit Website

Skybird Wildlife Center

Location: Durham, ME

Type: Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education

Non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center serving as modern hub for clinical wildlife care. Long-term goal includes educational animal sanctuary and on-site natural spaces highlighting local ecology and conservation. Provides ecological activities for the Maine community.

Visit Website

Birdsacre

Location: Ellsworth, ME

Hours: Trails open dawn to dusk year-round

Admission: Free

Preserves vital wildlife habitat, home to numerous native Maine flora and fauna species. Serves as stopover for migrating birds in spring and fall. Nature Discovery Center and store closed for winter (re-opens late Spring 2026). Free access to trails showcasing natural Maine ecosystems.

Visit Website

Peace Ridge Sanctuary

Location: Coastal Maine (multiple facilities)

Founded: 2001

Non-profit animal advocacy and conservation organization operating four animal shelters in coastal Maine. State-licensed and accredited through Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. Provides loving home for neglected and abused animals. Dog adoption services and wildlife conservation programs.

Visit Website

Saco River Wildlife Center

Founded: 2015

Type: Wildlife Rehabilitation

Founded by Bethany Brown to provide rehabilitative care to ill, injured, or orphaned Maine wildlife. Ultimate goal is returning animals to their natural environment. Professional veterinary care and species-specific treatment protocols.

Visit Website

Misfits Rehab

Location: Auburn, ME

Type: Wildlife Rehabilitation

Cares for injured, orphaned, or sick wildlife to give them a second chance at being healthy wild animals. Focus on release back into natural habitat. Specialized care for diverse Maine wildlife species.

Visit Website

Petting Zoos & Farms

Treworgy Family Orchards Petting Zoo

Location: Levant, ME

Type: Farm Petting Zoo

Family-friendly petting zoo and barnyard at working apple orchard. Features friendly farm animals. Safety guidelines in place to ensure animal welfare and visitor enjoyment. Part of comprehensive farm experience including apple picking, corn maze, and pumpkin patch.

Visit Website

Ingendahl Acres

Location: Wells, ME

Established: January 2020

Offers party petting zoos for the 2025-2026 season (Maine only). Traveling petting zoo services for events, birthdays, and special occasions. Professional handlers ensure safe, educational animal interactions.

Visit Website

Pony X-Press

Founded: 1991

Type: Traveling Petting Zoo & Pony Rides

Family-owned and operated business delivering petting zoo experiences and pony rides throughout Maine for over 30 years. Creating memories since 1991. Professional service for parties, events, and celebrations.

Visit Website

Hoofin It Mobile Petting Zoo

Location: Buxton, ME

Founded: 2023

Small business founded by owner Sam Voigt with goal to bring the joy of animals to as many people as possible. Mobile petting zoo services for events throughout Maine. Focuses on educational and entertaining animal experiences.

Visit Website

Additional Petting Farms in Portland Area

  • Smiling Hill Farm - Working dairy farm with petting area
  • Pine Ridge Acres - Family farm with animal experiences
  • Browns Ridge Family Farm - Educational farm visits
  • Wolfe's Neck Center - Sustainable agriculture and farm animals
  • Merrifield Farm - Seasonal petting zoo experiences

Wildlife Refuges & Natural Areas

Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge

Location: Milbridge, ME 04658 (multiple coastal locations)

Hours: Varies by location

Admission: Free

Strung along the Maine coast protecting precious habitat for nesting seabirds, wading birds, and bald eagles. Refuge's offshore islands and mainland units support migratory songbirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Exceptional birdwatching opportunities along 50 miles of coastline.

Visit Website

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Location: York and Cumberland Counties (11 divisions, Kittery to Cape Elizabeth)

Established: 1966

Admission: Free

Established in cooperation with State of Maine to protect valuable salt marshes and estuaries for migratory birds. Located along 50 miles of coastline. Named after renowned marine biologist and author Rachel Carson. Excellent wildlife viewing and nature trails.

Visit Website

Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge

Location: Aroostook County, northern Maine

Hours: Half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset, daily

Admission: Free

Managed as part of Northern Maine National Wildlife Refuge Complex (includes Moosehorn and Sunkhaze Meadows refuges, plus Carlton Pond Waterfowl Production Area). Year-round access for wildlife observation, hiking, and photography.

Visit Website

Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

Location: 1168 Main Street, Old Town, ME 04468

Type: Wetland Refuge

Admission: Free

Satellite of Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Protects critical wetland habitat for diverse wildlife species. Excellent birding location with trails and boardwalks through pristine marshlands.

Visit Website

Maine Audubon Sanctuaries

Locations: Eight centers across Maine

Hours: Trails open dawn to dusk daily

Admission: Free

Eight wildlife centers and sanctuaries offering opportunities to explore different ecosystems and habitats. See wide variety of wildlife. All centers feature walking trails open year-round for free. Programs on bird walks, gardening classes, and nature camps for children.

Visit Website

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Location: Boothbay, ME

Size: 295 acres (17 acres of gardens, 150+ acres trails)

Largest botanical garden in New England featuring native Maine plants. Interpreted trails extend over mature forest, wetlands, and mile of tidal shoreline. Butterfly hoop house supports entire lifecycle of moths and butterflies native to Maine. Slater Forest Pond filled with frogs and aquatic insects. Bird walks, wildlife education programs, and nature camps. Gardens Aglow winter event features wildlife sculptures and educational signs.

Visit Website

Practical Information for Visitors

Best Times to Visit

  • Summer (June - August): All facilities open, longest hours, best weather
  • Spring (April - May): Baby animal season, wildlife more active, smaller crowds
  • Fall (September - November): Pleasant temperatures, fall foliage backdrop, many facilities still open
  • Winter (December - March): Limited options, Maine Wildlife Park closes, indoor aquariums best choice

Admission Tips

  • Free Options: Wildlife refuges, Maine Audubon trails, Birdsacre
  • Budget-Friendly: Maine Wildlife Park ($7.50-$10), many rehabilitation centers
  • Premium Experience: York's Wild Kingdom ($18+), combo packages available
  • Payment Notes: Maine Wildlife Park accepts cash/check only (ATM on-site)
  • Assistance Programs: Maine State Aquarium offers "Aquariums for All" program

What to Bring

  • Essential: Water bottles, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes
  • Recommended: Camera, binoculars for wildlife refuges, insect repellent
  • Weather Gear: Rain jacket (DEW Haven closes during heavy rain), layers for temperature changes
  • Food: Some facilities allow outside food (York's Wild Kingdom), others have concessions
  • Cash: Bring cash for Maine Wildlife Park and smaller facilities

Accessibility & Safety

  • Terrain: Most wildlife parks have natural trails, some uneven surfaces
  • Stroller-Friendly: York's Wild Kingdom, Maine Wildlife Park main paths
  • Wheelchair Access: Contact individual facilities for specific accommodations
  • Pet Policy: Most facilities do not allow pets (service animals excepted)
  • Outdoor Facilities: DEW Haven entirely outdoors, weather dependent

Planning Your Visit

For Families with Young Children

  • York's Wild Kingdom (rides + animals)
  • Maine Wildlife Park (guaranteed sightings)
  • Petting zoos for hands-on experiences
  • Plan 2-4 hours per facility

For Wildlife Enthusiasts

  • Maine Wildlife Park (30+ native species)
  • Wildlife refuges (natural habitats)
  • The Oceanarium (marine ecosystems)
  • Bring binoculars and camera

For Education Focus

  • GMRI (marine science research)
  • Rehabilitation centers (conservation)
  • Maine Audubon (ecology programs)
  • Call ahead for guided tours

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Maine currently does not have any AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) accredited facilities. As of 2025, there are 240 AZA-accredited institutions nationwide, but none are located in Maine. However, Maine's wildlife parks and zoos still offer excellent educational experiences and animal care. For AZA-accredited facilities, the nearest options are in Massachusetts, including Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford.

York's Wild Kingdom in York Beach is Maine's largest combination zoo and amusement park, attracting over 200,000 visitors annually. It features exotic animals from around the world including lions, Bengal tigers, gibbons, and ring-tailed lemurs, plus a 5,500 square foot Butterfly Kingdom, petting zoo, amusement rides, and miniature golf. For native Maine wildlife, the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray offers the most comprehensive collection with over 30 native species including moose, black bears, bald eagles, and lynx.

The Maine Wildlife Park in Gray is the best place to see moose and native Maine animals up close. The park features over 30 species that cannot be returned to the wild, including moose, black bears, white-tailed deer, coyotes, bald eagles, lynx, mountain lions, and owls. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (April 15 - November 11), admission is $10 for adults, $7.50 for children and seniors. The park guarantees you'll see more wildlife in one day than you could spot in the wild. Other options include Acadia Zoological Park in Trenton and DEW Haven in Mount Vernon, both featuring native species.

Maine has three major aquariums showcasing Gulf of Maine marine life. The Maine State Aquarium in West Boothbay Harbor (operated by Maine DMR) features Gulf of Maine ecosystem exhibits with tanks up to 1,400 gallons, a touch tank, and a 26-foot minke whale skeleton. The Oceanarium and Education Center in Bar Harbor offers 2,000 gallons of Gulf of Maine habitat across nine tanks, a 650-gallon touch pool, authentic lobster boat, and juvenile humpback whale skeleton. The Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) in Portland operates a 44,000 square foot research and education facility with the Cohen Center for Interactive Learning. All focus on Maine's unique marine ecosystems and conservation education.

Yes, Maine offers several free wildlife viewing opportunities. All wildlife refuges including Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge, and Sunkhaze Meadows are free to visit. Maine Audubon operates eight wildlife sanctuaries with free trails open dawn to dusk daily. Birdsacre in Ellsworth offers free year-round trails through wildlife habitat. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has some trails with wildlife viewing (admission may apply for gardens). For budget-friendly paid options, Maine Wildlife Park offers excellent value at $7.50-$10 per person with over 30 native species guaranteed.

Most Maine zoos and wildlife parks operate seasonally from spring through fall due to weather. Maine Wildlife Park is open April 15 - November 11. York's Wild Kingdom operates late May through early September. DEW Haven is seasonal and weather-dependent (all outdoor facility). However, year-round options include wildlife refuges (open daily year-round with trails accessible in all seasons), some rehabilitation centers like Avian Haven (Monday-Sunday 9 AM - 5 PM), and certain marine facilities. Indoor aquariums may offer year-round viewing - contact individual facilities for current winter hours. Birdsacre trails are open year-round dawn to dusk, though the Nature Discovery Center closes in winter.

York's Wild Kingdom offers the most hands-on experiences with a petting zoo where children can hand-feed deer and goats, walk through and feed parakeets, and view butterflies in the Butterfly Kingdom. The Oceanarium in Bar Harbor features touch pools where children can interact with sea stars, crabs, and marine life. Maine State Aquarium in Boothbay Harbor has a 26-foot touch tank with regional sea life. For farm experiences, Treworgy Family Orchards has a petting zoo with barnyard animals. Mobile petting zoos including Pony X-Press, Ingendahl Acres, and Hoofin It provide hands-on animal experiences for parties and events. Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine in Portland features freshwater aquarium with Maine species and veterinary learning exhibits.

Several Maine wildlife rehabilitation centers welcome visitors. The Center for Wildlife in Cape Neddick is open Thursday-Sunday 10 AM - 4 PM with Nature Center, Ambassador Village, and free outdoor trails; they've treated over 90,000 animals in 39 years. Avian Haven in Freedom specializes in wild bird rehabilitation and is open Monday-Sunday 9 AM - 5 PM, having treated 3,840 birds. Skybird Wildlife Center in Durham serves as a modern clinical wildlife care hub with plans for educational sanctuary and ecological programs. However, Marine Mammals of Maine in Bath cannot currently host visitors due to federal permit regulations (they're working on public viewing options). Most rehabilitation centers focus on returning animals to the wild and offer educational programs about wildlife conservation.

Plan 3-5 hours for York's Wild Kingdom to enjoy both zoo exhibits and amusement park rides. Maine Wildlife Park typically requires 2-3 hours to walk the trails and see all 30+ native species at a leisurely pace. DEW Haven's natural walking path can be explored in 1-2 hours, though some visitors pack lunch and spend the full day repeating the loop. Aquariums like the Maine State Aquarium and Oceanarium are more compact, requiring 1-2 hours for thorough exploration. Wildlife refuges vary widely - allow 1-3 hours for short trails or half-day for extensive exploration. For families with young children, factor in additional time for petting zoo interactions, feeding experiences, and breaks. Gates close in late afternoon at most facilities, but visitors can often stay 1-2 hours past admission cutoff.

DEW Haven in Mount Vernon is unique as a small family-run non-profit zoo and rescue operating on 42 acres. Founded by Bob and Julie Miner who built it from the ground up starting as a farm in 1980, it's now home to over 200 animals representing 45+ species from around the world. Unlike commercial zoos, DEW Haven is a working farm with rustic, natural environment rather than concrete structures. All animals come from rescues - closed zoos, mistreatment cases, illegal ownership, or USDA licensed facilities - giving them a second chance. Ticket proceeds go directly to animal care. The founders live on-site with the animals and personally dedicate their lives to their welfare. It's entirely outdoors (except small admission/gift shop) and closes during heavy rain, emphasizing natural, authentic animal care over commercial presentation.

Seasonal Visitor Information

Most Maine zoos and wildlife parks operate seasonally from spring through fall. Before visiting, call ahead or check facility websites for current hours, especially in early spring (April-May) and late fall (October-November). Weather can affect outdoor facilities like DEW Haven. Summer months (June-August) offer the most consistent hours and all facilities open.

Related Resources

Last updated on November 27, 2025