Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine: A Hub for Playful Learning
School vacation week is here and for Maine parents seeking engaging activities for their children, the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine (CMTM) in Portland offers a dynamic destination where curiosity thrives and learning feels like play. Located just off I-295, CMTM provides an immersive environment designed to spark imagination and foster a love of discovery.
Beyond the Traditional Museum Experience
Stepping inside CMTM is unlike visiting a typical museum. The space is intentionally designed for interaction, with exhibits meant to be explored, tested, and enjoyed. There are no restrictive barriers; instead, a philosophy of hands-on learning prevails. The museum spans over 30,000 square feet across three floors, plus an Outdoor Adventure area, all designed to capture the unique character of Maine. Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine
A Multifaceted Approach to Education
Brittany Liscord, STEM and Live Program Manager at CMTM, emphasizes the museum’s diverse offerings. “So when you come to the Children’s Museum, we are a fabulous mixture of art and making and culture and science and STEM and exploring, technology and how things work.” This intentional variety is crucial, as studies indicate that 62% of kindergarteners with limited STEM exposure may face ongoing challenges in related academic areas. WMTW
Interactive Exhibits and STEM Learning
CMTM’s exhibits transform complex concepts into accessible and enjoyable experiences for children. Examples include “Go with the Flow,” a water play exhibit that demonstrates principles of motion and cause and effect, and an airplane exhibit that allows children to explore physics in a playful setting. These hands-on experiences encourage problem-solving, build confidence, and foster social-emotional resilience.
Accessibility and Inclusion
CMTM is committed to making its resources available to all families. As part of the Museums for All program, admission is just $1 for individuals with an EBT card. The museum also provides stroller and coat storage to enhance accessibility. Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine
Performing Arts and Early Childhood Programs
In addition to its interactive exhibits, CMTM is home to Maddy’s Theatre, the longest-running children’s theatre in the nation. Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine The theatre hosts performances designed for children and families of all abilities. The museum also offers “For Tots” programming, free with admission, which engages children ages 2-5 with age-appropriate social-emotional learning experiences in art, science, and theatre. Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine
Plan Your Visit
The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine is located at 250 Thompson’s Point in Portland, Maine. All visitors are required to reserve tickets in advance online, though walk-ups are accepted if performances or play sessions are not full. For more information on upcoming events, programming, and to plan your visit, please visit www.kitetails.org/plan-your-visit. You can also find more information at Visit Portland.