Check current hours, admission rates, and seasonal details before you arrive.
Plan Your Visit
Everything you need to know before you roam, plus a little inspiration for the adventure ahead.
Before You Roam
Everything you need to know before you roam, plus a little inspiration for the adventure ahead.
What are the park hours and admission fees?
The park is open seasonally from mid-April through November 11, with hours that vary throughout the season.
Check out our Hours & Fees page before you visit to see park hours and admission details.
Do I need tickets or reservations?
Most visitors can purchase admission at the gate or buy tickets online in advance. If you plan to visit often, season passes are also available and can be purchased online.
If you’re visiting with a group or school, advance planning is required. Learn more about Group Visits to find the best option for your group.
Are group visits available?
Yes. Groups of 20+ or more can visit at a special group rate. All group visits are planned in advance and fall under our Group Visits options.
Within Group Visits, there are two visit types:
- Group Visits are self-guided and ideal for camps, families, and community groups of 20 or more.
- Education Visits are designed for school groups of 10 or more and include the option to add a keeper-led education program. Education visits are only available during the school day.
Visit the Group Visits page to review both options, compare details, and choose the best fit for your group.
Is the park accessible?
We strive to make the park welcoming for all visitors. Many pathways are accessible, and our park map highlights accessible trails to help you plan your route before you arrive.
A limited number of wheelchairs are available at the park. To make sure one is available for your visit, please call us in advance at (207) 822-6460 or email mainewildlifepark@maine.gov.
If you have questions about accessibility before your visit, you can also explore our Park Accessibility page.
How long does a visit usually take?
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the park, though you’re welcome to wander at your own pace.
Want to plan your route? Check out the Park Map & Directions page before you arrive.
Can we bring food or reserve a shelter?
You’re welcome to bring food and enjoy it in designated picnic areas throughout the park. If you’re looking for a place to gather, private shelters are available to reserve and are a great option for groups, celebrations, or school visits.
Shelter options:
- Small shelter: $50 (Includes two 8-foot picnic tables)
- Large shelter: $150 (Includes eight 8-foot picnic tables)
Shelter availability is limited. Submit a Shelter Request Form to check availability and reserve a shelter for your visit.
Feeling snacky while you explore?
Be sure to stop by the Snack Shack, serving a variety of snacks, drinks, and fan-favorite ice cream treats. The Snack Shack is run by the Friends of Maine Wildlife Park, and all proceeds go directly toward improving wildlife exhibits and displays.
What should we bring for our visit?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a drink or hydration, and curiosity are always recommended. Depending on the season, consider packing sunscreen or bug spray.
Don’t forget your phone if you’d like to use our self-guided audio tour.
Is this a zoo?
Not exactly. While you’ll see many amazing animals, the park is a wildlife park and education center focused on caring for rescued and human-dependent wildlife.
Want to learn more about the animals you’ll meet? Visit Our Wildlife page. Curious about how the park operates and its history? Head to the Park History page.
Are dogs allowed?
For the wellbeing of our wildlife and your pets, dogs (including emotional support dogs) or other pets are not permitted inside the park! Please do not plan to leave your pets in your vehicle as our parking lot has very little shade.
Service dogs that are under control at all times are allowed in the park, please alert Park staff at the gate. You must be prepared to pick up waste. No matter the dog, if they are barking or disrupting any of our animals, they will be asked to leave the park.
Planning a group visit?
Visiting with 20 or more people? We offer special group and education visit options designed to make planning easy.
