The Maine State Museum plans to reopen to the public Saturday, Oct. 24, with free admission through Dec. 31 as it unveils the first phase of a major renovation.
The museum's visit page lists future hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with closures on Mondays and state holidays. It is at 230 State St. in Augusta, across the parking lot from the State House. Parking in surrounding lots is free.
The reopening announcement describes more than 19,000 square feet of new exhibits, displays and gathering areas. New displays include a whale gallery called Vector: A Whale's Life in the Gulf of Maine, an exhibition of Maine quilts and Beyond the Postcard, which presents historical and contemporary Maine lives.
The museum also plans to open the Lunder Education Center, its first dedicated learning and play space, and return a refreshed version of At Home in Maine.
The work took place in the Cultural Building, which also houses the State Archives and State Library. The museum says the renovation involved building-code compliance, accessibility, technology and systems intended to protect collections and maintain a stable indoor environment.
Travelers should check the museum's current notice and hours before leaving, particularly during the first weekend of operation.
Sources: Museum reopening announcement; Hours, admission and directions.
