George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History

The George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History features exhibits of Maine’s flora and fauna, constructed primarily by students at the College of the Atlantic. The hands-on touch tank provides opportunities to closely observe and even handle sea cucumbers, sea stars, sponges, and more.

Many of the exhibits show up close predator-prey relationships among Maine’s birds, fish, mammals and reptiles. There are also featured exhibits focusing on phenomena such as invasive species (are they really invaders?) or bioluminescence. The museum, which appeals to visitors of all ages, provides special hands-on opportunities for elementary and middle school students.

In summers, the Museum sponsors a summer day camp that focuses on the ecology of Mount Desert Island’s tide pools, forest, mountaintops, and ponds. It also sponsors intensive field institutes for high school students, which offer college credit.