Maine Mineral and Gem Museum — Attraction in Bethel

This is one of the best "little" museums I have ever visited. The first floor exhibit provide an opportunity to learn about and see specimens from various quarries across the state. There is also a small exhibit of pieces from NASA, for example, a signed hardhat and a Grumman contractor model of the LEM. I did notice, not that it really matters, that many of the signed astronaut photos were autopen signatures. My one complaint about the first floor exhibit was that it was impossible for me to access the lower drawers as I am 6'5" tall with a bad back and I could not bend that low. However, I have no doubt that a staff member would have helped if I had asked. I also learned that the Hamlin book about Tourmalines came with covers in three different colors. I wonder which cover color is the rarest. It is on the second floor where the museum really shines. The history of the major gem discoveries, the homage paid to Frank Perham, and the photos were amazing, the mineral specimens were exquisite and breath taking and the room with the cut gems and jewelry was astoundingly beautiful. You exit the second floor through the exhibit of meteorites. It's been a while since I've been to the Smithsonian or the Hayden Planetarium but I am of the opinion that this exhibit puts those two venerable institutions to shame. Every where you turn, like in the gem room, there is eye-candy. The lunar and Martian meteorites were cool, but the piece that really blew my mind was the huge slice of the Fukang meteorite. I wish I had more time to explore the museum but my wife and dog were waiting in the car for about an hour and we had to get back on the road. This museum is a true...

If the opportunity presents itself, if you're even just slightly considering a visit, I say with the fullest confidence just do it, you will absolutely not regret it! What an incredible experience start to finish! We saw so many beautiful things, learned so much, and were able to hold actual pieces of the moon and Mars! Their collection is downright impressive and they've put everything together in such fun and engaging ways!

Also! Based on other reviews I'm guessing his name is Patrick- we had the most interesting, educational conversations with him! Honestly I hope to ever be as good at anything as Patrick is as what he does! He is a great person and such an important part of the museum!

There was plenty of parking in the back of the building with street parking available as well! They have a gift shop in the front of the museum as well as their discovery gallery. The museum itself was both levels of the building and there were both stairs and an elevator.

If you have sensory issues be aware there is a mining video playing on loop on the first floor as well as loud sounds and flashing every 30 minutes on the second floor, though we didn't experience the latter. They were transparent about this when we bought our tickets and it wasn't an issue however, depending on individual comfort it may be beneficial to bring noise cancelling headphones.

Visiting the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum is an amazing experience I would recommend to everyone and anyone with any interest in minerals, gems, space, history, expanding your knowledge, or even if you just like...

Our company, Collette Monuments, along with myself -- have been working diligently together with MMGM over the past couple of years on a handful of granite paver projects. It has been an absolute honor to work with the staff members, and we take great pride in being part of the museum's growth, along with its donors, to keep this "gem" of a business moving forward.

With every visit, MMGM's supporting cast has been very helpful, courteous, and knowledgeable. In addition to the museum's immaculate presentation, I can assure you that your health and safety are their number 1 priority during these uncertain times.

While I have yet to partake in the full experience of the museum, I have explored around the showroom and it comes highly recommended, simply for its historic and educational aspects. This place is essentially a time capsule surrounded by 4 walls, but the mental journeys you will inevitably endure take you to a place far, far beyond our planet.

If you haven't been yet, what exactly are you...