The International Cryptozoology Museum has, as its primary mission: to educate, inform, and share cryptozoological evidence, artifacts, replicas, and popular cultural items with the general public, media, students, scholars, and cryptozoologists from around the world. The International Cryptozoology Museum has an extensive cryptozoological library, a research archive, a gift shop with popular culture items, and exhibits about various aspects of the field including expeditions to remote parts of the world, anthropological studies related to cryptids (creatures whose existence is not proven), and reconstructions. The museum is located in Portland, Maine.
There are many theories and facts to be explored to get a better understanding of these creatures, but some don’t think it qualifies as science. This museum brings cryptozoological studies into a more academic light with their collection of artifacts. Some people who are into these creatures may feel like they belong at this museum because they will compare it to being on an expedition finding the next discovery. Since it seems like museums are great because they’re such an insight into how people have long viewed animals and the world, the Cryptozoology Museum is one of the most interesting museums I’ve ever been to.
This museum, which is located in Portland, Oregon, has a new take on what can be considered a classic animal: The Sasquatch. According to the museum’s research, Bigfoot sightings have been reported for more than 100 years now. The site covers everything from folklore to current research that show these creatures may exist in some areas of North America and Russia.
This museum is the result of more than five decades of field research, travel, and dedication to gathering representative materials, native art, footcasts, hair samples, models, and other cryptozoological samples. Its director, Loren Coleman has moved his cabinet-of-curiosities home museum collection to a more formal foundation establishment in a planned, secure fashion. He and a dedicated battery of volunteers opened the museum, first in 2003, and then moved to the downtown public location on November 1, 2009, as the world’s first cryptozoology museum. On September 15, 2011, the next step was the nonprofit incorporation of the museum in the State of Maine, and then moving into a larger venue for its broad mission purposes. Realizing that cryptozoology is a “gateway science” for many young people’s future interest in biology, zoology, wildlife studies, paleoanthropology, paleontology, anthropology, ecology, marine sciences, and conservation, the International Cryptozoology Museum is filling a needed educational, scientific, and natural history niche in learning. International Cryptozoology Museum – Portland ME
Cryptozoology is the study of hidden or unknown animals. Crypto is Greek for hidden and zoology is the study of animals. Cryptozoology explains why legends, sightings of unknown creatures, and unverified tracks may exist for so long before being discovered. This is because fascinating animals are still hiding in plain sight in remote regions of the world or deep in unexplored areas of our oceans.
Hours & Guidelines
Beginning April 16, 2021
Open 11:00 am to 6:00 pm ET
Seven Days A Week
Doors close at posted times, but patrons inside may stay for thirty minutes beyond closing.
COVID-19 social distancing & masks are required.
Admission
Adults, $10, for 13+
Children, $5, for 12 & below
Babies, Free (in arms/strollers)
- A crypto-zoology is a study of wildlife not recognized by the mainstream scientific community. So if you are interested in bigfoot, angels, or werewolves, this museum is for you!