International Cryptozoology Museum

Museum · Portland

2

@atlasobscura

"Loren Coleman first started pursuing unusual, often inexplicable animals in 1960, and has since become one of the world’s foremost experts in the field of cryptozoology. The discipline, as defined by the master himself, “is the study of hidden or unknown animals. These are usually larger zoological species that, to date, remain unverified by science, such as Yetis, Bigfoot, Lake Monsters, and Sea Serpents, as well as hundreds of other yet-to-be-found animals (cryptids) worldwide…” It also encompasses the study of animals of recent discovery, such as the coelacanth, okapi, megamouth shark, giant panda, and mountain gorilla.” Throughout the years, Coleman has amassed an unrivaled collection of specimens, replicas, and artifacts relating to famous and lesser-known cryptids, including the eight-and-a-half-foot tall, 300-pound “Crookston Bigfoot,” a life-size coelacanth, a replica of P. T. Barnum’s Feejee Mermaid, and much more. The exhibits also include cryptid hair samples, fecal material, photographs, and footprint casts. Coleman’s International Cryptozoology Museum preserves and presents the collection to the public in a fun and educational manner while acknowledging that cryptozoology is a “gateway science”. Cryptozoology is capable of sparking the next generation’s interest in more popularly-accepted exploratory and research-oriented disciplines like biology and anthropology. Besides, as Coleman asserts, it’s not really an issue of whether or not one “believes” in Yetis or the Montauk Monster; for belief “belongs in the providence of religion.” Coleman focuses on exploring the unexplainable with an open mind, gathering evidence before accepting or denying any larger theory. Update as of April 2020: The museum has moved to the Thompson’s Point location." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

Travel to As Many of These Offbeat Places As You Can in 2018
sporst/CC BY 2.0

32 Resurgam Pl, Portland, ME 04102 Get directions

cryptozoologymuseum.com

2 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

Speckled Ax

Coffee shop · Portland

Single-cup brewing is the focus at this choice espresso shop, which uses wood-roasted organic beans.

1 Postcard

The Maine Souvenir Shop - Portland

Gift shop · Portland

This vibrant gift shop is a treasure trove of unique, locally made goods from Maine artists, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

1 Postcard

YardieTing

Jamaican restaurant · Portland

Brick-walled cafe providing Jamaican fare & house specials in an easygoing atmosphere.

1 Postcard

Portland Flea-for-All

Flea market · Portland

Flea-for-All is a vibrant market brimming with unique vintage finds, from furniture to records, perfect for all your weekend treasure hunts.

1 Postcard

Solo Italiano

Italian restaurant · Portland

Nestled in Maine, this rustic chic eatery serves inventive Northern Italian cuisine, with a dynamic menu that showcases local flavors and fresh ingredients.

3 Postcards

Boda

Thai restaurant · Portland

Boda is your go-to late-night Thai street food spot, serving up creative, spice-laden skewers and a cozy atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.

4 Postcards

Bird & Co.

Taco restaurant · Portland

Casual restaurant serving a menu of tacos, margaritas, and other Mexican-inspired dishes, plus brunch.

1 Postcard

Huong's Vietnamese Restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant · Portland

Asian art & paraphernalia hangs on the walls of this neighborhood Thai restaurant.

1 Postcard

Thompson's Point

Event venue · Portland

This vibrant riverside venue pulses with energy, offering summer concerts and winter ice skating, all complemented by delightful food trucks and stunning water views.

3 Postcards

Blyth & Burrows

Cocktail bar · Portland

Vintage-inspired cocktail bar with a maritime theme serving house cocktails & upscale small plates.

1 Postcard