Maine has more than its fair share of quirky museums, but the quirkiest of the lot has to be The International Cryptozoology Museum, in Portland. Say what? Cryptozoology: the story of hidden animals, such as Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and the Abominable Snowman.
Loren Coleman is the big kahuna of cryptozoology experts. A collector since 1960, the former university professor is the author of 15 books, including The Field Guide to Bigfoot, Yeti, and Other Mystery Primates Worldwide, Mysterious America, and Lake Monsters, Sea Serpents, and Other Mystery Denizens of the Deep.
The museum began in his Portland home. Now, Coleman’s impressive collection of artifacts and kitsch is housed at Thompson’s Point. What’s to see? For starters, an 8-foot-tall likeness of Big Foot; skulls and footprint castings, that lend credence to the existence of these rumored beasts; movie props and souvenir memorabilia. Consider it a perfect place to take the kids during school break.
NOTE: Coleman plans to move The International Cryptozoology Museum to Bangor.
