A Unique History Adventure at the Seashore Trolley Museum
As it tends to happen during summers in Maine, the day we visited the Seashore Trolley Museum was cloudy with chances of rain. But you know what, we had a great time; riding trolleys, exploring exhibits, and learning about the history of this unique form of transportation.
This museum flowed between indoor and outdoor exhibits, so you would not be caught outside for too long if you did not want to be. On a sunny day you could explore more of the outside grounds, or on a rainy day (like we had) you can transition easily to the different indoor exhibits and the trolley rides (which had a roof on them).
Trolley Rides at Seashore Trolley Museum
When you walk through the grounds at Seashore Trolley Museum, you will see multiple different types of trolleys. Outside the main station and gift shop building is a trolley that leaves for rides throughout the day.
We got into this trolley by stepping up onto a high step and then sliding down a row of benches, as directed by a volunteer. In fact, there were many volunteers there, dressed in uniform, and knowledgeable about the exhibits at the museum.
Looking above, you could see vintage advertisements towards the ceiling that would have been displayed for passengers of the trolley when in operation. After a brief safety talk, our trolley ride began. The volunteer guide narrated the journey and relayed different facts and stories about the history of the trolley system.
I thought the trolley’s speed was unexpectedly fast. I guess I don’t know what I was expecting, but you are sitting on a bench, no seat belt, no door/railing on the outside of the car, and you are passing by trees and big rocks on a somewhat elevated path. It was a fun ride, but it also makes sense as to why they have children sit in the middle of the bench away from the edges of the car.
Model Train Exhibit
On our way to the bathrooms, we noticed a huge model train exhibit featuring different towns in Maine. This giant exhibit had stools for children to see better and protective glass so no one got a little too close.
If someone in your party likes trains, then you could spend a good amount of time watching the models go around the tracks. There are recognizable landmarks from towns in Maine such as Bangor, Bucksport, and Old Orchard Beach, so it was neat to see the recreations of these features and appreciate the time and talent needed to build this exhibit.
More Exploring
Overall, the Seashore Trolley Museum is a good fit for all ages. There are hands-on activities and areas for children and there are plenty of descriptive signs for adults to learn the history of these unique transportation vehicles.
Exploring the grounds could definitely take a few hours as the trolley carhouse buildings are spread out from one another, but the parking is easy with lots and spaces right next to some of the main buildings.
Read more about the Seashore Trolley Museum in our directory or go straight to their website here.