Zillman Art Museum
Activities: Museums, art, walking, sightseeing, dining, shopping, historic downtowns.
Family-friendly, great for a day trip.
Region: The Maine Highlands
About
Discover (or rediscover) the Zillman Art Museum. With its recently expanded exhibition space in downtown Bangor, the museum — known for its modern and contemporary art — has five new galleries, a sleek glass entryway and many exhibitions on display in the new, airy spaces. The expansion was made possible by Maine arts patrons Donald and Linda Zillman, increasing the gallery space dramatically, by about 50%.
Though it features modern and contemporary art, the museum’s location grounds it in history. Located on the first floor of Norumbega Hall, the museum now exists in what was once a bustling department store built in the 1930s. Nearby, visitors can see the iconic Hannibal Hamlin statue at the adjacent Kenduskeag Mall.
Contemporary highlights of the collection include works by David Hockney, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Edward Hopper, Pablo Picasso, and Edward Burtynsky. Additionally, the museum’s permanent collection celebrates the long heritage of Maine art and artists; including works by artists such as Berenice Abbott, Marsden Hartley, Winslow Homer, John Marin, Carl Sprinchorn, and Andrew Wyeth.
Restaurants Near Zillman Art Museum
Located in historic downtown Bangor, Zillman has great access to nearby shops, boutiques and restaurants. If your heart is full of art, but your stomach is grumbling, lunch or dinner is just a quick walk away. For a casual lunch of sandwiches, soups, salads and vegan treats, head to Bagel Central. A dose of caffeine or midday treat can be easily picked up at The Grind House. To end the day as artfully as it began, head to dinner at The Tarratine or The Fiddlehead Restaurant, both elegant spots serving local fare and creative plates.
Admission and Hours of Zillman Art Museum
Admission is free thanks to the generosity of Birchbrook. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Mileage:
From Ellsworth: 28 miles
From Augusta: 77 miles
From Lewiston/Auburn: 108 miles
From Portland: 129 miles