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Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory

The Tallest Public Bridge Observatory in the World!

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FAQS

Select a question below to view answer.

What is the inside of the observatory like?

There are three decks in the observatory offering views in every direction. The elevator stops on the lowest deck, and a stairway leads up to the other two decks. The observatory is fully enclosed in special safety glass, but there is no heat or air conditioning. If it is a cool day, plan to wear a coat, and if it is windy, you will probably feel a breeze. If you have any trouble with stairs, a vertical lift connects the elevator deck with the top deck. While you are there, check out the beautiful inlaid bronze compass rose on the top deck.

How far can I see from the Penobscot Narrows Observatory?

The view, of course, will depend on weather conditions and the direction in which you are looking. Under good conditions, the view will extend out 40 miles or more in some directions.

How tall is the observatory?

The top deck of the observatory sits 447 feet above the Penobscot River, or about the height of a 43-story building.

How long does it take to go up in the elevator to the Penobscot Narrows Observatory?

Maine’s fastest and tallest passenger elevator takes about one minute to make the trip.

What can I bring up to the Penobscot Narrows Observatory?

Due to space constraints in the elevator and in the observatory, we must discourage large bags such as suitcases, duffel bags and backpacks, so please leave these items securely locked in your vehicle. Also, please leave glass items such as glass beverage bottles in your vehicle as they are not allowed in the observatory. Strollers and pets (except for service animals) are not allowed in the observatory. Smoking is prohibited in the observatory.

Can I use my State Park Season Pass for admission to the observatory?

Your State Park Pass can be your admission to Fort Knox, but we do ask that you pay a small fee to visit the observatory. These visitor fees are used to operate the facility. Our costs for operating the observatory include the utilities, service and safety contracts, as well as labor costs for attendants. Your ticket fees are used directly to operate the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory. This facility could not operate without charging a fee.

Is the Penobscot Narrows Observatory accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities?

The observatory meets all guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and is fully accessible for persons with mobility restrictions. When one gets off the elevator at the lowest deck (400 ft level) there is a lift available to the left which enables all who are mobility impaired.

What about Disabled Veterans?

Under Maine law, disabled veterans arriving at Fort Knox in vehicles displaying the Maine Disabled Veteran license plate will not be charged for admission to the Fort or the Observatory. This counts as a free vehicle pass for the park. However, individual Observatory tickets must be purchased for all other members of the party.

Is there an age requirement to go up to the Observatory?

People of all ages are welcome. However, we require children under the age of 15 to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. This to provide support in the unlikely event of an elevator malfunction or emergency.

Are there stairs we can use instead of the elevator?

Access to the observatory can only be gained using the elevator. There are stairs that are used to exit the observatory in the unlikely event that the elevator malfunctions, but they are utilized only to exit the building if the elevator stops working.