Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory

Yesterday we drove to the new bridge and observatory---about an hour%26#39;s drive from MDI on Rtes. 1 %26amp; 3.

We were impressed with the area. The west tower venue---the access to the observatory elevator--- is very well designed. It was a beautiful day, which probably helped---clear, mild temperatures, and a refreshing breeze coming up the Penobscot River from the bay.

The access to the observatory (440 feet up) is via Fort Knox park. The park entrance is on Rte. 174, about a quarter of a mile from Rtes. 1%26amp;3. We paid $5.00 each, which provided the elevator ride up and back down, plus the use of the park, picnic area, and access to Fort Knox for the day.

The ride up was smooth. The observatory has two levels, connected by a flight of steps (there also is a handicap-access elevator from the first level to the upper level). They have done a great job in providing easy to see/read guides to the views in each direction. The tickets specify the time for your ride up; once there, you can stay as long as you like.

There is ample parking near the west tower as well as on the park grounds proper. We parked nearer the fort and took the pleasant, 5-10 minute stroll down to the tower and elevator entrance.

They have installed a stop light at the intersection of Rtes. 1%26amp;3 and Rte.174 ; this makes getting back onto 1%26amp;3 easy and safe.

It%26#39;s a nice place to spend an afternoon or a whole day.

My photos of the bridge, area, and fort are at:

%26lt;http://tinyurl.com/2w873s

Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory

Ditto. I%26#39;ve been twice, and thought it was great. A real bargain at $5 per head.

Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory

Hi cwvoigt,

Thanks for sharing your great pictures(again!).

You said the elevator tickets specifyed the time for your ride up. Did you have to wait long?

Thanks

rwdw

Did we have to wait long? Not at all. I think that they very carefully monitor the number of people coming into the area and schedule the elevator rides accordingly. There was no real ';line'; and things went very smoothly.

Now, coming down, especially if like me, you dawdle around, looking and taking pictures, you may have to wait a couple of minutes for the elevator, but then again, while you wait, there are all of these great views---and the people who are handling everything are personable and well-informed.

The Narrows Observatory is wonderful. We visited on a Sunday last month and although the ticket was time-stamped for an hour and a half later, we were able to go right in - apparently they will do this during less busy times. The view was great and it is a nice addition to the area. Fort Knox has interesting architecture and history and the Bucksport-Verona Island area is revitalizing. We stopped for lunch before at Cleonice in Ellsworth.