Prospect, Maine - Penobscot Narrows Observatory, Fort Knox Tunnels

This is a two-for-one attraction! The Penobscot Narrows Observatory is the tallest bridge observatory open to the public in the world. Visitors ride the observatory elevator up 420 feet to a multi-level, floor to ceiling window viewing platforms, which provide expansive views of Penobscot Bay and all the way to Acadia National Park!

The other attraction -- at the same location and covered under the admission price -- is the Fort Knox State Historic site. The massive granite Fort, built in the 1800s, is one of the best preserved seacoast fortifications in America. Kids love to explore the cannons and wander through the vast tunnel systems. [Leon Seymour, 03/24/2009]

The new Penobscot Narrows Observatory allows visitors to ride an elevator 420 feet above the Penobscot River for 100-mile panoramic views of Penobscot Bay. The observatory, the only one like it in the Western Hemisphere, is located on the grounds of the Fort Knox State Historic Site. Fort Knox is one of the best-preserved third-system coastal fortifications to be found in the United States.

The new Penobscot Narrows Observatory and the Fort Knox State Historic Site, Located off Route 174, Prospect, Maine, attracted over 100,000 visitors, during the 2007 season. [Leon Seymour, 11/22/2007]

The Fort Knox State Historic Site is a marvelous example of a well maintained granite coastal fortification. Children and adults love to explore the winding dark passageways and tunnels which circle the Fort. Interpretive tours are available daily in the summer.

Opening in May 2007, and accessed through Fort Knox is the new Penobscot Narrows Observatory. Visitors will ride an elevator up 400 feet [to the top of one of the towers of this new bridge] for 100-mile views of Penobscot Bay. [Leon Seymour, 03/30/2007]