Rates and Hours
There is no limit to the time you can spend in the observatory, but please understand that there are others waiting to visit.
Observatory Hours
- May 1 to June 30: 9 AM to 5 PM
- July 1 to August 31: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Sept 1 to Oct 31 : 9 AM to 5 PM
**Fort Knox is open from May 1 through October 31 from 9AM to 6PM, and open until 7PM from July 1 through October 31. Park grounds are open year-round from 9AM to sunset.
Special Events
With its stunning natural beauty, rich historical significance and unique status as a regional landmark, the PNBO campus is the perfect setting for a special event. We handle everything from class trips to small weddings and family reunions. Please contact the Friends of Fort Knox at 207-469-6553 to schedule this scenic venue.
- Pavilion Rental
-
Pavilion Amenities
- Covered pavilion
- Picnic tables with seating for 60 (the grounds can fit many more)
- Gas grill
- Sink
- Serving tables
- Trash removal
- Restrooms
Rates
- Non-Refundable Reservation Fee: $25 (in addition to rates below)
- Day Use (during regular business hours): $30/hr
- After Regular Hours (5 or 6pm): $65/hr
- Extended Hours (after Sunset): $100/hr
- Propane Grill Rental: $50
How to Make a Reservation
Call 207-469-6553 for availability and to secure your dates and times.
Once you have confirmed your reservation at the phone number above, fill out the Pavilion reservation form (MS Word) and mail to:
Friends of Fort Knox
PO Box 456
Bucksport, ME 04416Please include a $25 check for the nonrefundable reservation fee, made payable to the Friends of Fort Knox. For additional information, including terms and conditions, please view the reservation form:
Penobscot Narrow Bridge and Observatory Pavilion Reservation Form (PDF)
- Group Tours
-
Self-Guided Educational Tours
Self-guided educational tours and class trips are scheduled through the Friends of Fort Knox at 207-469-6553. Learn more about the educational tours.
Group Tour FAQs
- There are no additional fees for the tours.*
- There is no specific time duration for the above tours.
* Please Note: If your group would like to reserve the Pavilion as part of a tour, please mention that when you call. Although there are several public picnic tables, they are on a first-come, first-served basis. The only guaranteed seating is within the Pavilion.
Admission to Observatory and Fort
Note: Children 4 and under are free.
| Ticket Type | Maine Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Adults 12 & older | $7.00 | $9.00 |
| Seniors (65 plus) | $2.50 | $5.50 |
| Children 5 – 11 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
Fort Only Admission Rates
Note: Children 4 and under are free.
| Ticket Type | Maine Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Adults 12 & older | $4.50 | $6.50 |
| Seniors (65 plus) | Free | $3.00 |
| Children 5 – 11 | $2.50 | $2.50 |
Maine State Park Season Passholders (Observatory Rates)
Please Note: Season pass holders get into the Fort for free. The below rates are for admission to the Observatory (which is not included in the park pass).
| Ticket Type | Maine Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Adults 12 & older | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| Seniors (65 plus) | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| Children 5 – 11 | $2.50 | $2.50 |