The Maine Wildlife Park, owned and operated by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, has been recognized as a 2009 Editors’ Choice in Yankee Magazine’s Travel Guide to New England.

The Editors’ Choice recommendation designates Yankee editors’ and writers’ favorite restaurants, lodgings, attractions, and bargains across New England.

“Yankee’s editors and our trusted legion of travel writers select our Editors’ Choice winners,” said Yankee editor Mel Allen. “From their own experiences and tips from our readers, they research and find the most deserving establishments in New England. Recipients range from the rustic to the refined, but all are noteworthy and memorable destinations.”

Located just 3.5 miles off of Maine Turnpike Exit 63 on Route 26 in Gray, the Maine Wildlife Park is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visitors must exit the park by 6 p.m. Here, you can view and photograph live moose, deer, bears, eagles, cougars, porcupines, coyotes, owls, turtles, trophy trout, and more – over 30 species of native wildlife. Enjoy nature trails, wildlife gardens, a snack shack, nature store, picnicking and more. Admission fees. www.mainewildlifepark.com

“We at the Maine Wildlife Park certainly appreciate the national recognition by Yankee Magazine,” said Inland Fisheries Natural Sciences Educator Lisa Kane, who supervises the Maine Wildlife Park. “We hope the designation of being the ‘Best Place to Meet the Natives’ will contribute to our already promising 2009 season.”

The magazine’s write-up is as follows: “This state-operated refuge and education facility houses wildlife that are either being rehabilitated or are unable to return to the wild, including deer, moose, black bear, and bald eagle are among the 25 or so species on view. Interactive displays and exhibits, special programs, and nature trails round out the offerings.”

For 33 years, Yankee Magazine’s Travel Guide to New England has been the most widely distributed and best-selling guide to the six-state region, providing readers with a comprehensive vacation-planning tool and daily reference.

For more information visit YankeeMagazine.com