Mount Desert MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mount Desert, Maine.
1. Acadia National Park
ICONIC NATURAL WONDERLAND
Acadia National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, renowned for its rugged coastline, scenic drives, and diverse hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the eastern seaboard, and explore ecosystems ranging from woodlands to tidepools. The park offers activities year-round, including hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and wildlife spotting.
2. Cadillac Mountain
HIGHEST EAST COAST PEAK
Cadillac Mountain stands as the tallest point on the eastern coastline of the United States, offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. It's a favorite destination for hikers and motorists, with a winding road leading to the summit. The panoramic vistas from the top attract visitors throughout all seasons.
3. Jordan Pond House
FAMOUS POPOVERS & VIEWS
Jordan Pond House is an iconic dining spot within Acadia National Park, celebrated for its traditional popovers and picturesque views of Jordan Pond and the Bubble Mountains. The combination of elegant afternoon tea and scenery makes it a must-visit culinary destination. Outdoor seating allows guests to enjoy the natural surroundings while sampling regional classics.
4. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
HISTORIC COASTAL BEACON
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is a beloved historic site perched on rocky cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, marking the entrance to Bass Harbor. The lighthouse is a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset, and provides stunning ocean views. Its dramatic setting exemplifies the rugged beauty of Maine's coastline.
5. Asticou Azalea Garden
TRANQUIL JAPANESE-INSPIRED GARDEN
Asticou Azalea Garden offers visitors a peaceful retreat with its lush plantings and tranquil pond, inspired by Japanese garden design. It features vibrant blooms in spring and summer, as well as winding paths for contemplative walks. The garden is open seasonally and is a favorite for both nature lovers and photographers.
6. Downtown Bar Harbor
BUSTLING SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Bar Harbor is a lively hub known for its wide selection of shops, bookstores, boutiques, and eateries. Visitors can browse for local crafts, outdoor gear, and souvenirs while enjoying the quintessential coastal town atmosphere. The area also hosts seasonal festivals and street performances, making it vibrant throughout the year.
7. Bar Harbor Shore Path
SCENIC OCEANFRONT WALK
The Bar Harbor Shore Path is a historic walkway tracing the edge of Frenchman Bay, offering stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. This easy stroll is lined with benches and passes by gardens and charming cottages. It's especially popular at sunrise and sunset for both walkers and photographers.
8. Agamont Park
HARBORFRONT GREEN SPACE
Agamont Park is situated at the edge of downtown Bar Harbor, overlooking the harbor and islands beyond. The park is a favorite spot for picnics and offers a perfect vantage point for watching boats and enjoying waterfront views. It frequently hosts community events and informal gatherings.
9. Abbe Museum
WABANAKI CULTURAL HISTORY
The Abbe Museum focuses on the history and culture of Maine's Native Wabanaki people and houses engaging exhibits and artifacts. It provides educational programs, contemporary art, and interactive displays that highlight indigenous perspectives. The museum fosters appreciation and understanding of native heritage in the region.
10. Wendell Gilley Museum
ART OF BIRD CARVING
The Wendell Gilley Museum in Southwest Harbor honors the artistry of one of America's foremost bird carvers. Visitors can view rotating exhibits of finely carved birds and participate in hands-on workshops. The museum offers a unique convergence of art, nature, and local craftsmanship.
11. Park Loop Road
SCENIC DRIVING ADVENTURE
Park Loop Road is a picturesque route winding through Acadia National Park, connecting many of its most iconic sights and trailheads. The drive features dramatic coastal views, access to Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Point Overlook. It's ideal for sightseeing, wildlife spotting, and accessing trailheads for hikes of varying difficulty.
12. Seal Harbor Beach
SECLUDED SANDY COVE
Seal Harbor Beach is a serene spot cherished by locals and visitors for its soft sand and clear coastal waters. The beach is easily accessible from the main road and is less crowded than other area beaches. Its peaceful setting makes it perfect for a relaxing swim or picnic.
13. Little Long Pond
PICTURESQUE CARRIAGE ROADS
Little Long Pond features scenic carriage roads originally built by the Rockefeller family, offering tranquil walking and biking trails. The area is surrounded by forest and overlooks a beautiful pond frequented by wildlife. It draws those seeking a quieter, more secluded natural experience on the island.
14. Ship Harbor Trail
COASTAL FOREST WALK
Ship Harbor Trail is a gentle loop that winds through lush forests and along the dramatic rocky shoreline near Bass Harbor. Interpretive signs along the route provide insights into the area's geology and ecology. The trail is noted for its tidal pools and opportunities to spot seabirds and marine life.
15. Beech Mountain
PANORAMIC SUMMIT HIKES
Beech Mountain offers hiking trails of varying lengths that lead to a historic fire tower and sweeping views of the island's lakes and hills. The summit is a favorite with families and experienced hikers alike. Its relatively moderate climbs reward with excellent photo opportunities and fresh mountain air.