Free Museums in Acadia National Park

"This splendid museum of Maine’s native peoples shifted its focus a few years ago from archaeology of a vanished world to an emphasis on living culture. Many Wabanaki artists helped design the core exhibit, “People of the First Light,” which explores the 12,000-year continuous history of people living in the Wabanaki homeland. The tales of confrontation, adaptation, and survival paint a picture of a resilient — and very much living — culture."

"A post shared by Abbe Museum (@abbemuseum) on Oct 8, 2018 at 7:13am PDT. This museum was made to introduce the history and culture of Maine’s Native people, the Wabanaki. The exhibits about the tribe would amaze you."

"Located on Eden Street in Bar Harbor, the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History is full of interactive exhibits, displays, and artifacts relating to the area’s natural history. The museum is now housed in what was once the Acadia National Park’s main offices, and one of their most impressive and popular exhibits is the life-size diorama of the environment between the land and sea. There’s also a lifelike artificial tidal pool that’s full of interesting sea creatures, like snails, starfish, and a variety of crabs."

"Located directly across the street from the Highbrook Motel, the Dorr Museum features dioramas of coastal Maine wildlife and a tide pool tank that houses a variety of live sea stars, hermit crabs, snails and other marine creatures. Visitors of all ages can touch, smell, listen and create while learning about the natural history of Maine. All exhibits are designed and produced by students at College of the Atlantic."

"Housed in the original headquarters of the Acadia National Park, the Dorr Museum investigates and interprets the natural history of Bar Harbor. All exhibits are curated by students from the College of the Atlantic, and there are many programs and activities for all ages. Don’t miss the gift shop, with an array of books, toys, and apparel related to Maine’s natural history."

"Paintings, drawings and graphics by Maine artist Russell D'Alessio. Brightly animated, whimsical stories told through the art with an eclectic mix of materials and genres that reflect the human spirit. Visit his website or stop by the gallery today!"

"The Bar Harbor Historical Society is a non-profit organization that strives to collect, preserve, promote and celebrate the history of our community. If you would like to learn more about the colorful history of Bar Harbor on your next visit, take a little time to explore their museum at 127 West Street. For more information visit their website www.barharborhistorical.org"

"Learn about the history of Bar Harbor inside a museum building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (207) 288-0000 | barharborhistorical.org"

"Christopher creates art to increase people’s awareness of wildlife and to reveal to them nature’s inherent beauty. His desire is to express the reverence he feels when he observes animals in their natural habitat. Christopher is especially recognized for his bird sculptures."

"Specialty Museums4 Herrick Rd, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679MoreLess Info. The Wendell Gilley Museum is a community center and museum that covers the work of nature carver Wendell Gilley. The center teaches bird carving, shows art exhibits, and conducts education programs about art and nature."

"This gallery museum is a major showcase for the bird carvings of one of the 3 world renown pioneers of the art form - Wendell Gilley. Located in Southwest Harbor, Maine."

"The studio gallery is on Main Street, in the center of town, with showrooms on two floors. Antiques, jewelry and custom framing are available as well. Featured are paintings and limited edition prints by both Wini Smart and Gail Cleveland."

"There are a couple benches where you can sit with your dog at the pet-friendly Morning Glory Bakery. Morning Glory offers a variety of baked goods, from cupcakes to danishes, and also serves a small selection of egg sandwiches and bagels for breakfast. Check the bakery's Facebook page for their daily specials, like focaccia or churros."

"If you want a hotel on the water, but don’t really need a private beach, this is the spot. The Harborside Hotel juts out into the waters providing stunning views of Frenchman Bay. The rooms are impeccably designed and they even have a few rooms that have private jacuzzis on the balcony."

"When looking for a Bar Harbor, Maine hotel, look no further than The Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina. Nestled in downtown Bar Harbor, our hotel offers breathtaking views of Frenchman's Bay and the ocean beyond."

"The largest freshwater lake in the park is accessed from Route 233. Eagle Lake and the surrounding 6-mile carriage road are popular for biking, walking, cross country skiing, fishing, kayaking, and boating."

"While walking or biking, you could stop by to take pictures of the view. So if you want to experience a pretty challenging yet fun adventure, then head out to Eagle Lake National Park."

"This beautiful lake sits in the deep in the heart of Maine's Acadia National Park. It is a great spot to do some relaxing fishing, though a permit is required to do so."

"Start your day at the Lighthouse on Cape d’Or. There’s a beautiful lighthouse with sweeping views of the Bay of Fundy and a lighthouse keeper’s residence-turned-inn where you can stay or enjoy a homecooked meal. They serve breakfast from 8-9 am, but if you start your day a bit later, lunch is available as of about 11:30, and you’ll definitely enjoy their chowders and fishcakes."

"Perched on a sea cliff in the southwest section of Mount Desert Island, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is one of Acadia’s historic landmarks. Built in 1858, the charming lighthouse marks the entrance to Bass Harbor and offers gorgeous seaside views. This is one of my favorite sunset spots in Acadia National Park, and I always have my camera ready here."

"It is the iconic lighthouse that is visible on every pic of the national park making it is the most photographed location. Located on the cliffside, it is a picture-perfect location for mesmerizing views of the ocean. Built way back in 1858, it is situated on the southwestern side of Mount Desert Island."