Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Acadia National Park

"Nestled among the islands, waterways, marshes, and dunes on Maine’s rugged coast, Acadia National Park is comprised of nearly 50,000 acres of almost pristine habitat that’s been inspiring artists, writers, and visitors for decades. The park is home to Cadillac Mountain – the largest mountain on the United State’s Atlantic Coast – and offers a variety of recreation options too extensive to list in its entirety. For lovers of Mother Nature and national parks, you could spend days here and never get bored."

"Location: 44.374922, -68.191748 Distance to Acadia East Campground: 37.5 Miles, 56 Minutes. Just steps away from the site where father of Acadia, George B. Dorr’s Old Farm home once stood is what locals refer to as “George’s Beach.” This quiet, secluded rocky beach is close to downtown Bar Harbor, while feeling like its miles away."

"The nearly 250-kilometer drive northeast on Route 1 from Portland to Maine’s beloved Acadia National Park is nothing short of enjoyable. Out the window, you’ll see the state’s jagged coastline, the rocky beaches lapped by rhythmic waves of the Atlantic."

"On clear days, the glassy waters of this 176-acre pond reflect the image of Penobscot Mountain like a mirror. A stroll around the pond and its surrounding forests and flower meadows is one of Acadia's most popular and family-friendly activities. (Sorry, no swimming allowed.) Follow the 3-mile self-guided nature trail around the pond before stopping for a cuppa at the Jordan Pond House."

"The crystal clear water, the reflection of trees, rocks shining through the waters just wants you to gaze at the beauty. Just take a stroll around the lake or sit down and appreciate the beauty. Jordon Pond House is the only restaurant inside the park and is set overlooking the pond."

"This iconic body of water currently graces the cover of Acadia National Park’s map. You know it has to be a must stop attraction. Jordan Pond is the park’s second largest body of water at 187 acres."

"Located along the Loop Road in Acadia National Park, Thunder Hole is one of the park’s most iconic stops. It is formed from a break in the rocky shore that funnels the water from incoming waves into a narrow channel, which creates a dramatic and photogenic scene that’s similar to a geyser. The sound and might of the rushing water can be felt from quite a distance, and for those interested in getting close, it’s possible to do so."

"Thunder Hole is an iconic spot in Acadia National Park located just past Sand Beach along Park Loop Road. Thunder Hole is a naturally formed small intel along the Acadia coastline that produces amazing sights and sounds. On a wavy day, water comes crashing in to the inlet and cumulates in a small cavern at the end of the inlet."

"Thunder Hole’s huge draw is the spectacular crashing of the waves into a small inlet along the rocky coast. This small inlet was naturally created from the strong New England waves and creates a thunderous crashing sound when air and water are forced out. This is a fun stop with the kids on a day when the waves are strong."

"ParksMain Street / West Street, Bar Harbor, ME MoreLess Info. Agamont Park offers a slope of lawn where visitors can observe a panoramic view of Bar Harbor. The park features a historic Shore Path and a walking path that provides spectacular views of the ocean and the Porcupine Islands."

"This park has an amazing view of Frenchman’s Bay and is in the heart of the town. If you want to have a cheap meal with a view, then pack a picnic and stop by here. Or, go to a nearby pizza or sandwich shop and pick up lunch/dinner and eat outside."

"Call me weird but I love visiting libraries is different towns and states. The beauty of the Jesup Memorial Library is definitely worth your time. Even if you just need to pop in there for the use of their wi-fi and a place to relax and read a good book, add this great library to your “must” attractions."

"Spend a rainy afternoon in this 100 year old library, which has a kid’s section, extensive selection of periodicals and a quiet reading room. Check their calendar for frequent talks, author readings, and live music."

"The Jesup Memorial Library serves as the public library for the town of Bar Harbor – a community resource and gathering place."

"The Wild Gardens of Acadia contain over 300 native plant species of Mount Desert Island. Through the hard work of volunteers, the 13 sections of the garden represent Acadia’s natural habitats. The unique plant communities include coniferous woods, meadow, heath, beach, bird thicket, and several others."

"A varied group of community volunteers maintains the Wild Gardens of Acadia in Acadia National Park, Maine. It is based on the usual environments of Mount Desert Island. In nine different display areas, over 300 native species are labeled to make identification simple."

"Gardens191 Main Street, Southwest Harbor, ME 4679MoreLess Info. Located on Mount Desert Island, the Charlotte Rhoades Park & Butterfly Garden is a location frequented by nature and butterfly lovers. Visitors commonly enjoy walking through the park's gardens and seeing the many butterfly varieties."

"Located next to the Atlantic Brewing Company, the pet-friendly Mainely Meat BBQ has plenty of outdoor seating where you can sit with your dog. Mainely Meat is serving barbecue classics like pulled pork, smoked chicken, ribs and sausage, plus New York Strip Steak. Sides are potato salad, coleslaw and beans."

"I've stopped here a few times and they always have such amazing food. I live almost an hour away and still come here. They allow dogs to come as well..."

"Jeannie's Great Maine Breakfast, located in Bar Harbor, ME, a casual, dog friendly, and locally owned breakfast spot where Fido is welcome to join you at an outdoor table. You are sure to find exactly what you are craving with a vast array of menu options. From homemade oatmeal bread with their signature strawberry rhubarb jam that you will find on every table, to their amazing blueberry pancakes."

"The list of the best Bar Harbor restaurants can’t be complete without a great breakfast spot. Great Maine Breakfast serves up some of the best breakfast in Bar Harbor. It’s located in downtown Bar Harbor and boasts a tremendous view of the sunrise as it peeks over the Cadillac Mountains that grace the area."

"19 Clark Point Rd, Southwest Harbor, Mount Desert Island, ME 04679-4415American, CafeBreakfast, BrunchTakeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Live Music[email protected]+1 207-244-3007http://commongoodsoupkitchen.org"

"We ate here on both our visits because it’s easier to get a table here than at many other places and the food is both good and less expensive than at some other spots. On our first visit I had a lobster quesadilla that was a daily special. It was a different and delicious way to enjoy the local lobster; if you see it on the specials list order it."

"Galyn's is a traditional Downeast-style restaurant housed within a former Victorian-era boarding house since 1986, offering up a delectable menu of fresh seafood entrees and hand-cut steaks. The family-owned restaurant, which is operated by married duo Gail and Rick Leiser, is overseen by executive chef Larry Jones and showcases five separate dining room spaces, which are all decked out in eclectic artwork and decor elements. Fresh Maine lobster dishes include lobster enchiladas, fisherman's feast platters, and whole boiled lobsters, while creative seafood fare ranges from Maine-style crab cakes and shrimp Lafayette to daily fresh fish catches prepared with rice and seasonal vegetables."

"An "an engineering marvel" is how experts describe the 2,120-foot-long Penobscot Narrows Bridge, which opened in 2006 and which is taller…"

"It’s also pet friendly so feel free to bring your far babies along if you decide to go camping in Acadia National Park!. This campground’s amenities include a swimming pool, wifi, store, laundry mat, clubhouse, picnic/BBQ area, restroom & shower and a dog park. There are also hiking trails you can take, that dogs, both big and small would love!"