Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park - A Mainer's Guide

Hiking!

Acadia is home to 158 miles of hiking trails. From very easy trails on flat, even surfaces; to strenuous hikes that involve serious climbs with unbelievable summits - Acadia has a path for any activity level.

Carriage Roads

This system of 45 miles of motor-free "roads" was originally created by John D Rockefeller Jr. for his family. These roads are ideal for cyclists interested in easy trail riding. Rental bikes are readily available and e-bikes help keep just the views breathtaking.

Acadia National Park

New England's only National Park, Acadia has a 27-mile paved loop around the island that is open to motor vehicles. Must-see stops include Otter Point, Jordan Pond House, Thunder Hole (I kid you not) and Sand Beach.

Cadillac Mountain

The tallest peak in the park and the first place on the East Coast to see the sunrise, getting to the top can be accomplished by vehicle or on foot. Watching the sunrise is such a must-do activity that during the summer months; a reservation is required to help manage crowds.

Bar Harbor

This quaint town has a population of just over 5,000 year-round residents, but you won't run out of things to do. Boasting handmade crafts, homemade ice cream, a classic movie theatre, artisanal cuisine, fresh seafood, pubs with local brews and live music.. Mount Desert Island has something for everyone.

Water Activities

Rentals are available for anything from kayaks and paddle boards, to jet skis, motorboats or sailboats. Puffins, whales and seals are indigenous to the area, and chartered tours are an excellent way to peak into Maine's abundant marine life.

Boothbay Harbor & Maine Botanical Gardens

Especially if you are flying into Portland and driving up the coast, the Botanical Gardens are a must. Aside from the usual sights of local flora, these gardens are home to a fairy village and several trolls that you won’t want to miss.

Portland!!

Maine’s most populous city (and my home) is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. Live theatre, the pubs and clubs in Old Port, cultural sites and local flare… it might need its own guide.

Two Cats Cafe

Perfect for breakfast after catching the sunrise from Mount Cadillac. The specialty eggs Benedict with spicy home fries is a personal favorite.

Geddy’s

The Atlantic Seafood Pie is phenomenal. Wiild-caught haddock with a shrimp, scallop, lobster, and Jonah crab crust, topped with a lemon butter sauce and served with jasmine rice and day vegetable.

If you’re not interested in seafood, there is the Angus Pub Sirloin, topped with crispy onions, gorgonzola butter, and balsamic drizzle, offered with seasoned potatoes and day vegetables.

Galyn's

Crab Cake Plate - Two homemade Maine Peekytoe crab cakes over mixed greens with creamy Old Bay dipping sauce.

Frenchman Bay Stew Spicy - Homemade bouillabaisse filled with shrimp, scallops, fresh fish, and lobster. Surrounded by steamed mussels. Served with grilled ciabatta bread.

Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium

Handmade chocolates, candies and ice cream. So many flavors you’ll have to go at least once. If you’re feeling really adventurous, they have lobster ice cream.

Mt. Desert Island Ice Cream

More ice cream!!!