Plan Your Trip to Acadia National Park: Best of Acadia National Park Tourism

Explore rocky shores and carriage roads at this all-season Maine island getaway
Acadia National Park sprawls the rocky headlands of southern Maine’s Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Peninsula, Isle au Haut, and 16 other nearby islands. Every season brings something new to the park: trout fishing in the spring, hiking 120 miles of trails come summer, leaf-peeping vibrant colours in the fall, and cross-country skiing on quaint carriage roads in the winter. Drive the 27-mile Park Loop Road, take in the cobblestone beach shores, or hike Cadillac Mountain—the highest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast.

Find flight deals to Acadia National Park

Search, compare, filter and read reviews to find the right flight for you
Start searching

Essential Acadia National Park

Traveller Spotlight

Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor

A green jewel on the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers a multitude of ways to get outside and enjoy the scenery. With a mix of accessible paths and paved roads, more challenging treks, and waterways to explore, Acadia can fit just about any travelers' bill, from families, to the more seasoned outdoorsperson. With Bar Harbor nearby and a variety of vacation rentals, there are plenty of places to stay and enjoy the wilderness.
Greg LM, Boston, MA
  • Thunder Hole
    1,100
    Thunder Hole is naturally carved inlet and cavern along the Park Loop Road that puts on a show. When the tide is higher, waves roll in along the inlet and shoot out of the cavern, as high as 40 feet into the air. It's a must see.
  • Otter Cliff
    315
    Just south of Thunder Hole, standing over 100 feet high, is Otter Cliff. Stopping just before it at Monument Cove will give you a spectacular view.
  • Park Loop Road
    1,615
    If you're exploring by car, the Park Loop Road is a winding coastal route that will bring you past must-visit sites in Acadia, like Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff. There are turnoffs and parking lots along the way to be able to get out and explore on foot.
  • Acadia Bike
    287
    Acadia has miles and miles of bikeable paths, and if you didn't bring your own, Acadia Bike offers affordable rentals to get you out and exploring.
  • National Park Sea Kayak Tours
    480
    One of the best ways to appreciate the coastal views of Acadia is from the sea. The four hour tours might seem intimidating, but only 2.5 hours are spent on the water. There are built in landings on beautiful coastal spots to rest and relax.
  • C-Ray Lobster
    677
    The lobster rolls at C-Ray are fantastic - with buttery brioche buns and tons of fresh picked lobster. If you can only make one lobster stop on your trip (which would be a mistake) this is it. And don't forget to get a slice of Maine blueberry pie.
  • Mount Desert Island Ice Cream
    747
    If you need a treat, MDI Ice Cream is there to meet your sweet tooth. With a constantly rotating menu of flavors like Blackstrap Banana and Real Strawberry (classics) to Coriander Lemon Curd and Chocolate Wasabi, you might want to stop in every day. And their vegan options are not mailed in - the Blueberry Basil Sorbet is a must try.
  • Cool As A Moose
    13
    If you need to gear up, pick up a keepsake, or very specifically, need a t-shirt featuring a moose in sunglasses, Cool As A Moose is a Bar Harbor staple.
  • Side Street Cafe
    4,513
    A great spot for lunch or dinner tucked away from the main street in Bar Harbor. The lobster mac and cheese is a favorite.
  • Cadillac Mountain
    3,726
    Get a view of the whole of Acadia from the peak of Cadillac Mountain. TIP: Go at sunrise for a stunning view as the sun rises over the Atlantic, or if you're like me and aren't an early riser, sunset is equally beautiful. There is a paved road to the top, making it broadly accessible and friendly for families seeking out a view with the kids.
  • Jordan Pond
    1,288
    The Jordan Pond Shore Trail is a great loop, just over 3 miles, with great water views and scenery.
  • Carriage Roads
    568
    The Carriage Roads have access points all over Mount Desert Island, including from Bar Harbor, which is convenient for bike rentals. The paths are crushed rock, and perfect for a self-guided bike tour. Make sure to stick to these paths, as biking is not allowed on Acadia's hiking trails.

Acadia National Park Is Great For

Hiking your heart out

Quaint carriage roads

Fresh-catch flavours