Top Things to do in Mount Desert Island
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The 10 Best Hidden Gems Things to do in Mount Desert Island, DownEast and Acadia Maine
Mount Desert (pronounced “dessert”) Island is the largest isle in Maine and the second largest on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard. Though it boasts a small residential community, Mount Desert claims more than two million visitors each year; all of whom are enamored with its quaint feel, stunning beaches, and access to saltwater and freshwater lakes. Popular water activities include kayaking, fishing, and canoeing, though many prefer to take in amazing sunrises and scenic vistas while exploring one of the island’s 25 trails.
Restaurants in Mount Desert Island
1. Maine State Sea Kayak
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 650 reviews
Paddle. Nature. It’s that simple really! We paddle the most remote sections around Acadia National Park. Our guides are passionate, we have the cleanest gear (washed after each trip), offer picnic lunches, and we are the only MDI Sea Kayaking tour provider offering a wildlife guarantee! Come explore the power of Acadia with us!
2. Acadia Lobster Cruise
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 101 reviews
Create a truly memorable vacation with this Lobster Dinner Cruise on a vintage 1967 wooden lobster boat built right here on Mount Desert Island. Learn how lobsters are harvested and enjoy the fresh salt air with views of MDI while Captain Jason Clark prepares your downeast lobster bake and shares his personal knowledge of the area with views of lighthouses and abundant wildlife.
3. Penobscot Mountain
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By JCWillow
We took Spring Trail from Jordan Pond House to Penobscot Mountain Trail and returned via Sargent South Ridge and Amphitheater Trails. It was a beautiful, moderately strenuous hike with some steps, scrambles, and a few brook crossings. Beautiful views from the summit and all along the walk up. We are in our 50s and hike regularly, recommend poles especially for tricky knees.
4. Carriage Roads
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 539 reviews
Reviewed By LPLoveToTravel - Ocala, United States
The carriage road system's intent was to provide access to the inner beauty of Mount Desert Island. Designed with the natural contours of the land to minimize impact and to maximize views it's the perfect place to hike or bike ride and really enjoy the solitude of nature.
5. ImprovAcadia
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 388 reviews
ImprovAcadia is closed during the pandemic. We will be pivoting our theater to Bangor Maine and continue to offer world class improvisational theater. Go to our website to see up to date information.
Reviewed By D6719UJcarolynh - Amherst, Canada
Went with my 16 year old daughter, first time for either of us at improv...so went with no expectations but so glad we went. Both of us enjoyed it, the service and cozy atmosphere was excellent and the performers hilarious! Great job!
6. Atlantic Climbing School
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 327 reviews
Named BEST OF MAINE by Down East Magazine! Featured in the New York Times! For 25 years Atlantic Climbing School has been the leader in rock climbing instruction and guiding in Maine. Healthy fun for the whole family! Half day and full day courses are available for individuals, couples, families and groups of all ages and ability levels. As Maine's premier rock climbing school we guarantee the best instruction, the most experienced guides and of course, the most rewarding rock climbing experience you'll ever have. All of our staff are certified AMGA Instructors and Guides and we are proud to be the ONLY guide service in Maine to have this distinction. In fun, in professional commitment, in everything we do - at Atlantic Climbing School, WE CLIMB HIGHER. All equipment provided. No experience needed! Accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association
7. Island Cruises
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 439 reviews
Awarded Yankee Magazine's "Best Island Tour," we are the Bar Harbor area's favorite boat cruise and a family owned business now in our 22nd year. Operating out of Bass Harbor to the islands of Blue Hill Bay, we offer exclusive access to what many consider one of the most beautiful parts of the Maine coast, as well as its prettiest harbor. Being off the beaten path, our formula for success is offering the highest quality experience at some of the lowest rates on Mount Desert Island. Try out our 11:00-2:30 Lunch Cruise to Frenchboro; established in 1820 and one of the last year round island fishing communities in Maine, Frenchboro is a place that many people find hard to believe still exists in our busy, high-tech world. Or, join us for the 3:00-5:00 Nature Cruise, where you'll see seals, bald eagles, and even haul a lobster trap or two. We cherish your business and our many return customers, and you'll find that it shows from start to finish.
8. Thuya Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 129 reviews
Reviewed By RamblingRoses - Hendersonville, United States
There are two places to park. One parking lot holds about 8 - 10 cars and is on the same level as the garden. The other lot is lower and on the level with the highway. From the lower lot there are some steep looking stairs. We opted for the easier choice. There is no charge for admission, but a $5 donation is requested. It is well worth it. Large, well-tended flower beds were in full bloom when we visited in mid-September. It was very colorful.
9. Schoodic Peninsula
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 465 reviews
Reviewed By 70clarkek - New York, United States
Recently took a a trip out to Maine. First time being there. If you want to enjoy some truly wonder sites, without a ton of people or crowds then you should check out Schoodic for sure. During our stay, we there twice. Once during the day where the scenery and shoreline is incredible. Be sure to stop by Raven's Nest where you can get a close up (but don't get TOO close) of this beautiful sheer cliff face where it meets the water. Also make sure you take a walk on the shoreline just past Blueberry Hill so that you can hear the "applauding river rocks". If you're up for it, do yourself a favor and go back at night. Find a place to park, turn your vehicle and vehicle lights off and look up at the sky. From here the Milky Way Galaxy is visible with the naked eye. You'll be glad you went.
10. A Little Mad
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 66 reviews
A LITTLE MAD - A curiously unique shop. Inspiring one to always hold fast to their dreams. A LITTLE MAD features Whimsical Home Accents, Unique Gifts, Original Art, One of a Kind Jewelry & more. Please NOTE: the physical shop is open late April through early December. A LITTLE MAD is located in the center of downtown Bar Harbor, right off Main and Cottage Street and is nestled in the charming Bayside Landing Courtyard. Shop YEAR ROUND with us ONLINE at: SHOPalittleMAD.com
Reviewed By FrishPhoto - Langley, United States
If you're looking for something unique, artisan-crafted and affordable, A Little Mad is the shop for you. The owners know their artists and artisans, and the stories behind the work. From functional to whimsical: hand-crafted journals (made by a couple in Georgia) to paintings by New England artists to jewelry and handbags; practically everything is made in the US (and a few from Canada)! Jolene and Patrick, the owners, will likely be the people standing behind the counter. They can tell you all about each item in the store and the individuals who crafted them.
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