Top Things to do in Mount Desert Island
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The 5 Best Gardens 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. 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.
2. Asticou Azalea Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 301 reviews
The Asticou Azalea Garden shows some resemblance to a Japanese stroll garden but one that was designed for a coastal Maine setting. The garden is meant to inspire serenity and reflection and creates an illusion of space – of lakes and mountains and distant horizons. The garden is open seven days per week during daylight hours from May through October.
Reviewed By Copperman1 - Baltimore, United States
This small garden, approximately 2-3 acre is surrounded by a Japanese styled bamboo and cedar fence creating a quiet, contemplative spot right next to the busy road that surrounds it. The garden features manicured lawns, rock and gravel paths, a large sand and rock garden, several water features with seating situated in secluded nooks and many beautiful sculptures and Japanese stone lanterns. A donation is suggested upon entry.
3. Asticou Terraces / Thuya Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 137 reviews
Thuya Garden was built in 1956 with plants obtained from Beatrix Farrand’s Reef Point Garden in Bar Harbor. It is a semi-formal herbaceous garden in the style of English landscape designer Gertrude Jekyll. The garden is comprised of approximately 50% perennials and 50% annuals. Thuya Lodge includes a botanical library and educational exhibits. Asticou Terraces is a series of 200 granite steps, paths and shelters traversing the hillside from Peabody Drive up to Thuya Lodge and the Garden.
Reviewed By directorfantasies - Tampa, United States
We went on an overcast fall day. We had the terrace to ourselves. The numerous granite steps are hard to climb; definitely for the hardy & physically fit (no wheelchair access). Would not recommend for small children. For those able to climb, the views of the harbor below are breathtaking. Pausing in the lower pavilion was so peaceful with the wind gently blowing through the trees. We only made it part way up before returning to the parking lot & driving 1/4 mile further to the very narrow entrance row. Locals love coming here before the tourist season to enjoy when spring flowers are in full bloom. The entrance has carved wood gates. Fall flowers were beginning to fade, but there were enough for us to enjoy. Signs identify each plant. Had a nice chat with two of the gardeners. Didn't go in the lodge this visit. There is a $5 donation which is very low for what you see. Check out the various places to sit & rest. There is also a gate that leads to Mt Eliot trail. The gardens are wheelchair accessible. Will return to see the garden in different seasons.
4. Wild Gardens of Acadia
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 75 reviews
An outdoor garden with a variety of flowers and plants from Mount Desert Island.
Reviewed By Kintasays - Quakertown, United States
The garden is absolutely lovely with different native plants in different habitats. While you are there enjoy the Jessup and Hemlock Trails. Lots of birds
