Things to do in Mount Desert Island

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Cadillac Mountain which includes landscape views and a sunset

Mount Desert Island Attractions

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Mount Desert Island must see attractions

1. Acadia National Park

Travel to Maine’s rocky Mount Desert Island to visit Acadia National Park. Here you’ll find a forested wilderness overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and meet hardy northern New Englanders who welcome you to join in their community activities.
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Acadia National Park featuring signage and forest scenes

2. Cadillac Mountain

Discover the regal magic of Cadillac Mountain, located with Acadia National Park. Rising 1,530 feet (466.3 meters) high, it is not only the tallest mountain in Maine, but also the highest peak on America’s North Atlantic seaboard. It is a favorite destination on Mount Desert Island and an instantly recognizable symbol of Acadia. It is also known as the first place that sunlight hits in the United States.
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Cadillac Mountain which includes a sunset, landscape views and mountains

3. Village Green

The Village Green is an oasis of greenery in Bar Harbor, where locals and visitors come to enjoy the delightful surroundings and take part in fun-filled community events. Discover the Village Green’s long history as a public park when you admire its heritage cast-iron clock and charming bandstand. Watch the town band perform live music or peruse locally made arts and crafts at a market.
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Village Green which includes fall colors and a garden

4. Thunder Hole

Even on a perfectly clear day, Thunder Hole will sound like a storm barreling down the coast. The noise making the inlet famous is created when an arriving wave forces air and water out of an underground cavern. The effect is produced only under specific conditions. Nevertheless, visit Thunder Hole any time for a short hike with stunning views of the Maine coast and sounds of waves crashing against the rocks.
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Bar Harbor featuring rocky coastline and landscape views

5. Otter Cliff

At a height of 110 feet (34 meters), Otter Cliff is among the tallest points on the Atlantic Coast in the U.S. It is made up of thousands of partially eroded rocks and offers a spectacular view of the ocean. Snap photos of the moments that powerful waves crash into the rock face and surge up the cliff.
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Otter Cliff featuring general coastal views and rugged coastline

6. Jordan Pond

Find Jordan Pond on the southern fringes of Acadia National Park. On Maine’s breathtaking Mount Desert Island, scenic vistas are common, but Jordan Pond still stands out. Its clear water, dramatic mountain surroundings and hiking opportunities offer something for everyone.
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Bar Harbor which includes landscape views and a pond

What to do in Mount Desert Island

Free Things to Do in Mount Desert Island

Leave your purse in the hotel. It's possible to entertain yourself in Mount Desert Island without paying a penny.

Bar Harbor Historical Society - Check if there are any special displays, exhibits or tours on at this popular museum.

Thunder Hole - There's something soothing about being close to the water, so be sure to spend a while here.

Jesup Memorial Library - Widely renowned among those who live here, this site is worth stopping by.

St. Saviour's Church - Gain an understanding of the local religion at this place of worship.

Echo Lake Beach - Skim rocks across the water, catch a sunset or just revel in the views from the foreshore.

Penobscot Mountain - Be treated to vistas that'll leave you speechless at this natural landscape.

Asticou Azalea Garden - Revitalize your mind and body by spending a little time with Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Mount Desert Island with Kids

Mount Desert Island has plenty of nearby fun things to do for you and your kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep the crew happy for days.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Mount Desert Island? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Mount Desert Island on a sunny day?
A Ultimate Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour is perfect for those who can’t bear the thought of missing any moments of sunshine in Mount Desert Island.
Are there cheap things to do in Mount Desert Island?
A Ultimate Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour guarantees a great time without costing a bundle.
What can you do in Mount Desert Island for free?
You could store your wallet in the hotel safe for the day, because these fabulous attractions will cost you nothing at all:

  • Village Green
  • Cadillac Mountain
  • Agamont Park
  • Acadia National Park’s Visitors Center


Discover the most popular places to visit in Mount Desert Island

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Mount Desert Island

Welcome to beautiful otter creek!

Otter Creek

Travelers enjoy Otter Creek for its bars and parks. Consider checking out Acadia National Park while you're in the area.

Otter Creek
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Hulls Cove

Waterfront views, bars, and parks highlight some of the notable features of Hulls Cove. Make a stop by Acadia National Park while you're exploring.

Hulls Cove
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Seawall

Seawall might not have many top sights, but Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Asticou Azalea Garden are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Seawall
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Stone Haven

While Stone Haven might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Acadia National Park's Visitors Center and Bubble Rock.

Stone Haven

Popular day trips from Mount Desert Island