Weekend Acadia AdventureAcadia is the most visited park in the US, and for good reason! With its foliage-filled forests, sweeping cliffsides, and endless ocean views, it's not one to miss.AuthorsBreeGoux
DestinationsAcadia National ParkItinerary

Day One

Otter Cliff
The best way to see the park on the first day is to drive the loop around the park. Along the way, you'll want to stop at Otter Cliff! The cliff is 110 feet tall and jaw-dropping.
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Thunder Hole
Thunder Hole is just down the road and best seen an hour or two before high tide. The narrow inlet combined with the waves creates a boom as air is forced through the narrow opening and water shoots up to 40 feet in the air.
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Sand Beach
The beach is home to strong tides, so swim at your own risk, but the views alone are worth the stop.
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Sieur de Monts Spring
There is a lot to see at this stop, including the spring house, nature center, wild gardens of Acadia, the great meadow wetlands, and numerous walking paths. Make sure you plan your time accordingly!
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Jordan Pond
Open for water-based activities and with a variety of land-based ones, Jordan Pond is a great stop. It also houses the only restaurant in the park, so if you're feeling hungry, you'll want to pull over.
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Jordan Pond House Restaurant
Jordan Pond House can get really busy, so plan on making reservations. Once you're at a table, make sure to order their infamous popovers!
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Milky Way Photography Workshop in Acadia National Park
The best way to top off your first day in the park is to take advantage of how dark the night sky is here and go stargazing.
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Day Two

Cadillac Mountain
If you're up for an early hike, Acadia National Park is among the first places in the US to see the sunrise and the view of it from the top of Cadillac Mountain is stunning.
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Beehive Trail
This 1.4 mile hike is for the adventurous with its iron rungs and ladders that will take you to the top of granite cliffs. It's a difficult hike, so if you're looking for something a bit easier, you might want to pass on this one.
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Little Long Pond
After a long morning of hiking, have a picnic by the pond and soak in the relaxing atmosphere of the park.
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Abbe Museum
Keeping it lowkey for the rest of the day is on the docket after a sunrise hike. If you're looking for a light activity, exploring the Abbe Museum is a great choice.
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The Chart Room
This is one of the best places near Acadia to grab a classic New England dinner. Order a lobster roll, a slice of blueberry pie, and enjoy the view from the patio.
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Atlantic Brewing Company
To top off your day, head out to Atlantic Brewing Company for a cold beer while you kick back and rest your weary legs.
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Day Three

Bass Harbor Head Light Station
There are a lot of options for what to do in the park. Depending on how long you have on your last day, pick a few items out of this section. A great one, if you have more time or energy, is to head to the most photographed location in the park - Bass Harbor Head Light Station.
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Bald Peak
This is a moderately challenging 2.1 mile hike that offers up views upon views from the top. Take in lakes, ocean, and forests from the top of the mountain.
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South Bubble
If you didn't spend time hiking around Jordan Pond on the first day, but wish you had, this 1.4 mile loop is a great option to get up above the lake and see out to the ocean beyond.
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Acadia's Ocean Path Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour
If you're looking for something a little more low-key, taking a self-guided ocean path tour is a relaxing way to meander the day away.
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The carriage roads in the park are gorgeous and best navigated by bike. If you have more time, I'd recommend a bike tour to some of the park's best views.
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Thirsty Whale Tavern
If you're around for dinner on your last day or are looking for a lunch stop, the Thirsty Whale Tavern is a good option. Their New England clam chowder is fresh and delicious.
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Where To Stay

Balance Rock Inn
This gorgeous property overlooks the ocean, has a pool, adorable rooms, and a wonderful restaurant. It's a great option for your national park adventure.
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Primrose Inn
This adorable little Inn is within walking distance to amazing restaurants and great entertainment in Bar Harbor. Their breakfast is the perfect way to start off your day before you head into the park.
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Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina
If you're looking for something a little more luxurious, this waterside hotel and spa is where you'll want to stay. Book a room with ocean views, a private hot tub, and a gorgeous pool on the property.
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