Acadia National Park
A perfect little piece of Maine
*Visited in October 2022
What are the spots I need to hit? A handful of places will give you the full scope of Acadia. Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, Otter Cliffs, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and a few more goodies along the way — Carriage Roads, Bubble Rock, Beehive Trail are also highlights! During the months of May - October Acadia runs a reservation system for sunrise and day passes to Cadillac Mountain. Check the NPS website for current updates! Jordan Pond House Restaurant also has long waits, but you can get on a waitlist here.
Should I stay in the Park? Acadia is unique in that it’s on an island so there are a couple little towns you can stay in, but the most popular is Bar Harbor. The entrance to Acadia is in Bar Harbor and it also has an abundance of restaurants, shops, and other activities unrelated to the Park. We stayed at the Best Western Acadia Park Inn. Affordable, super clean, a large (and free!) continental breakfast, and near the Park entrance. Bar Harbor can be pricy, but especially in October. Plan accordingly!
What should I bring? Certainly depends on the time of year, but if you’re heading there in the fall bring light layers! While the temperature may be cooler, you’ll still feel some warmth as you’re hiking. With that, bring good hiking boots / shoes as a lot of the surroundings are rocky. If you’re planning on seeing sunrise, bring a heavier coat and beanie. If you’re needing one, check this Acadia one out here.
Are there restaurants or gas stations within the Park? Yes! Bar Harbor is where you’ll find both. Plenty of places to eat - check out Leary’s Landing Irish Pub, Blaze, Bar Harbor Beer Works, and CJ’s Big Dipper. If you have more than a couple of days, The Barnacle, Thirsty Whale Tavern, and Atlantic Brewing Midtown.
Within the bounds of Acadia you’ll find Jordan Pond House Restaurant which has indoor and outdoor seating along with a to-go option of various sandwiches, sides, and drinks if you don’t want to deal with the long waits! Please keep in mind the famous popovers cannot be ordered to go.