Top 10 Things to Do in Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island & Bar Harbor

1. Ride the Carriage Roads with Acadia Ebike Adventure

Explore 45 miles of peaceful, car-free Carriage Roads on a premium e-bike with a self-guided rental or a guided tour. Acadia Ebike Adventure is the top-reviewed e-bike rental in Acadia and the best way to experience the Carriage Roads. 👉 Acadia Ebike Adventure

2. Hike the Beech Mountain Valley Trail on the Quietside

Get off the beaten path and into the shady, mossy woods on this underrated hike. You'll be rewarded with granite ridges, peaceful forests, and epic views over Long Pond. Looking for more adventure? Add on the nearby Ship Harbor Trail, a scenic coastal loop that winds through spruce forest and finishes with dramatic ocean views. 👉 Beech Mountain Trail Info on AllTrails 👉 Ship Harbor Trail Info You'll be rewarded with granite ridges, peaceful forests, and epic views over Long Pond. 👉 Beech Mountain Trail Info on AllTrails

3. Feast on Lobster in Southwest Harbor

Head to Southwest Harbor for a true Down East seafood experience. Eat fresh lobster at waterfront classics, or enjoy elevated seafood fare and stunning views at Batson Fish Camp, located at the beautiful Claremont Hotel. 👉 Thurston’s Lobster Pound 👉 Beal’s Lobster Pier

4. Stroll & Shop in Northeast Harbor

This refined harbor town is home to unique boutiques, art galleries, and some of MDI’s best gardens. Visit the charming Asticou Inn for tea with a view, and stroll through the peaceful grounds of Thuya Garden, a hidden gem known for its landscaped paths and blooming terraces. 👉 Northeast Harbor Shopping Guide

5. Relax at Little Harbor Beach

Skip the crowds and head to this quiet cobblestone beach. Little Harbor Beach can be a challenge to find, but this hidden gem is worth the effort. It’s a local favorite for skipping rocks and enjoying peaceful ocean views. 👉 Little Hunter’s Beach Info It’s a local favorite for skipping rocks and enjoying ocean views. 👉 Little Hunter’s Beach Info

6. Catch the Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain

Witness the first rays of sunlight in the U.S. from the summit of Cadillac Mountain. Take the shuttle — no reservation required! 👉 Cadillac Summit Info 👉 Island Explorer Shuttle Schedule

7. Stargaze at Sand Beach

Bring a blanket and look up! Acadia is a Dark Sky Park, and Sand Beach is a magical stargazing spot. For a more rustic experience, head to Seawall Beach, where you can enjoy an open fire BBQ at one of the designated fire pits and take in the stars with a pair of binoculars. 👉 Acadia Night Sky Programs

8. Paddle or Fish on MDI’s Lakes and Ponds

Calm, crystal-clear waters make Echo Lake and Jordan Pond ideal for a paddle. For those looking to cast a line, Little Long Pond and Somes Pond are fantastic fishing spots in the summer — peaceful, scenic, and teeming with wildlife. 👉 National Park Canoe Rental 👉 Jordan Pond Info

9. Drive the Park Loop Road & Visit Acadia’s Iconic Stops

Take in the best of Acadia with a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road. Stop at Sand Beach to walk the shoreline or explore the Ocean Path. Make your way to South Bubble Mountain and take the short hike to the famous glacial erratic perched at the summit — one of the most iconic photo spots in the park. Don’t forget to visit Jordan Pond House for a classic stopover and a basket of fresh popovers with a view of the Bubbles. 👉 Park Loop Road Map & Info 👉 Jordan Pond House Info

10. Shop and Dine in Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia — and the perfect place to explore shops, galleries, and coastal restaurants. Stroll along Main Street, grab a lobster roll, and enjoy harbor views with a scoop of handmade ice cream. For dinner, treat yourself to a memorable meal at one of Bar Harbor’s top-rated restaurants like Havana or Galyn’s — reservations are recommended! 👉Stroll along Main Street, grab a lobster roll, and enjoy harbor views with a scoop of handmade ice cream. 👉 Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Need help planning your visit? Contact Acadia Ebike Adventure for route suggestions, bike rentals, and insider tips on where to go and what to skip.