Acadia National Park is a must-do when visiting Maine.
Acadia National Park is a stunning natural reserve located in the state of Maine. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including black bears, moose, and beavers. It also boasts a great variety of landscapes, ranging from rocky cliffs to sandy beaches, from dense forests to open meadows. Acadia National Park offers plenty of activities for visitors, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. One of the most popular attractions in the park is Cadillac Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset. It is one of the top ten most visited parks in the United States.
Find something to do when you need a break from the park.
Eastern Maine offers a range of attractions, from popular tourist spots to more low-key options. Let’s explore a few within an hour (or so) drive of Acadia National Park.
Consider a day trip to Bangor, Maine.
There are many activities to enjoy in the Bangor area. You can visit the Bangor City Forest, explore the Penobscot River Walkway, check out the Maine Discovery Museum, or catch a show at the Bangor Opera House. There are also many restaurants, shops, and breweries to explore in downtown Bangor. The waterfront amphitheater offers music fans the opportunity to see top acts throughout the summer and fall.
A small list of a few of the performers scheduled for this season include:
- Hootie & the Blowfish
- Lainey Wilson
- Tyler Childers
- Jason Mraz
- Foreigner & Styx
- Kidz Bop 2024
Visit the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory.
When starting your search for things to do in Maine, a scenic drive along Route 1 through the charming town of Bucksport is a great idea. The Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory is located just after Bucksport, and it is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Penobscot River and connects the towns of Prospect and Verona Island. The bridge is 2,120 feet long and stands 447 feet tall. It opened in 2006 and quickly became a popular tourist attraction due to its impressive height and stunning views of the surrounding area.
The Penobscot Narrows Observatory is located at the top of the bridge’s west tower and is the tallest public bridge observatory in the world. Visitors can take an elevator up to the top of the tower and enjoy 360-degree views of the Penobscot River and surrounding countryside. The bridge and observatory are open year-round and offer visitors a unique experience that combines engineering, architecture, and nature.
Check out Fort Knox
Standing sentinel on the Penobscot Narrows, Fort Knox is a 19th-century granite fortress offering breathtaking views of the Maine coast. This historic gem, nestled in the charming town of Bucksport, Maine, is more than just a military outpost; it’s a captivating tapestry of rugged beauty, rich history, and captivating lore.
Fort Knox isn’t just a frozen tableau of the past; it’s a vibrant hub for exploration and discovery. Delve into the fascinating exhibits at the Penobscot Marine Museum, where you’ll encounter artifacts from the fort’s storied past and learn about the region’s rich maritime heritage.
Take in the sights at Lamoine State Park.
Although Lamoine State Park is located near Acadia, it is often overlooked by visitors who think there isn’t much to do there. However, a visit to this oceanfront state park will help you appreciate the hard work of Maine’s working-class fishermen. Because several fishermen use this State Park and its facilities as their “home base” you can take in a daily dose of their routine.
If you arrive at Lamoine State Park in the afternoon, you can catch a glimpse of working lobster fishermen. Their job is not done when they reach the shore after a long day on the water. You can witness them unloading their day’s catch and scrubbing down their boats and gear. This will give you a real appreciation for the hard work they put in. Have yourself a nice picnic dinner and enjoy the sunset.
Shop downtown Ellsworth.
Ellsworth, located in Downeast Maine, is often referred to as “the crossroads” due to its position as the commercial center of the area. The vibrant downtown area is a popular destination for visitors, offering unique experiences beyond the often repetitive shops of the Acadia and Bar Harbor area. Visitors can explore a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries in the downtown area, making it a must-visit location in the region.
There are some fascinating local shops and eateries that you are sure to enjoy. Here is a small sample of a few, but there are many!
- Poppy and Polka Dot Boutique
- Bliss
- Union River Book & Toy
- Flexit Cafe
- Airline Brewing Company
- 86 This! Burrito Restaurant
Climb aboard the Downeast Scenic Railroad in Ellsworth, Maine, and journey through time and breathtaking scenery!
When in doubt, ask locals about their favorite things to do in Maine.
Mainers are known for their honesty. While Acadia National Park is a popular attraction in our state, there is much more to explore beyond that. Retail employees, bartenders, bus drivers, and locals are always happy to share their thoughts and suggestions on what to see and do in Maine. The state is amazing and it’s worth exploring all that it has to offer.
