Island Hopping - Mount Desert Island, Maine

The first stop on our island hopping adventure throughout the United States is

Mount Desert Island, Maine.

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The main attractions on Mount Desert Island are Acadia National Park, with stunning scenery of rocky cliffs dropping down to the ocean below, and the charming town of Bar Harbor.

Thunder Hole in Acadia National Park

DO:

The 27 mile driving loop through Acadia National Park provides photo-ops at every turn, so it might be wise to park the car and take one of free Island Explorer buses that run through the park.  Don’t miss the vista from atop Cadillac Mountain and Thunder Hole.  There are manyhiking trails of varying difficulties throughout the park.

Everyone in the family will enjoy exploring the shoreline and surrounding islands by taking a boat tour where you can see local wildlife such as harbor seals, puffins and dolphins, as well as the many picturesque lighthouses that dot the harbors.

Bar Harbor, the social, cultural and artistic center of Mount Desert Island, should not be missed.

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EAT:

Eating lobster fresh off the boat is a must while visiting downeast Maine...Thurston's Lobster Pound is a local favorite.

Cafe This Way is a breakfast favorite...

Jordan Pond House is the only restaurant inside Acadia National Park and it gets rave reviews for the food as well as the vistas.

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STAY:

If you aren't fortunate to be the guest of Martha Stewart or one of the Rockefellers who own homes here, then consider staying at a quaint bed and breakfast such as the enchanting Primrose Inn in Bar Harbor or the more contemporary Ann's Point Inn in Bass Harbor.

For more of a resort environment, consider The Harborside Hotel and Marina in Bar Harbor or the Asticou Inn in Northeast Harbor.

Next stop...Nantucket!!!