10 day itinerary for Acadia Maine

Itinerary

Here's a suggested itinerary for 10 days in Acadia Maine, starting from New Jersey:

Day 1: Drive from New Jersey to Portland, Maine

• Stop at Mystic Seaport Museum in Connecticut for a fun and educational experience
• Visit the Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country
• Explore the Old Port district for shopping and dining options

Day 2: Drive from Portland to Bar Harbor

• Stop at the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory for stunning views of the Penobscot River
• Visit the Maine Maritime Academy in Castine for a unique look into the state's maritime history
• Arrive in Bar Harbor and check into your accommodations

Day 3: Acadia National Park

• Start your day with a hike up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard
• Take a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road, stopping at various overlooks and trailheads
• Visit Jordan Pond House for lunch and enjoy their famous popovers with jam and butter
• End the day with a sunset picnic at Sand Beach

Day 4: Whale Watching and Island Exploration

• Take a whale watching tour from Bar Harbor to see humpback, finback, and minke whales in their natural habitat
• Visit Mount Desert Island's smaller islands, such as Little Cranberry Island or Great Cranberry Island, for a glimpse into local island life
• Enjoy dinner at one of Bar Harbor's many seafood restaurants

Day 5: Schoodic Peninsula

• Take a scenic drive to the Schoodic Peninsula, located on the mainland portion of Acadia National Park
• Hike the Schoodic Head Trail for panoramic views of the coastline
• Visit the Schoodic Institute for educational programs and exhibits on the area's ecology and history

Day 6: Bar Harbor and Surrounding Areas

• Spend the day exploring Bar Harbor's downtown area, including its many shops and restaurants
• Visit the Abbe Museum to learn about the history and culture of Maine's Native American tribes
• Take a drive to nearby towns such as Southwest Harbor or Northeast Harbor for more scenic views and local charm

Day 7: Acadia National Park

• Spend another day in Acadia National Park, exploring different trails and areas you may have missed on your first visit
• Take a ranger-led tour or attend a program at the park's visitor center

Day 8: Blue Hill Peninsula

• Take a scenic drive to the Blue Hill Peninsula, known for its picturesque coastal villages and stunning views
• Visit the Blue Hill Bay Lighthouse for a unique look into Maine's maritime history
• Enjoy lunch at one of the area's many seafood shacks or cafes

Day 9: Acadia National Park

• Spend your last full day in Acadia National Park, revisiting your favorite spots or discovering new ones
• Take a sunset hike or enjoy a picnic dinner at one of the park's many scenic overlooks

Day 10: Drive back to New Jersey

• Depart from Bar Harbor and begin your journey back to New Jersey
• Stop at any additional attractions or landmarks along the way that you may have missed on your trip up to Maine.