If you’re visiting Acadia National Park and the forecast calls for rain, don’t worry! There are still plenty of things to do. From exploring museums to hiking trails to seeing a lighthouse, you can keep busy even when the weather isn’t cooperating. Here are nine great things to do in Acadia National Park when it rains.
Visit the Great Harbor Maritime Museum
Great Harbor Maritime Museum is a museum located in the old firehouse in Northeast Harbor, Maine. The museum specializes in maritime history and culture, and features exhibits on topics such as shipbuilding, whaling, and the Great Hurricane of 1938.
The Great Harbor Maritime Museum is a must-see for any history buff. It houses many pieces of old boats, models and artwork that document the maritime culture in our area over generations With changing exhibits throughout year round there’ll always something.
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Admission to the museum is free for all visitors. The museum also offer a variety of programs and activities for children, including a junior ranger program and a Junior Sailors program. Great Harbor Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about the maritime history of the area and the importance of preserving our maritime heritage.
Take a stroll through the Abbe Museum
The Abbe Museum has two locations. One is in Acadia National Park, while the other is in downtown Bar Harbor. The museum was founded in 1928 by Dr. Robert Abbott and is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Wabanaki people.
The museum interprets the heritage of the Wabanaki people – the Native American tribes of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. The Abbe Museum’s mission is to inspire all people to consider cultures and histories different from their own. The museum accomplishes this through its collections, exhibitions, educational programs, research initiatives, and publications. It is also the first Smithsonian affiliate in the state of Maine.
The downtown museum is located in the heart of Bar Harbor. The cost of admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and $5 for children ages 11-17, and free for children 10 and under. The museum is open daily from 9am-5pm. There are a variety of things for kids to do at the museum, including a hands-on activity area, a scavenger hunt, and a storytelling program. The Abbe Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Wabanaki people.
The museum also has a branch in the Sieur de Monts section of Acadia National Park. In 1997, the main part of the museum was moved to downtown Bar Harbor due to space restrictions at the original location. If you’re visiting the location in the park, make sure to check the hours as they are more limited than the museum downtown.
Explore the Mount Desert Island Oceanarium
The Mount Desert Island Oceanarium is one of the best places to learn about lobsters. Located in Acadia National Park, this unique facility allows visitors to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures. The Oceanarium has a variety of lobster tanks, as well as a touch tank where you can pet a lobster. In addition, the staff provides educational presentations about lobster anatomy and biology. You can also learn about the history of lobster fishing in the area, and how the lobster industry has changed over time. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just curious about these fascinating creatures, the Mount Desert Island Oceanarium is definitely worth a visit.
Browse the Jesup Memorial Library
The Jesup Memorial Library in Bar Harbor is one of the most beautiful and unique libraries I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. The building itself is a work of art, with its stunning stained glass windows and detailed woodwork. But it’s more than just a pretty face; the library has an impressive collection of books, periodicals, and other resources. And it’s not just for tourists; the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, and they offer a wide range of programs and events for locals and visitors alike. If you’re ever in Bar Harbor, be sure to stop by the Jesup Memorial Library. You won’t be disappointed.
Hike Carriage Road
Even if it’s raining, you might want to try the park’s famous carriage roads. The carriage roads were built by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. between 1913 and 1940. It is a network of 57 miles of carriage roads (45 of which are in the park) and 17 stone bridges. The carriage roads are open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. It is a beautiful trail that winds through the woods and offers views of the ocean. The carriage roads are a great way to explore Acadia National Park.
Visitors can leisurely stroll along the roads, taking in the scenery and enjoying the fresh air. The carriage roads are also popular with cyclists and joggers, who appreciate the level surfaces and lack of traffic. In addition to being a great way to explore the park, carriage roads also offer stunning views of Mount Desert Island and the Atlantic Ocean.
Drive Park Loop Road
Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park is a 27-mile scenic drive that loops around the park. Highlights of the road include ocean vistas, sandy beaches, wooded forests and rocky coastline. There are several places to stop along the way for sightseeing, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole and Cadillac Mountain. Park Loop Road is a great way to see all that Acadia National Park has to offer.
Sieur de Monts
One place to stop is Sieur de Monts, which was established in 1916 to protect the area around the sieur de Monts Spring, named for French explorer Samuel de Champlain. The area encompasses 49 acres of land and is home to several hiking trails, a historic landmark, and a variety of plant and animal life. Visitors can explore the park’s many wonders by foot, bike, or boat. In addition to its natural beauty, the park also offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history. With its stunning scenery and abundance of activities, it’s no wonder that Sieur de Monts is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Acadia National Park.
Jordan Pond
Another great stop is Jordan Pond, one of the most popular destinations in Acadia National Park. The serene pond is surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, making it the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature. Visitors can go for a swim, paddle a canoe, or simply enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the stunning views. Jordan Pond is also a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, with several trails leading off into the surrounding wilderness. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful oasis or an adventure-filled day trip, Jordan Pond is sure to not disappoint.
Catch a movie at Reel Pizza Cinerama
If you’re ever in Bar Harbor, be sure to make a stop at Reel Pizza Cinerama. This unique spot is part pizza parlor, part movie theater, and all fun. The pizzas are delicious (try the Maine-ly Lobster pie), and the movies range from classics to new releases.
Arrive a half hour before the movie, order your food and eat it as you’re watching your movie in one of their varied yet comfortable couches. In addition to food, the restaurant/cinema serves drinks and beer.
It’s a great way to spend some time inside if it’s raining and you can’t enjoy Acadia National Park fully.
Discover the Dorr Museum of Natural History
The Dorr Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular attractions in Acadia National Park. The museum is named after George B. Dorr, the “Father of Acadia National Park.” The museum is located in the historic park headquarters building, which was built in 1909. The museum is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm, and admission is free.
The Dorr Museum of Natural History features exhibits on the geology, flora, and fauna of Acadia National Park. The museum also has a diorama of a beaver lodge and an interactive exhibit on tidepool creatures. Visitors can also watch a short film about the park’s history. The museum is a great place to learn about the natural history of Acadia National Park.
Visit Bass Harbor Head Light Station
Bass Harbor Head Light Station is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Acadia National Park. The light station sits atop a rocky outcropping on the coast of Maine and offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Bass Harbor Head Light Station is also one of the oldest lighthouse stations in the United States, dating back to 1858. Today, the light station is open to the public and offers tours, exhibits, and a gift shop. Bass Harbor Head Light Station is an essential stop for anyone visiting Acadia National Park.
Visitors can reach the light station by car, bike, or foot. The easiest way to get there is by car. From the Park Loop Road, turn onto Bass Harbor Road and follow it for 2 miles to the light station. There is a large parking lot at the base of the lighthouse.
