Acadia National Park Maine, USA Travel Guide
Organize your trip effectively for a smooth and enjoyable visit to Acadia.
A well-structured timeline for straightforward trip organization.
Desirable hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals, especially in Bar Harbor, fill quickly.
Inventory can be limited and prices rise significantly closer to date.
Reservations open exactly 6 months in advance on Recreation.gov and often sell out within minutes. Book immediately upon release.
This period offers good selection and prices.
Identify activities that align with your interests.
This initial itinerary guides further preparations.
These are required during peak season (late May to late October) and are available on Recreation.gov.
Visit Nps.gov/acad for current operating hours, specific seasonal closures, and any alerts.
Acquire your 7-day or America the Beautiful Pass if you haven't already.
Ensure these critical elements are reserved well in advance.
Gain insights into trails, transport, plus food choices.
Take these steps to secure your residence while you are away.
A thorough home check prior to departure mitigates potential issues while you are away, allowing for a more relaxed trip.
These steps for acclimating smoothly upon reaching Acadia National Park.
If flying, pick up your rental car (if applicable) at the airport.
Head directly to your accommodation to check in and drop off luggage.
Visit the Hulls Cove Visitor Center (near Bar Harbor) immediately upon arrival for maps, park information, and up-to-date ranger advice.
Grab a current Island Explorer bus schedule and map to familiarize yourself with routes and timings.
Download any park info or trail maps you might need offline, as cell service can be spotty.
Withdraw cash from an ATM if needed, as some smaller establishments or lobster shacks may be cash-only. Purchase groceries for snacks, drinks, and self-catering meals if you plan to camp or stay in a vacation rental.
Utilize your pre-booked rental car for convenience upon arrival.
Get at the airport if flying in, then proceed to your lodging.
Take a pre-arranged shuttle, taxi, or rideshare service from your entry point.
This could be a direct route to your accommodation without driving.
For certain accommodations, the Island Explorer bus provides access.
Check routes and schedules for direct connections to your lodging.
A visit to the Hulls Cove Visitor Center upon arrival provides invaluable up-to-date information and maps.
Plan your departure to avoid last-minute stress and ensure a relaxed end to your trip.
Ensure all essentials are ready for your journey home.
Double-check your accommodation for forgotten items before checking out.
Planning in advance for leaving makes for a stress-free end to your Acadia visit.
