Down East Travel Guide

Explore the best of Down East Maine with this comprehensive travel guide. Find information on the top attractions, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, and transportation options.


Introduction to Down East Maine

Located in the northeastern region of the United States, Down East Maine is known for its picturesque coastal towns, historic sites, and outdoor adventures. It encompasses the easternmost part of Maine, from Penobscot Bay to the Canadian border. The area is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country, including Acadia National Park, charming fishing villages, and stunning mountain ranges.

List of Places to Visit in Down East Maine

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Maine Maritime Museum - Located in Bath, the museum tells the story of Maine’s maritime history through exhibits and interactive displays.

  • Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory - The tallest public bridge observatory in the world, offering stunning views of the Penobscot River and Bay.

  • Farnsworth Art Museum - This museum in Rockland focuses exclusively on Maine-inspired art, and is home to over 15,000 works.

  • Fort Knox State Historic Site - A well-preserved military fortification located in Prospect, built in the early 19th century to protect the Penobscot River from British invasion.

Natural Attractions of Down East Maine: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Acadia National Park - One of the most popular national parks in the country, offering a wealth of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as breathtaking views of the coastline and mountains.

  • Schoodic Peninsula - Part of Acadia National Park, this quiet and secluded area features stunning views of the coast, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring.

  • Mount Desert Island - The largest island off the coast of Maine, and home to a number of charming seaside towns, scenic drives, hiking trails, and beaches.

  • Isle au Haut - A peaceful island south of Stonington, with miles of hiking trails and secluded beaches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Down East Maine

  • Jordan Pond Path - A well-maintained and flat hiking trail that circles the iconic Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park.

  • Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail - A challenging hike that climbs the tallest peak on the East Coast, offering stunning views of Bar Harbor and the surrounding mountains.

  • Coastal Trail - A scenic hiking route that runs along the coastline of Acadia National Park, with views of the ocean, rocky shores, and forests.

  • Down East Sunrise Trail - A scenic bike trail that runs for 85 miles through Down East Maine, offering stunning views of the coast, forests, and quaint towns.

Best Things to Do in Down East Maine: Activities and Tours

  • Whale Watching - Take a boat tour from Bar Harbor or Lubec to see humpback, minke, and fin whales up close.

  • Lobstering Tour - Experience a day in the life of a lobster fisherman, with tours departing from Stonington and Bar Harbor.

  • Bald Eagle Watching - Take a boat tour from Lubec to see bald eagles in their natural habitat.

  • Lighthouse Tours - There are dozens of lighthouses scattered along the coast of Down East Maine, many of which offer tours and guided visits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Down East Maine

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Acadia National Park
Day 2 Visit Bar Harbor and take a whale watching tour
Day 3 Hike the South Ridge Trail of Cadillac Mountain
Day 4 Take a lobstering tour in Stonington
Day 5 Visit the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath
Day 6 Take a scenic drive along the Schoodic Peninsula
Day 7 Visit the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory

Food and Drink Scene of Down East Maine

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll - A classic New England dish, consisting of lobster meat served in a buttered and toasted hot dog bun.

  • Blueberry Pie - Made with fresh Maine blueberries and a flaky pastry crust.

  • Clam Chowder - A creamy soup made with potatoes, onions, and fresh clams.

  • Whoopie Pies - A sweet treat made with two cake-like cookies sandwiched around a creamy filling.

Local Beverages

  • Allen’s Coffee Brandy - A popular coffee-flavored brandy that is often mixed with milk or hot chocolate.

  • Maine Beer - The state is home to some of the best craft beer breweries in the country, including Allagash, Oxbow, and Maine Beer Company.

  • Moxie - A soft drink that originated in Maine, with a distinct herbal and slightly bitter taste.

Where to Stay in Down East Maine: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Bar Harbor Grand Hotel - Located in the heart of Bar Harbor, this luxurious hotel features spacious rooms, on-site dining, and stunning views of the harbor.

  • Asticou Inn - A historic hotel on the shores of Northeast Harbor, with beautiful gardens, an award-winning restaurant, and comfortable rooms.

  • Blackwoods Campground - Located in Acadia National Park, this rustic campground offers tent sites and RV hookups, with easy access to hiking trails and scenic drives.

What to Buy in Down East Maine: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Fresh Lobster - Stop by a local seafood market to pick up live lobsters to take home and cook.

  • Blueberry Jam - Made with fresh Maine blueberries, this sweet spread is perfect for toast or pancakes.

  • Souvenir T-Shirt - Pick up a shirt featuring a Down East Maine landmark, like the Penobscot Narrows Bridge or Acadia National Park.

Local Culture and Customs of Down East Maine

  • Mainers are known for their friendly and hospitable nature. Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up conversations with you in line at the grocery store or on the street.

  • Lobstering is a way of life for many Down East Maine residents, and it’s not uncommon to see lobster traps and boats lining the coast.

  • Maine is also famous for its long and harsh winters, so be prepared for cold weather if you visit between November and March.

Best Time to Visit Down East Maine

The best time to visit Down East Maine is during the summer months, between June and August. This is when the weather is warm and the natural attractions are at their peak. However, the fall season, between September and November, is also a popular time to visit, as the foliage display is one of the most stunning in the country.

Do’s and Don’ts of Down East Maine

Do:

  • Try some fresh lobster and seafood from a local restaurant or market.

  • Explore the stunning natural attractions of Down East Maine, like Acadia National Park and the Schoodic Peninsula.

  • Take a scenic drive along the coastal roads to see charming fishing villages and historic lighthouses.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property or disturb wildlife. Respect the natural environment.

  • Be disrespectful of the lobstering industry. Lobsters are an important part of the local economy and culture.

  • Forget to pack warm clothing, even in the summer months. The weather can be unpredictable in Down East Maine, and it’s always better to be prepared.

Safety and Health

Safety in Down East Maine

Down East Maine is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe.

Stay on designated trails while hiking or exploring natural areas. And while exploring the coast, be cautious of slippery rocks and incoming tide.

Health in Down East Maine

In case of a medical emergency, there are many hospitals and medical clinics in the region. Travelers should be aware of their own health conditions and plan accordingly.

Getting to Down East Maine: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Down East Maine

The main airport in Down East Maine is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB), which is about a 20-minute drive from Bar Harbor. Other options include Bangor International Airport (BGR) and Portland International Jetport (PWM).

Bus Stations Near Down East Maine

The Concord Coach Lines provide service to several towns in Down East Maine, including Bar Harbor, Ellsworth, and Bucksport.

Other Options

Renting a car is a good option for getting around Down East Maine. There are several car rental companies located at the airports and in the major towns. Additionally, bicycling is a popular mode of transportation in the area, with many bike rental shops and bike-friendly roads.

How to Get Around in Down East Maine

The best way to get around in Down East Maine is by car or bicycle. Public transportation is limited in the area, and many of the natural attractions and scenic drives require personal transportation.

Where to Go Next from Down East Maine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Baxter State Park - Home to Maine’s tallest peak, Mount Katahdin, and a wealth of wilderness trails and camping sites.

  • Bar Harbor - A charming coastal town with plenty of historic sites, shopping, dining, and whale watching tours.

  • Portland - Maine’s largest city, with a thriving arts scene, amazing restaurants, and a picturesque waterfront.

Conclusion

Down East Maine is a breathtaking region of the country that offers something for everyone. From the stunning natural scenery of Acadia National Park and the Schoodic Peninsula, the charming seaside towns and historic lighthouses, to the local seafood cuisine and unique culture, Down East Maine will leave visitors with unforgettable memories. Start planning your trip today!



    Hancock County
    Jonesport
    Lubec
    Mount Desert Island