Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor, Maine

Acadia National Park has long been a cherished vacation spot on the coast of Maine, and for good reason. The views are spectacular, the landscape is pristine, and the wildlife is abundant and protected. This park has the power to transport us to a place of remembrance and belonging, evoking memories that span generations and recounting stories of nature's beauty and our connection to it.

Since its earliest days, Bar Harbor has been an ideal host. Originally named "Eden" in 1796, the name suggests its origins as a paradise on Mount Desert Island. In the mid-nineteenth century, before the advent of the Internet, television, or radio, landscape painters captured the public's imagination. Their artwork generated significant interest, inspiring thousands to visit this paradise in person. These early tourists became known as "rusticators."

The area is rich in history, with a unique combination of salty sea air and the classic Down East character cherished by millions. Together, these elements create an unforgettable Maine vacation experience.

Through Acadia Magic, you can explore Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, and the surrounding communities. Discover for yourself, just as the original rusticators did, why so many people are drawn to this place each year.

Acadia Bar Harbor Down East
Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor, Maine
Schoodic Peninsula

Using this Guide

Deciding on things to do and places to see in such a large area can be a daunting task, especially for those who have never been here before. In Maine, that is no small task. There is an old Down East response that is often spoken with a bit of a chuckle, You can't get there from here. It helps to get a visual of the shape of the land and what towns and villages are close by. The following suggestions may help. If you are visually inclined, you may just want to head the map.

Checking it Out

Start by exploring the photos or other pages. This will tell you if would like to learn more. Dig a little deeper via Index or one of the maps to learn the locations of various towns, villages, or explore other special places. Must see sights include Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff. There are also many hiking trails and Carriage Roads. If your interest is still growing, check out the accommodations at the main Lodging page or some recreation at the Activities page.

Returning Visitors

The Maine coast is in your blood, and you want to explore further. Print Acadia Magic pages and assemble them in a small pamphlet to use as a wish list. This will help you make the most of your time while here. Remember, Acadia National Park is not just on Mount Desert Island. There is also a section on the mainland at Schoodic Peninsula which often has less people. Many prefer its location and having open access at sunrise, mid-day, and during the sunset times is a big plus.

Photographer/Creator of Acadia Magic

Greg A. Hartford, photographer, author, publisher In simple terms, I am what people often call a Mainer, born and raised. My journey through Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park spans over fifty years, beginning in my childhood during family trips that were filled with the scent of salty air, the sound of seagulls and crashing waves, and the taste of Maine seafood. Even after all this time, I'm still discovering places I have never seen before. That's just the nature of this place.

One of my greatest pleasures since creating this resource guide was hearing from a man in his eighties who had lived in Northeast Harbor many years ago. He wanted to thank me for what he described as the most wonderful half-hour he had experienced in years. This is why I devoted myself this—out of a profound love for the land, sea, mountains, and people, and a desire to share the beauty with others. I call my images of the region "Acadia Magic."