Acadia All-American Road
A 40-mile route encompassing Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island, the Acadia All-American Road features beaches, foliage, islands, and ocean views. Beginning at the Ellsworth/Trenton town line, where you’ll find specialty retailers, theme-park-style family activities, and classic lobster pounds, the road continues into Bar Harbor, a haven of historic landmarks, lodgings, eateries, and excursions. Travel along Acadia National Park’s 27-mile-long Park Loop Road. Be sure to stop at the many scenic overlooks and stops throughout the park. You’ll find hiking trails and walks along the way. When you return to Bar Harbor, relax in our green spaces with a scoop of homemade ice cream!
Black Woods Scenic Byway
A few miles from busy U.S. Route 1, Black Woods Scenic Byway offers a lovely 12.5-mile route on Route 182, starting in Franklin and extending easterly to Cherryfield, encompassing trailheads and boat launches to our mountains and lakes. Highlights include bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, foliage-viewing, hiking trails, lakes, ponds, rivers, mountains, the Atlantic Ocean, and wildlife. The two anchor towns, both beautiful communities, have populations of fewer than 2,000 each. The towns go back to the 18th century. Franklin’s namesake was Benjamin Franklin, and the leading products in the early years were ship masts, railroad ties, and granite. Today, blueberries and Christmas trees are big. The town is dotted with historical sites, like its cemetery and grange hall.
Blue Hill Peninsula - Family Weekend
The Blue Hill Peninsula and surrounding area is the perfect place for a family adventure, both during and outside of the peak summer tourism season. This itinerary maps out a three day trip on the Blue Hill Peninsula, focusing on family-friendly activities and exploration. You'll explore the region's stunning wilderness, quirky local shops, and excellent eateries along the way!
Bold Coast National Scenic Byway
This route along the DownEast Coast was designated as a National Scenic Byway in February 2021, becoming the Bold Coast National Scenic Byway. From the coastal fishing community of Milbridge to Eastport and all points between, the Byway links visitors with the people, places, and culture of an authentic Down East Maine. Soak in the history and wild beauty of the region and attend local events and celebrations. The stunning Bold Coast features waves crashing on the rugged granite shore, weathered lobster piers, fishing boats plying the sea, and clam diggers working the mudflats at low tide. The nation’s first sunrise lights up the red and white candy-striped lighthouse at West Quoddy Head. Blueberry barrens stretch over vast rippling landscapes in ever-changing hues, from the deep purple berries in August to flaming red foliage in autumn.
Grand Lakes Region Maine
The Grand Lakes Region of Maine is the perfect place for an affordable, family-friendly vacation, with access to beautiful lakes, and scenic views in a remote and relaxed setting. The Grand Lakes Region and the surrounding area is easily accessible for people who want an adventure off the coast. This itinerary highlights a three-day trip centered around the ease of access to paddling and camping in the area, for outdoor adventures or those new to this type of experience, with DownEast Acadia at the center of their weekend. Before you go: Check out the Visitor's Guide and Maps and the Downeast Lakes Water Trail.
Million Dollar View Scenic Byway
Aptly called the “Million Dollar View,” this stretch of U. S. Route 1 in the northeasternmost section of DownEast Acadia offers travelers unsurpassed views of the Chiputneticook chain of lakes. Travel through rolling hayfields with direct views of Mount Katahdin, Peekaboo Mountain, and beyond into New Brunswick, Canada. Travelers may spot local wildlife, and scenic turnouts provide front-row seating for the vast and impressive views to the east and west. Danforth, a former lumber town in the Baskahegan River Valley, marks the Byway’s southerly limit and provides many small-town amenities. Weston is the location of a historic portage used by Native cultures and early settlers connecting Baskahegan Stream to Butterfield Landing on East Grand Lake. Weston also has many impressive historic buildings, such as the Weston Community Church, which was moved across the ice of East Grand Lake from Canada, and modern accommodations of the First Settler’s Lodge.
Schoodic National Scenic Byway
Weaving through gorgeous scenery—including reversing tidal falls, lighthouses, and historic architecture—the Schoodic National Scenic Byway is a 29-mile journey through the only mainland section of Acadia National Park. Start your adventure at the Taunton Bay Gateway, marked by a granite monument. Overlooking Taunton Bay, you’ll first take in the view—seabirds swooping through the air, lobster boats, and sailboats in the distance.
Summer Paddling Adventure in Machias, ME
Embark on a summer weekend adventure to remember in and around Machais, ME. This itinerary involves multiple paddling trips (assisted and led by the amazing folks at Sunrise Canoe and Kayak) and one overnight camping setup, with stops for local food, drinks, museums, and souvenirs along the way!
The American Revolution in Downeast Maine
In 2026, the United States is commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. During this anniversary year, we are excited to welcome you to explore the Revolutionary history of Downeast Maine. Learn more by visiting forts, historic houses, museums, and other locations across our region.
