One-Day Road Trip Itinerary for Acadia National Park

Day 1: Nature Exploration

Acadia National Park, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at 2 Cats Restaurant

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at 2 Cats Restaurant, famous for its creative takes on classic dishes and cozy ambiance.
From your accommodation, head to 2 Cats located just a 10-minute drive from Hulls Cove Visitor Center.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hulls Cove Visitor Center

Stop by the Hulls Cove Visitor Center to grab maps and get the latest park info from friendly rangers before diving into your adventures.
Drive 3 minutes from 2 Cats Restaurant to Hulls Cove Visitor Center.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Drive Park Loop Road

Take a scenic drive along the 27-mile Park Loop Road, soaking in breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and majestic mountains.
Continue on Park Loop Road; there are multiple overlooks to stop along the route.
Free with park entrance fee (USD30 per vehicle for 7 days), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Jordan Pond House

Enjoy lunch at Jordan Pond House, known for its popovers and picturesque lake views - a perfect mountain backdrop.
Drive 15 minutes from the last viewpoint along Park Loop Road to Jordan Pond House.
USD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking the Jordan Pond Path

After lunch, walk the flat 3.5-mile Jordan Pond Path, which offers stunning views of the Bubbles Mountains and is a perfect way to immerse in nature.
The trailhead starts right at Jordan Pond; follow the path around the pond.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Climb Cadillac Mountain

Next, venture up Cadillac Mountain for an iconic view of Acadia; it’s the highest point on the East Coast, and the views of the surrounding islands are unbeatable.
Drive 20 minutes to the Cadillac Mountain Summit Road; access is seasonal.
Free with park entrance fee, 2 hours (including hike around the summit)

5:30PM

Early Dinner at The Chart Room

End your day by dining at The Chart Room, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and great views of the harbor.
Drive 25 minutes from Cadillac Mountain down to The Chart Room.
USD40, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Sunset at Sand Beach

Finish off your day by watching the beautiful sunset at Sand Beach, where the golden rays reflect off the ocean waves.
Drive 15 minutes from The Chart Room to Sand Beach.
Free, 1 hour
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