Things To Do

Downeast Maine has so much to offer that it would be impossible to list it all, but here are some things to get you started on your adventure!

Nearby Tours

“Catch Your Dinner” Lobster Boat Tours: 2-minute walk from the house. “This two hour tour will include a boat ride from the beautiful working harbor of Corea on a true commercial vessel… Take in the sights of the Petit Manan lighthouse, Harbor & Gray seals, Atlantic puffins, & then experience hauling lobster traps. It does not get any more authentic than this tour.” Make a reservation online.

Acadia Puffin Cruise: 30-minute drive from the house. A two hour tour out of Pigeon Hill Bay to the stunning Petit Manan Island. During this tour, you will also experience the breathtaking views of the Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge and Bois Bubert Island. Petit Manan is home to a variety of seabirds and water-dwelling mammals, more notably the Atlantic Puffin.

Lunch on the Wharf: 5-minute walk. A fantastic place to get an authentic lobster roll and a delicious slice of blueberry pie. While they don’t offer alcohol on the menu, they invite you to BYOB (please drink responsibly).

The Pickled Wrinkle: 10-minute drive. A lovely place to stop for a relaxing meal and a drink, especially after a day of activities. If you’re brave enough to try them, ask if local pickled wrinkles (sea snails) are available!

Musquito Harbor Brewing Co.: 15-minute drive. A great new spot that offers casual dining, craft brews, and a cool vibe.

Chase’s Restaurant: 15-minute drive. Chase’s Restaurant has been serving fresh seafood and Downeast fare since 1963. With a full bar and a relaxed dining room atmosphere, they are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Gallery Restaurant and Cocktail Bar: 15-minute drive. The Gallery is a restaurant and cocktail bar open for lunch and dinner. Serving delicious craft cocktails, yummy food, local beer, and wine.

MC’s Marketplace in Birch Harbor: 10-minute drive. While this market doesn’t have a website, don’t let that steer you away. It’s a great place to pick up a sandwich or a salad before you head out to Acadia! They also have other essentials you may need during your travels.

Corea Heath: 5-minute drive from the house. An easy 1-mile walk through a 600-acre property that links the National Wildlife Refuge to the south and Grand Marsh to the north. The wetlands and associated uplands here provide habitat for inland and coastal waterfowl and wading birds, migrating land birds, rare plants and unusual plant communities.

Acadia National Park – “The Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast”
- Schoodic Peninsula: 15-minute drive. The Schoodic Peninsula is the only part of Acadia National Park found on the mainland. It boasts granite headlands that bear erosional scars of storm waves and flood tides. Although similar in scenic splendor to portions of Mount Desert Island, the Schoodic Peninsula is a more secluded area.
- Mount Desert Island: 1-hour drive (or catch a ferry from the neighboring town of Winter Harbor). The east side of Mount Desert Island is the most visited area of Acadia. The 27-mile (43 km) Park Loop Road system offers outstanding views and access to popular spots. The west side of Mount Desert Island offers quiet, more secluded recreational opportunities and coastal views from the park. Park pass required.
- Cadillac Mountain: 1 hour, 15 minute drive. Accessible by car, it is the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the U.S., and offers magnificent views of a glaciated coastal and island landscape. Vehicle reservations are required to drive Cadillac Summit Road from mid-May to mid-October. Vehicle reservations must be purchased in advance at Recreation.gov.

Bar Harbor: 1-hour drive. Bustling in the summer, this picturesque town offers shopping, restaurants, and endless activities. From May through October, cruise ships disembark up to 1,000 visitors per day. Tip: End the day by trying the lobster-flavored ice cream at Ben & Bill’s, then catch the sunset while taking a walk on the Shore Path.

Art Galleries: With all the surrounding beauty in Downeast Maine, it’s no wonder the region is filled with seasonal art galleries. Chapter Two in Corea is a 10-minute walk from the house, and features the work of local skilled artists and artisans.

Winter Harbor – Bar Harbor Ferry: Catch a ferry to Bar Harbor out of Winter Harbor, a 15-minute drive from the house. Passing through spectacular Frenchman Bay, you’ll see lighthouses, mountains, mansions, and working lobstermen. Daily passenger ferry service operates seven days a week from Memorial Day weekend through late October. Check their website for departure times.

Sea Schoodic Kayak and Bike Rentals: 15-minute drive. If you want to get around the Peninsula by bike, they are conveniently located less than 100 yards from the entrance to Acadia National Park Schoodic Peninsula, you can park your car at the shop and get started on your adventure right away! Parking is first-come, first-served.

Island Explorer Bus: The fare-free Island Explorer features bus routes that connect destinations in Acadia National Park and neighboring village centers. The closest bus stop to Puffin Perch is in Prospect Harbor, a 10-minute drive. Check the “Route Finder” for updated information.