What to do and see in Mount Desert, Maine (ME): The Best Things to do Good for Kids

January 12, 2022 Brandee Mangan

Mount Desert is a town on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, Maine, United States. The population was 2,053 at the 2010 census. Incorporated in 1789, the town currently encompasses the villages of Otter Creek, Seal Harbor, Northeast Harbor, Somesville, Hall Quarry, and Pretty Marsh.
Restaurants in Mount Desert

1. Maine Granite Industry Museum

62 Beech Hill Cross Rd, Mount Desert, Mount Desert Island, ME 04660-6221 +1 207-244-7299 [email protected] http://www.mainegraniteindustry.org/
Excellent
91%
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5.0 based on 57 reviews

Maine Granite Industry Museum

A non-profit (your donation is tax deductible) organization dedicated to collecting and preserving any and all historic information and artifacts pertaining to the granite industry of Maine. In the museum you will find hundreds of old tools that were used in the industry, photos of the quarries in operation and the buildings and monuments which were erected from Maine's beautiful granites. Curator and founder Steven Haynes is there to guide you through this once important history of our state.

Reviewed By sspaulding2017 - Rockland, United States

Wonderful visit and a lot of history to learn. Being an amateur "rock hound" and the daughter of a man who used to make the chisels used in quarrying, it was a great learning experience. The man that took us through was knowledgeable, fun, and just full of the little information that a person needs to make this an up-close and personal tour. Highly recommend a visit.

2. Somes Sound

Follow signs from Route 3, or use your map program to find Sargeant Drive, Mount Desert, Mount Desert Island, ME
Excellent
67%
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31%
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4.5 based on 42 reviews

Somes Sound

The only fjord on the U.S. East Coast.

3. Asticou Azalea Garden

3 Sound Drive, Northeast Harbor, Mount Desert, Mount Desert Island, ME 04662 +1 207-276-3727 [email protected] http://www.gardenpreserve.org/asticou-azalea-garden
Excellent
78%
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4.5 based on 301 reviews

Asticou Azalea Garden

The Asticou Azalea Garden shows some resemblance to a Japanese stroll garden but one that was designed for a coastal Maine setting. The garden is meant to inspire serenity and reflection and creates an illusion of space – of lakes and mountains and distant horizons. The garden is open seven days per week during daylight hours from May through October.

Reviewed By Copperman1 - Baltimore, United States

This small garden, approximately 2-3 acre is surrounded by a Japanese styled bamboo and cedar fence creating a quiet, contemplative spot right next to the busy road that surrounds it. The garden features manicured lawns, rock and gravel paths, a large sand and rock garden, several water features with seating situated in secluded nooks and many beautiful sculptures and Japanese stone lanterns. A donation is suggested upon entry.

4. Asticou Terraces / Thuya Garden

15 Thuya Drive, Northeast Harbor, Mount Desert, Mount Desert Island, ME 04662 +1 207-276-3727 [email protected] http://www.gardenpreserve.org/thuya-garden
Excellent
72%
Good
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4.5 based on 137 reviews

Asticou Terraces / Thuya Garden

Thuya Garden was built in 1956 with plants obtained from Beatrix Farrand’s Reef Point Garden in Bar Harbor. It is a semi-formal herbaceous garden in the style of English landscape designer Gertrude Jekyll. The garden is comprised of approximately 50% perennials and 50% annuals. Thuya Lodge includes a botanical library and educational exhibits. Asticou Terraces is a series of 200 granite steps, paths and shelters traversing the hillside from Peabody Drive up to Thuya Lodge and the Garden.

Reviewed By directorfantasies - Tampa, United States

We went on an overcast fall day. We had the terrace to ourselves. The numerous granite steps are hard to climb; definitely for the hardy & physically fit (no wheelchair access). Would not recommend for small children. For those able to climb, the views of the harbor below are breathtaking. Pausing in the lower pavilion was so peaceful with the wind gently blowing through the trees. We only made it part way up before returning to the parking lot & driving 1/4 mile further to the very narrow entrance row. Locals love coming here before the tourist season to enjoy when spring flowers are in full bloom. The entrance has carved wood gates. Fall flowers were beginning to fade, but there were enough for us to enjoy. Signs identify each plant. Had a nice chat with two of the gardeners. Didn't go in the lodge this visit. There is a $5 donation which is very low for what you see. Check out the various places to sit & rest. There is also a gate that leads to Mt Eliot trail. The gardens are wheelchair accessible. Will return to see the garden in different seasons.

5. Sea Princess Cruises

Excellent
83%
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5.0 based on 974 reviews

Sea Princess Cruises

6. National Park Canoe and Kayak Rental

Excellent
58%
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22%
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12%
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4%
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4.0 based on 69 reviews

National Park Canoe and Kayak Rental

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