Downeast & Acadia

Some say there’s something exceptional about the area around Bangor and Mount Desert Island. For this particular location has been suggested as the starting place for, Downeast? Maine. It then stretches on along the coast toward the Canadian border. There are others who consider the northern sections of Maine as Downeast, while some give this curious designation to the entire state.

Early Spring

March & April

23° | 53°

Wear layers as temperatures vary. Welcome to “Mud Season”!

Late Spring

May & June

45° | 74°

Wear layers as temperatures vary. Things are warming up!

Early Summer

June & July

50° | 75°

Wear layers as temperatures vary.

Late Summer

August & September

51° | 78°

Enjoy!

Early Autumn

October

40° | 57°

Bring a sweater.

Late Autumn

November & Early December

31° | 45°

Bring a sweater, coat & hat. Snow likely.

Early Winter

Late December & January

19° | 30°

Dress for snow!

Late Winter

February & March

15° | 40°

Bring a sweater. Snow is likely.

Depending on who’s talking, Downeast could be anyplace east of the present spot. It’s clear that the expression Downeast can have a variety of locations. After years of nurturing perhaps it’s not so much a place as a state of mind.

The term first caught on when vacationers coming from Boston had to wait for an easterly breeze before they could sail. So they would be heading downwind toward the east. Hence: Downeast.

Follow the Penobscot River south and you’ll see the new Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, a marvel of bridge engineering. One of its support structures has an observations tower with a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

In Prescott there’s great fun for kids to explore the hidden passages and tunnels of Fort Knox. Bucksport and Ellsworth provide you with gift and antique shops, restaurants, galleries and a variety of lodging places, along with outdoor and water sports.

Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park are often linked because of their overlapping geography. More than 4 million vacationers each year have been charmed by the island’s mountain, ocean and woodland vistas. Towns on the island that share their popularity with vacationers include Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor and Tremont among others. Each has a rich history, personality and a host of attractions you’ll enjoy.

Featured Events

  • Castine Uncovered Walking Tours

    June 17 - October 10

    Take an hour-long history tour.  Check website for days and times.

    Castine
  • Blue Hill Fair

    September 1 - September 5

    A true “Down to Earth” Country Fair!

    Blue Hill Fairgrounds
  • Eastport Pirate Festival

    September 9 - September 11

    We are the biggest Pirate Festival in New England and the Maritimes. A fun filled family weekend filled with events and shows, great food and entertainment, crafts markets and street

    Eastport

Recommended Area Businesses

7 Newport Drive, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
20754629272072884585
Pet Friendly

 Play / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

57 Bar Harbor Rd., Trenton, ME 04605
(207) 667-3600
Pet Friendly

 Campgrounds / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

The Bluenose Inn

Experience the Best Bar Harbor has to Offer
90 Eden St. Bar Harbor, ME 04609
(207) 288-3348

 Stay / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

PO Box 32, 12 Chapel St., Eastport, ME 04631
(207) 214-3272
Pet Friendly

 Stay / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

130 High St. Ellsworth, ME 04605
(207) 667-1345
Pet Friendly

 Stay / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

175 High St., Ellsworth, ME 04606
(207) 667-5166

 Shop / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

421 Wilson Ave., Brewer, ME 04412
(207) 907-2323
Pet Friendly

 Shop / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

459 Route 774, Welshpool, New Brunswick, Canada E5E 1A4
18778516663
Pet Friendly

 Play / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

Multiple locations
Pet Friendly

 Stay / Bangor / Acadia / Downeast

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