COURTESY OF THE SUNRISE COUNTY ECONOMIC COUNCIL
DownEast Acadia stretches along Maine’s rugged northeastern coast from Penobscot Bay to the St. Croix River, encompassing 2,300 miles of shoreline and more than 5,600 square miles of wide-open space. Seven unique travel regions each offer their own charm, pace, and sense of place.
The Blue Hill Peninsula is home to Stonington, one of the nation’s most important working waterfronts, and the historic maritime port of Castine. Sheltered coves, renowned dining, and scenic villages have long drawn writers, artists, and artisans to the peninsula. After exploring Deer Isle, stop in Blue Hill for a memorable meal, carefully curated shopping, and the beloved Blue Hill Fair, Sept. 3-7.
Ellsworth, the activity hub of DownEast Acadia, is where visitors stay, shop, dine, attend performances, or gear up for deeper adventures. Just beyond downtown lies a quieter landscape of forests, freshwater lakes, and mountaintops ideal for outdoor recreation in every season.
Mount Desert Island pairs the lively charm of Bar Harbor with the awe-inspiring beauty of Acadia National Park. Don’t miss the Dawnland Festival of Arts & Ideas, July 11-12, celebrating Wabanaki culture and Native thought leadership. For a slower pace, explore the quieter villages of Southwest Harbor, Northeast Harbor, and Tremont, where the scenery is just as striking.
The Schoodic to Jonesport region stretches from Cherryfield, the Wild Blueberry Capital of the World, to the bold coastal landscapes of Acadia’s Schoodic Peninsula and the working waterfront communities of Jonesport, Corea, and Milbridge, a premier destination for birding and puffin watching.
The Machias Bay region blends history and outdoor adventure. Paddle the Machias River Corridor, explore the site of the first naval battle of the American Revolutionary War, or discover Roque Bluffs State Park’s rare pebble-sand beach. Each August, the free Machias Wild Blueberry Festival, Aug. 14-16, celebrates Washington County’s iconic harvest.
The Grand Lakes region is defined by unspoiled wilderness and year-round angling. Whether guided or solo, adventures here deliver an authentic Maine experience rooted in nature and solitude. Each July, the Grand Lake Stream Folk Art Festival, July 25-26, brings the community together in celebration of regional art and tradition.
Way DownEast, home to Eastport and Lubec, greets the nation’s first sunrise. Once global centers of the fishing industry, these communities have evolved into vibrant arts and outdoor recreation destinations along the pristine shores of Cobscook Bay. Celebrate the season at the Eastport Pirate Festival, Sept. 11-13, before crossing the bridge to Roosevelt Campobello International Park to explore the summer estate of President Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt.
You made it to the Easternmost Edge. You made it to DownEast Acadia!