Great Pond MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Great Pond, Maine.
1. Acadia National Park
NATURAL COASTAL BEAUTY
Acadia National Park is a stunning coastal destination near Great Pond featuring rocky beaches, woodland landscapes, and granite peaks. Visitors can explore over 120 miles of hiking trails offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The park is home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the United States.
2. Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory
HISTORIC FORT AND VIEWS
Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory offers visitors a combination of historical exploration and panoramic views of the surrounding region. The fort, built between 1844 and 1869, is one of the best-preserved military fortifications on the New England seacoast. The adjacent observatory provides a 420-foot-high viewing platform with spectacular 360-degree views of the Penobscot River Valley.
3. Tidal Falls Preserve
SCENIC WATERFRONT AREA
Tidal Falls Preserve is a beautiful waterfront area where visitors can observe the unique phenomenon of a reversible waterfall created by powerful tides. The preserve offers picnic areas, wildlife viewing opportunities, and educational programs about the local ecosystem. Visitors frequently spot seals, eagles, and other wildlife while enjoying the peaceful setting.
4. Lamoine State Park
COASTAL RECREATION AREA
Lamoine State Park is a coastal recreation area offering stunning views of Frenchman Bay and Mount Desert Island. The park features camping facilities, a boat launch, and sandy beaches perfect for swimming and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation in this tranquil natural setting.
5. Thunder Hole
NATURAL SEA CAVE
Thunder Hole is a natural sea cave in Acadia National Park that creates thunderous sounds when waves crash into it at the right tide. The geological formation features a small inlet where seawater rushes in, creating dramatic splashes that can reach up to 40 feet high. Visitors are advised to check tide schedules to experience this natural phenomenon at its most impressive.
6. Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center
RECREATION AND RELAXATION
Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational activities centered around the beautiful 300-acre Great Pond. Guests can enjoy guided pontoon boat tours, fishing experiences, and spectacular views of the surrounding natural landscape. The center provides a perfect base for relaxation and exploration of Maine's pristine wilderness.
7. Airline Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Airline Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery near Great Pond offering a selection of traditional British-style ales in a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can sample handcrafted beers while learning about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff. The brewery often features live music and special events, making it a social hub for locals and tourists alike.
8. Peruvian Link Alpaca Collection
UNIQUE ARTISAN GOODS
Peruvian Link Alpaca Collection showcases high-quality alpaca wool products including clothing, accessories, and home goods. Each item features authentic Peruvian craftsmanship with designs that blend traditional patterns with contemporary styles. Visitors can learn about sustainable alpaca farming practices while shopping for luxurious, ethically-sourced products.
9. Bob's Clam Hut
ICONIC SEAFOOD EATERY
Bob's Clam Hut is a legendary seafood restaurant serving fresh Maine classics since 1956. The establishment is famous for its fried clams prepared two ways: Bob's way (with a traditional coating) and Lillian's way (with a lighter breading). Visitors from across the country make the pilgrimage to this casual eatery for authentic Maine seafood in a nostalgic setting.
10. Kennebunk Beach
PRISTINE COASTAL ESCAPE
Kennebunk Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline offering white sand, gentle waves, and stunning ocean views. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing along this well-maintained public beach. The area features charming coastal architecture and convenient amenities that make it perfect for a day trip from Great Pond.
11. Old Speck Mountain
CHALLENGING HIKING DESTINATION
Old Speck Mountain is the third-highest peak in Maine, offering challenging trails and rewarding panoramic views for hikers. The mountain features diverse ecosystems ranging from hardwood forests at lower elevations to alpine zones near the summit. A fire tower at the peak provides breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the surrounding Mahoosuc Range and beyond.
12. Great Pond Nature Preserve
TRANQUIL WETLAND ECOSYSTEM
Great Pond Nature Preserve protects Cape Elizabeth's largest wetland, offering visitors a chance to experience Maine's natural beauty up close. The preserve features walking trails that wind through diverse habitats including marshes, woodlands, and shoreline areas. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot various bird species, amphibians, and native plants throughout this scenic conservation area.
13. Jordan Pond House
HISTORIC DINING EXPERIENCE
Jordan Pond House is a historic restaurant within Acadia National Park known for its traditional popovers and tea service dating back to the 1890s. Guests can dine on the lawn overlooking Jordan Pond with breathtaking views of the Bubbles mountains. The restaurant serves as both a culinary destination and a cultural landmark representing the region's rich tourism history.
14. L.L.Bean Flagship Store
ICONIC OUTDOOR RETAILER
The L.L.Bean Flagship Store is a massive retail destination spanning 220,000 square feet and operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Visitors can shop for high-quality outdoor gear while enjoying unique features like an indoor trout pond and frequent demonstrations. The store offers outdoor discovery programs, including fishing lessons, kayaking tours, and snowshoeing expeditions for adventurous shoppers.
15. Bar Harbor Waterfront
SCENIC COASTAL HUB
Bar Harbor Waterfront serves as the vibrant heart of this popular coastal town with shops, restaurants, and stunning harbor views. Visitors can stroll along the Shore Path, watch lobster boats unload their daily catch, or book whale watching excursions from the pier. The area transforms throughout the day, from a bustling activity center during daylight hours to a romantic setting with twinkling lights in the evening.