Crowds and getting around Acadia

Question

We are coming to Acadia the last week of July. We are expecting crowds but what does that actually look like?

Will it be hard to get seats (for 5 people) on the shuttle buses?

What about space for bikes?

Does the ferry from Bar Harbor to the Schoodic Peninsula fill up?

Is it worth booking a paid bus tour to make sure we can get around he island. (We’d prefer to go at our own pace- but don’t want that pace to be sitting at bus stops all day while full

buses drive by).

We thought about renting a “GEM”-will that help at all with parking ?

How about restaurants? We are camping so can cook our own meals, but would like to eat out a couple of times. Will be ok if we go to dinner early or are there long waits all the time? Any family friendly places that time reservations?

Answer

Visiting Acadia National Park during the last week of July can indeed mean encountering crowds, as it's one of the busiest times of the year. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and how to plan accordingly:

Crowds at Acadia

The last week of July is peak season in Acadia, and while the park is vast, popular spots such as Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and the Park Loop Road can get crowded. Visitors should expect traffic, especially during the day, and finding parking at these popular spots might be challenging. However, there are less crowded areas if you're willing to explore a bit off the beaten path.

Shuttle Bus Seats

The shuttle buses are a great way to get around Acadia without worrying about parking. However, with the crowds in July, seating can be limited, especially during peak hours (morning to early afternoon). It's possible that you may have to wait for the next shuttle, but it typically doesn’t take long for another one to arrive. For your group of five, I recommend arriving early or planning your shuttle rides during off-peak hours (late afternoon or early evening) to improve your chances of getting seats. Additionally, having bikes may limit your options for bus seats, so keep that in mind.

Bikes and Shuttle Buses

Regarding bikes, the shuttle buses have bike racks, but they can fill up quickly during the summer months. You may find it challenging to get space for five bikes, so it’s advisable to plan your bike trips accordingly, either early in the morning or during less busy times. If you're not keen on waiting for the shuttle, consider renting bikes locally or using bike-friendly paths around Bar Harbor, which might be less crowded than the park’s main areas.

Ferry to Schoodic Peninsula

The ferry from Bar Harbor to the Schoodic Peninsula is a popular route, and it can indeed fill up during busy times, especially in late July. It's a good idea to make a reservation for the ferry in advance if possible, as this will guarantee a spot for your group. If reservations aren’t available, try to arrive early to secure tickets and ensure you get on the ferry.

Paid Bus Tours vs. Shuttle

If you prefer to explore at your own pace but are worried about shuttle bus availability, a paid bus tour could be a good option. It’s important to know that a bus tour will allow you to bypass the shuttle crowds, but it typically runs on a fixed schedule. You’ll get the benefit of a guided experience and transportation without worrying about the shuttle’s availability, but you may have less flexibility to stop when you want. If you're more comfortable moving at your own pace, the shuttle system could still be a viable option if you're willing to wait for seats or catch one at a quieter time of day.

GEM Car Rental

Renting a GEM (small electric vehicle) could be helpful for parking, as these vehicles are compact and can easily fit into smaller parking spots around the park. However, they are still subject to the same parking availability as other vehicles. While they may provide a more convenient parking experience in certain areas, it’s not a guaranteed solution in the busiest spots like Cadillac Mountain or Jordan Pond. Still, for getting around more easily, it’s a good option if you prefer not to rely solely on shuttle buses.

Restaurants and Dining

As you’ll be camping, you’ll have the flexibility to cook your own meals, but for those occasions when you’d like to dine out, early dinner times can help you avoid long waits. Restaurants in Bar Harbor and near Acadia are popular, especially during the summer, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and make reservations, particularly for family-friendly places. If you’re looking for specific recommendations:

Jordan Pond House: Great for a traditional tea and popovers while enjoying scenic views. It’s a classic, but can get busy.
Thurston’s Lobster Pound: Located in Bernard, a bit off the main tourist areas, it’s a more relaxed spot for lobster and other local seafood.
Side Street Café: A more casual, family-friendly option with seafood and a great selection of local dishes.
Beal’s Lobster Pier: Another great, family-friendly lobster spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and fresh seafood.

If you’re open to dining earlier in the evening, many places have shorter waits around 4:30-5:30 PM before the dinner rush begins. However, reservations are recommended for popular spots to avoid long waits or the risk of being turned away. Some restaurants might even offer reservation systems through platforms like OpenTable.

Conclusion

In summary, while crowds will certainly be present during your visit to Acadia in late July, you can still enjoy a wonderful experience by planning ahead. Consider using the shuttle system at quieter times, renting a GEM for convenience, and making reservations for dinner to minimize waiting times. By adjusting your schedule and expectations slightly, you can make the most of your time in Acadia and enjoy all the park has to offer without too much stress!

Crowds and getting around Acadia

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