Discover the Serenity of Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve
Explore the natural beauty of Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve, where gardens meet the coast in a serene Maine retreat.
Nestled in the heart of Seal Harbor, Maine, the Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve offers tourists a tranquil escape into nature. With lush gardens, scenic trails, and breathtaking views, this nature preserve is a perfect destination for those seeking to reconnect with the great outdoors, all while supporting conservation efforts.
A brief summary to Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve
- 92 Cooksey Drive, Seal Harbor, Seal Harbor, Maine, 04675, US
- +1207-276-3727
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic garden areas.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully explore the trails.
- Check the schedule for any special events or guided tours that may enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main entrance of Acadia National Park at Hulls Cove Visitor Center, head south on ME-3 toward Bar Harbor. After about 1.5 miles, turn right onto the road leading to the Park Loop Road. Continue on Park Loop Road until you reach the junction with Route 3. At this junction, look for the signs directing you toward Seal Harbor. Follow Route 3 for approximately 4 miles. Once you see the sign for Seal Harbor, turn right onto Main Street. After a short distance, turn left onto Cooksey Drive. The Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve will be on your right at 92 Cooksey Drive.
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Biking
Start at the Bar Harbor Village Green. Head southeast on Main Street and then turn left onto Mount Desert Street. Follow Mount Desert Street until it merges with Route 3. Continue on Route 3 until you reach the junction for Seal Harbor. Turn right onto Main Street in Seal Harbor, then take a left onto Cooksey Drive. The Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve will be located at 92 Cooksey Drive on your right. This route is approximately 5 miles and can be done by bike using the designated bike paths where available.
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Public Transportation
From Bar Harbor, you can take the Island Explorer shuttle service, which operates during the summer months. Look for the shuttle route that goes to Seal Harbor. Get off at the Seal Harbor stop. Once you disembark, walk south on Main Street and take a left onto Cooksey Drive. The Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve will be located at 92 Cooksey Drive, just a short walk from the shuttle stop.
Discover more about Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden
0.6 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden in Seal Harbor, Maine—an exquisite botanical paradise for nature lovers.
Stanley Brook Bridge
2.0 km
Discover the beauty of Stanley Brook Bridge, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Acadia National Park, Maine, offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings.
Cobblestone Bridge
2.2 km
Explore the historic Cobblestone Bridge in Mt. Desert, Maine—a stunning architectural gem surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Cliffside Bridge
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Cliffside Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, where nature and architecture meet.
Asticou Azalea Garden Parking
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Asticou Azalea Garden, a serene botanical oasis in Northeast Harbor, Maine, perfect for nature lovers and tranquil escapes.
Bunker Ledge Monument
3.0 km
Discover the enchanting Bunker Ledge Monument in Mt. Desert, Maine - a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a connection to the region's past.
Jordan Pond House Restaurant
3.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and delicious American cuisine at Jordan Pond House, a culinary haven in Acadia National Park.
Gatehouse
3.1 km
Discover the historical charm of the Gatehouse in Northeast Harbor, Maine, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
Jordan Pond Dam Bridge
3.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Jordan Pond Dam Bridge in Acadia National Park, where stunning landscapes and peaceful waters await your visit.
Amphitheatre Bridge
3.6 km
Discover the stunning Amphitheatre Bridge in Acadia National Park, where nature's beauty meets architectural elegance, perfect for your next adventure.
Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and scenic trails of Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead, the gateway to Acadia National Park's majestic Cadillac Mountain.
Penobscot Mountain
4.5 km
Experience the stunning vistas and natural beauty of Penobscot Mountain in Maine, a premier hiking destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Pemetic Mountain
4.8 km
Discover Pemetic Mountain: a breathtaking peak in Maine offering stunning views, diverse hiking trails, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.
South Bubble
5.1 km
Explore South Bubble, a stunning mountain peak in Acadia National Park, where breathtaking views and nature's beauty await every adventurer.
Deer Brook Bridge
5.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Deer Brook Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, where stunning architecture meets tranquil nature in a picturesque setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Thuya Garden
1.9 km
Explore the enchanting Thuya Garden in Northeast Harbor, Maine, a botanical haven filled with stunning flora and serene pathways for a peaceful retreat.
Asticou Terraces
2.1 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Asticou Terraces in Mount Desert, Maine, where nature and artistry blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.
Cooksey Drive Overlook
2.5 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Acadia National Park at Cooksey Drive Overlook, a scenic gem in Mount Desert, Maine.
Asticou Azalea Garden
2.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Asticou Azalea Garden in Mt. Desert, Maine, where vibrant blooms and serene landscapes await.
Great Harbor Maritime Museum
2.7 km
Discover the maritime history of Maine at the Great Harbor Maritime Museum, where engaging exhibits and local stories await every visitor.
Yourcenar House
2.7 km
Explore the serene Yourcenar House in Maine, a museum dedicated to the acclaimed author Marguerite Yourcenar amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Hunters Beach
3.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Hunters Beach in Mt. Desert, Maine, with stunning coastal views and serene surroundings perfect for relaxation.
Hunters Beach Overlook
3.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Maine's coastline at Hunters Beach Overlook, a serene scenic spot perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Jordan Pond Trailhead
3.3 km
Explore the picturesque Jordan Pond Trailhead in Acadia National Park, where serene waters and stunning mountains await your discovery.
Little Hunters Beach
3.5 km
Unwind at Little Hunters Beach, a serene coastal oasis on Mt. Desert Island, perfect for relaxation and scenic ocean views.
Islesford Historical Museum
3.7 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage of Islesford at the Islesford Historical Museum, a charming treasure trove of local history and culture.
Bunkers Cove
3.8 km
Explore Bunkers Cove, a serene coastal retreat in Cranberry Isles, where nature's beauty and tranquility await every visitor.
Jordan Pond Path
4.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Jordan Pond Path in Mt. Desert, Maine, where serene waters meet stunning mountain views for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Jordan Pond
4.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park, where nature meets tranquility in a stunning lake and scenic trails.
Flying Mountain Trailhead
4.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene nature of Flying Mountain Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Acadia National Park, Maine.
Essential places to dine
The Bucking Lobster
2.3 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood at The Bucking Lobster – your go-to takeout restaurant in Northeast Harbor.
Colonel's Restaurant and Bakery
2.7 km
Discover delightful dining at Colonel's Restaurant and Bakery in Northeast Harbor – where fresh flavors meet cozy ambiance.
123 Main Street: June-Oct, Thurs-Sun, 9-3.
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at 123 Main Street in Northeast Harbor – a culinary gem open June through October.
Copita
2.7 km
Discover Copita: A delightful dining destination in Northeast Harbor offering fresh local cuisine and inviting ambiance amidst Maine's stunning scenery.
Burning Tree Restaurant
4.9 km
Discover exquisite wines and fresh seafood at Burning Tree Restaurant in Otter Creek - A must-visit culinary haven for food lovers.
Beal's Lobster Pier
5.0 km
Experience fresh Maine seafood at Beal's Lobster Pier—where every bite tells a story of coastal charm and culinary delight.
Red Sky Restaurant
5.8 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Red Sky Restaurant in Southwest Harbor, Maine—where fresh local flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2
5.8 km
Experience Mediterranean cuisine at its finest in Southwest Harbor at Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2 – where fresh ingredients meet bold flavors.
Rodick's Takeout
5.9 km
Discover fresh seafood and local flavors at Rodick's Takeout in Southwest Harbor, where every bite reflects Maine’s rich culinary heritage.
The Upper Deck - Craft Beer - Terrace/Outdoor Dining - Lobster Rolls - Burgers
5.9 km
Experience fresh seafood and craft beer at The Upper Deck in Southwest Harbor - perfect for outdoor dining with stunning views.
Abel's Lobster
8.2 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Abel's Lobster in Mt. Desert – where fresh flavors and family-friendly dining meet.
Everyday Joe's
10.9 km
Discover Everyday Joe's in Bar Harbor - where American comfort food meets charming local ambiance.
Havana
10.9 km
Discover the rich tapestry of Latin American cuisine at Havana in Bar Harbor—where every dish tells a story.
Bar Harbor Lobster Co.
11.0 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Bar Harbor Lobster Co., where fresh flavors meet coastal charm in every bite.
Project Social Kitchen & Bar
11.1 km
Discover seasonal flavors and local ingredients at Project Social Kitchen & Bar in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Main Street Mercantile
2.7 km
Explore the charming Main Street Mercantile for unique gifts and local art, capturing the essence of Northeast Harbor, Maine.
The Kimball Shop
2.7 km
Explore The Kimball Shop in Northeast Harbor for unique Maine gifts and charming local crafts that capture the spirit of the region.
Swallowfield
2.7 km
Explore Swallowfield in Northeast Harbor, a unique home goods store and art gallery showcasing local artistry and exquisite gifts.
Otter Creek Market
4.7 km
Explore the flavors of Maine at Otter Creek Market, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and local specialties near Acadia National Park.
Acadia Quietside Shop
5.8 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Southwest Harbor offering unique Maine artisan products and souvenirs that capture the essence of Acadia National Park.
Bramble and Stone
5.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at Bramble and Stone, a charming boutique in the heart of Southwest Harbor, Maine.
Thunder Hole Gift Shop
6.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Thunder Hole Gift Shop in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine, an essential stop for every coastal adventure.
Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop
7.0 km
Discover the charm of Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop, where unique Acadia souvenirs meet stunning mountain views.
Fabricate LLC
11.0 km
Explore Fabricate LLC in Bar Harbor, a must-visit scrapbooking and craft store brimming with unique fabrics and art supplies for every creative soul.
The Maine Store
11.2 km
Explore The Maine Store in Bar Harbor, where unique local gifts and handcrafted treasures await every visitor.
Arts and Ends
11.2 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local treasures at Arts and Ends in Bar Harbor, a must-visit shop for every tourist.
Sagegrass Gallery
11.2 km
Explore the unique fusion of local art and crafts at Sagegrass Gallery in Bar Harbor, Maine, where every piece tells a story.
Indigo Blues - Blueberry Gifts - Art - Jewelry - Local Products/Crafts
11.2 km
Discover Indigo Blues in Bar Harbor, where local art and crafts come together to offer unique gifts and treasures that capture the essence of Maine.
Gift MDI
11.2 km
Explore Gift MDI in Bar Harbor for unique Maine gifts and artisanal treasures that capture the local spirit.
Serendipity
11.3 km
Explore the unique clothing and accessories at Serendipity, a charming boutique in Bar Harbor that captures the essence of Maine's coastal style.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Thurston's Lobster Pound
9.8 km
Experience the taste of freshly caught lobster and seafood at Thurston's Lobster Pound, a coastal dining gem in Bernard, Maine.
Garden Lounge
11.2 km
Discover the serene Garden Lounge in Bar Harbor, Maine, where refreshing drinks meet a tranquil ambiance in a picturesque setting.
Tap & Barrel Tavern
11.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tap & Barrel Tavern in Bar Harbor, a top sports bar offering delicious food and local brews for every visitor.
Cottage St. Pub
11.4 km
Discover the charm of Cottage St. Pub in Bar Harbor, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Eagles Nest Cocktails
11.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Eagles Nest Cocktails in Bar Harbor, where local flavors meet unforgettable moments.
Bar Island Land Bridge
11.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Bar Island Land Bridge in Bar Harbor, Maine - a hiking paradise with stunning views and unique coastal experiences.
Sweet Pea's Farm Kitchen
16.4 km
Experience the essence of Maine at Sweet Pea's Farm Kitchen, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy setting.
Island Take Out
16.6 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Island Take Out in Bar Harbor, where each meal is a delightful taste of local Maine flavors.
Fogtown Brewing Company
30.4 km
Discover the essence of Maine craft brewing at Fogtown Brewing Company, where exceptional beers and delicious pizzas await in a delightful setting.
Whale's Tooth Pub
60.0 km
Experience the best of coastal Maine cuisine at Whale's Tooth Pub, where fresh local seafood meets a friendly atmosphere and stunning views.
Paper Plane
64.9 km
Discover the essence of Camden at Paper Plane, a premier cocktail and wine bar offering exquisite drinks and breathtaking views.
Salt Wharf
64.9 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood at Salt Wharf, where fresh catches meet stunning waterfront views in Camden.
Camden Harbour Inn
65.0 km
Discover elegance and tranquility at Camden Harbour Inn, a luxurious hotel in the heart of Camden, Maine, with breathtaking harbor views.
Natalie's Restaurant - Relais and Chateaux
65.0 km
Experience the best of modern European cuisine at Natalie's Restaurant, Camden's premier fine dining destination with breathtaking views.
The Waterfront Restaurant
65.0 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood with stunning harbor views at The Waterfront Restaurant, a must-visit for any coastal traveler.
