Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Acadia National Park

Bass Harbor, US
88% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (18 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Support: toll free phone, chat and email
  • inclusion
    Easy to use: pre-download and tour offline
  • inclusion
    Trip planners: in-app, web and pdf
  • inclusion
    Location based: stories, tips & directions that autoplay
  • inclusion
    Buy once, use forever! no expiry, includes free updates
  • inclusion
    Guidealong (gypsy guide) audio tour: 115+ points
  • inclusion
    Flexible routes: suggested itineraries or create your own

Excluded

  • exclusion
    National park passes (vary depending on length of stay, ages & group size): $35 per vehicle (2024)
  • exclusion
    Cadillac mountain vehicle reservations: $6 (2024)

Meeting Point

Commentary plays automatically based on your location, so you have flexibility on where and when you want to start and end your tour anywhere along the tour route.

Meeting point

Maine , United States

End point

End Point

Commentary plays automatically based on your location, so you have flexibility on where and when you want to start and end your tour anywhere along the tour route.

Meeting point

Maine , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Acadia National Park

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule.

Duration 480 minutes
2

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

Who doesn't love a lighthouse! Established in 1858, this is the only lighthouse on Mount Desert Island and one of the most photographed along the Maine Coast. If we can snag a parking space, let's take a walk around this handsome light and take some pics. Unfortunately, neither the tower or keeper's house are open to the public, but we can still enjoy it from the outside.

Duration 30 minutes
3

Cadillac Mountain

One of the high points, literally and figuratively, of our journey is Cadillac Mountain. Its 1,530-foot summit is the highest along the North Atlantic Seaboard. In the 1880s we could have ridden a cog railway to Cadillac's summit. These days, we can drive, hike, or bike - but we do need a reservation to drive our car on the Cadillac Mountain Road.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
4

Carriage Rd

Now what is a carriage road? As the name suggests they are designed for horse-drawn carriage rides, and Acadia's 16-foot wide carriage roads are considered the best example in the country of broken stone roads. We can thank summer resident John D. Rockefeller Jr for the 45 miles of these roads within the park, and to this day we can tour Acadia's carriage roads aboard a horse-drawn carriage ride. Hiking the Carriage Road is very enjoyable and bicycles are welcome on many of them too.

5

Jordan Pond

Feasting on tea and popovers with jam on the lawn of the Jordan Pond House has been a tradition for more than a century. The original, rustic teahouse was built in 1947 was a treasure and built to capture the views down the length of Jordan Pond to the 'Bubbles'. If there is a wait for a table on the lawn, the nearby nature trails are highly recommended.

Duration 60 minutes
6

Park Loop Road

The 27-mile Park Loop Road around is the must-do activity for any visit to Acadia. The drive itself is picturesque, and equally importantly it connects all of the best places to see and things to do on the eastern side of the island. If you have 2 days, it's best to dedicate one full day to the Park Loop Road. A National Park pass is required and can be purchased and the Sand Beach Entrance Station or any visitor center. Just keep in mind that while there are many parking lots, parking is also permitted the right-hand lane unless posted otherwise.

7

Sand Beach

Is Acadia's only "sandy" beach really sand? You'll find out - and this beach is an absolute visual gem. If you head to the beach to check out the sand, go ahead, dip your toes in the frigid water, if you dare; it rarely gets warmer than 55 degrees. And even if you're not up for a dip, this is a perfect start location to hike the Great Head for superb views, or set out on the easy Ocean Path to amazing coastline coves and cliffs.

Duration 30 minutes
8

Seawall Picnic Area

Many of Maine's beaches are covered with cobblestones, but this coastline is unique. We can thank powerful ocean storms for creating the massive natural seawall that gives this area of the park its name. The wall comprises stone cobbles kicked up during storms, carried by waves and tides and piled on the shore. It feels far more raw and remote on this side of the island and it's a favorite area for birdwatchers, who sometimes find themselves enjoying a bonanza of interesting sightings.

Duration 60 minutes
9

Sieur de Monts Spring

Often referred to as the "Heart of Acadia", this is a great place to learn about the park's natural and cultural history. Pop into the Nature Center to learn more about the animals and plant life, or see more than 400 indigenous wildflower species at the Wild Gardens of Acadia. There's also some lovely nature strolls, a spring house, and even a small museum with an archeological artifacts dating back as far as 11,000 years.

Duration 30 minutes
10

Somes Sound

Formed during the last glacial event, this large, deep body of water almost - almost, cuts Mount Desert Island right in half. Our drive will follow all the way around the sound and as we go we'll have many peaceful water views, hiking opportunities and visit what is claimed to be Maine's most photographed bridge.

Duration 30 minutes
11

Thunder Hole

Created by erosion and weathering, when waves enter the crevice and then the chamber, the water is sprayed up as high as 40 feet with a thunderous roar: "I am Thunder Hole!!!!" The effect is strongest within a couple of hours of high tide, and when the waves are larger.

Duration 30 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
  • Additional information
    Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
  • Additional information
    Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
  • Additional information
    Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
  • Additional information
    Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
  • Additional information
    Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
  • Additional information
    Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
  • Additional information
    Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
  • Additional information
    Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
  • Additional information
    Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
  • Additional information
    Bring Earbuds/Headphones: Bring earbuds to continue listening to driving tours on park shuttles and conveniently listen to walking tours.
  • Additional information
    Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
Provided by GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide)

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try popovers at Jordan Pond House.
  • icon
    Visit Cadillac Mountain for stunning views.
  • icon
    Arrive early for Bass Harbor parking.
  • icon
    Check tide times for Thunder Hole.
  • icon
    Bring snacks for picnics at Seawall.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Acadia National Park like never before with the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour. This innovative tour allows you to embark on a road trip through one of America's most stunning national parks while being accompanied by fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips, and directions. With the GuideAlong self-guided audio tour, you'll have all the information you need right at your fingertips, making your journey through Acadia National Park truly unforgettable.

What to expect?

During your Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Acadia National Park, you can anticipate a wealth of features and benefits. As you explore the park, the audio guide will automatically play stories, tips, and directions based on your location, ensuring you never miss a hidden gem or iconic attraction. The tour allows you to travel at your own pace, giving you the freedom to spend more time at places that interest you and skip those that don't. With GPS capabilities, you can enjoy the tour offline, without the need for cell service or WiFi. Whether you have half a day, a full day, or even multiple days to explore, the tour provides suggested itineraries to suit your preferences.

Who is this for?

The Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Acadia National Park is perfect for anyone seeking an immersive and informative road trip experience. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking to explore the wonders of Acadia, this tour is designed to cater to a wide range of interests. It's ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and friends, providing an enriching experience for all ages. With its user-friendly interface and flexible routes, the tour is accessible to both seasoned travelers and those new to self-guided tours.

Why book this?

Booking the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Acadia National Park offers a multitude of unique selling points and advantages. First and foremost, the tour provides an immersive and engaging experience, bringing the park's history, natural wonders, and local insights to life. You'll feel like you have a knowledgeable tour guide by your side throughout the journey. The flexibility to explore offline at your own pace allows for a more personalized and intimate adventure. Additionally, the one-time purchase ensures there are no time limits or expiry dates, giving you the freedom to embark on the tour whenever it suits you best. With toll-free support available, you can also rest assured that any questions or concerns will be promptly addressed.

Good to know

When booking the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour, keep in mind that National Park Passes, which vary depending on the length of your stay and group size, are not included. There is also a small fee for Cadillac Mountain Vehicle Reservations. However, with the convenience of pre-downloading the tour and the ability to use it offline, you won't have to worry about cell service or WiFi availability. The tour includes over 115 points of interest, ensuring you won't miss any of the park's highlights. Whether you choose to follow suggested itineraries or create your own route, the tour provides a comprehensive and informative experience.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Acadia National Park have shared their overwhelmingly positive experiences. They rave about the convenience and ease of use, praising the intuitive interface and the fascinating stories and information provided along the way. The ability to explore at their own pace and the flexibility to start and end the tour anywhere along the route were also highly appreciated. Overall, reviewers express their satisfaction with the tour's performance, providing valuable insights for potential customers looking to embark on their own adventure in Acadia National Park.

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