There are a number of visitor contact stations in Acadia, staffed by park rangers who can answer your questions and help plan your visit. You can pay your entrance fee at any of these locations and pick up free publications to help you learn more about the park. From June through October, ask for a copy of the park newspaper, the Beaver Log, which contains information about park facilities and a listing of ranger-led activities. For more information about hours, see Operating Hours and Seasons.

Hulls Cove Visitor Center

From April 15 through October 31, begin your visit at Hulls Cove Visitor Center, located on Route 3 north of Bar Harbor. Watch a free 15-minute audiovisual program about the park, available in English, French, German, audio description, and captioned. Plan your visit using a three-dimensional map of the island. An audio tour of Acadia and the surrounding area is available for purchase.

Facilities include restrooms, drinking fountains, and a bookstore. Outdoor exhibits provide information about park resources and activities.

Please note that there are 52 steps leading to the visitor center. An accessible entrance is available; follow signs on-site for directions.

Park Headquarters / Winter Visitor Center

When Hulls Cove Visitor Center is closed, the Winter Visitor Center at park headquarters on Route 233 west of Bar Harbor serves as the primary visitor contact station. Facilities include restrooms, drinking fountains, and a bookstore. Open all year (closed on weekends from April 15 through October 31). 

Thompson Island Information Center

Thompson Island Information Center is located on Route 3 at the head of Mount Desert Island. Displays of area information can help guide your visit to the area. Facilities include restrooms and drinking fountains. A picnic area is available nearby. Open from mid-May to mid-October.