On the patio next to the Nature Center, a wayside exhibit entitled "Acadia's Heart" appears on one side of the kiosk.
The exhibit's title appears over a tranquil scene in the Wild Gardens of Acadia. A wooden bench sits beneath an evergreen tree, surrounded by ferns.
Text reads: "You have arrived at Sieur de Monts, the symbolic origin of Acadia National park. This site embodies Acadia's cultural story and captures a glimpse of its natural setting. Learn about the island's native wildlife and plants at the nature center and Wild Gardens of Acadia. Visit the wigwam and ponder the past and present lives of the Wabanaki through exhibits at the Abbe Museum. Hike or stroll one of the historic trails created by George B. Dorr and other pathmakers."
A map shows the trails and various landmarks, including parking, a bus stop, ranger station and information, and restrooms. An arrow points to a spot near the Nature Center: "You Are Here."
Five inset photographs highlight the area's landmarks:
The first photo shows the Spring Canopy originally built by George B. Dorr. Leafy trees reach over the dome-shaped roof of a small octagonal structure with arched doorways.
The second photo offers a view of a Wabanaki wigwam, a dome-shaped dwelling layered with birch bark.
A third photo shows the Robert Abbe Museum of Stone Age Antiquities. Double glass doors welcome visitors to the octagonal building with its gray stucco walls, ceramic tile roof, and a cupola with a pineapple finial. A caption reads: "Follow the paved trail to the original, trailside Abbe Museum, and visit the Abbe Museum in downtown Bar Harbor."
Next to the museum is an image of an intricately woven red and white basket created by Ganessa Frey (Penobscot).
Another photo shows tall trees dwarfing a figure on the Jesup Path boardwalk. A caption invites visitors to "look for frogs or listen for barred owls" along the path.
