DownEast & Acadia: The Official Web Site of Maine’s DownEast & Acadia Region
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Where to Visit

The term "Downeast" was traditionally the direction the sailing ships traveled from New York and Boston, downwind and to the east. This also reflects our maritime history and the important part that the sea has always played for the residents of this area.

The name "Acadia" is derived from the Greek word for earthly paradise. It is not only the name of our National Park, but it also encompasses the heritage of our French settlers, who first came here in 1604.

With these themes in common, our subregions have unique flavors all their own. We invite you to explore them – come downeast and experience our earthly paradise for yourself.

Explore our subregions listed to the left!

East Penobscot Bay Ellsworth/Trenton Mount Desert Island Schoodic & Downeast Acadia National Park Acadia National Park Machias Bay Way Downeast