What To Do on a Rainy Day on MDI?
10 Cozy and Fun Things to Do on Mount Desert Island When It Rains
Don’t let a little rain wash away your vacation plans. Mount Desert Island is just as magical under gray skies as it is in the sun—and sometimes even more so. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, there are plenty of indoor adventures and cozy spots to explore while the weather sorts itself out.
1. Visit the Abbe Museum
Located in downtown Bar Harbor, the Abbe Museum offers an engaging look at the history and culture of the Wabanaki Nations. It’s the perfect mix of art, storytelling, and learning.
2. Sip Something Warm at a Local Café
Grab a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and settle in. Try Choco-Latte for espresso and baked treats or head to Milk & Honey or Thrive for a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
3. Explore Jesup Memorial Library
This small but beautiful library is full of character and a great spot to browse, especially on a dreary day. It often has exhibits, events, or a quiet nook just right for reading.
4. Dive into Island History at the Bar Harbor Historical Society or Drive into it at the Seal Cove Auto Museum or Maine Granite Industry Museum or visit St. Saviour
Housed in La Rochelle Mansion, the historical society’s exhibits offers a peek into the gilded age of Bar Harbor as well as the island’s past with shipwrecks, fires, and famous residents.
The Seal Cove Auto Museum on the quieter side of the island focuses on the auto history of the area.
The Maine Granite Museum in Mount Desert has a mission to collect and preserve the history of the quarrying industry in Maine and New England.
St. Saviour is an historic Episcopal church. The oldest part of the church was begun in 1876; later parts were added through 1901, including the renowned collection of stained glass windows by Tiffany and others. During the tourist season (June - October), the church is open daily from about 9-5 for self-guided tours. Guided tours Sunday after the 11:00 Service and other times by appointment.
5. Take a Scenic Drive Through Acadia National Park
You don’t have to hike to enjoy the park. Drive the Park Loop Road, stopping at Thunder Hole or Otter Cliffs. The ocean is especially dramatic when it rains, and fog adds a dreamy touch to the landscape.
6. Visit the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History or the Oceanarium.
Operated by College of the Atlantic, this small museum is perfect for families. Kids love the touch tank, and natural history buffs will enjoy the well-curated displays.
Closer to the head of the island is the Oceanarium, which offer trails, educational exhibits and programs for all ages on local ecology, marine biology and research, citizen science, dark skies, fisheries and aquaculture, and STEM education in partnership with Maine schools.
7. Treat Yourself at a Local Spa or Wellness Center
Rainy days are perfect for a little pampering. Try a massage, facial, or yoga class. Places like Tree of Life Day Spa or Bar Harbor Inn to help you unwind.
8. Go Shopping for Local Goods
Explore Bar Harbor’s charming shops for handmade art, books, cozy sweatshirts, and gifts. Rain is a great excuse to find something special to take home. A great place to go? Little Village Shops in Bar Harbor is a top-rated space to spend time. Hidden Barn Books in Bar Harbor is another lovely place to spend some time.
9. Catch a Show or a Movie
Check out Reel Pizza Cinerama for a movie and a slice (yes, they serve pizza with your film). Or see if there's a live show at the Criterion Theatre—a restored Art Deco gem that has movies sometimes as well. If you’re into live theater, check out Acadia Repertory’s schedule.
10. Try a Rainy-Day Lobster Roll
Rainy weather makes a warm lobster roll and a bowl of chowder taste even better. Head to any of the waterfront spots that stay open rain or shine. We have a list of restaurants here.
Bonus: Top 5 Things to Do Outside on MDI When It Rains (Safely!)
If you don’t mind getting damp—and take care to avoid slick rocks or lightning—rain can add a special beauty to Mount Desert Island. Just bring a good raincoat and watch your footing!
1. Walk the Carriage Roads
These historic, car-free gravel roads drain well and are less slippery than rocky trails. Enjoy the hush of rain on leaves and the sight of misty ponds and bridges designed by Rockefeller himself.
2. Visit Jordan Pond (But Stay Off the Rocks!)
The paths near the Jordan Pond House are gentle, and the view of The Bubbles across the water is hauntingly lovely in the fog. Reward yourself with tea and popovers afterward. The trail around the pond can be slippery when it’s wet.
3. Watch the Waves (From a Safe Distance)
Head to locations like Otter Point or Schooner Head Overlook to watch the Atlantic crash dramatically against granite cliffs. Stay well back from the edge, especially at Thunder Hole, where surf can be unpredictable in rough weather.
4. Photograph Foggy Landscapes
Acadia’s vistas transform in rain and fog. Sand Beach, Eagle Lake, and Cadillac Mountain’s lower slopes all take on a moody, ethereal beauty that’s a photographer’s dream.
5. Enjoy a Forest Bath (Literally!)
A gentle trail like the Great Meadow Loop or Ship Harbor Trail offers a quiet, rain-dampened forest full of moss, ferns, and earthy scents. Listen to the rain falling through spruce and pine—nature’s own meditation soundtrack.
Safety Tip: Always check the weather before heading out. Avoid exposed summits in thunderstorms, be cautious on wet rocks, and respect park rangers’ closures or warnings.