Thuya Garden & Terrace
A serene English-style garden on Mount Desert Island, offering vibrant blooms, rustic charm, and scenic views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers in full bloom
Thuya Garden & Terrace
Best Time
Flowers in full bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene English-style garden on Mount Desert Island, offering vibrant blooms, rustic charm, and scenic views.
🎯 Donation is Key
A $5 donation per person is suggested to help maintain this beautiful space. Bring cash!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the garden's many nooks.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Blooming Borders
Main garden paths
Wander through meticulously maintained herbaceous borders bursting with vibrant annuals and perennials.
Rustic Pavilion
Northern edge of the garden
A charming, rustic pavilion offering a peaceful spot to rest and admire the garden's layout.

Carved Wood Doors
Garden entrances
Admire the intricate, hand-carved wooden doors that add a unique artistic touch to the garden's entrances.

Panoramic Views
Upper garden areas
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Northeast Harbor and the surrounding Mount Desert Island landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Donation-Based Entry
Seasonal Access & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Donation is Key
A $5 donation per person is suggested to help maintain this beautiful space. Bring cash!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the garden's many nooks.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The garden is incredibly photogenic, especially during peak bloom. Don't forget your camera!
🚗 Parking Tips
Park at the lower lot on Route 3 or at the top of Thuya Drive. Arrive early for best spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Donation is Key
A $5 donation per person is suggested to help maintain this beautiful space. Bring cash!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven; sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the garden's many nooks.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The garden is incredibly photogenic, especially during peak bloom. Don't forget your camera!
🚗 Parking Tips
Park at the lower lot on Route 3 or at the top of Thuya Drive. Arrive early for best spots.
🚶♀️ Combine with Asticou
Many visitors enjoy visiting Thuya Garden and Asticou Terrace together for a complete experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Thuya Garden for its serene beauty and meticulous upkeep, calling it a 'hidden gem.' The vibrant floral displays and peaceful atmosphere are major draws, offering a delightful escape. Some note that while entry is donation-based, the suggested amount is well worth the experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thuya Garden is located on Mount Desert Island, near Acadia National Park. You can drive to the garden, with parking available at the lower lot on Route 3 or at the top of Thuya Drive. It's also a scenic spot to visit if you're exploring Northeast Harbor.
No, Thuya Garden is not technically part of Acadia National Park. It is managed by the Land and Garden Preserve and offers a distinct, yet complementary, experience to the park.
Walking from Bar Harbor to Thuya Garden is a significant distance, typically over 10 miles. It's best to drive or arrange transportation to reach the garden efficiently.
Driving is the most convenient way to access Thuya Garden. Follow signs for Northeast Harbor and then look for directions to Thuya Drive or the Route 3 parking area.
Public transport options directly to Thuya Garden are limited. It's recommended to use a personal vehicle or taxi services for the most direct access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Thuya Garden operates on a suggested donation basis, typically $5 per person. This donation helps support the garden's upkeep and seasonal blooms.
Advance booking is generally not required for Thuya Garden. As it's donation-based, you can usually visit freely, but it's always good to check their official opening dates.
Thuya Garden is typically open daily from June through October. Specific hours can vary, so it's advisable to check the Land and Garden Preserve website for the most current information.
While entry is free, a suggested donation of $5 per person is encouraged to help maintain the garden's beauty and operations.
Information on online donation payment is not widely available. It's best to be prepared with cash for the on-site donation box.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Thuya Garden features beautiful herbaceous borders, a rustic pavilion, carved wooden doors, and stunning views of Northeast Harbor. It's designed in the style of Gertrude Jekyll.
Yes, Thuya Garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The paths are designed for walking and enjoying the semi-formal garden layout and its natural surroundings.
Basic facilities like parking are available. Restrooms might be limited, so plan accordingly. The garden itself offers benches for resting and enjoying the scenery.
Take your time to wander through the different sections, appreciate the plant varieties, and find a quiet spot to sit and soak in the views. Combining it with Asticou Terrace is highly recommended.
The garden has paths, but some may be uneven or sloped. It's advisable to wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a natural terrain. Accessibility details may vary, so check with the Land and Garden Preserve if you have specific concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
The blooming borders, the rustic pavilion, the carved wooden doors, and the scenic overlooks offer fantastic photo opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged in Thuya Garden. It's a popular spot for photographers to capture its natural beauty.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the Land and Garden Preserve or local regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making them ideal for photography. Foggy days can also create a dramatic atmosphere.
There are typically no specific restrictions on standard photography equipment like DSLRs or phones. However, professional shoots or commercial photography might require special permits.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit