Somesville Historical Museum & Gardens in Acadia National Park

Somesville Historical Museum & Gardens

The history of Mount Desert Island told through changing exhibits depicting island life through the centuries.

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Somesville Historical Museum & Gardens Details

Nestled in the heart of Mount Desert Island, the Somesville Historical Museum & Gardens offers a peaceful and educational escape overlooking the historic Somes Harbor and millpond. As the original home of the Mount Desert Island Historical Society, this charming campus features two museum sites and three buildings filled with rotating exhibits that bring the island's history to life-from its early settlement in 1761 to the vibrant communities of today. Visitors will find a rich collection of photographs, artifacts, and documents that interpret the island's layered past, as well as family-friendly exhibits and activities designed to spark curiosity in younger guests. Beyond the exhibits, the museum grounds are a serene spot to stroll and soak in the beauty of two distinctive gardens. The Heritage Garden showcases plants that have thrived on the island since the late 18th century, while the Louisa Conrad Garden pays tribute to a beloved summer resident and garden enthusiast, filled with flowers and native plants-especially a growing collection of cheerful daffodils, Louisa's favorite. The museum is open daily from late June through August and on weekends in September and mid-October, with free admission (donations welcome). For more information, call (207) 276-9323. Directions and details can be found on-site, but you'll know you've arrived when you see the tranquil pond and the timeless charm of Somesville.

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Somesville Historical Museum & Gardens

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Somesville Historical Museum & Gardens while the map context is still fresh.

0.5 mi away

Somesville

Island Explorer fare-free bus service for Acadia National Park and surrounding communities has been postponed indefinitely in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

0.6 mi away

Mount Desert Campground

Mount Desert

0.8 mi away

Babson Creek Preserve

Facilities: Hand-carry Boat Launch, Parking

0.9 mi away

Mt. Desert Campground

Island Explorer fare-free bus service for Acadia National Park and surrounding communities has been postponed indefinitely in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

1.7 mi away

Sound Schoolhouse

The museum presents rotating historical exhibits and entertaining programs in a restored schoolhouse.