Planning a trip to Acadia National Park? The breathtaking scenery, rugged coastline, and vibrant wildlife make it a bucket-list destination for many. But before you start hiking Cadillac Mountain or exploring Sand Beach, you need to know how to get there. This guide will help you find the nearest airport to Acadia National Park, along with tips for your journey.
Acadia National Park is located in Maine, on Mount Desert Island. While there isn't an airport directly in the park, several airports offer convenient access. The closest major airport, and the one most frequently used by visitors, significantly impacts your travel time and overall experience. Choosing the right airport is key to a smooth and enjoyable start to your Acadia adventure.
What is the Closest Airport to Acadia National Park?
The closest airport to Acadia National Park is Bangor International Airport (BGR). Located approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive from the park's entrance, BGR offers numerous flight options from major US cities, making it a popular choice for travelers.
While other airports are further away, they might offer cheaper flights or more convenient connections depending on your origin. Weighing the cost of flights versus the rental car drive time is crucial in selecting your entry point.
What Other Airports Serve Acadia National Park?
While Bangor International Airport (BGR) is the closest, several other airports can serve as gateways to Acadia:
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Portland International Jetport (PWM): Located in Portland, Maine, PWM is a larger airport with more flight options. However, the drive to Acadia from PWM is significantly longer, taking approximately 3-4 hours depending on traffic. This longer drive needs to be factored into your travel plans.
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Bar Harbor Airport (BHB): This smaller airport is much closer to Acadia National Park (about 20 minutes away), but it has far fewer flight options. If you find a direct flight to BHB that fits your schedule and budget, it’s a convenient choice. However, expect limited flight options compared to BGR or PWM.
How Far is Bangor Airport from Acadia National Park?
Bangor International Airport (BGR) is roughly 45-60 minutes away from the main entrances to Acadia National Park, depending on traffic and the specific location within the park you're headed to.
How Far is Portland Airport from Acadia National Park?
Portland International Jetport (PWM) is approximately 3-4 hours away from Acadia National Park. This longer drive makes it a less convenient choice if you prioritize minimizing travel time upon arrival.
How Far is Bar Harbor Airport from Acadia National Park?
Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) is the closest airport, approximately 20 minutes away from Acadia National Park. However, its limited flight options must be considered.
What is the Best Airport to Fly into for Acadia National Park?
The "best" airport depends on your priorities:
- For shortest drive time: Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) – but check flight availability.
- For most flight options: Bangor International Airport (BGR) – a good balance of convenience and flight choices.
- For potentially cheaper flights (depending on origin): Portland International Jetport (PWM) – but consider the longer drive.
Carefully consider your travel budget, flight options from your origin city, and your tolerance for driving time when making your decision. Weighing these factors against each other will help you select the most suitable airport for your Acadia adventure. Remember to book flights and rental cars in advance, especially during peak season.
