Jordan Pond Gatehouse - a person standing on a stone bridge
1 / 10

Jordan Pond Gatehouse

4.6
·491k reviews·Mount Desert, United States

Historic stone gatehouse overlooking the serene Jordan Pond, famous for its iconic popovers and breathtaking mountain views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier seating

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Jordan Pond Gatehouse - a person standing on a stone bridge

Jordan Pond Gatehouse

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier seating

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic stone gatehouse overlooking the serene Jordan Pond, famous for its iconic popovers and breathtaking mountain views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The popovers are a must-try, and the views of Jordan Pond are simply breathtaking!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Before Opening

Get there by 10:30 AM for a chance at a table without a long wait.

☕ Reserve Your Table

Highly recommended for lunch or afternoon tea to guarantee a spot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jordan Pond Popovers

Jordan Pond Popovers

Jordan Pond House

Iconic, airy popovers served with butter and jam. A must-try Acadia tradition!

Jordan Pond Views

Jordan Pond Views

Jordan Pond

Breathtaking panoramic views of the pond and surrounding mountains. Perfect for photos!

The Gatehouse

The Gatehouse

Jordan Pond

Historic stone structure offering a charming backdrop and a glimpse into Acadia's past.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at Jordan Pond

Jordan Pond Gatehouse is a popular spot, especially during peak season. Arrive early, before 10:30 AM, to snag a table or avoid long waits for popovers. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Reddit

Reservations & Popovers

While walk-ins are possible, securing a reservation for the Jordan Pond House is highly recommended, especially for lunch or afternoon tea. The famous popovers sell out quickly! Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier seating
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Because I get to be back so soon!!!! #acadia #acadianationalpark #jordanpond #Hiking #scenery
@mcdonaldshotcakelover
5.1K likes • 49.9K views

🎯 Arrive Before Opening

Get there by 10:30 AM for a chance at a table without a long wait. Reddit

☕ Reserve Your Table

Highly recommended for lunch or afternoon tea to guarantee a spot. Reddit

reddit.com

Jordan Pond - Acadia advice

reddit.com

Jordan Pond House Lunch from a cruise ship tender?

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Pond Path

Enjoy a scenic stroll around Jordan Pond for stunning views. TikTok

📸 Capture the Scenery

The views are incredible, especially during golden hour. TikTok

reddit.com

Jordan Pond House without reservations?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Before Opening

Get there by 10:30 AM for a chance at a table without a long wait. Reddit

☕ Reserve Your Table

Highly recommended for lunch or afternoon tea to guarantee a spot. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Pond Path

Enjoy a scenic stroll around Jordan Pond for stunning views. TikTok

📸 Capture the Scenery

The views are incredible, especially during golden hour. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Jordan Pond Gatehouse and its surrounding area for its stunning natural beauty and the iconic popovers at the Jordan Pond House. The picturesque views of the pond and mountains are a major highlight, offering a quintessential Acadia experience. However, the popularity means crowds and long wait times are common, especially without reservations.

What People Like

Beautiful pond views
Famous popovers
Historic gatehouse charm

What People Dislike

Long wait times
Crowded during peak hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Jordan Pond Gatehouse is located within Acadia National Park. You can drive there via Park Loop Road, or utilize the park's shuttle system during operating hours. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. TikTok

Yes, there is a parking lot near the Jordan Pond House and Gatehouse. However, it fills up very quickly, particularly during summer and fall. Arriving early is key. Reddit

Acadia National Park offers a free Island Explorer shuttle service that stops at Jordan Pond. This is a great option to avoid parking hassles. Check their schedule for operating dates and times. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You do not need a separate ticket for the Jordan Pond Gatehouse itself, but you will need an Acadia National Park entrance pass to access the park and drive the Park Loop Road. TikTok

Jordan Pond House typically serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. Hours vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, reservations are highly recommended for Jordan Pond House, especially for lunch and afternoon tea. You can usually book online or by phone. Reddit

Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times can be significant, especially during peak hours. Arriving before opening (around 10:30 AM) can increase your chances of getting a table. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Besides enjoying the views and the Jordan Pond House, you can walk the 3.3-mile loop trail around the pond, or hike some of the surrounding carriage roads and trails. TikTok

The Jordan Pond Path is mostly flat and relatively easy, with some gravel and boardwalk sections. It's suitable for most fitness levels. TikTok

The Jordan Pond House is famous for its light, airy popovers, served warm with butter and strawberry jam. They are a quintessential Acadia experience. TikTok

Absolutely! The Gatehouse itself is picturesque, and the surrounding pond and mountain views offer endless photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jordan Pond is a fantastic spot for families. The Jordan Pond Path is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for strollers and young walkers. Kids will love the novelty of the popovers at the Jordan Pond House, and the open lawn area is perfect for them to run around while parents relax. TikTok

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the pond if the Jordan Pond House is too busy or if you prefer a more casual meal. The shuttle bus is also a fun and convenient way for families to get around the park without worrying about parking. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of the park's natural environment.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, Jordan Pond serves as a gateway to some of Acadia's most rewarding trails. Ascending The Bubbles offers iconic views of the pond and is a must-do for many. The Jordan Pond Path itself is a pleasant, scenic walk, perfect for a less strenuous outing. TikTok

Explore the network of carriage roads for a different kind of outdoor activity, whether by foot or bicycle. These well-maintained paths provide access to quieter areas of the park and offer a unique historical perspective. Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, and be prepared with appropriate gear.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Jordan Pond House Experience

The Jordan Pond House is more than just a restaurant; it's a historic landmark and a central part of the Acadia National Park experience. Famous for its popovers, served with butter and strawberry jam, it offers a delightful respite after exploring the park. Visitors often rave about the charming atmosphere and the stunning views of Jordan Pond from the dining room and lawn. It's a place where generations have gathered to enjoy a taste of Acadia's natural beauty and culinary traditions. TikTok

Securing a table can be a challenge, as the popovers are a major draw. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy summer and fall seasons. If you don't have a reservation, arriving before the doors open (typically around 10:30 AM) is your best bet for minimizing wait times on a weekday. Be prepared for a potential wait, but many find it well worth it for the unique experience. Reddit

Beyond the popovers, the Jordan Pond House offers a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. The setting itself, with its expansive lawn overlooking the pristine pond and the iconic The Bubbles mountains, makes any meal feel special. It's a perfect spot to relax, soak in the scenery, and reflect on your Acadia adventures.

Exploring Jordan Pond and Its Surroundings

Jordan Pond is a jewel within Acadia National Park, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding mountains, including The Bubbles. The most popular way to experience the pond is by walking the Jordan Pond Path, a relatively flat, 3.3-mile loop that offers continuous scenic vistas. This trail is accessible for most visitors and provides numerous opportunities for stunning photography. TikTok

For those seeking more adventurous hikes, the area around Jordan Pond offers access to several trails that ascend the nearby peaks. The Bubbles are a favorite, with trails leading to their summits for panoramic views of the pond and the Atlantic coastline. These hikes can be more strenuous, involving rocky ascents, but the rewards are spectacular. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, especially on warmer days. TikTok

The carriage roads that crisscross Acadia National Park also converge near Jordan Pond. These historic, car-free roads, funded by John D. Rockefeller Jr., are perfect for leisurely bike rides or walks, offering a different perspective of the landscape. You can rent bikes in nearby Bar Harbor or bring your own to explore these picturesque routes.

You may also like

1 of 2