Thuya Garden
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Thuya Garden

4.8
·340 reviews·Mount Desert, United States

A meticulously maintained botanical gem with stunning border gardens, a historic lodge, and breathtaking views of Northeast Harbor.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late September

Vibrant blooms, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Thuya Garden

Thuya Garden

Best Time

Late September

Vibrant blooms, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A meticulously maintained botanical gem with stunning border gardens, a historic lodge, and breathtaking views of Northeast Harbor.

4.8
(340 reviews)

"A beautiful garden, and clearly very lovingly maintained. Peaceful, serene, colourful."

Vertical photo
TIP

Hike for the Views

Hike up from Asticou Terraces for amazing views of Northeast Harbor. Well worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:

Explore the Lodge

Don't miss the historic lodge and the library if it's open. A unique glimpse into the past. :building_construction:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Border Gardens

Border Gardens

Upper slopes

Spectacular displays of color and texture, with towering plants buzzing with bees. Expertly composed and maintained.

Historic Lodge & Library

Historic Lodge & Library

Main property

Explore the historic lodge and, if open, the amazing library. A glimpse into the garden's past.

Views of Northeast Harbor

Views of Northeast Harbor

Pavilion part way up the hill

Enjoy a clear view of the harbor from a picturesque pavilion, offering a moment of reflection.

Wooded Areas & Boardwalk

Wooded Areas & Boardwalk

Surrounding grounds

Peaceful wooded areas perfect for a stroll, with a boardwalk entrance for wheelchair accessibility.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Thuya Garden

Thuya Garden is a hidden gem, best enjoyed when crowds are minimal. Consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings to fully appreciate its serene beauty and avoid peak times. The garden is particularly stunning in late September, with vibrant blooms and fewer visitors.

Accessing Thuya Garden

While you can drive directly to Thuya Garden, many visitors recommend the scenic hike up from Asticou Terraces. This path offers breathtaking views of Northeast Harbor and leads you to the garden, making the arrival an experience in itself. Check for the library's opening hours if that's a point of interest.

Best Times

When
Late September
Why
Vibrant blooms, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Butterflies and blossoms
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Second trip to Acadia

Hike for the Views

Hike up from Asticou Terraces for amazing views of Northeast Harbor. Well worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:

Explore the Lodge

Don't miss the historic lodge and the library if it's open. A unique glimpse into the past. :building_construction:

Wheelchair Accessible Path

A boardwalk entrance provides wheelchair access to enjoy the peaceful wooded areas. :wheelchair:

Labelled Plants

All plants are well-labeled, making it a great learning experience for garden enthusiasts. :seedling:

Tips

from all over the internet

Hike for the Views

Hike up from Asticou Terraces for amazing views of Northeast Harbor. Well worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:

Explore the Lodge

Don't miss the historic lodge and the library if it's open. A unique glimpse into the past. :building_construction:

Wheelchair Accessible Path

A boardwalk entrance provides wheelchair access to enjoy the peaceful wooded areas. :wheelchair:

Labelled Plants

All plants are well-labeled, making it a great learning experience for garden enthusiasts. :seedling:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(340 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Thuya Garden as a beautifully maintained, serene, and colorful gem, often compared favorably to the UK's Lake District. The hike from Asticou Terraces is highly recommended for its stunning views. While the garden is the main draw, the historic lodge and library add to its unique charm. Some visitors note that the library's opening hours can be limited.

"A unique and beautiful property that has a historic lodge to explore. The flower gardens are beautiful and there were butterflies enjoying the blossoms even in late September. The wooded areas are peaceful to walk through. There is a boardwalk entrance for wheelchair access. Definitely worth visiting"

K. White

"A beautiful garden, and clearly very lovingly maintained. Peaceful, serene, colourful. Well worth the effort to carve out the time to pay this little gem a visit. Probably the best compliment I give these gardens is that I felt as though I was back in the Lake District (UK). Should be a must for all visitors to MDI."

TJ M

"A must-see stop for garden lovers. Created in the early 1900s and maintained through various efforts, truly an amazing hidden gem tucked into the hillside overlooking Northeast Harbor. The library, when open, is also amazing."

Steve Ostrowski

What People Like

Beautifully maintained gardens
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Stunning views from hike

What People Dislike

Limited library hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can drive directly to Thuya Garden, or for a more scenic experience, hike up from Asticou Terraces. The hike offers beautiful views of Northeast Harbor and leads directly to the garden. Reddit

Yes, parking is available at Thuya Garden, though it can fill up during peak season. Consider arriving early or exploring the hiking option. Reddit

Information on public transport directly to Thuya Garden is limited. It's best to check local shuttle services or consider ride-sharing options if not driving. Reddit

Many visitors recommend the hike from Asticou Terraces for stunning views. It's a beautiful approach to the garden. Reddit

Yes, there is a boardwalk entrance for wheelchair access to the wooded areas, making parts of the garden accessible. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While specific ticket information can vary, Thuya Garden is part of the Land and Garden Preserve. It's advisable to check their official website or local visitor centers for the most current admission details. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Thuya Garden or Land and Garden Preserve website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours. Reddit

Typically, there is an admission fee for Thuya Garden, as it's a maintained botanical attraction. Confirm current pricing on their official channels. Reddit

The historic library at Thuya Garden is an attraction, but its opening hours may be limited. Check in advance if you wish to visit. Reddit

Information on discounts or passes is best found on the official Land and Garden Preserve website. They may offer combination tickets or seasonal passes. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

The main attractions include the spectacular border gardens, the historic lodge, the library, peaceful wooded areas, and scenic views of Northeast Harbor. Reddit+1

Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the gardens and lodge, but you could easily spend longer if you enjoy leisurely walks and photography. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available on-site. It's always a good idea to confirm this with the garden's management or check visitor information upon arrival. Reddit

Absolutely! Thuya Garden is a photographer's dream with its vibrant flower beds, historic architecture, and scenic vistas. Reddit

You'll find a diverse range of plants in the border gardens, including towering flowers and various textures, all expertly composed and labeled. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Thuya Garden itself does not typically have a restaurant. However, Northeast Harbor, located nearby, offers various dining options from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. Reddit

Picnicking rules can vary. It's best to check with the garden management regarding their policy on outside food and designated picnic areas. Reddit

Northeast Harbor, a short drive or walk from the garden, has several eateries. You can find cafes, seafood restaurants, and other dining establishments there. Reddit

While the preserve focuses on gardens, there might be small refreshment stands during peak season. Confirm this with the preserve's visitor information. Reddit

Popular choices in Northeast Harbor often include local seafood spots and charming cafes. Research current recommendations for the best dining experiences. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The border gardens offer incredible color, the pavilion provides harbor views, and the historic lodge adds architectural interest. Don't miss the granite steps! Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Thuya Garden. Capture the vibrant blooms, serene landscapes, and historic structures. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most flattering light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors. Reddit

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the garden management beforehand, especially during busy periods, to ensure compliance. Reddit

Drone photography is typically restricted in most botanical gardens and preserves to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and wildlife. Check official regulations. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Thuya Garden offers a peaceful escape that can be enjoyed by families. The wooded areas with the boardwalk provide a gentle exploration for younger children, and the vibrant colors of the border gardens are visually engaging. While the hike from Asticou Terraces might be challenging for very young children, the main garden area itself is manageable. Reddit

Parents can point out the different flowers and insects, making it an educational outing. The historic lodge and library can also spark curiosity. Remember to bring snacks and water, as dining options directly on-site are limited, but Northeast Harbor is nearby for family-friendly meals. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who love to hike, the ascent from Asticou Terraces to Thuya Garden is a must-do. This trail offers stunning views and a rewarding experience before you even reach the garden itself. The surrounding wooded areas also provide opportunities for peaceful walks and immersion in nature. Reddit

Thuya Garden's design, with its formal gardens and naturalistic wooded sections, appeals to a wide range of nature lovers. The well-labeled plants offer an educational aspect for botanically inclined visitors, while the overall serene atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and appreciation of the natural world. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Thuya Garden is a paradise for photographers, offering a diverse range of subjects. The meticulously maintained border gardens burst with color and texture, providing endless opportunities for close-ups and wide shots. The historic lodge and library add architectural elements, while the pavilion offers picturesque views of Northeast Harbor. Reddit

Golden hour light is particularly magical here, enhancing the vibrant hues of the flowers and casting a warm glow on the landscape. The granite steps and pathways create interesting leading lines and compositions. Remember to check any specific photography guidelines, especially regarding tripods, to ensure a smooth experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Creation of Thuya Garden

Thuya Garden was created in the early 1900s by Joseph Curtis, a wealthy businessman who envisioned a botanical paradise. He meticulously designed the garden, incorporating elements that would provide year-round beauty and a sense of tranquility. The garden is a testament to his passion and dedication, maintained through various preservation efforts over the decades. Reddit+1

The garden is situated on a steep slope overlooking Northeast Harbor, offering not only stunning floral displays but also panoramic views. The design features include formal border gardens, a historic lodge, and peaceful wooded areas, all interconnected by charming granite steps and pathways. This unique topography contributes to its distinctive charm and the 'hidden gem' feel that visitors often describe. Reddit

Today, Thuya Garden is part of the Land and Garden Preserve, ensuring its continued preservation and accessibility for future generations. Its historical significance and ongoing care make it a cherished destination for garden enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Reddit

Experiencing the Hike to Thuya Garden

For an unforgettable arrival, many visitors opt to hike up to Thuya Garden from Asticou Terraces. This path is not just a means to an end but an integral part of the experience, offering spectacular vistas of Northeast Harbor and the surrounding coastline. The ascent is rewarded with breathtaking scenery, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself. Reddit

The hike itself is described as beautiful, with the path winding through scenic landscapes. It's a moderate climb that provides a sense of accomplishment and allows you to truly appreciate the natural beauty of Mount Desert Island. The views from various points along the trail are a significant highlight, often drawing comparisons to the serene landscapes of the UK's Lake District. Reddit

This approach is highly recommended by those who have experienced it, as it adds an element of adventure and provides a unique perspective of the area. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural environment before reaching the cultivated beauty of the garden. Reddit

Thuya Garden's Accessibility and Inclusivity

Thuya Garden strives to be welcoming to all visitors. For those with mobility challenges, a significant feature is the boardwalk entrance that provides access to the peaceful wooded areas of the property. This thoughtful addition ensures that a broader range of visitors can enjoy the serene natural surroundings. Reddit

While the garden's topography includes steep slopes and granite steps, which are part of its historic charm, the accessible boardwalk offers a way to experience a portion of the grounds. It's always a good idea to contact the garden management directly for the most current information regarding accessibility features and any specific accommodations they might offer. Reddit

The inclusion of accessible pathways demonstrates a commitment to making the beauty of Thuya Garden available to as many people as possible, allowing everyone to appreciate its unique blend of cultivated flora and natural landscapes. Reddit

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