A mere 13 miles long, Acadia National Park, located just outside of Bar Harbor, Maine, packs in a gorgeous corrugated coastline, rambling hiking and bike trails, mountain views and seemingly endless shades of green. For outdoorsy types, there are numerous ways to explore, with everything from kayaking to bird-watching and just plain road-tripping.

Cadillac Mountain (1530ft), the heart of Acadia, makes an exhilarating all-day hike or a leisurely drive up. The summit offers excellent views and if you have the early-morning motivation, it's one of the first spots on the East Coast to glimpse the sunrise.

After a day exploring Acadia's natural charms, it's customary to indulge in tea and popovers at the Jordan Pond Restaurant in the center of the park. In the evening hit up a snazzy seafood spot in Bar Harbor and then head to a movie at the glorious vintage cinema.