Discover Bar Harbor, Maine: A Perfect Getaway
Wrapping around the shoreline of Frenchman Bay on Maine’s Mt. Desert Island, Bar Harbor serves as a gateway to Acadia National Park as well as a hub for food, culture, art, and activity.
With over 3.5 million visitors annually, Bar Harbor is always alive with excitement and adventure. If your time in the area is limited, be sure to include these remarkable sights and experiences on your itinerary.
Explore Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park encompasses most of Mt. Desert Island. Whether you drive the scenic 27-mile loop road, climb the iron-rung ladders on the Beehive Trail, experience the ocean crashing into Thunder Hole, or visit Jordan Pond House for popovers and blueberry lemonade, visiting Acadia National Park is an essential part of your Bar Harbor experience.
Your adventure can be tailored to your preferences. Choose to rock climb at Otter Cliffs, hike or bike through beautiful trails, relax at Sand Beach, or meander along the peaceful carriage roads; Acadia has something for everyone.
Enjoy a Lobster Bake
No visit to Bar Harbor would be complete without enjoying a traditional Maine lobster bake. A classic lobster bake typically includes lobster, sweet corn, New England clam chowder, boiled potatoes, homemade biscuits, coleslaw, and a slice of blueberry pie. Experience these regional delicacies at one of Bar Harbor’s fabulous oceanside seafood restaurants, where fresh lobster is always on the menu.
Whether dining at Bar Harbor Inn’s Terrace Grille with beautiful ocean views or at the beloved local spot, The Thirsty Whale, you are sure to have a memorable culinary adventure, truly reflecting the flavors of Maine.
Watch for Whales
The optimal time for whale watching in Bar Harbor is from mid-April to October. Join a tour with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. and explore the waters of Frenchman Bay and the Gulf of Maine, looking for minke, humpback, pilot, and fin whales. If you’re fortunate, you might also spot sperm whales, sei whales, or even orcas.
In addition to the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures, boat tours offer stunning views of classic Maine lighthouses and Acadia National Park’s rugged coastline, while you might also catch sight of playful porpoises, seals, or puffins.
Experience the Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain
As Acadia’s highest peak, Cadillac Mountain is the first place on the eastern seaboard of the United States to witness the sunrise. Plan your visit by arriving early at the 1,530-foot summit.
This breathtaking experience is both serene and awe-inspiring. Keep in mind that pre-dawn parking can be quite competitive; it’s advisable to reserve in advance between mid-May and mid-October. Alternatively, hiking up the mountain before sunrise is another option, although it requires an even earlier departure.
Camp Under the Stars
Bar Harbor boasts numerous private oceanfront campgrounds, perfect for tents, van travelers, rooftop campers, and RV enthusiasts. Choose from options like Bass Harbor Campground, just a short walk from Bass Harbor Lighthouse, or Hadley’s Point Campground, which offers rental cabins, shuttle service, and beach access.
Bar Harbor Campground is ideal for families, featuring ocean view sites and pondside locations with private beach access. There are five national park campgrounds on Mt. Desert Island, welcoming visitors from Memorial Day to Columbus Day.
Be sure to reserve your campsite in advance through the National Park Service website or app. Note that the Wildwood Stables Campground caters to travelers with stock animals, while the Duck Harbor campground on Isle au Haut can only be reached via mailboat. For those who prefer a hotel stay, Bar Harbor offers at least 18 charming bed and breakfasts and numerous private rental options.
Kayak or Paddle Board in Bar Harbor
For a unique vantage point of Bar Harbor, consider kayaking or paddle boarding. The five-mile out-and-back journey on Northeast Creek is perfect for birdwatching, where you can spot playful river otters and graceful whitetail deer.
A late afternoon paddle on Jordan Pond offers the chance to see loons and falcons. Alternatively, pack your kayak for an overnight exploration in the Cranberry Isles, either camping on Crow Island, part of the Maine Island Trail, or enjoying a stay at a local bed and breakfast. Join a guided tour through the “quiet side” with National Park Sea Kayak Tours to escape the tourist crowds.
Savor the Local Seafood
While seafood—particularly lobster—dominates most restaurant menus, Bar Harbor provides a diverse selection of dining options. At Atlantic Brewing Company, savor delicious microbrews paired with flavorful barbecue.
For a memorable breakfast featuring fresh squeezed orange juice, Canadian bacon, poached eggs, and other creative dishes, 2 Cats stands out as a top choice. Don’t forget to conclude your culinary journey with a delightful treat at Mountain Desert Island Ice Cream, where the ever-changing flavors will surprise and delight you!
Learn About the Wabanaki Nations
Discover the rich history and culture of the Wabanaki Nations at Bar Harbor’s Smithsonian Affiliate Abbe Museum, which houses over 50,000 artifacts, including an exceptional collection of Maine Native American basketry.
Consider planning your visit in July to experience the Bar Harbor Music Festival, celebrating classical music with free outdoor concerts and programming for young adults. The art deco Criterion Theater is also worth a visit for films and performances — take a guided tour or enjoy a virtual exploration without reservation.
