Dreaming of coastal charm, outdoor adventure, and Acadia views? Head to Bar Harbor! In this post, I’ll share the most unforgettable things I discovered in Bar Harbor, Maine—where rugged coastal beauty, fresh Atlantic breezes, and small-town charm come together on the doorstep of Acadia National Park.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Bar Harbor is from late spring through early fall (May to October). This season offers pleasant weather for hiking, whale watching, boat tours, and exploring Acadia’s iconic landscapes.
Tips for getting There
- By Car: Bar Harbor is about 3 hours from Portland and 5 hours from Boston via I-95 and Route 1.
- By Plane: Fly into Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB), just 10 miles away, or Bangor International Airport (BGR), about 1.5 hours west.
- By Bus: Concord Coach Lines offers service to nearby Bangor, with rental car or shuttle options to Bar Harbor.
Where I like to stay
- Bar Harbor Inn – Waterfront resort offering stunning ocean views, spa services, and easy downtown access.
- Atlantic Oceanside Hotel – Family-friendly resort with beach access, indoor/outdoor pools, and Acadia shuttle stop.
Recommended Tour in Bar Harbor, Maine:
- Go on a 3-hour guided culinary walking tour. Price: From $160 per person.
Top Attractions
1. Explore the Natural Wonders of Mount Desert Island
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Highlights:
If you’re dreaming of a seaside escape full of natural wonders, we’d totally suggest Mount Desert Island. Just about 3 hours from Portland, Maine, it’s a perfect blend of ocean views, mountain hikes, and quaint coastal charm.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to explore Acadia National Park.What I Love: ♥
The mix of wild landscapes and rich heritage, from shady trails to vibrant coastal towns.- Discover a legacy starting with the Abenaki Indians who settled here 5,000–10,000 years ago, and learn how the French discovered it in 1604.
- Explore the art legacy of the Hudson River School painters whose works made the island famous in the 19th century.
- Wander Acadia National Park, established in 1919 to preserve this gem from deforestation and development.
- Enjoy activities like whale watching, fishing trips, hiking, and exploring Bar Harbor’s galleries and restaurants.
Cost:
Free to visit, though Acadia National Park has a vehicle entry fee.Best time to visit:
Fall for foliage, summer for coastal breezes and whale watching.Local tips:
Bring layers—even in summer, the coastal air can get chilly!Address:
Mount Desert Island, Maine2. Take a Leisurely Seaside Stroll on the Shore Path
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Highlights:
If you’re headed to Bar Harbor, start your day with a gentle sunrise stroll on the Shore Path. Just steps from the town center, it’s one of the most peaceful and scenic walks along the Maine coast.Recommended For:
Sunrise seekers, casual walkers, and fans of coastal views and quiet beauty.What I Love: ♥
Historic charm, oceanfront benches, and views that artists have loved for centuries.- Follow the path first laid out in 1880, starting beside Agamond Park at the Town’s Ells Pier.
- Admire landmarks like the historic Bar Harbor Inn and opulent summer “cottages.”
- Soak in stunning views of Porcupine Island, Egg Rock, and ever-changing ocean hues.
- Relax on benches scattered along the way, and maybe spot a summering celebrity or two.
Cost:
Free and open to the public year-round.Best time to visit:
Early morning for sunrise and quiet, late afternoon for soft golden light.Local tips:
Bring your camera—and your coffee. The views and peace are unforgettable.Address:
Shore Path, Bar Harbor, MEIf you are a photographer:
3. Hike Coastal Cliffs and Breathtaking Views on the Ocean Path Trail
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Highlights:
If you really want to feel Acadia in your bones, take the Ocean Path Trail. Just hop off the Free Island Explorer Shuttle at Sand Beach and start a breathtaking walk along Maine’s iconic rocky coast.Recommended For:
Hikers, photographers, nature lovers, and anyone craving ocean air and dramatic views.What I Love: ♥
The thunderous crash of waves, the golden light on Otter Cliff, and the scent of wild roses.- Begin at Sand Beach and stroll 4 miles round trip past Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff.
- Listen for the booming echo of Thunder Hole when tides and waves collide just right.
- Smell the wild roses and salty air as you follow the rugged shoreline.
- Watch the cliffs turn gold at sunrise—Otter Cliff is a dream for early-morning photographers.
Cost:
Free; access the trail via the Free Island Explorer Shuttle Bus.Best time to visit:
Early morning for soft light and fewer crowds; summer for shuttle access.Local tips:
Stick to marked paths, watch for rogue waves, and bring water—you’ll want to linger.Address:
Ocean Path Trailhead, Acadia National Park4. Experience Iconic Landscapes in Acadia National Park
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Highlights:
If you’ve ever dreamed of standing atop the tallest peak on the Atlantic coast or wandering through ancient, glacier-carved landscapes, Acadia National Park is calling. Located on Mount Desert Island, it’s a wild and welcoming wonder just 3 hours from Portland, Maine.Recommended For:
Hikers, outdoor adventurers, photographers, and anyone who loves coastal scenery and mountain air.What I Love: ♥
The diverse terrain—from rocky beaches to Cadillac Mountain—and the charming base town of Bar Harbor.- Explore over 47,000 acres of coast, forest, and granite peaks, including glacier-carved landscapes.
- Summit Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast.
- Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, climbing, horseback riding, and bird-watching.
- Relax in Bar Harbor with its cozy shops, restaurants, and the Hulls Cove Visitor Center.
Cost:
$20–$35 per vehicle depending on season; passes available online or at park entrances.Best time to visit:
Fall for stunning foliage, summer for full trail and shuttle access.Local tips:
Arrive early to beat the crowds at Cadillac Mountain and consider reserving a sunrise spot!Address:
Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island, MERomantic Ideas:
5. Sail or Gaze Across Stunning Frenchman Bay
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Highlights:
If you’re craving serene island views and peaceful paddles, we can't recommend Frenchman Bay enough. Nestled between Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula, it’s a hidden gem with postcard-worthy panoramas just off Bar Harbor’s coast.Recommended For:
Kayakers, nature photographers, island hoppers, and tidal explorers.What I Love: ♥
The Porcupine Islands, magical land bridges at low tide, and the bay's scenic views from Cadillac Mountain.- Discover small islands like Bar, Sheep Porcupine, Bald Porcupine, and Long Porcupine scattered throughout the bay.
- Stroll across the natural land bridge to Bar Island during low tide—it's a unique experience!
- See the entire bay unfold from Cadillac Mountain like a living, breathing painting.
- Paddle your own kayak through the calm waters to explore the islands up close.
Cost:
Free to view; kayaking rentals and guided tours available in Bar Harbor.Best time to visit:
Summer for calm waters and clear views; fall for colorful coastlines.Local tips:
Check tide charts before heading to Bar Island—timing is everything!Address:
Frenchman Bay, Maine6. Relax and People-Watch at Bar Harbor’s Village Green
© Courtesy of Enrico Della Pietra - Fotolia.com
Highlights:
If you find yourself in the heart of Bar Harbor, take a breather at the Village Green. This peaceful 1.5-acre park is a blend of history, nature, and community charm—perfect for a shady break between adventures.Recommended For:
History fans, garden lovers, casual strollers, and anyone needing a scenic rest stop.What I Love: ♥
The antique Italian fountain, vintage bandstand vibes, and the town’s iconic cast iron clock.- Relax where the Grand Central Hotel once stood—transformed into a public green in 1899.
- See the original bandstand, the stone wall, and bench honoring local army veterans.
- Spot Bar Harbor’s beloved cast iron clock, moved here in 1905.
- Admire the Italian fountain gifted in 1909, colorful flowerbeds, and granite seating walls today.
Cost:
Free and open year-round.Best time to visit:
Spring and summer when the flowerbeds are in full bloom.Local tips:
Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy a quiet moment by the fountain.Address:
Village Green, Bar Harbor, ME7. Discover Native Plants at the College of the Atlantic Gardens
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Highlights:
Looking for a peaceful escape that doubles as a learning experience? The College of the Atlantic Gardens in Bar Harbor blend beauty and education on a serene seaside campus open to all.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, design enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a quiet, contemplative stroll.What I Love: ♥
Each garden tells a story—whether it's color harmony, historic roots, or global connections along the 45th parallel.- Wander through signature gardens like the blue-grey themed Turrets Sea Side Garden and historic Sunken Garden.
- Explore the Straus Gardens, designed by Sam Coplon, reflecting diverse regions around the 45th parallel.
- Admire themed areas: a Northern European garden, a Maine native garden, and a serene Japanese-inspired space.
- Learn about horticulture and landscape design in a living classroom open to the public.
Cost:
Free and open to the public; donations welcomed.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for peak blooms and crisp coastal air.Local tips:
Bring a sketchpad or camera—these gardens are filled with textures and inspiration.Address:
College of the Atlantic Gardens, 105 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, 207-288-5015If you are traveling with kids:
8. Start Your Adventure at Hulls Cove Visitor Center
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Highlights:
Start your Acadia adventure at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center—your go-to spot for maps, guidance, and a bird’s-eye view of the park. Just off Route 3, it’s the perfect launch point for planning your day with confidence and clarity.Recommended For:
First-time visitors, families, and anyone wanting the full picture before hitting the trails.What I Love: ♥
The massive 3D relief map, ranger-led advice, and exhibits that bring Acadia’s nature to life.- View a large three-dimensional relief model of the park to understand the layout and distances.
- Ask rangers for tips on what to see, what to do, and what to avoid during your visit.
- Pick up free brochures, trail maps, and essential park information to guide your day.
- Watch a 15-minute audiovisual presentation highlighting the park’s key features.
- Check schedules for guided hikes, boat cruises, kids’ activities, and ranger-led programs.
- Explore educational exhibits, including displays on local wildlife and park ecosystems.
Cost:
Free entry; included with park admission.Best time to visit:
Morning or early afternoon before hitting the park’s major sights.Local tips:
The relief map alone is worth the stop—it’s a great way to plan your route.Address:
Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park9. Ride in Style and Learn Local History with Oli's Trolley
© Oli's Trolley; Photo by Jim Glavine
Highlights:
If walking’s wearing you out but you still want the full Bar Harbor experience, hop aboard Oli’s Trolley. It’s a fun, relaxing way to explore Acadia’s highlights with stories, views, and charm you can’t get on foot.Recommended For:
First-time visitors, families, history buffs, and anyone who prefers sightseeing with a seat.What I Love: ♥
The vintage trolley vibes, the storytelling guides, and the chance to see Cadillac Mountain without the climb.- Ride in charming, old-fashioned trolleys with guides who spin tales of history, legends, and local lore.
- Choose from quick one-hour tours of Bar Harbor or Cadillac Mountain, or a 2.5-hour deep dive into Acadia National Park.
- Relax in comfy seats and enjoy fresh ocean air and sweeping vistas without breaking a sweat.
- Admire forests, coastlines, landmarks, and even the town’s grandest mansions—all in one ride.
Cost:
Varies by tour; check website for current rates and booking.Best time to visit:
Morning tours for cooler weather and fewer crowds; fall rides for foliage views.Local tips:
Book early during peak season—they fill up fast!Address:
1 West St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, 207-288-989910. Spot Majestic Marine Life with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company
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Highlights:
To get up close with Maine’s marine magic, hop aboard a tour with the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company. Whether you're chasing whales, puffins, sunsets, or lobster boats, these tours leave right from downtown Bar Harbor.Recommended For:
Wildlife enthusiasts, families, photographers, and anyone who loves the ocean breeze and open water.What I Love: ♥
Whale sightings, puffin spottings, and the Miss Samantha lobster boat adventure for all ages.- See humpback, finback, and Minke whales—plus dolphins, seals, porpoises, and North Atlantic Puffins.
- Savor the views over Frenchman’s Bay on a peaceful and photo-worthy Sunset Tour.
- Explore Somes Sound and Great Duck Island on the Lighthouse and National Park Tour.
- Experience hands-on lobster fishing on the Miss Samantha, Maine’s largest lobster passenger boat.
- Depart daily from Bar Harbor’s town pier during the summer season—easy and accessible!
Cost:
Prices vary by tour; see website for full details and reservations.Best time to visit:
Summer season for the full variety of tours and best wildlife sightings.Local tips:
Bring layers—it’s always chillier on the water, even in summer!Address:
1 West Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, 207-288-2386Map | Facebook
If you are a first time visitor:
- Bar Island Trail – Walk across a natural land bridge (at low tide!) for panoramic harbor views.
- Abbe Museum – Discover Wabanaki culture and Native American history in downtown Bar Harbor.
- Village Green – Central green space ideal for relaxing, people-watching, or catching summer concerts.
Where I Like to Eat
- Side Street Café – Casual local favorite for lobster rolls, mac & cheese, and craft cocktails.
- Reading Room Restaurant – Upscale dining with ocean views and fresh seafood, located in Bar Harbor Inn.
- Thrive Juice Bar & Kitchen – Healthy, organic eats including bowls, smoothies, and vegan options.
My favorite local events:
- Bar Harbor Music Festival (July) – A month-long celebration of classical, jazz, opera, and contemporary music.
- Fourth of July Festivities – Parade, lobster cookout, craft fair, and fireworks over Frenchman Bay.
- Acadia Night Sky Festival (September) – Stargazing events, astronomy talks, and night hikes celebrating dark skies.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Bar Harbor, Maine:
- Southwest Harbor (20–25 min) – Quieter side of Mount Desert Island with charming harbors and local galleries.
- Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse (25–30 min) – Iconic coastal lighthouse with a short scenic trail and photo ops.
- Seal Cove Auto Museum (25–30 min) – Vintage car collection highlighting the early days of American automobiles.
- Northeast Harbor (20–25 min) – Upscale village with waterfront views, boutique shops, and gardens.
- Carroll Homestead (15–20 min) – Historic 19th-century farmhouse within Acadia, offering insight into early island life.
- Echo Lake Beach (20–25 min) – Freshwater swimming spot with picnic areas and nearby hiking trails.
- Somesville (15–20 min) – Picturesque village known for its white arched bridge and historic charm.
- Mount Desert Oceanarium (10–15 min) – Educational aquarium with lobster hatchery and touch tanks for families.
- Sieur de Monts Nature Center (10–15 min) – Gateway to Acadia trails, wild gardens, and ranger programs.
Plan Your Trip