Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip | Things to do, Placed & Parks

Bar Harbor, Maine | Things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine

What the City is Known For: Scenic coastal views, Acadia National Park, and vibrant tourism. City’s Population: Approximately 5,500

Bar Harbor, Maine, is a charming coastal town located on Mount Desert Island. Known for its stunning ocean views, vibrant tourism, and as the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a bustling downtown area. Visitors flock to this picturesque town to experience its outdoor activities, fresh seafood, and charming inns. With a population of around 5,500, Bar Harbor maintains a small-town feel while offering a wide range of amenities and attractions that cater to tourists and locals alike.

Bar Harbor, Maine, Road Trip Checklist

Before you go on any Bar Harbor, Maine road trip or Bar Harbor, Maine day trip, it’s advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozy neck pillow, and more. This all-inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!

Things to Do in Bar Harbor, Maine

1. Acadia National Park
   • Category: Nature
   • Distance: 0 miles | It’s in Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: Visit this stunning national park to explore its hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views. Don’t miss the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast.
2. Shore Path
   • Category: Nature
   • Distance: 0 miles | It’s in Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: Take a leisurely walk along this historic path for beautiful ocean views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
3. Abbe Museum
   • Category: Museum
   • Distance: 0 miles | It’s in Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: Explore Native American history and culture at this engaging museum located in downtown Bar Harbor.
4. Whale Watching Tours
   • Category: Nature
   • Distance: 0 miles | It’s in Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: Embark on a whale watching tour to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. offers popular excursions.
5. Oceanarium and Education Center
   • Category: Nature
   • Distance: 0 miles | It’s in Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: Learn about marine life and the importance of conservation through interactive exhibits and tours.

Closest Nature Areas to Bar Harbor, Maine

1. Acadia National Park
   • Location: Bar Harbor, Maine
   • Distance: 0 miles | It’s in Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: This park offers over 47,000 acres of natural beauty, including mountains, woodlands, and shorelines.
2. Lamoine State Park
   • Location: Lamoine, Maine
   • Distance: 16 miles from Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: A short drive from Bar Harbor, this state park offers camping, picnicking, and stunning views of Frenchman Bay.
3. Schoodic Peninsula
   • Location: Winter Harbor, Maine
   • Distance: 45 miles from Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: Part of Acadia National Park, this area offers a quieter, more secluded experience with scenic views and hiking trails.
4. Mount Desert Island
   • Location: Bar Harbor, Maine
   • Distance: 0 miles | It’s in Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: Explore the largest island off the coast of Maine, home to picturesque villages, harbors, and trails.
5. Blue Hill Bay
   • Location: Blue Hill, Maine
   • Distance: 28 miles from Bar Harbor
   • What makes it awesome: Discover this serene bay area known for its kayaking and boating opportunities, just a short drive from Bar Harbor.

Most Unique Stays in Bar Harbor, Maine

1. Bar Harbor Inn & Spa
   • Description: A historic waterfront inn offering luxurious accommodations, a full-service spa, and stunning ocean views.
   • Location: 1 Newport Dr, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
2. West Street Hotel
   • Description: A boutique hotel featuring nautical-themed rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, and proximity to downtown attractions.
   • Location: 50 West St, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
3. Chiltern Inn
   • Description: A charming bed and breakfast housed in a historic mansion, offering elegant rooms, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere.
   • Location: 11 Cromwell Harbor Rd, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
4. Balance Rock Inn
   • Description: A luxurious inn offering elegant rooms, stunning views, and a serene setting near the coast.
   • Location: 21 Albert Meadow, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609

Most Unique Restaurants in Bar Harbor, Maine

1. Galyn’s
   • Description: Offering a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, and vegetarian options, all with beautiful harbor views.
   • Location: 17 Main St, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
2. Cafe This Way
   • Description: Known for its eclectic menu and cozy atmosphere, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
   • Location: 14 Mt Desert St, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
3. Havana
   • Description: A fine dining restaurant with a focus on Latin-inspired dishes and local seafood, offering a warm and inviting ambiance.
   • Location: 318 Main St, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
4. Side Street Cafe
   • Description: A local favorite known for its comfort food, lobster dishes, and friendly atmosphere.
   • Location: 49 Rodick St, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609

Travel Tips

1. Explore Local Festivals: Bar Harbor hosts numerous festivals, such as the Bar Harbor Music Festival and the Acadia Night Sky Festival. Plan your trip around these events for a unique experience.
2. Scenic Drives: Take advantage of Maine’s scenic byways for a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes and charming small towns. The Acadia All-American Road offers stunning views and is particularly beautiful in the fall.
3. Historic Sites: Many of Bar Harbor’s historic sites offer guided tours. Visit the Abbe Museum and the Bar Harbor Historical Society to learn about the town’s rich history.
4. Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in Acadia National Park, kayaking in Frenchman Bay, and sailing along the coast. Don’t forget to stargaze in some of the darkest skies in the country, especially at places like Acadia National Park.