Travel Guide to Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
Ra's Travel Guide to Bar Harbor
The gateway to Acadia National Park; a complete travel guide to Bar Harbor, Maine.
Travel Guide to Bar Harbor- Key Highlights
- Discover the charm of Bar Harbor, a picturesque coastal town in New England, and the gateway to Acadia National Park.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant downtown, savor delicious lobster rolls, and find unique souvenirs.
- Embark on unforgettable adventures like whale watching, hiking scenic trails, and exploring the park loop road.
- Choose from a variety of accommodations, from cozy inns to luxurious hotels, or experience the beauty of camping near Acadia.
- Plan your trip around the best times to visit, considering factors like weather and seasonal highlights.
Introduction- Visit Bar Harbor, Maine
Welcome to the best Bar Harbor travel guide! This is your handy help for planning a memorable adventure in New England. Bar Harbor is located on the coast of Maine. It offers a mix of lovely town life and amazing natural beauty. If you're looking for fun outdoor activities, delicious food, or just a peaceful escape, this guide has everything you need. Let's get started!
Discovering Bar Harbor: A Prelude to Adventure
Bar Harbor is a beautiful coastal town located on Mount Desert Island. It is the gateway to the famous Acadia National Park. This town has stunning views, a friendly vibe, and many fun activities. Bar Harbor makes sure that every traveler has an amazing time.
You can enjoy charming shops, tasty seafood, and beautiful hiking trails. You can also join thrilling whale-watching tours. There is something special around every corner. Get ready to enjoy the natural beauty of Acadia National Park, stroll through the downtown area, and make memories that will stay with you forever.
Seasonal Guide: Best Times to Visit Bar Harbor
Choosing the best time to visit Bar Harbor depends on what you like and what you want to see during your trip. Here is a simple guide to help you plan:
- Summer (June-August): Enjoy warm weather and lively activities. Expect larger crowds and remember to book your accommodations ahead of time.
- Fall (September-October): See the stunning autumn colors as Acadia National Park changes into a beautiful place. You can enjoy cooler weather, fewer visitors, and special seasonal events.
- Spring (May-June): Experience nice weather, blooming flowers, and watch nature come back to life after winter. Some places may have shorter hours, but you will meet fewer tourists.
- Winter (November-April): Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, warm up by the fire, and take part in winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Keep in mind that some attractions may have limited hours or may not be open at all during this time.
Budget-Friendly Travel Tips for Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor has many experiences for every budget. If you want to enjoy your trip without spending too much, keep these tips in mind.
- Find affordable places to stay: Look for cozy inns, bed and breakfasts, or campgrounds. They can give you a budget-friendly place to rest.
- Enjoy cheap meals: Bar Harbor is famous for its tasty lobster rolls. However, check out local restaurants for other seafood dishes that are easy on your wallet.
- Join free activities: You can go for scenic hikes in Acadia National Park or wander through the charming streets of downtown. There are lots of ways to enjoy Bar Harbor that won’t cost much.
How to Get to Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor, nestled along Maine’s rugged coastline, is a gateway to Acadia National Park and a charming seaside escape. Whether you're traveling by air, car, bus, or ferry, there are multiple ways to reach this stunning destination. Here’s how to get to Bar Harbor, no matter where you're coming from.
Plane
The closest airport to Bar Harbor is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB), located just 10 miles away in Trenton, Maine. This small regional airport offers seasonal flights from Boston via Cape Air, making it a quick and convenient option. For more flight options, travelers can fly into Bangor International Airport (BGR), about 50 miles away, or Portland International Jetport (PWM), roughly 170 miles from Bar Harbor. Rental cars and shuttle services are available from both airports.
Train
While there is no direct train to Bar Harbor, travelers can take Amtrak’s Downeaster from Boston to Portland or Brunswick. From there, a rental car or bus is needed to complete the trip. While not the most direct route, this option allows for a relaxing train ride along Maine’s coastline before switching to road transportation.
Car
Driving to Bar Harbor allows for scenic coastal views and flexibility to explore Maine’s charming towns along the way. From Boston, it's about a 4.5-hour drive via I-95 North and Route 1A. If you're coming from Portland, Maine, expect a 3-hour drive, while Bangor is just a 1-hour drive away. Once in Bar Harbor, parking can be limited in peak season, so check for designated lots or use hotel parking when available.
Bus
For a budget-friendly option, Concord Coach Lines offers bus service from Boston to Bangor, where you can transfer to the Downeast Transportation shuttle or rent a car to complete the journey. During the summer season, the free Island Explorer shuttle also connects various points in and around Bar Harbor, making it easy to explore without a car.
Ferry
If you're traveling from Canada, the CAT Ferry provides seasonal service from Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, to Bar Harbor. This high-speed ferry shortens travel time and offers a unique, scenic journey across the Gulf of Maine. The ferry is a great alternative for visitors coming from the Maritime Provinces who want to combine their trip with an ocean adventure.
When I visited Bar Harbor, we drove from Upstate New York, which took about 10 hours. It was a long drive, but then we didn't have to worry about transportation. Additionally, having a car helped us with our travel around Acadia Park since we weren't interested in doing any long hikes but still wanted to see many sights.
For efficient route planning, cost evaluation, and consideration of various transportation methods, I often rely on Rome2rio. This invaluable tool provides comprehensive information, offering insights into possible route combinations and suggestions for strategic stops along the way, ensuring a tailored and well-informed travel experience. Link to Rome2rio
Where to Stay in Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor has many places to stay, catering to every type of traveler and budget. Whether you want a fancy hotel, a cozy inn, or a special camping spot, you'll find a friendly place to stay while you explore.
You can choose from the well-known Bar Harbor Inn, which looks out over the beautiful Mount Desert Narrows, as well as lovely bed and breakfasts and scenic campgrounds. In this charming coastal town, there is truly something for everyone.
From Luxe Hotels to Cozy Inns
For a bit of luxury, enjoy staying at one of the lovely hotels in Bar Harbor. You will get beautiful views of the water, great dining, and wonderful service. Some favorite options are the nice Bar Harbor Inn and the historic Balance Rock Inn.
If you want a more personal and charming stay, cozy inns and bed and breakfasts are a good choice. Places like the Ivy Manor Inn provide personal service, tasty breakfasts, and a warm atmosphere.
Camping Near Acadia: A Unique Experience
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area by camping in Acadia National Park or at local campgrounds. Fall asleep under the stars and wake up to the sounds of nature. Enjoy the peace of your surroundings.
Blackwoods Campground, Seawall Campground, and Schoodic Woods Campground are in Acadia National Park. They offer beautiful ocean views. You can also find campgrounds in nearby towns like Bass Harbor.
You can choose from tent camping, RV camping, or yurts. There are different camping options to match your style.
During my stay, we opted to choose a room at a cozy inn near the Downtown area so we could be within walking distance from many of the main attractions and shopping stops on our lists. However, we did visit during the off-season, so the price was lower. When choosing your accommodation, be sure to check out the reviews before booking.
Guides to Maine
Getting Around Bar Harbor, Maine
Car
For those who prefer driving, Bar Harbor offers public parking lots and street parking, though spaces fill up quickly in peak season. Having a car is useful for venturing beyond town to explore scenic spots like Cadillac Mountain, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, and Schoodic Peninsula.
Boat & Ferry
For a unique way to get around, several boat and ferry services connect Bar Harbor to neighboring islands and coastal towns. Options include the Cranberry Cove Ferry, Bar Harbor Whale Watch tours, and private charters, offering scenic and efficient water travel.
Bicycles
Cycling is a popular way to get around, especially with access to Acadia National Park's Carriage Roads—a 45-mile network of scenic, car-free trails. Several rental shops in town offer bikes, e-bikes, and gear for visitors who want to explore at their own pace.
Rideshares & Taxis
Traditional taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in Bar Harbor, though availability can be limited during peak travel times. Booking in advance for airport transfers or late-night rides is recommended.
Island Explorer Shuttle
The Island Explorer Shuttle is a free, eco-friendly bus service that connects Bar Harbor to key locations, including Acadia National Park, Sand Beach, Jordan Pond, and neighboring villages. Running seasonally from late spring to early fall, this is a convenient and sustainable way to explore without worrying about parking.
Walking
Bar Harbor is a pedestrian-friendly town, making walking one of the best ways to explore. The downtown area is compact, filled with charming shops, restaurants, and stunning waterfront views. Strolling along the Shore Path, a scenic coastal walkway, offers breathtaking sights of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands.
What to Do in Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is full of fun ways to have adventure, relax, and make great memories. The coastal town is truly a natural gem where visitors can immersive themselves in beautiful landscapes and literally take a breath of fresh air. Each spot gives you a chance to enjoy the charm of this coastal paradise.
Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain
Experience the stunning beauty of the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain. It is the highest point on the eastern seaboard. Located in Acadia National Park, Cadillac Mountain gives amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands around it.
Get there early to find a good spot for viewing. Watch the sky bright up with many colors as it turns a golden hue over the water and islands below. This moment is magical and unforgettable. It is something every visitor to Bar Harbor should do.
You need to make reservations to drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain during sunrise, so make your plans now. Be sure to check out my complete guide to the sunrise experience before you visit!
Downtown Bar Harbor
Spend an afternoon walking through the nice streets of downtown Bar Harbor. You can see the local culture and explore unique shops, art galleries, and fun souvenir stores. Stop at a local restaurant and enjoy a tasty lobster roll. You can also try a craft beer at Atlantic Brewing Company. If you have a sweet tooth, get some homemade blueberry pie at a cozy cafe.
While you explore, visit Agamont Park. This beautiful waterfront park has great views of Frenchman Bay. You can relax on a bench and take in the scenery. If you want, you can play tennis on the public courts.
Downtown Bar Harbor is a great place for relaxing, having fun, and enjoying the local charm.
Whale Watching
Embark on a memorable whale-watching trip. You can see these gentle giants up close and in the Gulf of Maine, home to many whale species. Here, you can find humpback whales, minke whales, and even sperm whales.
Many trusted tour companies run trips from Bar Harbor. They offer guided whale-watching tours with skilled naturalists. These experts share interesting facts about the whales and other sea life. This helps you learn more about these amazing creatures.
Remember to book your tour ahead of time, especially during the busy season. Also, don’t forget to take your camera to get stunning photos.
Acadia National Park
No trip to Bar Harbor is truly complete without a visit to Acadia National Park. Put on your hiking boots and explore the scenic trails. These trails will lead you to beautiful viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. Drive along the famous Park Loop Road, where you can see amazing ocean views. Be sure to stop at the many overlooks for some great photos.
Visit Jordan Pond, a calm glacial lake surrounded by mountains, or hike up Cadillac Mountain for fantastic views. With more than 120 miles of trails, you can find a path that suits any skill level.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Acadia National Park. Here, rugged coastlines meet peaceful forests, and you can often see wildlife.
Join a Lobster Bake
Enjoy a real New England tradition by booking a tasty lobster bake. You can enjoy the freshest seafood, including juicy lobster, steamed clams, and tasty corn on the cob.
Many restaurants and places in Bar Harbor provide authentic lobster bake experiences. You have many options, from laid-back outdoor spots to fancy dining rooms. Some even feature live music and beautiful waterfront views to make your meal even better.
Puffin and Lighthouse Cruise
Set off on a beautiful cruise to see puffins and lighthouses. Enjoy amazing views and get close to wildlife. Sail through scenic Frenchman Bay and admire the rocky shoreline with historic lighthouses scattered along the way. Watch out for the cheerful puffins. Their colorful beaks and playful behavior are a joy to see.
Knowledgeable guides share fun facts about the lighthouses and the marine life around you. This makes the trip both fun and informative. Don’t forget to bring your camera to snap pictures of the lovely lighthouses and the cute puffins.
This cruise is a wonderful way to enjoy the maritime history and natural beauty of Bar Harbor. Be sure to book your tickets in advance so you don't miss out on this experience!
Lobster Fishing and Seal Watching
Noticing a trend? Take a unique trip that mixes lobster fishing and seal watching. Experience the local life and the beauty of the Gulf of Maine. Come with a skilled lobsterman who will lift traps and explain the art of lobster fishing.
After the excitement of catching lobsters, enjoy a nice cruise along the coast. Look out for playful seals on rocks or swimming by the water. Your guide will help you learn about these interesting animals.
This trip is a great chance to connect with the local culture. You can see traditional fishing methods and wildlife in their home. Similar to the other experiences above, this one sells out fast so I highly recommend booking your tickets before your arrival.
Bar Island
At low tide, you can start a special journey to Bar Island. This small island is reachable by walking over a sandbar that appears when the water goes down. Enjoy a nice walk along the sandbar. You will find tide pools filled with sea life and enjoy great views of the harbor.
As you explore Bar Island, follow the trails that go to lookout points and quiet beaches. Bring a picnic lunch and choose a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the beauty around you.
Make sure to plan your visit for low tide so you can access Bar Island safely. You can check the tide charts online or at the town pier.
Kayak and Moose Spotting
Experience the calmness of Mount Desert Island's waters by kayaking on its peaceful ponds, rivers, and inlets. You can glide through the calm water and enjoy the stunning nature around you. Keep a lookout for a moose, as they often come to freshwater areas.
Kayaking gives you a special chance to see these impressive animals in the wild. Just remember to stay a safe distance away and admire them from far off.
There are many kayaking tours you can join. Some have guides who can show you around, while others let you explore on your own. Book your ticket in advance!
Sand Beach
Escape to Sand Beach. It is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach in Acadia National Park. You can take a swim in the Atlantic Ocean, relax on the soft sand, or enjoy the amazing views.
In the summer, Sand Beach is a great place for sunbathing, making sandcastles, or having a picnic lunch. Remember, the water can be cold, even in warmer weather.
With mountains and green plants around it, Sand Beach creates a lovely setting for a relaxing day.
Conclusion
Bar Harbor is full of exciting things to do. You can explore the lively downtown area or enjoy the peaceful Acadia National Park. There is something for everyone here. If you want luxury or prefer outdoor activities, Bar Harbor has it all. It’s important to plan your trip carefully. Think about the best time to visit and look for budget-friendly tips. Start your adventure by watching the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, go whale watching, or enjoy a lobster bake. Experience the wonders of Bar Harbor – book your trip today and create lasting memories! Use this travel guide to Bar Harbor to make the most of your visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Entry Fees for Acadia National Park?
Yes, Acadia National Park charges entry fees. You can buy a pass for a few days or get an annual pass if you want to visit multiple national parks. These fees help take care of and protect this beautiful park.
How Many Days are Recommended for a Bar Harbor Trip?
For a complete experience, you should spend 4 to 5 days in Bar Harbor. This time gives you enough opportunity to explore the town and Acadia National Park. But, you can adjust your plan to fit a shorter or longer visit.
What are Some Must-Try Local Foods in Bar Harbor?
No visit to Bar Harbor is complete without tasting a traditional lobster roll, especially with butter. You should also try some other local favorites. Fresh Maine blueberries are popular and can be enjoyed in many ways, like in a homemade blueberry pie. Don't forget to try the New England Clam Chowder too.
Travel Tip
If you're up for the spook, I highly recommend checking out one of the many ghost/haunted walking tours available. Bar Harbor is an old town with a lot of history... even I got spooked.
My Playlist for Bar Harbor, Maine
"Bar Harbor Down in Maine" by Traditional Artists
"The Reach" by Dan Fogelberg
"High on Maine" by Dobbs Productions
"Portland Town" by Schooner Fare
"Tombstone Every Mile" by Dick Curless
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