Visitors to Acadia National Park prefer to stay in Bar Harbor, a charming outpost on Mount Desert Island. This city is a hotspot for summer tourism, with crowded streets and sidewalks, tourist stores, and ice-cream stands. Yet there are also quaint old houses, hip shops, posh eateries, and its primary draw, the glittering Frenchman Bay. There are plenty of enjoyable things to do in Bar Harbor.
Plan your visit for right after Labor Day if you want to take in the area in a more serene atmosphere. At this moment, the wonderful weather is still present, and while many tourists have returned home, stores and restaurants are still open. If you're looking for discounts, this early fall sweet spot is also the greatest time to explore Bar Harbor, Maine.
There are numerous attractions available in this alluring location, including museums, lighthouses, and the unmatched beauty of Acadia, so there is never a lack of things to do. You'll want to spend the most of your time visiting Mother Nature's most breathtaking outdoor sights, so bring comfortable walking shoes.
See our list of the top attractions and things to do in Bar Harbor for suggestions on where to go.
1.Investigate Acadia National Park.
The bulk of tourists utilize Bar Harbor as their starting point while going to Acadia National Park. This amazing park shows nature at its finest and is unquestionably the best location to visit in Maine. Some of the most stunning landscape in the North East may be found in Acadia, which is home to lush forests, rocky, unforgiving coasts, glittering ponds, and towering mountains. It makes sense why it has been named one of Bar Harbor's top attractions.
Biking, hiking, and traveling on the picturesque ancient carriage routes are some of the best activities to do in this area. Other well-liked pastimes include boating, swimming, and fishing. Wildlife abounds in the park and begs to be observed. We bet you find it impossible to resist taking pictures.
Insider advice: Bring a picnic because it will be difficult to find concessions inside the park, and schedule at least two days (preferably four) to take advantage of everything the park has to offer.
2. Navigate the Frenchman Bay area
Frenchman Bay's sparkling waters make it simple to fall in love there. Lovers wander along its banks, take boat rides along its water, and have meals at establishments with floor-to-ceiling windows that enhance the vistas of this top Bar Harbor tourist destination.
Families are also avid followers. Take a boat tour, go fishing, go swimming, waterskiing, or stand-up paddleboarding.
The nicest views can be had by strolling along the Bar Harbor Pier, exploring the Shore Walk, unwinding in Agamont Park, or hiking (or taking a car up Cadillac Mountain). Wherever you decide to visit, the scenic reward is well worth the trip to this popular Bar Harbor site.
3. Ascend Cadillac Mountain
It's difficult to top the high you get from climbing Cadillac Mountain. One of the top attractions in Bar Harbor, this 1,530-foot masterpiece gives the most breathtaking views of Acadia National Park and Frenchman Bay. This region is the first in the country to see the sunrise from the beginning of October until the beginning of March. On a clear day, Mount Kathadin is visible across the way.
Insider's knowledge: Even in the early morning hours, there may be crowds at the mountain's summit due to the fame of the breathtaking views. The parking lot fills up quickly, so the earlier you arrive, the better. Also, it can get chilly up here, so bring plenty of warm garments.
4. go to Bar Island via the Land Bridge.
For a chance to witness the land bridge to Bar Island, your visit must be ideally timed. At low tide, a rocky land "bridge" spanning the distance from Bar Harbor (at Bridge Street) to the western tip of Bar Island appears. It then vanishes after about three hours.
Visitors will be able to simply ride, walk, or even drive across the bridge after it is erected in order to access the rocky and forested beauties. Hikers who want to climb the island's highest peak, where they can see Bar Harbor and Frenchman Bay in all their glory, must travel a mile of trail. One of the best things to do in Bar Harbor is without a doubt crossing the bridge at low tide.
Insider's advice: Plan your travel back in time unless you're willing to linger on the island until the next low tide. Moreover, carry a cell phone in case you get lost.
5. Abbe Museum
The first Abbe Museum (then known as Sieur de Monts Spring) first opened its doors in 1928 with a mission to honor the Wabanki people. The museum, which is still situated by a trail in Acadia National Park, offers intriguing, interactive exhibits and educational activities that highlight the local people's art, history, and culture.
The second, more modern facility of the museum opened in downtown Bar Harbor in 2013. The original structure was much smaller than its more vibrant location, which hosts several workshops and special events honoring the Wabakani culture. Even archaeology classes are available. In the off-season, which runs from October to May, both places close.
Don't miss the Indian Market, which takes place over one weekend in mid-May, according to insider advice. Custom jewelry, delicious delicacies, and amazing works of art are all available for purchase. The museum's Native American Festival, which takes place in July, features additional native artwork, music, and cuisine.
6. Bar Harbor Town Pier
The town's bustling hub is the pier in Bar Harbor. In addition, it serves as the backdrop for countless tourist pictures. The charming structures and bobbing vessels make every photograph a success, regardless of whether you're taking it from a shaky boat or with your feet firmly placed on solid ground.
From this pier, a number of routes tempt passengers of cruise ships to explore the lovely beachfront through the Shore Trail, travel to the town's principal stores and eateries on a track that runs towards Main Street, or unwind in Agamont Park.
One of the nicest spots to visit in Bar Harbor is this significant jetty, where you can find everything you need, from tacky T-shirts to dining options and scenic water views.
7. Visit Agamont Park to relax.
Agamont Park's breathtaking view is the primary draw. Frenchman Bay beckons you to start taking pictures since it appears to go on forever. On a clear day, Bar Island and the Porcupine Islands are visible.
It's simple to observe people from this grassy high spot. Straight ahead lies the Town Pier, which is continuously being filled and emptied with guests from cruise ships.
Want to unwind? Get a coffee from a local cafe, then take a seat on the park's benches or the lawn itself. Seeing the fishing and sailing boats slowly approach and go from this location is a wonderful way to unwind.
Secret: The park provides simple access to the half-mile Shore Walk, which skirts the rocky beach and affords unrivaled views of the Sheep Porcupine Island.
8. Chat with Community Members on the Village Green
The vibrant Village Green serves as Bar Harbor's beating heart. The Green is the place to be if you want to interact with an unusual mix of locals and visitors. It is home to the ancient town clock and hosts many of the town's outdoor concerts and festivals (such as the Art Festival).
For extended stays, park benches are available. Instead, verdant grass is ideal for an unplanned picnic provided by a neighboring restaurant or café. Do you need to catch up on some work? In this stunning location, which offers a free Wi-Fi hotspot, it is simple to do so.
Insider's knowledge: Throughout July and the majority of August, the Bar Harbor Town Band gives free concerts here twice a week on average. They relocate to the Bar Harbor Congregational Church when the weather is poor.
9. Canoe across Jordan Pond.
The ideal season to see Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park is summer. This glacier-formed tarn, often known as a little alpine lake, has clear, translucent water that is both stunning and pure. One of the nicest things to do in Bar Harbor is to take some time to view this wonder.
Even though you'll be tempted to dive in, you won't be able to swim here. Instead, get in a kayak or canoe and spend some time on the water. Or you may walk the approximately three-mile, occasionally difficult track that circles the pond on land. Put on appropriate footwear because there are some really rocky areas.
Observer advice: Plan a meal at Jordan Pond House; you'll be happy you did. Make sure to order tea and a popover as Nellie McIntire, the restaurant's initial proprietor in 1893, introduced this popular dessert to the world. Make a reservation in advance if you want to eat at this distinctive lakeside resort because it is very popular.
10. George B. Dorr Natural History Museum
One of the top attractions in Bar Harbor for families is the George B. Door Museum of Natural History. This unusual museum, which is a manageable size, honors the wild life found in Maine. There is a lot to see (and appreciate) in this compact area, from engaging dioramas to a hands-on tide pool aquarium with live hermit crabs and sea stars.
The majority of the museum's employees are College of the Atlantic students who also build the detailed dioramas and lead visitors on scavenger hunts. Both children and adults are welcome to touch the displayed whale skulls, furs, and bones. Some might even be requested to put together a minke whale's skeleton.
11. Tour the Schoodic Peninsula by bicycle or on foot.
The magnificent Schoodic Peninsula, one of Acadia National Park's most majestic locations, is home to stunning granite headlands, charming lighthouses, and heavily forested areas alive with animals. To fully take in this natural treasure, rent a bike in town or put on your hiking boots.
There are many routes to select from, including the short and easy Alder Trail, the medium East Trail, and the short and easy Schoodic Head Trail (0.6 miles). All of these provide breathtaking views and an incredibly peaceful environment.
Secret tip: For a tour of the Schoodic Peninsula, leave the car at home and board one of the free Island Explorer buses, which run on Mount Desert Island from June through mid-October and on the Schoodic Peninsula from late May through mid-October. They offer a simple way to travel to the park because they are equipped with bike racks.
12. Take a Lovely Cruise on a Tall Ship.
The greatest option for visiting several of Bar Harbor's top sights in a distinctive and beautiful setting is a two-hour tall ship cruise from Bar Harbor. This exciting excursion for children and couples gives guests the chance to experience Acadia National Park from a whole new perspective: the ocean. It is a serene and pleasurable round-trip cruise.
You won't have to worry about elbowing others for the best view because each boat is limited to 15 passengers.
This isn't the ideal choice if you're looking for an action-packed, fully narrated boat excursion. Here, the staff is welcoming and informed, but they usually let you enjoy the peaceful voyage rather than continuously yelling out information.
The sole decider? Booking a day with the best weather is necessary because the tour will be canceled if a storm is forecast. Moreover, since it can feel chilly on the water, we'd suggest bringing a sweatshirt.
13. Take a Cruise to See Egg Rock Light Up Close.
Just six miles south of Bar Harbor, in the vicinity of Winter Harbor, is the stunning Egg Rock Light. One of Bar Harbor's greatest attractions, Egg Rock is situated on the 12.5-acre rock near the southern entrance to Frenchman Bay. The best vantage point is from the ocean.
Cool to experience the lead up activities for Independence Day for the US in Bar Harbor, Maine (beauty spot, awesome craft beer scene). Loved seeing the boats and signs like this in the windows too. Happy 4th of July all. pic.twitter.com/wi5jIKjc6s
— Jody Jeffrey (@jodyjeffrey) July 3, 2019
The 1875-built Egg Rock Light is positioned atop a hill that is slightly set back from the rocky shore. A wooden home constructed at the same time to accommodate the lighthouse keeper is its next-door neighbor. Further alterations were made over time, such as the construction of a fog signal house, boathouse, generator house, and oil house.
This beautiful building can only be accessed by boat, and the inside is not accessible to the general public. If you don't like boats, climb Cadillac Mountain for a breathtaking view by hiking or driving there.
14. Catch a Performance at the Criterion Theater
Visit the magnificent Criterion Theater to travel back in time. First opening its doors in 1932, this Art Deco marvel invited guests to listen to music that was so lovely it would help them forget their troubles. The Criteria, which describes itself as a "non-profit performing arts theater, cinema, and community meeting space," has now undergone substantial restorations to maintain its extraordinary heritage and inspirational architecture.
These days, people of all ages are welcome to enjoy the remarkable venue's numerous programs and breathtaking performances. There is plenty for everyone to enjoy, from performances by well-known musicians like David Crosby to screenings of the Star Wars movies on a giant screen.
15. Hear the Thunder Hole Waves Crashing
Thunder Hole is probably audible before it is seen. The sound of water crashing through the hole's little chamber is unquestionably "thunderous." The water can occasionally shoot up to 40 feet in the air. If you're brave enough to walk along the way to the cavern's head, be prepared to get soaked. At this popular Bar Harbor attraction, the ground can become quite slick, so if you do walk out, cling onto the handrails.
Visitors to this unusual "hole" are rewarded with some of the best vistas in the area in addition to its unrivaled beauty. On a clear day, you may view the stunning Schoodic Peninsula, while Otter Cliff and Sand Beach are nearby attractions.
Take the three-mile (round-trip) Ocean Walk from the upper Sand Beach parking lot to make the most of this region of exceptional natural beauty. On your route to Otter Cliff, you'll pass Thunder Hole. It is also accessible via Park Loop Road.
16. See Bald Porcupine Island up close.
Bald Porcupine Island is one of several Porcupine Islands with equally intriguing names that may be found in Frenchman Bay, between the Schoodic Peninsula and Mount Desert Island (i.e. Long Porcupine Island and Sheep Porcupine Island). This lovely island is actually a part of Acadia National Park and is located in Gouldsboro, Maine.
The 32 acres of this densely forested island, which is located a bit southeast of Bar Harbor, are almost entirely covered in prickly tips. Its major trees are mature spruce firs and other gorgeous deciduous trees, whose backs mimic that of porcupines.
The greatest way to explore the island is from a boat, so while you're there, make plans to take a trip. On a clear day, you can see it from Cadillac Mountain's peak as well. Visitors may see the distinctive breakwater that spans the region and guards the harbor and passing ships from this vantage point.
Note: While the bald eagles and other birds are breeding, no people are allowed on the area (between about mid-February and the end of August).
17. Take in the St. Saviour's Church's stained-glass windows
The Episcopal St. Saviour's Church is a Gothic reminder of Bar Harbor's colorful past and is well worth a visit. The church's magnificent Tiffany stained-glass windows, which were erected in the early 20th century, are its most recognizable features. It is within a short distance from the busy Main Street. The actual church was under construction from 1876 until 1938 (with a few gaps in between).
The only natural light coming from the renowned Tiffany windows illuminates the interior of the church, which is quite dark. The roof is supported by broad, wooden beams, while the floor and pews are made of dark wood. There is a historic cemetery outside (the Burying Ground).
Insider's knowledge: During the tourist season, guided excursions are available on Sundays at 11:15. (June through October). Other than that, their doors are generally always open to anyone who wants to worship, ponder, or take a self-guided tour.