Bar Harbor MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bar Harbor, Maine.
1. Acadia National Park
MAINE'S NATURAL TREASURE
Acadia National Park offers challenging trails through diverse terrains with panoramic vistas alongside scenic drives to iconic peaks. Visitors can experience serene beaches rich in natural beauty throughout the 47,000-acre recreation area. The park features Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast, providing breathtaking sunrise views.
2. Mount Desert Island
ISLAND PARADISE GETAWAY
Mount Desert Island is home to Acadia National Park and features sweeping cliffs and mountains offering visitors numerous recreational activities. The island boasts beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and biking paths that showcase Maine's natural beauty. Visitors can explore charming coastal communities like Bar Harbor while enjoying the unique island atmosphere.
3. Schoodic Peninsula
COASTAL SCENIC HAVEN
Schoodic Peninsula is a coastal enclave in Acadia National Park with serene landscapes for hiking, biking, and tide pool exploration. This family-friendly destination offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Desert Island across the bay. Nearby dining options and camping facilities make it ideal for day trips or extended stays.
4. Land Bridge to Bar Island
TIDAL PATH ADVENTURE
The Land Bridge to Bar Island is a natural phenomenon that appears only during low tide, creating a walkable path between Bar Harbor and Bar Island. Visitors must time their crossing carefully, as the path is submerged during high tide, creating a unique adventure. Once on Bar Island, explorers can enjoy hiking trails and panoramic views of Bar Harbor and the surrounding coastline.
5. Ocean Trail
COASTAL WALKING PATH
Ocean Trail offers spectacular views of the rugged Maine coastline with easy access from downtown Bar Harbor. The trail winds along the shoreline, passing by famous landmarks such as Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff. Hikers of all skill levels can enjoy this relatively flat path while witnessing the powerful Atlantic Ocean crash against Maine's iconic rocky coast.
6. Shore Path
HISTORIC WATERFRONT WALK
Shore Path is a scenic walking route that has been enjoyed by visitors to Bar Harbor since the 1880s. The path offers stunning views of Frenchman Bay, the Porcupine Islands, and passing boats with convenient access from downtown. Historic mansions and beautiful gardens line portions of the path, providing glimpses into Bar Harbor's gilded age history.
7. Thunder Hole
NATURE'S THUNDEROUS DISPLAY
Thunder Hole is a natural rock formation along the Acadia coastline where waves crash into a narrow inlet, creating a thunderous boom and spectacular water displays. The best viewing times are approximately 2 hours before high tide when conditions are right for maximum effect. Visitors can access this popular attraction via the Park Loop Road or by hiking the Ocean Trail.
8. Frenchman Bay
SCENIC HARBOR WATERS
Frenchman Bay provides a stunning backdrop to Bar Harbor with its sparkling waters dotted with the Porcupine Islands. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, kayaking, and whale-watching excursions departing from the town pier. The bay's protected waters create ideal conditions for sailing and other water activities while offering spectacular views of Acadia's mountains meeting the sea.
9. Oli's Trolley Tours
NARRATED SIGHTSEEING EXPERIENCE
Oli's Trolley Tours provides narrated sightseeing excursions of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park in distinctive orange and green trolleys. The tours offer informative commentary about the region's history, geology, and wildlife while stopping at key attractions. Visitors appreciate the convenience of seeing major highlights without the hassle of navigating or finding parking in the busy park.
10. Down East Deli
AUTHENTIC MAINE CUISINE
Down East Deli serves up traditional Maine fare, including their famous lobster rolls made with fresh, locally-caught seafood. The casual eatery provides a taste of authentic New England cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking a break from exploring Bar Harbor's many attractions.
11. Atlantic Brewing Company
LOCAL CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Atlantic Brewing Company crafts distinctive beers inspired by the flavors and spirit of coastal Maine. Visitors can tour the brewery to learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of handcrafted ales and lagers. The company's tasting room offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy local brews after a day of exploring Acadia National Park.
12. Bar Harbor Historical Society
TOWN'S RICH PAST
The Bar Harbor Historical Society preserves and displays artifacts and photographs chronicling the area's fascinating past from Native American heritage through the Gilded Age. Exhibits showcase the devastating fire of 1947 that changed the face of Bar Harbor forever and the town's evolution as a premier tourist destination. Visitors gain insight into how this small coastal community became one of America's most beloved vacation spots.
13. Agamont Park
WATERFRONT GREEN SPACE
Agamont Park offers a peaceful green space overlooking the harbor with magnificent views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands. The centrally located park features benches, landscaped gardens, and a playground, making it perfect for relaxation or picnics. Visitors often gather here to watch boats in the harbor or enjoy the spectacular sunsets over the water.
14. Bar Harbor Shopping District
CHARMING DOWNTOWN BOUTIQUES
Bar Harbor's Shopping District offers a delightful collection of locally-owned boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops along Main Street and the surrounding downtown area. Visitors can browse for Maine-made products, artwork, clothing, and souvenirs while enjoying the charming coastal town atmosphere. The pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to explore the various shops before or after visiting nearby attractions.
15. Jordan Pond House
HISTORIC PARK DINING
Jordan Pond House is a historic restaurant in Acadia National Park famous for its traditional afternoon tea and popovers served since the 1890s. Diners enjoy spectacular views of Jordan Pond and the rounded mountains known as the Bubbles while dining on the lawn or inside the restaurant. The location serves as both a dining destination and a starting point for several scenic hiking trails around Jordan Pond.