Between juggling work, kids, and life’s endless to-do lists, we’re all overdue for a vacation at some point. If the word “relaxation” barely penetrates your brain these days, then my friend, this travel guide is for you. What if we told you there was an idyllic coastal village hidden away in Maine that could instantly transport you decades into the past?
Where the biggest dilemma of your day is choosing between a hike in a nearby national park or slurping up world-famous lobster while gazing out into the Atlantic? Sound like the stuff of fuzzy daydreams? Welcome to Bar Harbor, amigo. This quaint New England respite has been luring worn-out wanderers for over a century with its seaside serenity, rich history and culture, and access to some of the East Coast’s most stunning natural landscapes and national parks.
Don’t mistake Ye Olde’s historic brick facades for old-fashioned boredom though. While you’ll definitely catch a nostalgic vintage vibe wandering around downtown Bar Harbor, you can also enjoy plenty of comforts and conveniences for us 21st-century folks. If you think “peering at old stuff” isn’t your speed, just wait until you experience the adventures waiting in nearby Acadia National Park.
Nestled against the Atlantic Ocean and encompassing over 45,000 acres of towering sea cliffs, lush forests, and breathtaking views, Acadia offers unlimited opportunities to enjoy that national park namesake – exploration. From mountains to sea caves and everywhere in between, you’ll find enough trails, pathways, and excursions to meet every level of outdoor enthusiast.
About Bar Harbor
If you’re looking for a scenic, coastal Maine vacation, you should consider visiting the town of Bar Harbor, Maine. This scenic town sits along Frenchman Bay and serves as a gateway to Acadia National Park. Cadillac Mountain towers over the bay and offers views and hiking trails to enjoy the natural beauty. In addition, the town’s Sand Beach is surrounded by mountains and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy throughout the year. You can go hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. You can also enjoy a concert in the park on Mondays and Thursdays. If you’re interested in history, there are a number of historical reenactors who lead walking tours of the town and provide interesting facts about the town’s past.
While the area is best known for its outdoor recreation, Bar Harbor offers a number of cultural landmarks, historic buildings, and small museums. The town also has accommodations for every budget, from historic inns to modern luxury hotels. The town has a long history as a popular vacation spot. Before Europeans arrived, the area was home to the Wabanaki people, who lived on the land for thousands of years. They still play an important role in the area and are an important part of its history.
Why Go to Bar Harbor
If you’re looking for a getaway with a unique and memorable experience, then Bar Harbor, Maine, is the place to go. The town is nestled on the shores of Frenchman’s Bay and is the gateway to Acadia National Park. It boasts award-winning dining and accommodations and has long been one of the nation’s favorite vacation destinations.
In addition to its stunning views, Bar Harbor is home to many small islands, including Porcupine Island and Egg Rock. Many celebrities have vacationed in the town. You can also take a boat tour of the area or explore the harbor on foot. And if you’re interested in shopping, you’ll find a wide selection of jewelry, gifts, and accessories at various shops.
Whale watchers will enjoy the area’s waters, which are perfect for the mammals. From April to October, whales frequently visit the coast of Maine. Minke, finback, and humpback whales are all common sights. Make sure you listen out for their blowholes and bring a camera if you’re able.
Best Time to Go
August is the busiest month for Bar Harbor. It’s also the most popular month for visiting Acadia National Park. Many families will visit Acadia during their August vacation, so the area can be overrun with traffic, crowds, and parking frustrations. The best time to visit Bar Harbor is when it’s less crowded.
You’ll also find fewer tourists in Bar Harbor during the shoulder or off-season. The temperatures are typically in the 60s during this time, so you’ll have more sunny days to spend outdoors. However, the weather can be a little erratic, so expect rain and fog in April and May. Summer is the season most associated with trips to Maine, and there are 250,000 visitors in May and 500,000 during June, with upwards of 760,000 visitors during July and August. In summer, the weather in Bar Harbor is pleasant and long, and the days are warm and sunny.
While summer and fall are the busiest times, the fall is also a great time to visit Bar Harbor if you’re a nature lover. In addition to great weather, autumn foliage makes for a spectacular display. Early October is the best time to see peak foliage.
How to Get Around
There are several ways to get around Bar Harbor, including driving, public transportation, and walking. If you’re traveling from afar, Boston Logan International Airport is the nearest airport. You can drive from Portland to Bar Harbor, which is about a three-hour drive, or you can fly into Boston and then take a train or bus. Whether you’re arriving by air or by car, make sure to plan your trip accordingly.
You can also take the free Bar Harbor shuttle, which is available to passengers arriving at the town’s airport. Otherwise, you can also use a taxi service. Although Uber is unlikely to work in Bar Harbor, there are several reputable cab companies that provide affordable and reliable rides. Ultimately, though, it’s best to drive yourself around Mount Desert Island.
Getting around Bar Harbor by car is the easiest way to enjoy the scenic coastline and the many attractions. You can also take a stroll along the historic Shore Path, which is an elevated boardwalk that offers picturesque views of the rocky coast.
Best Restaurants
Although Bar Harbor is a small town, it doesn’t lack for incredible dining options. The summer months are when the local food scene really comes to life. You can choose from a wide selection of savory and sweet options. From traditional pub food to more modern cuisine, you’re sure to find something you’ll love.
If you’re looking for upscale fare, you should try Galyn’s Café, a former boarding house. The restaurant serves locally sourced seafood, and has a long drink menu. It’s also known for having some of the best lobster in Bar Harbor. It also serves heart healthy fare and has a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian options. And if you’re just looking for something a little more casual, there are a number of pubs, cafes, and breweries to choose from.
Geddy’s is one of the most popular local spots in Bar Harbor. This family-owned restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and also has curbside pick-up. It’s a local favorite and is open year-round for breakfast and lunch. The restaurant’s blueberry pancakes and muffins are famous throughout the region.
Things to Do
One of the many things to do in Bar Harbor is visit the local museum. This tiny museum celebrates the natural life of Maine and has a tidal pool tank filled with live animals. It also features fascinating dioramas. You can also participate in a scavenger hunt to help you learn more about local creatures and their habitats.
Alternatively, you can take a leisurely walk along the Bar Harbor Shore Path. This one-and-a-half-mile path is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, making it a great option for all types of travelers. Another great way to enjoy the coastal scenery is to rent a bike and ride around town.
If you’re visiting Bar Harbor during the fall, make sure to spend some time on Main Street, where you’ll find plenty of great restaurants and cafes. The waterfront is also filled with local shops and boutiques. If you’d like to purchase a local souvenir, you can also stop by Shaw Jewelry. Commercial fishing is a big part of the local economy, and many independent fishers still operate their boats in this region. Lobster tours are available on traditional lobster boats, and many of these tours include a marine biologist onboard.
Neighborhoods to Know
If you’re looking for a charming waterfront town in Maine, Bar Harbor is the place to be. The town sits along Frenchman Bay on Mount Desert Island, and is the gateway to Acadia National Park. You’ll find a secluded beach ringed by mountains, plus the city offers a multitude of scenic trails for hiking. Along the bay, you’ll find the Shore Path, which winds along the bay and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.
The town is divided into neighborhoods. The main downtown district is home to many great shops and restaurants, and there are frequent transportation links to Acadia National Park. For the most affordable lodging options in Bar Harbor, you may want to consider the Northeast Harbor, Eastern Bay, and Southwest Harbor neighborhoods. However, you may find it more convenient to stay in a different neighborhood if you’re traveling alone.
If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the town center, you’ll want to stay in the Eastern Bay neighborhood. This area has the best of both worlds: nature and history. You’ll also find plenty of rental apartments, B&Bs, and budget hotels.
Weather
The average temperature in Bar Harbor is 51.8°F, but the daily temperature can vary significantly. Because Bar Harbor is located near a large body of water, the average water temperature is prone to seasonal variations. In October, the daily temperature will be cooler than usual because the sea breeze will be stronger than usual.
The amount of precipitation in Bar Harbor varies throughout the year, but the two most common types are rain and snow. The shortest day of the year is December 21, while the longest is June 21. During these months, there are 15.3 hours of daylight. There are highs and lows in both categories, but the average number of days with precipitation is higher in June.
The weather in Bar Harbor, ME can vary from one month to the next, but it is best to visit during the summer when temperatures are warmer. Fall is also a great time to enjoy the fall colors, when the temperature is in the 70s during the day and drops to the 30s and 40s at night. The wettest month is November, with an average rainfall of 6.42 inches.
