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Vacation time is for relaxation, fun, and creating memories, and that’s what you’ll get at Bar Harbor, Maine.
Despite being one of the country’s small towns, this picturesque township is now considered one of the best destinations for a summer vacation in New England, if not the entire United States. But is Bar Harbor, Maine worth visiting? And what is Bar Harbor, Maine, known for?
The charming seafront town is the entryway to the remarkable Acadia National Park, which spans a more significant part of Mount Desert Island. It’s also home to the College of the Atlantic, the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History, and Abbe Museum, where you can learn about the Wabanaki culture.
Furthermore, the town is known for its one-of-a-kind seafood joints, world-class watersports, and artisan shops just beyond the town limits.
As you can imagine, there are numerous things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine. This detailed travel guide will enlighten you on the town’s historical significance and the things you’ll enjoy doing on your visit.
Top Things to Do in Bar Harbor, Maine
Several fun activities will keep you coming back to this historical town after your first visit. Here are the things to do near Bar Harbor, Maine:
Go Hiking On Cadillac Mountain
The U.S. national park system ranks Acadia National Park as the fifth smallest in the country. However, it’s among the most visited thanks to its hiking opportunities.
The Cadillac Mountain summit is among New England’s most famous hikes, and you can easily tell why. A hike on this mountain can be among the unique things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine.
This spot stands at 1,530 feet above sea level to offer sweeping views of the park’s lush scenery and rugged Atlantic coastline.
It’s easy to get here via the Park Loop Road, which is 27 miles long and runs directly past the park’s best vistas. You can also drive straight to the summit.
Make Your Way Across the Northeast Harbor Village
When figuring out Bar Harbor Maine what to do, this activity should be among the top. You can also enjoy strolling through Northeast Harbor Village not too far from the main street, a historic summer reserve for the most affluent families in the U.S.
Here, you’ll get to view the quaint town’s ocean-facing mansions, tree-lined streets, and glamorous yachts at the harbor.
Notably, the exclusive community is walkable, and you’ll encounter chick boutiques and delicious restaurants. You’ll want to stop by a Bar Harbor Staple, Artisan Olive Oils and Vinegar, and Shaw Jewelry to pick locally made gifts and souvenirs.
Whale Watching on the Atlantic Ocean Waters
Bar Harbor whale watch is among the best things to do around Bar Harbor, Maine, in the summer. While the cold Northern Atlantic Ocean waters may hinder you from a leisurely swim, this is the ideal environment for whales, especially between April and October.
Pick your camera and head out to the ocean on a whale-watching cruise. A naturalist will help you spot humpback whales, dolphins, and sharks and dispense valuable information about their biology and migration patterns. You’ll also learn how to identify a blowhole sound that occurs right before the whale breaches the water.
Diver Ed’s Dive, a reputable boat tour agency, can help you with this.
Visit Asticou Azalea Garden
If you still want to spend more time in nature, then this 2.5-acre botanical paradise should be in your plans. Visiting this park will give you a glimpse of the look and feel of Japanese-themed gardens, and you’ll enjoy meditative lawns, zen surroundings, and the numerous native American and exotic azaleas species.
Besides the namesake florals, you’ll also encounter huge purple rhododendron bushes and pink cherry trees. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely outdoor walk, so be sure to confirm the blooming schedule to know the most brilliant flowers during your visit.
Notably, you can also visit Village Green for an almost similar and memorable experience.
Learn How to Lobster
Commercial fishing may comprise a more significant fraction of Bar Harbor’s economy, but independent fisheries still operate here. While here, take a thrilling sightsee onboard a traditional lobster boat and learn a new skill: catching lobster.
You’ll learn the several lobstering ins and outs from fishers as they make regular checks on their day’s traps. This is among the fun things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine, in summer.
After having enough fun for the day, you’ll sail back down the coast then get a traditional lobster bake from any waterfront restaurant you like. Here, you’ll try local cuisines like clam chowder, steamed lobster, classic blueberry pie, and mussels.
Porcupine Island Kayaking
You can also kayak around the Porcupine Islands, a dotted chain evergreen island archipelago, where you’ll interact with birdlife like puffins and seals during high or low tide. This can be the most scenic activity in Bar Harbor and a fun method of exploring the outdoors on the water.
The town has several kayak rental outfitters offering full gear and equipment and charging per hour. They also offer guided tours. They include:
- Acadia Outfitters
- National Park Sea Kayak Tours
- Coastal Kayak Tours Inc.
Take Pictures of the Thunder Hole
As you capture every moment and save memories, don’t fail to pass by the Thunder Hole. This is among the most scenic natural attraction on the region’s coastline, and you’ll capture the ocean swelling and water crashing against the granite rock walls before jetting out upward to create an unbeatable picture opportunity.
The spot is accessible on foot via the numerous hiking trails at Acadia National Park. You can also get there by car, and it’s ideal for taking the park shuttle bus to avoid parking worries.
Have A Good Time at Jordan Pond
Visit Jordan Pond to enjoy a classic New England day at sea. This is a motorboat-free zone located within Acadia National Park, hence perfect for leisurely fun in the water. You can rent canoes and kayaks or head out to encircle the lake through the hiking paths.
Of course, Jordan Pond House is the main draw at this famous pool. This restaurant has graced this spot for over 120 years and has maintained the daily practice of afternoon tea on the lawn overlooking Jordan Pond. Here, you can enjoy a fresh cup and several pastries under the sun while lounging on the grass.
Take a Culinary Walking Tour
Numerous culinary treats await you at Bar Harbor’s delectable eats. The best way to explore the cuisine is through a culinary walking tour.
For instance, Maine Foodie Tours has two walking tour packages. You’ll pay $84.95 for the standard walking tour package lasting about three hours.
On the other hand, the VIP package will cost you $109.00. This covers the typical walking tour alongside a Maine Foodie Exclusive Shopping Bag, featuring discounts for different attraction spots, a guide to three top lobster rolls, and everything you require to prepare your lobster.
Play Mini-Golf
Bar Harbor is home to Pirate’s Cove Adventure, the only mini-golf course where you can enjoy some leisurely golf games. This course is perfect for family fun, thanks to its pirated theme obstacles. Be cautious not to hit your ball into any of the course’s waterfalls!
Explore Acadia National Park on a Horse-Drawn Carriage
This is among the most romantic things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine. The sweeping vistas and lush greenery in Acadia National Park are perfectly romantic on their own, but if you’re planning something extra special for two, then consider renting a private carriage ride departing from Wildwood Stables then around the park. Ensure you schedule this unique tour in advance.
A public carriage ride is also ideal, especially if you’re interested in comfortably learning the town’s and park’s history through the carriage roads. Choose from several routes and tours taking you around the park’s key landmarks, including historical buildings and bridges dotting the area.
The national park has many areas to explore, including the famous Otter Cliff and the Schoodic Peninsula.
Take a Walk Along the Shore Path
Those visiting town of Bar Harbor, Maine, via cruise ship are better off because the port is only a few meters from the Shore Path, one of the country’s most beautiful walks.
The 1.5 miles long trail runs along the coastlines throughout its eternity. It’s wheelchair-friendly and accessible for visitors seeking easy ways to spend several hours in the sun and enjoy ice cream.
As you walk, you’ll enjoy views of porcupine islands, Bar Island, and Maine’s Winter harbor. A scenic stroll will make you realize why this is among the region’s most popular areas.
Notably, you’d get the same experience when you take a walk along Land Bridge during low tide.
Learn About the Historic Lighthouses
The jagged and dramatic coastlines surrounding Bar Harbor are among the main reasons why visitors keep coming back. But a century before, this coastline posed substantial maritime navigation challenges. The State of Maine and the U.S. Bureau of Lighthouses built lighthouses to aid safe and straightforward navigation, and most are available to date.
Board a lighthouse cruise to explore the different islands of the Bar Harbor coast and learn the history of the region’s lighthouses and fascinating tales of women and men who operated them. Egg Rock Lighthouse is arguably the most popular among the rest.
Try the Ghost Tour
Bar Harbor has a centuries-long history with a spookier side, and signing up for an eerie ghost tour is a memorable way to explore it. A ghost tour typically begins at around 8 PM in the summer months. It takes you through the downtown section, where you’ll stop by the supposedly haunted buildings like the Harborside Marina or Criterion theatre.
Be sure to avoid being spooked while listening to the historical interpreter’s scary tales about the region’s less famous history under the moonlight.
Spice Your Vacation with World-Class Accommodation
While Bar Harbor Maine things to do may require your attention, where you choose to stay when you visit Bar Harbor will significantly contribute to your experience.
For instance, you must maintain proximity to the places of interest, and you want a location with a continuous internet connection. You also want to sleep in quality rooms with modern amenities sufficient for you, your team, or your entire family as you explore downtown Bar Harbor and other family-friendly places of interest.
This is what we offer, so don’t hesitate to book your stay with us in advance. Contact us if you have questions.
