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Bar Harbor

Gateway to Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor is a popular destination for visitors to Acadia National Park. As the largest town center on the Island, Bar Harbor has diverse shops, restaurants, galleries, hotels and B&Bs, as well as many community facilities. MDI Hospital, world-famous Jackson Laboratory, and the MDI YMCA are loctated in Bar Harbor. Nearby are numerous beaches, lakes, ponds, and mountains, as well as the hiking, biking, and carriage trails of Acadia National Park. From the Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, Bar Harbor is approximately 14 miles via Route 3. Bangor International Airport is about a 60 minute trip from Bar Harbor.

  1. Acadia National Park: While technically not in Bar Harbor, the park’s entrance is located just a short drive away. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hiking trails, and stunning vistas like Cadillac Mountain.
  2. Bar Harbor Shore Path: A beautiful, easy walking trail that runs along the waterfront, offering picturesque views of Frenchman Bay and access to the shoreline. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, especially at sunrise or sunset.
  3. Downtown Bar Harbor: The town itself is filled with shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes. You can find unique local crafts, souvenirs, and fresh seafood.
  4. Whale Watching Tours: Numerous companies offer boat tours that provide the chance to see whales, seals, and other marine wildlife in the waters off Mount Desert Island.
  5. Ocean Drive: A scenic loop offering stunning views of the coastline and the chance to stop at various overlooks. It’s particularly beautiful at sunset.
  6. Jordan Pond: Located within Acadia National Park, it’s famous for its clear water, picturesque setting, and the iconic Bubble Mountains. The Jordan Pond House serves popovers and tea, making it a popular dining spot.
  7. Cadillac Mountain: The highest point on the East Coast, Cadillac Mountain offers breathtaking views and is especially famous for being one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise.
  8. Abbe Museum: Dedicated to the history and culture of the Wabanaki nations, the museum features exhibits on Native American artifacts and contemporary issues facing Indigenous peoples.
  9. Bar Harbor Historical Society: A small but informative museum that showcases the history of Bar Harbor and its development as a summer resort destination in the 19th century.
  10. Mount Desert Island Historical Society: Offers insights into the history of the region, including its role in shipbuilding and the fishing industry.
  11. Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the myriad of coastal coves and nearby islands by renting a kayak or canoe, or join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.
  12. Biking: The park’s carriage roads make for great biking trails, and there are rental shops in Bar Harbor if you don’t have your own bike.
  13. Local Festivals: Bar Harbor hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the Bar Harbor Music Festival, the Great Maine Lumberjack Show, and various food and arts fairs.

With its beautiful coastal scenery and access to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it an appealing destination for visitors.

 

Villages within the town of  Bar Harbor:

Hulls Cove is located along Route 3, just five minutes from downtown Bar Harbor. The cove provides an easterly view of the ocean over Frenchman Bay. The Hulls Cove Visitor Center is the main entrance to Acadia National Park.

Otter Creek (part of which is in the town of Mount Desert) is less than 10 minutes from downtown Bar Harbor and is located just off of the Park Loop Road from Seal Harbor and Otter Cliffs. The village is a short walking distance to Blackwoods Campground and various Acadia National Park hiking trails up the South Ridge of Cadillac and Day Mountains.

Salisbury Cove is a small village in Bar Harbor and is home to the Mount Desert Island Biological Lab. Loons, laughing gulls, harbor seals, and bald eagles linger in this peaceful spot. A public beach is located near Hadley Point Road for all to enjoy.

Town Hill is a small village within the larger town of Bar Harbor. It is centrally located, near the head of Mount Desert Island; all of the island’s towns and Acadia National Park are readily accessible. Town Hill boasts Salisbury Farms, EBS Building Supplies, Mother’s Kitchen, Town Hill Market, and a fabulous Bistro.

 

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