(A Local’s Guide for 2026)
Bar Harbor, Maine, is one of those places that grabs you and doesn’t let go. I’ve been coming to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park for years, but in 2025 Brian and I took it to the next level: we parked Betty (our RV) nearby and spent six months living and working in the area. Six months of exploring this town and the surrounding coastline with Loki, Freya, and Caly means I didn’t just visit Bar Harbor. I lived it. And now I’m sharing everything – every sunrise, every lobster roll, every hidden trail, and every boat tour that made me fall even harder for this place.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Bar Harbor or your fifteenth, whether you’re coming in the summer or chasing fall foliage in October, this is the guide I wish I’d had years ago. These are the best things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine, from someone who knows every corner of this town.
One big thing to know before we dive in: Bar Harbor is largely seasonal. Most businesses and tours operate from May through October, and activity slows significantly in the off-season. I’ve noted seasonal availability throughout this guide so you can plan accordingly.
Planning your trip to Bar Harbor and Acadia? Don’t miss these guides:
Sunrise At Acadia National Park
Is Acadia National Park Dog Friendly?
5 Can’t-Miss Dog-Friendly Hikes At Acadia
The Foodie’s Guide to Bar Harbor
Camden, Maine: A Charming Coastal Town
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18 Best Things To Do In Bar Harbor
1. Explore Acadia National Park
I mean, this one’s obvious, but I’d be doing you a disservice if I didn’t start here. Acadia National Park is the reason most people come to Bar Harbor, and for good reason. It’s one of the most visited national parks in the country, and once you see it, you’ll understand why.
Park Loop Road is the best way to get an overview of the park if you’re short on time. It’s a 27-mile scenic drive that takes you past some of Acadia’s biggest highlights, including Thunder Hole (time it two hours before high tide for the best show), Sand Beach, Otter Cliffs, and Jordan Pond. Speaking of Jordan Pond, the popovers at Jordan Pond House are a tradition. Get them with butter and jam while overlooking the crystal-clear water. It’s one of those quintessential Acadia experiences.
If you’re a hiker, Acadia has trails for every level. The Beehive and Precipice trails are famous for their iron rung ladder climbs (not for the faint of heart!), while the carriage roads offer gorgeous, flat gravel paths perfect for walking, biking, or just breathing in that Maine air. There are over 45 miles of carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., and they’re one of my favorite things about Acadia. There are so many hidden gem hikes that I’m going to be sharing!
Need to know: A park entrance pass costs $35 per vehicle for 7 days (2026). You’ll also need a timed entry reservation for Cadillac Mountain from May through October ($6 per vehicle) — these book up fast, so plan ahead. I’ve got more on this in my 2026 National Parks Guide.
Check out my full guide: Is Acadia National Park Dog Friendly? if you’re traveling with your pup.
2. Walk Across the Sandbar to Bar Island
This is one of the coolest free things to do in Bar Harbor, and it’s the kind of experience that makes you feel like you’re getting away with something. At low tide, a natural gravel and sand bar emerges right from the end of Bridge Street downtown, connecting Bar Harbor to Bar Island. You literally walk across the ocean floor to get to an island. How cool is that?
The sandbar is about half a mile across, and once you’re on Bar Island, there’s a short trail (about 0.6 miles) through pine and birch forest that leads to a summit with panoramic views of Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and the Porcupine Islands. The whole thing takes about 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on how long you linger, and trust me, you’ll want to linger.
The catch: You can only cross the sandbar about 1.5 hours before and after low tide, which gives you roughly a three-hour window. The tidal range here is about 12 feet, and if you miss your window, you will be stranded on the island for approximately nine hours until the next low tide. The water comes back fast, it’s cold, and the currents are strong. Please do not try to wade back. Set a phone alarm, seriously.
Pro tip: Check the tide chart before you go to usharbors.com. Low tide shifts by about 50 minutes each day, so plan your visit around the tide, not the other way around. Wear closed-toe shoes (the gravel bar is not flip-flop friendly), and keep in mind that you’ll need an Acadia park pass for the island portion from May through October. Dogs are welcome on leash.
Fun fact: Bar Island is literally the “bar” in Bar Harbor, yep, it’s how the town got its name.
3. Take in a Sunrise Over Frenchman Bay
I’ve seen a lot of sunrises, but there’s something about watching the sun come up over Frenchman Bay that hits different. The harbor is so still in the early morning, and the light reflecting off the water with the Porcupine Islands in the background is magical.
You don’t have to drive up Cadillac Mountain to catch a good sunrise (although you absolutely should at least once, but make sure to check out my full guide: Sunrise at Acadia National Park). The town pier and Agamont Park are perfect for a sunrise right in town. Grab a bench, watch the lobster boats head out for the day, and just soak it in. It’s one of the best free things to do in Bar Harbor, and most tourists are still asleep.
After sunrise, walk over to Coffee Hound at The Stadium on Main Street for a Chai Nitro or a seasonal drink (the fluffer nutter latte last summer was insane). They open at 7 AM, and it’s my favorite way to start a morning in Bar Harbor.
4. Stroll the Bar Harbor Shore Path
This might be my favorite thing to do in Bar Harbor when I just want to slow down and breathe. The Shore Path is a half-mile coastal walking path that runs along the waterfront from Agamont Park (near the town pier) to Wayman Lane. It’s completely free, open year-round, and takes about 30 minutes to walk at a leisurely pace.
The path hugs the coastline, offering views of Frenchman Bay, the Porcupine Islands, Egg Rock Lighthouse, and the Schoodic Peninsula. You’ll pass Balance Rock — a massive glacial erratic that’s been perched on the shoreline since the last ice age, about 10,000 years ago, and some of Bar Harbor’s most stunning historic “cottages” (they’re mansions, let’s be real). In summer, wild beach roses line the path, and the whole thing smells incredible.
What I love most is the sound. Just the water lapping against the shore, maybe a seagull or two, and your own footsteps on the gravel. It’s so relaxing, and it’s one of those simple pleasures that makes Bar Harbor feel like home.
Good to know: The Shore Path dates back to 1880 and is maintained by the Bar Harbor Village Improvement Association. It runs along private property — the landowners generously allow public access, so please be respectful. The path was damaged by coastal storms in early 2024 but has been fully repaired as of June 2025. Dogs are welcome on leash. The best time to walk is early morning, when fewer people are around, and the light over the bay is gorgeous.
5. Discover Compass Harbor (a Hidden Gem)
If you’re looking for a quiet, lesser-known spot just outside of downtown, Compass Harbor is it. This short, easy trail is part of Acadia National Park, but most visitors have no idea it exists, and that’s part of its charm.
The trailhead is on Route 3 (Main Street), about one mile south of downtown Bar Harbor. Look for a small dirt parking area on the left side of the road across from mailbox #399; it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. The trail is only about 0.8 miles round-trip through maple and birch trees and leads to a beautiful rocky shoreline overlooking Frenchman Bay.
But here’s the really cool part: along the trail, you’ll find the ruins of George B. Dorr’s estate. Dorr was the “Father of Acadia National Park,” the man who championed its creation and served as its first superintendent. You can still see the stone and brick foundation of his cottage, old stone steps leading down to the ocean, remnants of a saltwater pool, and the remains of his gardens and apple trees. It feels like stumbling into a piece of history that most people walk right past.
The shoreline is gorgeous for exploring tide pools, and the views across the bay are stunning. The whole thing takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and it’s completely free (an Acadia park pass is technically required May through October). Dogs are welcome on leash. If you want a peaceful escape without driving deep into the park, Compass Harbor is perfect.
6. Grab a Coffee and Watch the Lobster Boats
There’s something about sitting at the harbor with a great cup of coffee watching the lobster boats come and go that just feels so… Maine. It’s become one of my favorite morning rituals in Bar Harbor, and I’ve turned it into an art form over six months of practice.
Coffee Hound at The Stadium (62 Main Street) is my number one. Veteran-founded, woman-owned roastery serving incredible craft coffee inside a beloved bakery. The Nitro Chai is excellent, and the Stadium-side popovers with blueberry jam rival those at Jordan Pond House. It’s take-out only, so grab your coffee and walk to Agamont Park — it’s the perfect spot to watch the harbor.
Acadia Perk (5 Firefly Lane) is another fantastic option, right across from the Village Green. Their Blueberry Macchiato is the signature drink, and the Blueberry Matcha Latte might be even better. Cozy, locally owned, and they even run a winter pop-up at the Village Green Cafe if you’re visiting in the off-season.
For more on where to eat and drink in Bar Harbor, check out my full Foodie’s Guide to Bar Harbor (coming soon).
7. Get Out on the Water
You can’t come to Bar Harbor and not get out on the water. Frenchman Bay is stunning from shore, but it’s absolutely breathtaking from a boat. There are so many ways to experience it, and I honestly recommend doing more than one.
Whale Watching with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.
Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. (1 West Street, next to the Town Pier) operates Maine’s largest whale watching fleet — big, 112-foot catamarans that head 30 to 50 miles offshore into the Gulf of Maine. You’ll see humpback, finback, and minke whales, plus porpoises, dolphins, seals, and sometimes even ocean sunfish. Each trip includes a professional naturalist from the College of the Atlantic on board, making it educational and exciting. The cruise runs 3 to 5.5 hours, depending on where the whales are. Adult tickets start at $78, kids (6–14) from $61.
Pro tip: They offer a Whale Guarantee – if you don’t see a whale, your ticket becomes a voucher valid for 3 years. Book online at barharborwhales.com.
Puffin & Lighthouse Cruise (Summer — We LOVED This!)
This was one of our absolute favorite experiences in Bar Harbor. Also through Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co., the Puffin & Lighthouse Cruise runs from late May through mid-August (puffin nesting season) and is about 2.5 to 3 hours. You cruise past three island lighthouses, including Egg Rock, Petit Manan (Maine’s second-tallest lighthouse with an active Atlantic puffin nesting colony), and Winter Harbor Lighthouse off the Schoodic Peninsula.
The best part? You can actually talk to the researchers on Petit Manan Island via radio and ask them about the puffin and seabird research happening right there in real-time. We also saw razorbills, bald eagles, harbor seals, and porpoises. It was magical. Adult tickets from $68. If you’re visiting Bar Harbor in the summer and love wildlife, do not skip this tour.
Lighthouse, Wildlife & Park Cruise (Fall)
Once puffin season ends in mid-August, Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. switches to its Lighthouse, Wildlife & Acadia National Park Cruise, which runs through the fall. Same beautiful lighthouses (Egg Rock, Winter Harbor, Baker Island, Bear Island), plus views of Acadia’s coastline that you can’t see from land. In late October, you get stunning fall foliage views from the water, and the colors reflecting off the bay are incredible. Our tour had a lot of fog, so we actually got to see Bass Harbor Lighthouse from the water, which was pretty incredible. This is a gorgeous option if you’re visiting Bar Harbor in the fall. About 2.5 to 3 hours, adult tickets from $63.
Lulu’s Lobster Boat Tour
If you want to experience what it’s actually like to be a Maine lobsterman, Lulu Lobster Boat is the way to do it. This is the only lobster boat tour in Bar Harbor that takes you out on a traditional Downeast-style lobster boat (the Lulu), and it’s such a fun experience.
You’ll watch a live lobster trap hauling demonstration, learn about lobster anatomy and how the fishery works, and get to hold live lobsters (they release them all after, and no lobsters are harmed in the making of this tour). The boat cruises past Egg Rock Lighthouse, privately owned islands, and summer cottages along Mount Desert Island. At low tide, you’ll see harbor seals resting on exposed rock ledges – the seals don’t scatter because they think the Lulu is just another lobster boat. We also spotted bald eagles, porpoises, and all kinds of seabirds.
Details: 2-hour tours departing from 55 West Street (Harborside Hotel & Marina). The 2026 season runs May 7 through October 17 with four daily departures. Adults $45, seniors $42, kids (6–12) $35. Arrive 30 minutes early. Book at lululobsterboat.com. TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winner.
Deep-Sea Fishing with Acadian Boat Tours
If you’ve always wanted to try deep-sea fishing, Acadian Boat Tours (119 Eden Street at the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel) runs fishing charters from mid-June through mid-September. They provide all the light spinning tackle and gear; you just show up. The experienced crew helps you land your catches, removes fish from lines, and will even clean and bag your fish to take home. Bonus: our tour had an all-female crew!
You’ll fish in the protected waters of Frenchman Bay for cod, harbor pollock, mackerel, Acadian redfish, and flounder. The boats have snack bars, restrooms, and heated indoor cabins, so it’s comfortable even on cooler days. Brian and I thought this was a really fun way to spend a morning on the water that’s completely different from the usual boat tour.
Details: 3-hour trips from $59/adult, 4-hour trips from $64/adult. Kids (14 & under) from $40. Free parking at the hotel. Full refund with 24 hours’ notice. Book at acadianboattours.com.
8. Kayak Frenchman Bay with Coastal Kayaking Tours
I’m a little biased here because Brian was a registered kayak guide with Coastal Kayaking Tours & Acadia Bike last summer, but bias aside, this is genuinely one of the best ways to experience Bar Harbor from the water.
Coastal Kayaking (part of Acadia Fun, operating since 1982) runs guided kayak tours out of 48 Cottage Street, right downtown. Every tour is led by Registered Maine Guides, and you paddle tandem kayaks through Frenchman Bay among the Porcupine Islands. Tours max out at six boats, so it’s intimate and personal. We saw harbor seals, porpoises, and bald eagles on nearly every trip.
Tour options:
The Half-Day Tour ($93/person, 4 hours with about 2.75 hours on the water) is the one I’d recommend; you paddle about 5 miles of coastline and stop on an island for beachcombing. The Harbor Tour and Sunset Tour ($76/person each, 2.5 hours) are great if you’re short on time, and the sunset option is particularly gorgeous. No experience necessary, they provide all the gear and paddling instruction.
Pro tip: If you’d rather explore on your own, Coastal Kayaking also rents tandem kayaks ($75/day) and singles ($65/day) with all gear included. And while you’re there, check out their bike and e-bike rentals for riding the carriage roads in Acadia — they claim the largest bicycle rental fleet in New England. Basic bikes from $41/day, e-bikes from $80/half day.
Minimum age for kayak tours is 8 (48″ tall). Book at acadiafun.com.
9. Bike (or Walk) the Carriage Roads in Acadia
If there’s one thing that surprised me most about Acadia, it’s how incredible the carriage roads are. There are 45 miles of these wide, crushed-gravel roads winding through the interior of the park, built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. between 1913 and 1940 because he loved traveling by horse and carriage and wanted private paths through the landscape. No cars allowed. Just bikes, walkers, and the occasional horse-drawn carriage from Wildwood Stables. It’s peaceful, it’s gorgeous, and it’s one of the best ways to experience Acadia.
We rented e-bikes from Coastal Kayaking & Acadia Bike (106 Cottage Street for e-bikes, 48 Cottage Street for regular bikes) over the summer and absolutely loved them for exploring the carriage roads. The e-bikes made the hills so much more enjoyable, and you still pedal, but the assist takes the edge off the climbs, which means you can cover more ground and actually enjoy the scenery instead of gasping for air. E-bikes start at $80 for a half day and $105 for a full day. Regular bikes start at $41/day, and they include free helmets, locks, and maps of the carriage road system. They claim the largest bicycle rental fleet in New England, and I believe it.
Our Favorite Routes:
Witch Hole Pond Loop — This was our go-to, and it’s the one I’d recommend if you’re new to the carriage roads or want something relaxed. It’s about 4.7 miles and starts near the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. The terrain is mostly flat with gentle rolling hills, and you’ll ride past several small ponds covered in lily pads before reaching Witch Hole Pond itself. It’s shady, quiet, and so pretty. On an e-bike, this loop is pure joy.
Eagle Lake Loop — Probably the most popular carriage road route in the park, and for good reason. It’s about 6 miles around Eagle Lake, and the east side has some of the best views in Acadia — you can see across the lake to the surrounding mountains, and it’s just stunning. This loop connects easily to the Witch Hole Pond loop if you want to extend your ride.
Eagle Lake to Jordan Pond — If you want a longer adventure, continue south from Eagle Lake to Jordan Pond (about 5 miles one way). You’ll pass Bubble Pond along the way — a gorgeous, quiet spot to stop and stretch your legs. At Jordan Pond, lock up your bike and grab popovers at Jordan Pond House. This route, combined with the Witch Hole loop, makes for an incredible full-day ride of about 15 to 20 miles.
Around the Mountain Loop — For more experienced riders looking for a challenge, this 12-mile loop takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful sections of the carriage roads, past Rockefeller-era stone bridges and waterfalls. The Waterfall Bridge is the highlight — follow the path to the right and look back to see the waterfall framed perfectly within the bridge’s arches. This loop has more elevation gain, but on an e-bike, it’s totally doable.
Don’t want to bike? The carriage roads are also one of the best places to walk in Acadia. The wide, flat gravel paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and they’re far less crowded than the park’s hiking trails. Witch Hole Pond and the area around Eagle Lake are especially lovely on foot. You’ll share the road with bikers, but there’s plenty of room for everyone.
Good to know: You’ll need an Acadia park pass to ride the carriage roads ($35/vehicle for 7 days). E-bikes (Class I pedal-assist) are allowed on the carriage roads. Roads may close temporarily after heavy rain to protect the gravel surface; check conditions at the visitor center. And grab a carriage road map before you head out — the numbered intersection signposts are helpful, but having a map makes navigation much easier.
Book bike and e-bike rentals at acadiafun.com.
10. Learn About the Wabanaki Nation at the Abbe Museum
The Abbe Museum is one of those places that makes you see Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island in a completely different light. This is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum dedicated to the Wabanaki Nations, the Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Maliseet, and Mi’kmaq people who have called this land home for over 12,000 years.
The museum is located at 26 Mount Desert Street, right in the heart of downtown. The exhibits blend traditional and contemporary art with stories of culture, resilience, and identity. It’s beautifully done and incredibly moving. Admission is $10 for adults.
What I love about the Abbe Museum is that it doesn’t just present history; it centers living cultures. You’ll leave with a much deeper understanding of the land you’re walking on and the people who’ve been its stewards for thousands of years.
11. Eat Your Weight in Lobster
I mean, you’re in Maine. You have to.
Bar Harbor has no shortage of places to get an incredible lobster roll, a full lobster dinner, or a steaming bowl of clam chowder. I go deep on all of this in my Foodie’s Guide to Bar Harbor, but here are the highlights:
Best lobster roll in downtown Bar Harbor: Frenchman Bay Lobster Rolls (5 Main Street) – owned by the same family behind the famous Travelin Lobster, with overflowing portions. Grab it and eat in Agamont Park.
Best sit-down lobster roll: Side Street Cafe (49 Rodick Street) – on Eater’s “16 Essential Maine Lobster Rolls” list, with a signature Old Bay finish.
Classic lobster dinner: West Street Cafe’s “Downeast Special” – a 1¼ lb lobster, clam chowder, fries, coleslaw, and blueberry pie. Outstanding value.
My all-time favorite: Bar Harbor Lobster Pound, The Buckling Lobster (Northeast Harbor), and Charlotte’s Legendary Lobster Pound in Southwest Harbor (about 20 minutes from Bar Harbor). If you read my Best Lobster Rolls in Maine, you know I’m obsessed. The way they humanely prepare their lobsters makes the meat incredibly tender. Get it with butter.
12. Sip Beer at Atlantic Brewing Company
Atlantic Brewing has brewed in Bar Harbor since 1991, and its Bar Harbor Blueberry Ale is iconic. They operate two locations, the main brewery at 15 Knox Road (where you can tour the brewery and enjoy Mainely Meat Bar-B-Que) and a Midtown Tasting Room at 52 Cottage Street right downtown.
If you want more craft beer options, Bar Harbor Beer Works (119 Main Street) has a rooftop deck, 45 taps, and live music on Thursdays. Fogtown Brewing (33 Cottage Street) pairs creative brews with woodfired pizza. And Jack Russell’s Steakhouse & Brewery (102 Eden Street) combines house-brewed beer with upscale steak and seafood, and they’re dog-friendly on the patio, which is always a win in my book.
13. Check Out the Shops Downtown
Bar Harbor’s shopping scene is way better than most people expect from a small coastal town. I went deep on this in my 13 Best Shops in Bar Harbor guide, but my quick favorites:\
Here Are A Few Of My Favorites
- A Little Mad (17 Rodick Street, the pink house!) for handmade eclectic gifts from over 100 artists.
- Window Panes (166 Main Street) for curated home goods — (99 Main Street) for beautiful Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi handmade jewelry.
- The Maine Store (152 Main Street) for Maine-made goods AND a hidden speakeasy in the back called the Rebel Lobster, seriously, walk to the back of the shop and thank me later.
Most shops are open May through October, with a few staying open year-round. Most leave water bowls outside for pups, too.
14. Don’t Skip the Ice Cream
I know, I know, but ice cream in Bar Harbor is practically a competitive sport, and you need to know who’s winning.
- CJ’s Big Dipper (150 Main Street) is the only place serving wild Maine blueberry soft serve made with fresh berries, and it’s incredible. Cash only!
- Mount Desert Island Ice Cream (7 Firefly Lane) is artisanal perfection — every batch is made five gallons at a time. Their tagline is “Fearless Flavor,” and they mean it. President Obama stopped in fora toasted coconut.
- Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium (66 Main Street) has the famous lobster ice cream, butter-flavored vanilla with actual lobster chunks. I haven’t tried it yet, but I’m weirdly tempted.
Full details on all the ice cream spots in my Foodie’s Guide to Bar Harbor.
15. Catch a Sunset at Acadia
If there’s one thing I never got tired of in six months of living here, it’s the sunsets. Acadia has some of the most stunning sunset spots on the East Coast.
Best Sunset Locations At Acadia
- Seal Harbor
- Pretty Marsh
- Schoodic Peninsula
Keep an eye out for a full sunset guide soon!
16. Go on a Ghost Tour in October
If you’re visiting Bar Harbor in October — and you absolutely should, the fall foliage is stunning — you have to do a ghost tour. Bar Harbor has a surprisingly spooky side, and October is the perfect time to discover it.
Bar Harbor Ghost Tours is the one I’d recommend. They’re the original and most established ghost tour company in town, and here’s what makes them special — they’re 100% Native American-owned (Mi’kmaq), woman-owned, and family-operated. They’ve been voted among USA Today’s 10 Best Ghost Tours for eight consecutive years. The guides dress in 1870s-era historically accurate clothing, carry blue lanterns, and walk you through downtown sharing ghost stories, Wabanaki spirit tales, and the wild history of Bar Harbor’s Cottage Era — the Astors, Vanderbilts, and Rockefellers who built their summer mansions here. You’ll visit the Old Burial Ground and might even hear an EVP recording of a resident spirit.
Tours run nightly May through October, last about 60 to 90 minutes, and meet outside the Abbe Museum. Rated PG, recommended ages 8+. They also offer a “Haunted Mansion” tour — after-hours access inside La Rochelle, a haunted Gilded Age mansion (ages 12+, limited capacity, so book early).
Other ghost tour options: American Ghost Walks ($31.82/person, 90 minutes, meets at Agamont Park gazebo) covers different ground, including the Ledgelawn Inn, Bar Harbor Inn, and St. Saviour’s Church cemetery.
October tip: Evening temperatures drop to the 40s and 50s with wind chill in the 20s — dress warm. The crisp air and dark sky just add to the atmosphere.
17. Visit the Village Green & Agamont Park
These two spots are the heart of downtown Bar Harbor, and they’re both completely free. The Village Green is the grassy park right in the center of town where locals and visitors gather. In the summer, there are free concerts on Monday and Thursday evenings. Bring a blanket and just enjoy the vibe. The Village Green is also surrounded by shops and restaurants, so it’s a natural meeting point.
Agamont Park sits at the bottom of Main Street overlooking the harbor and is one of my favorite spots in town. Grab a coffee or an ice cream, find a bench, and watch the boats. It’s also the starting point for the Shore Path and the best place to take in the view of Frenchman Bay without going anywhere. This is also a great place to catch the 4th of July fireworks! Be aware that people start getting to the park at 5 AM to keep their spots (it was CRAZY).
18. Catch the Sunset (or Sunrise) from the Water
I mentioned Cadillac Mountain for sunsets, but have you considered watching the sunset from the water? Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. offers a Sunset Nature Cruise (from $49) that takes you out into Frenchman Bay as the sky goes golden. It’s a completely different perspective, and it’s romantic and peaceful in a way that standing on a mountaintop isn’t.
On select September dates, they also run an Acadia Night Sky Boat Cruise (from $60) — out on the dark water, away from light pollution, with the stars overhead. It’s incredible.
Free Things to Do in Bar Harbor
One of the best things about Bar Harbor is that some of the most memorable experiences don’t cost a thing. Here’s your free activities cheat sheet:
- Walk the sandbar to Bar Island — time it around low tide and explore the island trail (Acadia pass required for island).
- Stroll the Shore Path — no pass needed, open year-round, gorgeous any time of day.
- Explore Compass Harbor — hidden trail with historic ruins and rocky coastline (Acadia pass technically required).
- Walk or bike the carriage roads — 45 miles of gorgeous gravel paths perfect for a leisurely stroll or ride (park pass required; bike rental not included).
- Watch sunrise or sunset from Agamont Park or the town pier. Browse the Village Green summer concerts — free live music Monday and Thursday evenings.
- Visit the Eden Farmers Market — Sundays 9 AM to noon, May through October. This farmers’ market was amazing all summer!
Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Bar Harbor
If you’re traveling with dogs like we always are, you’ll love Bar Harbor. This town is incredibly dog-friendly.
Dog-friendly walks: The Shore Path, Bar Island (on leash), Compass Harbor (on leash), and most of Acadia’s carriage roads all welcome dogs on leash — the Witch Hole Pond loop and Eagle Lake loop are great for dogs. The Island Explorer shuttle bus allows pets, too.
Dog-friendly dining: Most restaurants with patios welcome well-behaved pups. Side Street Cafe, the Rebel Lobster Speakeasy’s outdoor patio at The Maine Store, and Jack Russell’s Steakhouse & Brewery are all dog-friendly.
Dog-friendly shopping: Most shops along Main Street leave water bowls outside, and several allow dogs inside. Bark Harbor (150 Main Street) is an entire store dedicated to dogs — Loki, Freya, and Caly are big fans.
Dog-friendly boat tours: The Lulu Lobster Boat does NOT allow pets, but Acadian Boat Tours’ Sightseeing & Nature Cruise is pet friendly.
For the full breakdown, check out Is Acadia National Park Dog Friendly? and 5 Can’t-Miss Dog-Friendly Hikes at Acadia.
What to Do in Bar Harbor When It Rains
Maine weather can be unpredictable, especially in the shoulder seasons. If you get a rainy day, don’t worry — there’s still plenty to do.
- Abbe Museum (Wabanaki Nation exhibits, $10).
- Criterion Theatre — a stunning 1932 Art Deco movie theater right on Cottage Street.
- Reel Pizza Cinerama — watch a movie while eating pizza; it’s as fun as it sounds. Atlantic Brewing Company — brewery tour and BBQ.
- Browse the shops downtown — a rainy day is perfect for unhurried shopping (see my shops guide).
- Ambrosia Cooking School (19 Rodick Street) offers 1.5-hour cooking demonstration classes covering Maine specialties like popovers and chowder, starting at $75/person.
Visiting Bar Harbor in October
October is one of my favorite times to be in Bar Harbor. The summer crowds have thinned, the fall foliage is at its peak (usually late September through mid-October), and the town has a cozy, golden-hour energy that’s completely different from the busy summer vibe.
Here’s what to do if you’re visiting in the fall: drive Park Loop Road surrounded by autumn colors, take the Lighthouse, Wildlife & Park Cruise with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. for fall foliage views from the water ($63/adult), go on a ghost tour downtown (see #16 above), bike or walk the carriage roads when the leaves are turning (the Eagle Lake loop is especially gorgeous in fall), stroll the Shore Path in a sweater, and catch a sunset from Cadillac Mountain (last month for timed entry reservations). Many restaurants are still open through mid-October, but some start closing for the season, so check hours. Nights are cold — pack layers.
Where Is Bar Harbor, Maine?:
Bar Harbor is in the region known as Down East Maine. It’s located on Mount Desert Island and it’s home to some of the largest parts of Acadia National Park.
The Basics: Getting to Bar Harbor
By air: The closest airport is Bangor International (BGR), about an hour’s drive. Portland International (PWM) is about 3 hours. Both offer car rental options; you’ll want a car.
By car: Bar Harbor is about 4.5 hours from Boston and 3 hours from Portland. Take I-95 to Route 3, and the drive through Trenton onto Mount Desert Island is gorgeous.
Parking In Bar Harbor: Downtown Bar Harbor has metered street parking and a few parking lots. The downtown lot near the Village Green fills up fast in summer — arrive early or park a bit farther out and walk. The Island Explorer shuttle bus runs mid-June through mid-October and is free (funded by park entrance fees and donations), which can save you a lot of parking headaches.
How many days should I visit Acadia/Bar Harbor? I’d recommend at least 3 days to really experience Bar Harbor and Acadia. You could do a quick 2-day trip, but you’ll wish you had more time. If you can swing 4 to 5 days, you’ll be able to do everything on this list without rushing.
Where to Stay in Bar Harbor
I go deeper on this in future guides, but here are a few favorites:
B&Bs: Ullikana Inn (right on the harbor, gorgeous) and Ivy Manor Inn (historic and charming — Window Panes is right next door).
Hotels: Bar Harbor Grand Hotel and Highbrook Motel (clean, affordable, great location).
Glamping: Under The Canvas near Acadia is an incredible experience if you want something unique. Terramor Outdoor Resort is another fantastic glamping option — luxury tents with real beds, full bathrooms with hot showers, private fire pits, a pool and hot tub, and an on-site restaurant and bar in the lodge. It’s about 15 minutes from both downtown Bar Harbor and the Acadia entrance, and it honestly feels like a hotel room inside a tent
RV: If you’re traveling in an RV like we do, there are several campgrounds in the area — check out my Digital Nomad Lifestyle section for tips. We stayed at Narrows Too Campground last summer and absolutely loved it. We are not part of Thousand Trails, but they are members. Select water sites are usable through Thousand Trails.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bar Harbor, Maine
What are the best things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine? The best things to do include exploring Acadia National Park, walking the sandbar to Bar Island at low tide, biking the carriage roads (especially on an e-bike!), whale watching with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co., kayaking Frenchman Bay, strolling the Shore Path, eating lobster (obviously), and checking out the downtown shops. For the full list, check the guide above.
Is Bar Harbor dog-friendly? Very! Most Acadia trails allow leashed dogs, the Shore Path and Bar Island welcome dogs, many restaurant patios are dog-friendly, and most downtown shops leave water bowls outside. Check out my Acadia Dog-Friendly Guide for details.
How many days should I spend in Bar Harbor? I’d recommend 3 to 5 days. Two days is doable, but feels rushed. With 3 to 5 days, you can explore Acadia, bike the carriage roads, do a boat tour, eat your way through town, and still have time to enjoy the free walks and hidden gems like Compass Harbor.
What is there to do in Bar Harbor when it rains? Plenty! Visit the Abbe Museum, catch a movie at the Criterion Theatre or Reel Pizza Cinerama, tour Atlantic Brewing Company, browse the shops downtown, or take a cooking class at Ambrosia Cooking School.
When can you walk to Bar Island? About 1.5 hours before and after low tide, giving you roughly a 3-hour window. Check the tide chart at usharbors.com before you go — low tide shifts by about 50 minutes each day.
What is the best time to visit Bar Harbor? June through August for the full summer experience (all businesses open, warmest weather, longest days). September and October for fewer crowds, fall foliage, and shoulder-season pricing. Keep in mind that many businesses close by mid-October.
Do I need a car in Bar Harbor? A car is helpful for getting to trailheads and areas outside of downtown, but the Island Explorer shuttle runs mid-June through mid-October and covers many key stops in Acadia and Bar Harbor for free. Downtown is very walkable — about half a mile end to end.
Can you see puffins near Bar Harbor? Yes! Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. runs a Puffin & Lighthouse Cruise from late May through mid-August during puffin nesting season. You’ll see them on Petit Manan Island.
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Bar Harbor, and I hope this guide helps you experience the best of this incredible town. Whether you’re coming for the lobster, the lighthouses, the trails, or just the feeling of sitting at the harbor watching the boats go by, Bar Harbor has a way of making you never want to leave.
Trust me, I know. We stayed six months, and I still wasn’t ready to go.
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