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Bar Harbor, United States

Destination Guide

Bar Harbor

United States

Best things to do in Bar Harbor

19 curated attractions in Bar Harbor, United States. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

June - September

Average temp

12°C/54°F

Budget

Expensive

Safety

Very safe

About Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park, a small coastal town where nature and tourism collide. With its waterfront and village atmosphere, the town plays host to visitors seeking outdoor adventures, particularly hiking, biking, and, of course, whale watching. The presence of the park defines the landscape, featuring cliffs, forests, and ocean views that attract nature lovers and Instagram influencers alike. With various attractions like Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond, most people come here to hike, eat lobster rolls, and enjoy the salty sea air, though the vibe feels more 'tourist haven' than 'local charm.' The town might be small, but during peak season, it can feel surprisingly crowded for its size.

Who it's for

Ideal for anyone who enjoys nature and seafood and who doesn’t mind sharing the space with a few thousand fellow tourists. A poor choice if you seek nightlife, extensive public transport options, or a peaceful retreat, after all, it's a popular stop on the tourist trail.

Getting around

Public transport: Poor

  • The town is small enough to walk across in about twenty minutes, but that might take longer if you're stopped by views
  • Public transport is nearly nonexistent, so a car is the best way to explore Acadia National Park
  • Peak season traffic can be congested, so plan ahead to avoid delays
  • Whale watching tours operate out of the harbor, but book early to secure a spot
Cadillac Mountain

Cadillac Mountain

Mountains & volcanoes
Village Green

Village Green

City parks
Sieur de Monts Spring

Sieur de Monts Spring

Rivers, canyons & gorges
Bar Harbor Shore Path

Bar Harbor Shore Path

Coastal walks & sea cliffs
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

Fountains, statues & public art
Jordan Pond

Jordan Pond

Lakes
Schoodic Peninsula

Schoodic Peninsula

National parks & nature reserves
Precipice Trail

Precipice Trail

Outdoor Adventure
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park

National parks & nature reserves
Sand Beach

Sand Beach

Beaches
Asticou Azalea Garden

Asticou Azalea Garden

Formal & Japanese gardens
Carriage Trails

Carriage Trails

Adventure
Beehive Trail

Beehive Trail

Adventure
Agamont Park

Agamont Park

City parks
Bar Island

Bar Island

Islands
Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum

Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum

Landmarks and Monuments
Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole

Rivers, canyons & gorges
Bar Harbor Island

Bar Harbor Island

Nature
Abbe Museum

Abbe Museum

History museums

Where to eat in Bar Harbor

The places worth planning a meal around.

Bar Harbor Lobster Pound

Bar Harbor Lobster Pound

Seafood, New England · $$

★ 4.8 · 2,573 reviews

Cafe This Way

Cafe This Way

★ 4.7 · 2,303 reviews

West Street Cafe

West Street Cafe

American

★ 4.4 · 1,863 reviews

Two Cats

Two Cats

★ 4.4 · 1,621 reviews

Ben and Bill's

Ben and Bill's

Ice Cream, Dessert · $5–$15

★ 4.0 · 1,373 reviews

Salt Market

Salt Market

Seafood, American · $$

★ 4.5 · 127 reviews

Things to do in Bar Harbor

Tours, cruises and experiences, rather than places to visit.

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