Bar Harbor trips and vacations

Vacations to Bar Harbor deliver you to the doorstep of a vast landscape of New England wilderness. Explore miles of hiking trails that wind between glacier-scoured granite peaks. Rent a bike, and cycle along scenic carriage roads. Or drive along the iconic Park Loop Road, which offers panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.

Binoculars are a must on holidays to Bar Harbor. The fishing town is one of the premier whale-watching destinations on the United States’ East Coast, and you’re almost guaranteed to spot humpbacks breaching the waves in summer. Marine biologists lead guided excursions, shedding light on animal behavior and marine conservation efforts in the Gulf of Maine.

Don’t miss a classic lobster boil and clambake. This outdoor dining tradition where you can watch chefs labor over steaming pots of local seafood celebrates Maine’s culinary heritage and rich coastal bounty. Visit ocean-view restaurants like Stewman’s Lobster Pound for freshly steamed lobster and clams, corn on the cob and buttery potatoes.

Downtown is the best area to stay in Bar Harbor if you want to be near artisan shops, restaurants and attractions. It’s also close to Acadia National Park and its countless hiking and biking trails. Spend a day exploring the compact Downtown area, where you’ll find colorful clapboard storefronts housing boutique stores, seafood shacks and independent cafes and bars.

Good for: Shopping, dining, bars

Located along the waterfront, the West Street Historic District is where to stay in Bar Harbor for ocean views and impressive architecture. This district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features more than a dozen properties. Stroll the winding shore path early in the morning to see local fishermen prepare their lobster pots. 

Good for: Waterfront, walking, historical homes

Eastern Bay stands out for its sweeping bay views and fresh seafood. Here you can explore secluded rocky beaches, dip your toes in Witch Hole Pond and walk across the rocky terrain of Hulls Cove. Start the day with a glorious sunrise and end it feasting on freshly caught lobster at one of the excellent waterfront restaurants.

Good for: Beaches, outdoor activities, dining

If you’re looking for things to do with family in Bar Harbor, start at Mount Desert Oceanarium and Education Center, where kids can learn about local marine life, like lobsters and sea stars. Follow the Great Meadow Loop Trail in Acadia National Park for an easy, family-friendly hike with forested scenery. Kid-friendly Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf has 18 themed holes surrounded by waterfalls and caves.

For the best shopping in Bar Harbor, head to Main Street. It’s lined with stores selling gemstones, Native American art and outdoor gear. Visit Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop to browse books and stationery. Fair Trade Winds is the best spot for Maine-themed mementos in summer, and several small galleries, like Argosy Gallery, showcase regional artwork.

You’ll find a decent selection of small galleries and museums in Bar Harbor. Abbe Museum celebrates the Wabanaki Nations’ heritage and cultures with ever-changing exhibits. The George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History showcases the region’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. At the Art Wendell Gilley Museum you’ll find exquisite wood carvings of birds.

Nightlife in Bar Harbor offers a blend of cozy pubs to shelter you from the sea breeze and patio bars serving craft ales. Head to Lompoc Cafe, a local summer favorite known for its extensive beer selection. Bar Harbor Beer Works is a top choice for happy hour specials and weekly live music.

Taste farm-to-table goodness and fresh seafood in the restaurants in Bar Harbor (). Feast on homemade lobster bisque and mussels at Stewman’s Lobster Pound. Head to the Side Street Cafe for casual dining with hearty comfort food and craft beers. For a fine dining experience, Havana offers creative, Latin-inspired cuisine with a view overlooking Frenchman Bay.

Eager to explore the coast? Take a short drive to Sand Beach, a pretty stretch of shoreline sandwiched between granite cliffs and evergreen forest. It’s patrolled by lifeguards in summer, making it an ideal swimming spot. For killer sunsets, neighboring Boulder Beach delivers the goods, with shores as rugged and rocky as the name suggests.