Top 10 Things to Do in Bar Harbor Maine

Introduction

Bar Harbor, Maine, is a charming coastal town that offers visitors plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing by the water, Bar Harbor has something for everyone. In this article, I will share my personal experiences and top recommendations for the top 10 things to do in Bar Harbor Maine.

Top Curiosities, Statistics, Facts, and Interesting Information

• Bar Harbor is located on Mount Desert Island, which is the largest island off the coast of Maine.
• The town was originally settled by the Wabanaki Native American tribe, and was later a popular summer destination for wealthy families such as the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts.
• Today, Bar Harbor is a popular tourist destination that attracts over 3 million visitors each year.
• The town is home to Acadia National Park, which covers over 49,000 acres and offers visitors stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding mountains.
• The best time to visit Bar Harbor is during the summer months, when temperatures are mild and the town is bustling with activity.

1. Explore Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is the crown jewel of Bar Harbor, and offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities. Some of my favorite things to do in the park include:

• Hiking: There are over 120 miles of hiking trails in Acadia National Park, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain hikes. Some of my favorite trails include the Jordan Pond Path and the Beehive Trail.
• Biking: The park has over 45 miles of carriage roads that are perfect for biking. You can rent bikes in Bar Harbor and explore the park at your own pace.
• Kayaking: The park’s lakes and coastline offer excellent opportunities for kayaking. You can rent kayaks in Bar Harbor and explore on your own, or take a guided tour.

Exploring Acadia National Park is a must-do when visiting Bar Harbor. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of Maine and get some exercise at the same time.

2. Take a Whale Watching Tour

Whale watching is a popular activity in Bar Harbor, and for good reason. The waters off the coast of Maine are home to a variety of whale species, including humpback, finback, and minke whales. There are several companies in Bar Harbor that offer whale watching tours, and most tours last around 3-4 hours.

I went on a whale watching tour during my last visit to Bar Harbor, and it was one of the highlights of my trip. We saw several whales up close, and the tour guide provided us with interesting facts and information about these amazing creatures.

3. Visit Mount Desert Island Historical Society

The Mount Desert Island Historical Society is a great place to learn about the history of Bar Harbor and the surrounding area. The society operates several museums and historic sites, including the Abbe Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Wabanaki people.

I visited the Mount Desert Island Historical Society during my last trip to Bar Harbor, and was impressed by the quality and depth of the exhibits. It was fascinating to learn about the early settlers of the area and their interactions with the Wabanaki people.

4. Take a Scenic Drive on Park Loop Road

Park Loop Road is a 27-mile scenic drive that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful areas of Acadia National Park. The road features stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and forests, and there are several pull-off areas where you can stop and take photos.

I took a drive on Park Loop Road during my last visit to Bar Harbor, and was blown away by the scenery. It’s a great way to see the park if you don’t feel like hiking or biking.

5. Visit Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum

The Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum is another great place to learn about the history of the town. The museum features exhibits on the early settlement of Bar Harbor, the town’s role as a summer destination for wealthy families, and the devastating fire of 1947 that destroyed much of the town.

I visited the Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum during my last trip to the town, and found it to be very informative. It was interesting to learn about the town’s history and how it has changed over the years.

6. Take a Sunset Sail

Bar Harbor is a great place to take a sunset sail, and there are several companies that offer this activity. A sunset sail is a romantic and relaxing way to end the day, and you’ll have the opportunity to see the town and surrounding area from a different perspective.

I took a sunset sail on my last visit to Bar Harbor, and it was a beautiful experience. The views of the ocean and mountains were breathtaking, and the crew provided us with drinks and snacks.

7. Visit the Abbe Museum

The Abbe Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Wabanaki people. The museum features exhibits on the art, history, and culture of the Wabanaki, and is a great place to learn about the Native American history of the area.

I visited the Abbe Museum during my last trip to Bar Harbor, and was impressed by the quality and depth of the exhibits. It was fascinating to learn about the Wabanaki people and their interactions with the early settlers of the area.

8. Visit the Bar Harbor Farmer’s Market

The Bar Harbor Farmer’s Market is a great place to shop for locally-grown produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. The market is open on Sundays from May through October, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

I visited the Bar Harbor Farmer’s Market during my last trip to the town, and was impressed by the variety and quality of the products. It’s a great way to support local businesses and get a taste of the area’s agricultural bounty.

9. Take a Paddleboard Tour

Paddleboarding is a fun and unique way to explore the waters off the coast of Bar Harbor. There are several companies in town that offer paddleboard tours, and most tours last around 2 hours.

I went on a paddleboard tour during my last visit to Bar Harbor, and had a great time. It was a fun and challenging activity, and the views of the ocean and coastline were amazing.

10. Visit the Abbe Museum at Sieur de Monts Spring

The Abbe Museum at Sieur de Monts Spring is a smaller version of the Abbe Museum in downtown Bar Harbor. The museum features exhibits on the history and culture of the Wabanaki people, and is located in a beautiful natural setting.

I visited the Abbe Museum at Sieur de Monts Spring during my last trip to Bar Harbor, and found it to be a peaceful and educational experience. The museum’s location in the park makes it a great stop if you’re already visiting Acadia National Park.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Bar Harbor?

The best time to visit Bar Harbor is during the summer months, when temperatures are mild and the town is bustling with activity.

What is the most popular attraction in Bar Harbor?

The most popular attraction in Bar Harbor is Acadia National Park, which offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and stunning views of the surrounding area.

What are some other activities to do in Bar Harbor besides outdoor activities?

Bar Harbor is home to several museums, art galleries, and shops, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. There are also several tour companies in town that offer cultural and historical tours.