Bar Harbor is a town located on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful coastal views, seafood restaurants, and proximity to Acadia National Park.
Bar Harbor was originally home to the Wabanaki people before being settled by European colonists in the late 1700s. It became a popular summer resort destination in the late 1800s and early 1900s, attracting wealthy visitors who built grand mansions and cottages along the shoreline.
Today, Bar Harbor is a vibrant town with a bustling downtown area featuring shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching, as well as exploring the stunning natural beauty of Acadia National Park.
Places to Visit in Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, is a popular tourist destination with many attractions. Here are some places to visit in Bar Harbor:
1- Acadia National Park: This stunning national park is one of the top attractions in Bar Harbor, with miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views.
2- Mount Desert Island: This island is home to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, as well as charming fishing villages and beautiful coastline.
3- Bar Harbor Shore Path: This scenic walking path runs along the coast of Bar Harbor and offers spectacular views of the ocean, boats, and nearby islands.
4- Abbe Museum: This museum is dedicated to Native American culture and history, with exhibits showcasing the Wabanaki people and their traditions.
5- Whale watching tours: Several companies in Bar Harbor offer whale watching tours, where you can see humpback, finback, and minke whales in their natural habitat.
6- Jordan Pond: This picturesque pond is located in the heart of Acadia National Park and offers hiking trails, stunning views, and a famous tea house.
7- Cadillac Mountain: This mountain is the highest point on the east coast of the United States and offers panoramic views of Acadia National Park and the surrounding area.
8- Village Green: This park in the center of Bar Harbor is a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic, with beautiful gardens and a gazebo.
9- Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the history of Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island, with exhibits on the town's early days, its growth as a resort destination, and its connection to the sea.
10- Island Explorer Bus: This free shuttle bus service is a great way to explore Acadia National Park and the surrounding area, with stops at popular attractions and hiking trails.
Bar Harbor Restaurants
Bar Harbor, Maine is known for its fresh seafood and charming coastal atmosphere, and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from in the area. Here are some popular options:
1. The Reading Room - Located in the historic Bar Harbor Inn, this upscale restaurant serves classic New England fare with a modern twist. Enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, and cocktails with a beautiful view of the harbor.
2. Galyn's - This family-owned restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood since 1986. Try their famous lobster stew or their lobster and crab cakes, made with local ingredients.
3. Havana - For a taste of Cuba in Maine, head to Havana. This vibrant restaurant offers Latin-inspired dishes like empanadas, ceviche, and slow-cooked pork.
4. Side Street Cafe - This casual spot is known for its burgers, seafood, and local beers. They also have a great selection of vegetarian options, like the black bean burger and the veggie stir-fry.
5. Stewman's Lobster Pound - If you're looking for a classic Maine lobster dinner, Stewman's is the place to go. Choose your own live lobster from their tanks, or try the lobster roll or lobster mac and cheese.
6. Jordan's Restaurant - This diner-style spot has been a Bar Harbor institution since 1976. They serve breakfast all day, as well as sandwiches, burgers, and classic Maine dishes like blueberry pancakes and lobster rolls.
7. McKay's Public House - This cozy pub has a great selection of craft beer and comfort food, like shepherd's pie, fish and chips, and clam chowder.
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Bar Harbor. Be sure to also check out some of the local bakeries and ice cream shops for sweet treats like blueberry pie and homemade fudge.
Bar Harbor hotels
Bar Harbor, Maine is a popular tourist destination with many hotels to choose from. Here are a few options:
1- The Bar Harbor Inn: Located on the waterfront with stunning views of Frenchman Bay, this historic hotel offers a range of accommodations, including rooms in the Main Inn, private oceanfront cottages, and luxury suites. Amenities include a restaurant, outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center.
2- The Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina: Another waterfront hotel with a range of accommodations, including standard rooms, suites, and cottages. Amenities include a marina, spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a restaurant.
3- Acadia Inn: This hotel is located just outside of downtown Bar Harbor and offers affordable accommodations with a range of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and apartments. Amenities include a free breakfast buffet, outdoor pool, and hot tub.
4- The Bayview Hotel: A boutique hotel located on Main Street in Bar Harbor with a range of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and townhouses. Amenities include a rooftop terrace, hot tub, and continental breakfast.
5- The West Street Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Bar Harbor with stunning views of the harbor. Accommodations include standard rooms and suites, many with balconies. Amenities include a rooftop pool and bar, fitness center, and restaurant.