25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bar Harbor (Maine)

Taking the northeasternmost position in the United States, Maine is known for its unprecedented beauty and magnificent coastline.

Known for its rich maritime history, incredible rocky shoreline, gorgeous granite slabs, and many wonderful national parks, there is much to see and do in Maine.

Bar Harbor is a resort town on Mount Desert Island off the mainland of Hancock County.

Known for its stunning coastal magnificence as well as many wonderful attractions, the quaint town offers so many things to do in Bar Harbor.

If you’re wondering what to do when you visit Bar Harbor, you’ve landed in the right place.

The town as well as the state of Maine as a whole is fraught with fascinating historic sites, incredible restaurants, fantastic museums, and splendid natural settings such as a beautiful state park.

With so much fun to be had in Bar Harbor, it’s no wonder it’s a premier northeastern travel destination.

Check out some of the exciting places you might consider visiting during your stay in the Pine Tree State.

Things To Do In Bar Harbor

1. Acadia National Park

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This 47,000-acre park in Bar Harbor, Maine is an incredible must see especially if you’re looking for fun outdoor activities.

Situated along the sandy shores of the Atlantic coast, the park sits amid Mount Desert Island.

One of the greatest sights within the park is Mount Cadillac which sits in the backdrop of the park.

Acadia National Park’s topography is fraught with woodlands, craggy beaches, and granite peaks all perfect for exploring.

Acadia National Park is also home to incredible wildlife including bears, moose, whales, and sea birds.

Some of the park’s recreational features include 27 miles of historic roadways, nearly 160 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads.

Within the park, you can camp, climb, horseback ride, boat, swim, and fish among many other fun activities.

One of the most incredible Bar Harbor attractions, a visit to Acadia National Park is highly recommended.

Address: Maine, United States

2. Cadillac Mountain

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Famed as the tallest mountain peak on the East Coast, Cadillac Mountain draws Bar Harbor visitors in droves.

One of the mountain’s greatest claims to fame is that it’s the first geographical locale to see the sunrise during the winter months in the U.S.

As such, catching a sunrise from Cadillac Mountain is a popular pastime in Maine.

With a nearly 3 ½-mile ascent to the mountain’s peak, Cadillac Mountain can be reached by car or on foot.

Once you’ve reached the peak of Cadillac Mountain, you’ve got the perfect vantage point for photography of some of Maine’s most magnificent views.

The peak is a lovely place to enjoy a picnic, watch the sunrise, or relax and reflect.

What’s more, the peak is equipped with public restrooms as well as a gift shop for your convenience.

One of the coolest things to do in Bar Harbor, be sure to plan a visit to Cadillac Mountain.

Address: Maine, United States

3. Abbe Museum

AbbeMuseum, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Abbe Museum is a popular local destination with two locations, both on Bar Harbor.

If you’re looking for interesting places to visit, the Abbe Museum is a great choice.

The museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the lives of Maine’s indigenous people, the Waponahki.

Notably, the museum opened in 1928 and was founded by a doctor who took up a summer residency in Bar Harbor.

Named for the founder, Dr. Abbe, the museum has a distinct collection of Native American relics, all hailing from Maine’s Frenchman Bay Area.

Other like-minded, local businessmen also took part in contributing to the museum’s collection.

What’s more, the museum was the first in Maine to sponsor archeological research further exemplifying its appreciation for local artifacts and public education.

When visiting the Abbe Museum, you’ll come face to face with Waponahki art as well as artifacts dating back more than 12,000 years ago.

If you’re looking for stuff to do that dives into local history, make sure to check out the Abbe Museum.

Address: 26 Mt Desert St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

4. Bar Harbor Town Pier

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Situated at the base of Bar Harbor Village, Town Pier comprises more than four acres of pristine waterfront walkways.

Flanked by two privately owned piers, Town Pier is the perfect spot to take in the wonderful waterfront views.

Admire sea birds flying aloft, ogle at the gorgeous boats floating by, and take in the glorious sunsets, either way, the views at Town Pier are second to none.

Moreover, Town Pier is the perfect spot to launch a kayak, rent a boat, try your hand at windjamming, or partake in deep-sea fishing.

The pristinely kept lawns adjacent to the pier are the best place to lay out a blanket for a picnic, to sightsee, or read a book.

Another of the many splendid facets of Town Pier is the awesome sandbar that reveals itself each day at low tide.

This is the best time to search for seashells, geological formations, and sunken treasures.

One of the top tourist attractions in Bar Harbor, Maine, Town Pier is a must do.

Address: Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

5. Agamont Park

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Agamont Park is an urban park in the heart of Bar Harbor, Maine at the far end of Main Street.

Set upon a lovely knoll, the park delivers epic 180° views of Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and Mount Desert Island.

Surrounded by gorgeous landscaping, meandering paths, and lovely benches from which to take in the sights, Agamont Park is one of a few free things to do when you’re in town.

The park’s entrance is marked by a gorgeous fountain that makes the best photo backdrop.

What’s more, Agamont Park is one of the top spots to watch the annual Fourth of July Fireworks display.

The park has convenient amenities such as free wi-fi and pier access to the adjacent Ellis Pier that leads to Frenchman Bay.

An interesting historical note is that the park is set in the former location of the Agamont House, a former hotel that sadly burned to the ground.

Address: Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

6. ImprovAcadia

ImprovAcadia

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Maine with an adult crowd, be sure to pay a visit to ImprovAcadia.

Of note, ImprovAcadia is a cool spot to catch wonderful live entertainment that runs the gamut from comics and magicians to musicians and drag queens.

Other fun events at ImprovAcadia include game nights and open improvisation nights.

Make sure to check out the events calendar before visiting Bar Harbor to see who or what will be going on at ImprovAcadia when you’re in town.

For a better idea of what to expect at ImprovAcadia, upcoming events include a karaoke night, live musicians, standup comedy, and a pizza night.

Reservations can be made for a table in advance of your visit to ImprovAcadia.

With a full bar as well as light snacks and desserts, you can imbibe and nosh as you enjoy top-notch entertainment.

Address: 15 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

7. Jordan Pond

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Jordan Pond, one of the most beautiful places to go, is a unique body of water set in Acadia National Park.

What makes the pond interesting is that it’s one of the very few oligotrophic tarns in the U.S.; simply, this means that the pond is unable to support life of any kind, fish, plant life, or otherwise.

The pond makes up nearly 200 acres and three-and-a-half miles of pristine shoreline.

The pond runs approximately 150 feet deep and it was formed during the last glacial period.

Notably, Jordan Pond is surrounded by the skyscraping peaks of Cadillac Mountain and an incredible wooded landscape.

What’s more, the same glacier that formed Jordan Pond also carved out incredible geological features that are super fun to explore and photograph.

One thing to know if planning to visit Jordan Pond, is that parking within the park is limited; conveniently, shuttle buses from nearby public lots are useful.

Finally, although a picnic lunch on the pond’s shore is always nice, the pond is also home to the Jordan Pond House, a wonderful eatery worth visiting.

Address: ME, United States

8. George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History

George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History

This astounding museum is concerned with interpreting and displaying artifacts relevant to the natural history of Maine specifically.

Housed in the original headquarters of the nearby national park, the museum opened its doors in 1969.

One of many educational places to go in Bar Harbor, the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History has many beautiful exhibits that can be seen and explained with the help of a knowledgeable docent.

Some of the many wonderful exhibits at the museum include amazing wildlife dioramas, hands-on displays, a touch tank with sea life, and so much more.

The museum also runs educational programs that are interesting to adults and children alike.

Some of the fun programs might include a scavenger hunt, exploration of a tidal pool, nature exploration, and so much more.

One of the top 10 places to visit, the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History should definitely make your list of places to visit.

Address: 105 Eden St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

9. Schoodic Peninsula

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Located near Bar Harbor, just four miles outside of town, Schoodic Peninsula is an incredible sight to see.

Making up more than 2,500 acres, the Schoodic Peninsula is situated on the only mainland section of Acadia National Park.

Some of the amazing natural features you can spectate include granite headlands, flood tides, and crashing waves.

Surrounding the peninsula itself are Schoodic Research Learning Center and Campgrounds.

A magnificent place to spend a few hours or even a few days, Schoodic Peninsula is one of many popular points of interest in Bar Harbor, Maine.

While the research center is a good place to learn about the surrounding area, the campgrounds are a top spot for spending some time outdoors with incredible views.

While many of the campsites are hike-in primitive sites, other offerings include cottages and RV hookups.

A lovely Bar Harbor attraction to visit today or this weekend, Schoodic Peninsula has it all.

Address: Bar Harbor, ME, United States

10. Great Harbor Maritime Museum

Great Harbor Maritime Museum

Located on Northshore Harbor’s Main Street, the Great Harbor Maritime Museum is one of many excellent points of interest near Bar Harbor, Maine.

Housed in the former town fire station today the museum stands as a monument to local maritime history.

Some of the many wonderful exhibits you’ll encounter at the museum include historical postcards, old-timey news articles, harbor furniture, and so much more.

New exhibits are always coming and going from the Great Harbor Maritime Museum.

Some past exhibits have featured steamship transportation as well as model boats.

If you’ll be traveling with adults or children who are interested in both local and nautical history, the Great Harbor Maritime Museum is one of many unique things to do.

Better yet, the museum is also one of a few free things to do near Bar Harbor.

Address: 124 Main St, Northeast Harbor, ME 04662, United States

Visiting other parts of Maine? Why not check out some of the things to do in Portland, ME?

11. Criterion Theater

Coal town guy at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re wondering what to do in Bar Harbor, Maine, be sure to visit the Criterion Theater.

Built in 1932, the theater is fashioned in an art deco aesthetic that is reason enough to visit.

With floating balconies, French chandeliers, and other beautiful architectural elements, the theater is simply splendid.

Of note, the theater is a performing arts venue that shows movies and hosts live events.

If you’re looking for an incredible place to see a new film release, check out the theater’s movie schedule.

As for live performances, the Criterion Theater has a year-round schedule that shows a smattering of seasonal, holiday, musical, dance, and comedic performances.

Past shows have included Billy Bob Thornton, Irish musicians, comedian Bob Marley, and other exciting performances.

A popular fall performance is the Hallowdean show which includes a costume contest and a Prince tribute band.

The theater has a great little concession stand as well as an awesome gift shop.

If you’re wondering what to see when you’re in Maine, make it a show at the Criterion Theater.

Address: 35 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

12. Thunder Hole

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If you’re planning what to do in the great outdoors while in Bar Harbor, be sure Thunder Hole cuts.

This natural rock inlet, situated deep within Acadia National Park is a stunning sight to behold.

Named for the thunderous sounds of the sea’s booming waves crashing against the rocky shores, a visit to Thunder Hole is simply incredible.

With an observation pier built up the jutting jetty, you can feel the seaspray (sometimes more than just a spray) against your skin with each crashing breaker.

Whether visiting on a calm ocean day or when the sea is in an uproar, the beauty you’ll behold at Thunder Hole is second to none.

Be sure to pack a camera because you won’t want to miss the glorious photo opportunities.

The small inlet which is made of naturally carved rock formations draws visitors from far and wide.

Whether you’re looking for someplace special for a date or to pop the question, Thunder Hole is one of the most romantic things to do in ME; best of all, it’s also one of a few free things to do too.

Address: Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

13. Bar Harbor Inn

Bar Harbor Inn

One of the best vacation spots in Maine, Bar Harbor Inn provides guests with world-class accommodations.

Erected in 1887s, the inn is situated on the coast with incredible oceanic views at every turn.

The inn is not only one of the best places in Maine to catch a sunrise, but it’s situated upon Frenchman Bay with the beautiful Acadia National Park and Cadillac Mountain as its backdrop.

Best of all, the inn features breathtaking amenities, stunning architecture, and fabulous service.

Beautifully decorated rooms and plush beds await you at Bar Harbor Inn.

As for the amenities, the inn boasts oceanfront dining in two full-service restaurants, extraordinary spa services, continental breakfast, a fitness room, hot tubs, pools, and a gift shop.

The inn is one of the best Bar Harbor Attractions so book your stay for today, tomorrow, or this weekend; you won’t be disappointed.

Address: 1 Newport Dr, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

14. Ocean Path Trail

Angi English / flickr

The Ocean Path Trail is a scenic hiking trail that brings face to face with some really great Bar Harbor attractions.

Meandering along the coast of Maine, the Ocean Path Trail runs about four-and-a-half miles round trip.

The trail is a mix of concrete and gravel as well as uneven, rocky terrain; some portions of the trail include stone staircases that must be climbed to proceed; the trail is suitable for beginner-level hikers as well as well-watched children.

Of note, the trail begins at Sand Beach and passes by Acadia National Park’s Thunder Hole as well as the picturesque Otter Point.

The Ocean Path Trail weaves in and out of lush forestry, through incredible rock formations, and past astounding granite slabs.

All along the path, you’ll enjoy majestic views of Cadillac Mountain and Door Mountain.

With so many magnificent things to see from one hiking trail, the Ocean Path Trail is one of the top tourist attractions in Bar Harbor, ME.

Address: Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

15. Frenchman Bay

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Named for the French explorer Samuel de Champlain, Frenchman Bay is one of many beautiful Things to see in Bar Harbor.

Situated between the shore of Mount Desert Island and Maine’s southerly coast, Frenchman Bay is a place for observation as well as loads of watersports.

At its widest, the bay stretches seven miles from mainland Bar Harbor to Mount Desert Island.

This is actually the quickest route to take when visiting Mount Desert Island and there’s a convenient ferry that runs to and fro all summer long.

If you’re interested in fun and exciting things to do in Bar Harbor, simply pay a visit to Frenchman Bay.

Some of the pleasurable activities you might enjoy on Frenchman Bay include sailing, boat tours, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, sightseeing cruises, whale watching, kayaking, and scenic tours.

Loaded with fun undertakings on and around the water, a visit to Frenchman Bay is highly recommended.

Address: Bar Harbor, ME, United States

16. Wild Acadia Camping Resort

Wild Acadia Camping Resort

The Wild Acadia Camping Resort is one of the most fun and adventurous things to do near Bar Harbor.

The park features both land and water attractions that are fun for the whole family.

If you’re camping at Wild Acadia Camping Resort, the Funpark attractions are included with your stay, however, day passes can be purchased for non-guests.

One of Wild Acadia Camping Resort’s top attractions is an aerial adventure park with thrilling obstacles, a climbing wall, and even zip lines.

Other dry adventures include an 18-hole mini golf course, go-karts, and a slingshot trampoline.

As for water attractions, Wild Acadia Camping Resort has an exciting system of waterslides, water wars events, and pools.

As for amenities, the resort has tasty concessions, a gift shop, and an arcade.

Wild Acadia Camping Resort is one of the most fun things to do with the whole family.

Address: 233 Bar Harbor Rd, Trenton, ME 04605, United States

17. Oli’s Trolley

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Oli’s Trolley tours are one of the coolest activities to do in Bar Harbor.

The trolley tours are fully narrated by local experts.

Oli’s offers an array of tour routes to choose from, but no matter which routes you select, they all bring you to important Bar Harbor locales.

During your tour, you’ll learn about local historic sites, amazing natural settings, and the significant people of the town.

Notably, the most popular trolley tours include an Acadia National Park Tour, a Downtown Bar Harbor Tour, a Cadillac Mountain Tour, and even small group private tours.

Depending on the tour you choose, it may last between three and four hours.

Along the way, there are several short stops intended for exploring.

All tours begin and end at Harbor Place where Oli’s has restrooms and a gift shop.

Of all the things to do in Bar Harbor, Oli’s Trolley gives you one of the best ways to see many of Bar Harbor’s significant sites.

Address: 1 West St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

18. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company

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If you’re looking for activities that will deliver truly magical memories, Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company is a must-do.

Although the company is best known for whale watching tours, they offer other programs such as nature boat tours and lighthouse tours too.

No matter what tour you choose, you’ll board a ship that will provide epic views of coastal scenery, Acadia National Park, Frenchman Bay, and other significant local sights.

Moreover, each of the cruises offered by Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company is aboard a comfortable catamaran manned by a knowledgeable and experienced captain.

Tours are narrated by locals who can point out some of the most incredible sights you’ll ever see.

From whales to seabirds and puffins to lighthouses, the sights you’ll see at a Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company are like none other.

Finally, a Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company is highly recommended if you’d like to experience the best of nature in Maine.

Address: 1 West St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

19. Scenic Flights of Acadia

If you’re looking for both a memorable experience and to see some of the most scenic spots in Bar Harbor, Maine, do so from the best vantage point: the sky!

Scenic Flights of Acadia tours allow you to soar above the quaint coastal town in a thrilling Cessna 172.

With so many things to see in Bar Harbor, you can easily pack in many sights from an astounding aerial tour.

Speaking of tours, Scenic Flights of Acadia offers a handful of excellent tour choices, each guided and narrated by knowledgeable and experienced pilots.

Some of the aerial tours include views of Schoodic Point, Acadia in its entirety, local lighthouses, and a special fall foliage tour.

The aerial tours last anywhere from 35 to 75 minutes depending on which package you choose.

No matter how long you take flight the bird’s eye view of some of Bar Harbor’s significant sites is priceless.

Address: 1044 Bar Harbor Rd, Trenton, ME 04605, United States

20. Diver Ed’s Dive-In Theater

Diver Ed’s Dive-In Theater

Diver Ed’s is an educational cruise that explores the waters and marine life of Bar Harbor’s Frenchman Bay.

Your Diver Ed’s adventure starts with a short cruise to a diving location in the bay.

Once anchored, a certified commercial diver will dive deep into the bay with his underwater camera.

The captain/diver will narrate intriguing stories that come to life with all the sealife he encounters during his dive.

The fictional stories are fun and child-friendly, making a reservation with Diver Ed’s fun for the whole family.

As you watch Diver Ed’s escapades from a movie scene aboard the boat, you’ll be astounded by the treasures he collects during his dive; he’ll return to the deck with unique findings for you to see for yourself.

You’re welcome to pack food and drink to enjoy while aboard and for your convenience, there’s even a bathroom on board.

If you’re looking for something to do around Bar Harbor this weekend, consider booking a trip with Diver Ed’s Dive-In Theater.

Address: 105 Eden St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

21. Down East Bird Watching & Nature Tours

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One of the coolest Bar Harbor attractions, Down East Bird Watching & Nature Tours is one of the most interesting tours in Maine.

This company offers private bird-watching tours for expert watchers and novices alike.

A tour with Down East will have you exploring local flora and fauna specific to Mount Desert Island as well as native and migratory birds that make their homes on Bar Harbor.

Some of the amazing birds you might encounter during your tour include bald eagles, peregrine falcons, warblers, and beyond.

Not only are the tours incredibly educational and exploratory, but they’re also very convenient; the tour group will pick you up in their six-passenger van and transport you to and from your eco-tour.

Your tour will then be led by Michael Good, an expert in the study of birds with more than 25 years of experience.

Offering guests a different way to experience life and nature on the island, Down East Bird Watching & Nature Tours is a must-do.

Address: 39 Cottage St #4, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

22. Argosy Gallery

Argosy Gallery

Argosy Gallery is a fine art gallery with some of the most inspiring artwork around Maine.

The gallery houses works of art by 36 artists all of whom call Bar Harbor and Maine at large their home.

Each of the incredible paintings within the gallery is reflective of the Pine Tree State in its own special way.

The artists’ work can be characterized as American Traditional and Impressionist.

Many of the paintings depict scenic nature settings and coastal sentiments representative of Bar Harbor.

Notably, the gallery has been owned and operated by an art historian since 1999.

Her expertise in fine art coupled with an enthusiasm for local culture is breathed into each work on display.

If you’re interested in art the gallery is a lovely place to peruse; if you’re a collector of art, it’s also an excellent place to shop.

If you’re looking for a unique art experience while you’re in town, be sure to visit Argosy Gallery.

Address: 110 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

23. Coastal Kayaking Tours

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If you know your way around a kayak and want to enjoy some adventure on the water, Coastal Kayaking Tours is the place to call.

Coastal Kayaking Tours will set you and your family up with kayak rentals and tours.

All of the tours start from Mount Desert Island and each will treat you to the island’s surrounding sights from a unique vantage point.

When kayaking with Coastal Kayaking Tours you can choose from tours that last between 2.5 and 4 hours and registered guides will show you the ropes as you navigate new waters.

While many of the tours explore Frenchman Bay and Porcupine Island, others explore the harbor and some are available for sunset paddle sessions.

During a kayak tour, you’ll meet some of the area’s sea life such as seals, porpoises, birds, and other wildlife.

If you’re looking for something a bit different, Coastal Kayaking Tours also provides private hiking tours throughout Acadia Park.

One of the best doses of adventure you’ll experience in ME, Coastal Kayaking Tours should have a spot on your list of things to do.

Address: 48 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

24. D’Alessio Gallery

D’Alessio Gallery

Russell D’Allessio is a local artist near and dear to the heart of Bar Harbor.

With a body of work that spans multimedia and canvas mediums, D’Alessio’s incredible breadth of work delivers something for every art lover’s sensibilities.

Each of the pieces of work on display in the gallery is a colorful journey into the human spirit.

D’Alessio’s artwork is bold, creative, and relatable.

The gallery’s setting is inviting and not stuffy like some galleries can be.

Through a paintbrush, D’Allessio tells incredible stories; each stroke of the brush further connects to the viewer’s spirit.

In addition to D’Alessio’s own artwork, the gallery also displays the work of other local artists.

Whether you’re looking to connect with a particular artist or have a new feeling when connecting with artwork, D’Alessio Gallery welcomes visitors six days a week or by appointment.

Address: 12 Mount Desert Street space #1& 2, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

25. Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

With fun for the whole family in one central locale, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf is near the heart of Bar harbor.

This 18-hole mini golf course is pirate themed and loaded with awesome features such as a sunken ship, spooky caves, waterfalls, and even cave features.

Lush landscaping and foreboding footbridges all play into the pirate theme.

If you’re looking for something exciting to do with the whole family, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf fits the bill.

One of the coolest things to do in Bar Harbor, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf offers both 18- and 36-hole golf sessions.

With locations all over the U.S, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf is something of a legend.

While you’ll undoubtedly have loads of fun wherever you mini golf, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf is more special than the competition as a result of the meticulousness that’s been put into every design element.

Address: 368 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Bar Harbor

If you’ve landed here because you’re unsure of what to do when you’re in Bar Harbor, rest assured that there’s plenty.

From a great art scene to awesome restaurants and incredible natural settings to tons of family-friendly attractions, there are truly so many things to do in Bar Harbor.

This quaint Maine town is known for being friendly and welcoming while embracing a coastal way of life.

No matter how you pack your itinerary, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to Bar Harbor.

Happy travels.

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