Bar Harbor, ME

Travel Guide

A coastal town with a marina, waterfront buildings, and a mountainous backdrop.
An aerial view of a coastal town with a marina, boats, and surrounding hills.
A river with rocks and trees, a mountain in the background, and a colorful sky.
A coastal landscape with rocky terrain, a small tree, and a distant view of islands across a body of water.
A sunset over a lake with a lone tree on a rocky outcrop.

Stay in Bar Harbor to explore Acadia National Park, enjoy local art, and discover unique neighborhoods with breathtaking views.

Bar Harbor is an ideal destination for outdoor and adventure travelers. You can explore Acadia National Park's Visitors Center, hike the Beehive Trail, and enjoy the views from Cadillac Mountain. For those interested in activities, the Criterion Theater offers performances, while Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co provides opportunities for water sports. Additionally, you can take a scenic walk along the Shore Path, play a round at Kebo Valley Golf Club, or visit the Sieur de Mont Nature Center for recreational activities.

You can also explore Bar Harbor's diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique attractions. Hulls Cove features outdoor adventure experiences, including Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf. Nearby, Stone Haven is known for its lookout at Bubble Rock, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. Downtown Bar Harbor is another vibrant area, home to the Abbe Museum, St. Saviour's Church, and Island Artisans, where you can appreciate local culture and art.

The best time to visit Bar Harbor is from June to September, when the weather is mild and mostly dry, with temperatures ranging from 59 to 66°F. This period often sees sunny days, making it a popular time for visitors. However, be prepared for busier crowds during these months, as many travelers flock to the area to enjoy the outdoor activities and natural beauty.

Where to stay in Bar Harbor

Find the best Bar Harbor areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Bar Harbor
Learn more about Bar Harbor

Downtown Bar Harbor

If you're spending some time in Downtown Bar Harbor, Village Green and Criterion Theater are top sights worth seeing.

Hulls Cove

Waterfront views, bars, and parks highlight some of the notable features of Hulls Cove. Make a stop by Acadia National Park while you're exploring.

Stone Haven

While Stone Haven might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Bubble Rock and Acadia National Park.

Acadia Ocean View Hotel

Acadia Ocean View Hotel

2.5 out of 5
323 Maine 3 Bar Harbor ME
Stay at this motel in Bar Harbor. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Acadia National Park's Visitors Center and Bar Harbor ...
Acadia Ocean View Hotel
Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor - Acadia Natl Park by IHG

Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor - Acadia Natl Park by IHG

3 out of 5
123 Eden St Bar Harbor ME
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Bar Harbor. Enjoy free parking, 2 restaurants, and a marina. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,211 reviews)
"This property exceeded our expectations. It was clean with beautiful views and right along the bus route. We will be back!!!"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor - Acadia Natl Park by IHG
Seasider Motel

Seasider Motel

2.5 out of 5
40 Kebo Street Bar Harbor ME
Book a stay at this golf hotel in Bar Harbor. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and cable TV channels. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,242 reviews)
"Booked for a quick overnight in Bar Harbor and the rate was so low. (It was the last night open for the season.) Very pleased with the room cleanliness, comfortable bedding, LVP flooring (no carpet thank goodness!). The bathroom could use a little touch up with paint and grout cleaning, hence the ..."

Reviewed on Nov 13, 2026

Seasider Motel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Hinckleys Dreamwood Cottages

Hinckleys Dreamwood Cottages

3 out of 5
318 Maine 3 Bar Harbor ME
Stay at this cottage in Bar Harbor. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Acadia National Park's Visitors Center and Bar Harbor ...
Hinckleys Dreamwood Cottages
Hanscom's Motel and Cottages

Hanscom's Motel and Cottages

3 out of 5
273 ME-3 Bar Harbor ME
Stay at this cottage in Bar Harbor. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Acadia National Park's Visitors Center and Bar Harbor Whale ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (429 reviews)
"We like everything. We would return."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Hanscom's Motel and Cottages
Bar Harbor Condos

Bar Harbor Condos

2.5 out of 5
7 Brewer Ave Bar Harbor ME
Stay at this aparthotel in Bar Harbor. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor Whale Watch ...
10/10 Exceptional! (24 reviews)
"Property was well appointed. Everything we needed was there. Closer to grocery store. Could walk to main part of town. Nice place in a nice spot."

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

Bar Harbor Condos
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Bar Harbor attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Bar Harbor worth visiting?
Bar Harbor is worth visiting for its standout attractions like Cadillac Mountain and Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. Travelers can enjoy North American and fresh seafood dining, with local specialties such as lobster. The town also offers distinct areas to explore, including Downtown Bar Harbor.
When is the best time to visit Bar Harbor?
The best time to visit Bar Harbor is from May through September, when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering cooler, snowy weather.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Bar Harbor?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Bar Harbor depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Bar Harbor is a central area featuring attractions like the Criterion Theater, the Abbe Museum, and Agamont Park.

What is Bar Harbor known for?
Bar Harbor is known for Cadillac Mountain, as well as the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co and the Village Green. Located on Mount Desert Island, travelers can also find a strong North American food culture here.
What is a good itinerary length for Bar Harbor?
A good itinerary length for Bar Harbor is two to three days to experience highlights like Cadillac Mountain, a Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co tour, and explore Downtown Bar Harbor. An extended stay of four to five days allows for more in-depth exploration, such as a 4 Hour Private Acadia Fjord Tour or a Ghost Walking Tour, and enjoying the local seafood. See Bar Harbor Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Bar Harbor?
Bar Harbor offers a mix of natural beauty, historical insights, and unique local experiences for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Bar Harbor?
To plan your trip to Bar Harbor, book flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance. Focus on Downtown Bar Harbor to explore attractions like Criterion Theater and Abbe Museum. Consider activities such as a private Acadia tour to Cadillac Mountain or a whale watch. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Bar Harbor?
In Bar Harbor you can find New American cuisine, with dishes like gourmet burgers, fresh salads, and contemporary entrees. Travelers also get great seafood options, including lobster rolls and clam chowder. You can also enjoy Italian, Mediterranean, and various Asian dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Bar Harbor?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Bar Harbor by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Bar Harbor with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Bar Harbor trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Bar Harbor?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Bar Harbor can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Bar Harbor trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Bar Harbor trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Bar Harbor trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Bar Harbor trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Bar Harbor?
If it's your first trip to Bar Harbor, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Bar Harbor hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Bar Harbor hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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