Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island is a must-visit destination in Maine, serving as the perfect gateway to Acadia National Park. With so much to explore, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Start your journey by diving into the wonders of Acadia on the island. Here are some highlights that shouldn’t be missed:
– Witness the Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain: Be among the first to see the sunrise in the United States.
– Hike the Precipice Trail or the Beehive Trail: These thrilling trails offer breathtaking views.
– Visit the Bass Harbor Lighthouse: Enjoy a scenic walk to this iconic lighthouse.
– Lunch at Jordan Pond House: Pair your meal with a walk around the picturesque Jordan Pond.
– Trek the Jordan Cliffs Trail: Another fantastic hike with stunning vistas.
– Relax at Sand Beach: Perfect for a family day of relaxation.
– Walk the Bar Island Trail at Low Tide: Explore this unique trail that emerges with the receding tide.
– Explore Downtown Bar Harbor: Shop and dine in charming local stores and restaurants.
– Take a Lobster Boat Tour in Frenchman’s Bay: Experience Maine’s renowned lobster industry firsthand.
– Sail or Sightsee Along French Bay Islands: Admire beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
– Stroll the Ocean Path to Thunder Hole: Witness the ocean’s power at this natural wonder.
While these nearby attractions are fantastic, don’t miss out on the surrounding areas that offer equally captivating experiences. Here are some recommended day trips from Bar Harbor:
Schoodic Peninsula (40 miles, 1 hour away):
Explore the only part of Acadia National Park not on an island. This quiet, rugged area features wild coastlines and great trails, making it perfect for hiking and cycling. Visit the Schoodic Institute, dedicated to scientific education and research pertinent to Acadia.
Isle au Haut (60 miles to Stonington plus a 45-60 minute ferry):
Known as “High Island,” this secluded part of Acadia offers scenic beauty and a small community. With hiking and biking trails, and the charming Robinson Point Lighthouse, it’s a perfect getaway. Note the limited ferry service and visitor quotas.
Bangor, Maine (48 miles, 1 hour 15 minutes):
Maine’s third-largest city, Bangor is rich with museums, restaurants, and scenic spots. Pose with the Paul Bunyan statue, pay homage to Stephen King, and enjoy meals at places like Eagle’s Nest and Timber Kitchen.
Camden, Maine (77 miles, 2 hours away):
A quintessential Maine coast town with a historic downtown. Explore shops, enjoy seafood, hike up Mount Battie, or take a relaxing bay tour. Camden is perfect for a charming day of exploration.
Rockland, Maine (85 miles, 2 hours away):
Known for its delightful downtown and harbor, Rockland is an ideal addition to a Camden trip or a standalone destination. Visit the Maine Lighthouse Museum and the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, and enjoy the local seafood and seasonal events.
Lubec, Maine (103 miles, 2.5 hours away):
As the easternmost point in the U.S., Lubec boasts the candy-striped West Quoddy Head Lighthouse. The region offers trails, a visitor center, and fun historical tidbits. Bring your passport if you plan to explore the nearby Canadian East Quoddy Head.
Calais, Maine (121 miles, 2.5 hours away):
Close to the Canadian border, Calais offers the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge, home to diverse wildlife. The town is ideal for cross-border experiences and houses the Saint Croix Island International Historic Site, significant in French North American history.
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument (131 miles, 2 hours 45 minutes away):
One of the newest National Park Service sites, this monument spans over 80,000 acres of Maine’s pristine landscape. Close to Mount Katahdin, it protects vital forests and waterways and provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Portland, Maine (175 miles, 3 hours away):
Maine’s largest city combines history with a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Old Port district, enjoy top-notch seafood, and explore lighthouses, museums, and galleries. Portland offers activities for all interests, from theater shows to music events.
Whether you have a day or more, these destinations near Bar Harbor enrich any visit to Maine, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, historical insights, and charming town experiences.