Bar Harbor Attractions
Located on the rugged coast of Maine, Bar Harbor is a picturesque and charming town that captures the essence of coastal New England. Nestled in the heart of Acadia National Park, it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
One of the main draws of Bar Harbor is its stunning natural beauty. From towering granite cliffs to pristine beaches and crystal-clear lakes, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to explore. Hiking and biking trails wind their way through the park, offering panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands. Kayaking and sailing are popular activities for those looking to get out on the water and experience the beauty of the coast up close.
In addition to its natural attractions, Bar Harbor also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is home to a number of art galleries, museums, and theaters, showcasing the work of local artists and performers. Visitors can also enjoy live music and other entertainment at the town’s many restaurants and bars.
For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, the streets of downtown Bar Harbor are lined with unique boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores selling everything from handmade crafts to locally-sourced food and wine. And no visit to Bar Harbor would be complete without sampling some of the region’s famous lobster dishes at one of the town’s many seafood restaurants.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the great outdoors, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Bar Harbor has something for everyone. So pack your bags, breathe in the fresh sea air, and get ready to experience the beauty and charm of this quintessential New England town.
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$16.99
Recommended: purchase one tour per car. Everyone can listen at the same time!
Experience Maine’s most beautiful sights with this narrated driving tour! Cruise through Acadia’s pristine wilderness, hear the legends of the Native tribes who once called this place home, summit the majestic Cadillac Mountain. Plus, visit the quaint, picturesque coastal town of Bar Harbor along the way.
Due to poor signal in the park, enable OFFLINE MODE while driving.
After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/wifi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there.
This is not an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
New, extra validity — now, it’s yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!
Price From
$24.99
Experience beautiful, historic Maine with this combo of Acadia and Bar Harbor tours. Drive through the untouched wilderness of Acadia and learn the legends of the Native tribes who called that land home. Then stroll along the oceanside as you dive into Bar Harbor’s surprising Gilded Age history. These tours offer the perfect combination of natural beauty and rich culture so you can get the very most out of your visit to this incredible state.
After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/wifi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there.
This is not an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
New, extra validity — now, it’s yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!
Price From
$174.00
Join our guided 22-mile tour of the Acadia National Park Carriage Roads on a high-quality class 1 e-bike. Our experienced tour guides are the only ones authorized to take you on this tour within the park. You will learn about the different land features, the history of the Carriage Roads, and the must-see sights along the way. We guarantee that this guided tour will help you make unforgettable memories during your vacation.
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Price From
$39.99
Discover bountiful nature, rich history, and quirky culture with this pair of self-guided tours through Portland and Acadia National Park in Maine. Hear about Portland’s double-founding and the destruction which laid it flat. Get to know historic Portlanders who fought for social change. Then drive through lush Acadia and marvel at boundless natural scenery. Plus, you’ll learn about its wild history, from ancient glacier to endangered species and powerful figures like the Rockefellers!
Purchase one tour per car, not per person.
After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Action Tour Guide app, enter your unique password, and access your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/wifi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there.
New, extra validity — now, it’s yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!
This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.
Price From
$27.00
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment!
Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
Price From
$99.99
Take a grand tour of America the Beautiful with this ultimate bundle of 80+ tours across the USA! Relive the intensity of the Battle of Gettysburg. Witness nature’s raw power and beauty at Yellowstone National Park. Unwind by the ocean along the Pacific Coast Highway. Explore the hottest streets in Manhattan and Brooklyn. And much, much more! This bundle contains self-guided driving and walking tours of everything from historic battlefields to national parks to buzzing cities. If you want to explore all the beauty, wonder, and history this nation offers, this bundle’s for you.
Within 30 mins, we'll send you two things a password and an app. Download the app, enter the password, and receive all 80+ tours. Whenever you’re ready to use one, just download it, head to the starting location, and get started!
The bundle is valid for 1 year from your date of purchase.
This isn't an entrance ticket. Check COVID rules and opening hours before your visit.
Price From
$12.99
Download the GuideAlong self-guided audio tour and you'll discover more on your Acadia National Park road trip. Hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions play automatically, all based on your location.
You'll be guided to all of the area's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including the highest point on the eastern seaboard, historic carriage roads that are considered the best example in the country of broken stone roads, and one of the most photographed lighthouses along the Maine Coast
Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you, and bypass any that don’t.
✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location
✅ Travel at your own pace
✅ Tour offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed
✅ Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use
✅ No time limits or expiry, free updates
✅ Like having a tour guide along for the drive
Purchase one tour per vehicle.
Price From
$14.99
Experience Acadia National Park’s scenic Ocean Path with this self-guided walking tour. Look out for the variety of marine wildlife. See the breathtaking foliage and uncover the booming Thunder Hole. Hear stories of shipwrecks and devastating fires. Finally, take in the views from scenic Otter Point Outlook.
Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone explores together!
After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/wifi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there.
New, extra validity — now, it’s yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!
This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours and event schedules before your visit.
Price From
$12.99
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Bar Harbor, located in the state of Maine, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning coastal beauty, charming downtown area, and proximity to Acadia National Park. The town is committed to ensuring that visitors of all ages and abilities have access to its attractions, amenities, and services. Here is detailed information about Bar Harbor’s accessibility for people with disabilities and seniors:
1. Accommodations: Many hotels, motels, inns, and vacation rentals in Bar Harbor offer accessible rooms and facilities for guests with disabilities. These accommodations may include features such as wheelchair-accessible rooms, grab bars in bathrooms, and elevators or ramps for easy access.
2. Attractions: Several of Bar Harbor’s main attractions are accessible to people with disabilities and seniors. Acadia National Park, which is located nearby, offers accessible trails, scenic drives, and visitor centers with ramps and designated parking spaces. The Abbe Museum, Shore Path, Village Green, and Bar Island Sand Bar are also wheelchair-friendly attractions in the town.
3. Transportation: Bar Harbor provides accessible transportation options for visitors with disabilities and seniors. The free Island Explorer shuttle bus service offers wheelchair-accessible buses and routes that connect popular destinations within the town and Acadia National Park. Taxis and private transportation services with accessible vehicles are also available for hire.
4. Dining: Many restaurants and eateries in Bar Harbor are wheelchair-accessible and have accommodations for guests with disabilities. Staff members are often trained to provide assistance to diners with special needs, such as offering large-print menus or helping with seating arrangements.
5. Shopping: The downtown area of Bar Harbor is pedestrian-friendly and has sidewalks and ramps that make it easy for people with disabilities and seniors to navigate. Many shops, boutiques, and galleries in the town are wheelchair-accessible and have spacious interiors that allow for easy movement.
6. Services: Bar Harbor has several services and facilities that cater to the needs of people with disabilities and seniors. These may include medical clinics, pharmacies, grocery stores, and banks that have accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking spaces.
7. Events and activities: The town of Bar Harbor hosts various events, festivals, and activities throughout the year that are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to people of all abilities. Special accommodations, such as sign language interpreters or designated seating areas, are often provided upon request.
Overall, Bar Harbor is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for visitors with disabilities and seniors. The town’s infrastructure, amenities, and services are designed to ensure that everyone can enjoy all that Bar Harbor has to offer, regardless of their age or physical abilities.
City Info and Accessibility
Bar Harbor, located in the state of Maine, is a relatively safe destination for travelers. However, it is always important to take general safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your belongings secure, and following any local rules or regulations.
In terms of languages spoken, English is the predominant language in Bar Harbor, as it is in the rest of the United States. You should have no trouble communicating with locals and service providers in English.
The best times to visit Bar Harbor are during the summer and fall months. The summer season, from June to August, offers warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. The fall season, from September to October, is known for its beautiful foliage as the leaves change color.
Overall, Bar Harbor is a charming and picturesque destination that offers plenty of natural beauty and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
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Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, is a popular destination known for its stunning coastal landscapes, outdoor activities, and proximity to Acadia National Park. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel, a luxurious resort, or accessible accommodations for seniors and individuals with disabilities, Bar Harbor offers a variety of options.
1. Best Areas to Stay:
- Downtown Bar Harbor: The downtown area is the heart of the town, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. It’s a great choice for those who want to be in the center of the action.
- Near Acadia National Park: If you prefer a quieter setting and easy access to the park’s hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, consider staying near Acadia National Park.
- Waterfront: For breathtaking views of the harbor and easy access to water activities, staying along the waterfront is a fantastic option.
2. Accommodation Options:
- Budget-Friendly: Bar Harbor has a range of budget-friendly options, including motels, inns, and bed and breakfasts. These accommodations offer comfortable rooms at affordable rates, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Mid-Range: For mid-range options, consider staying at hotels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals in and around Bar Harbor. These properties typically offer comfortable rooms, amenities like pools or spas, and good value for money.
- Luxury: If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, Bar Harbor boasts upscale resorts, boutique hotels, and waterfront properties. These accommodations feature spacious rooms, gourmet dining options, spa services, and stunning ocean views.
3. Accessible Accommodations:
- Many accommodations in Bar Harbor offer accessible rooms and facilities for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Be sure to inquire about specific accessibility features when making your reservation.
- The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce website provides a list of accessible accommodations in the area, including hotels with ADA-compliant rooms and facilities.
- Additionally, some vacation rental properties and boutique hotels in Bar Harbor may offer accommodations with features like ramps, grab bars, and wider doorways for increased accessibility.
Overall, Bar Harbor offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences and needs. Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly options, luxurious retreats, or accessible accommodations, you’ll find a variety of choices in this charming coastal town.
1. Airport Transfers:
The nearest airport to Bar Harbor is the Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB), located about 12 miles away. For travelers flying into BHB, several transportation options are available for transfers to Bar Harbor:
- Car Rentals: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport, providing travelers with the flexibility of having their own vehicle for transportation.
- Shuttle Services: Some local shuttle companies offer airport transfer services to and from Bar Harbor. It’s recommended to pre-book shuttle services to ensure timely transportation.
2. Public Transport:
Bar Harbor is a small town with limited public transportation options. However, there are a few taxi companies and a free Island Explorer bus system that provides transportation to popular destinations in and around the town. The Island Explorer has several routes connecting Bar Harbor with other key locations in Acadia National Park and neighboring towns.
3. Senior and Disability Accessible Transportation:
For seniors and individuals with disabilities, there are accessible transportation options available in Bar Harbor. Some taxi companies and shuttle services offer vehicles equipped with wheelchair ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility issues. It’s advisable to inquire about accessibility features when booking transportation services.
4. Tips for Navigating the City:
- Due to the town’s small size, walking is a popular and convenient way to get around Bar Harbor. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.
- Biking is another popular mode of transportation in Bar Harbor, with several rental shops offering bicycles for exploring the town and its surroundings.
- Driving is also an option for getting around Bar Harbor and exploring the nearby areas. However, parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons, so it’s advisable to plan ahead and arrive early to secure parking spots.
- When using public transportation, such as the Island Explorer bus system, familiarize yourself with the bus routes and schedules to efficiently navigate the town and its surroundings.
- Be prepared for traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons, especially in popular areas like downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Plan your transportation routes accordingly to avoid delays.
1. Acadia National Park - A 47,000-acre park with hiking trails, scenic drives, and panoramic views of the coastline. Kids can enjoy exploring nature, spotting wildlife, and visiting sites like Thunder Hole and Cadillac Mountain.
2. Village Green - A central park in downtown Bar Harbor, perfect for picnics, playing games, or relaxing. The park often hosts events and live music during the summer months.
3. Shore Path - A beautiful oceanside walking path that offers stunning views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands. Kids can enjoy walking along the path, skipping rocks, and observing boats passing by.
4. Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf - A pirate-themed mini-golf course that is fun for the whole family. Kids can navigate through caves, waterfalls, and pirate ships while playing a round of mini-golf.
5. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company - A family-friendly whale watching tour that allows kids to see marine life up close, including whales, dolphins, and seals. The tour offers educational insights into the local ecosystem.
6. Agamont Park - A small park with benches overlooking the harbor, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views. Kids can watch boats coming and going from the marina and observe seagulls and other marine birds.
7. Bar Island Sand Bar - A unique natural attraction that allows visitors to walk across the sand bar to Bar Island during low tide. Kids can explore tide pools, search for shells, and enjoy the scenic views of Bar Harbor from the island.
8. Bar Harbor Marina - A great spot for kids to see different types of boats and yachts up close. They can watch fishermen unloading their catches, observe sea birds, and enjoy the bustling activity of the marina.
9. The Abbe Museum - A museum dedicated to telling the story of Maine’s Native American heritage. Kids can learn about indigenous cultures, history, and art through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
10. Oceanarium at the College of the Atlantic - A marine education facility that offers guided tours and touch tanks where kids can interact with local marine life, including sea stars, crabs, and sea urchins.
Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, offers a variety of cultural experiences and local festivals for visitors to enjoy. One of the most famous cultural attractions in the area is Acadia National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
In terms of local festivals, Bar Harbor hosts an annual Bar Harbor Music Festival, featuring a range of musical performances by both local and international artists. The town also celebrates the Maine Lobster Festival, showcasing the region’s delicious seafood and offering fun activities for all ages.
For hidden gems in Bar Harbor, visitors can explore the charming downtown area, filled with unique shops, art galleries, and eateries. They can also visit the Abbe Museum, dedicated to preserving and promoting Native American culture and history in Maine.
As for nightlife and entertainment, Bar Harbor offers a range of options for visitors to enjoy. From cozy pubs and craft breweries to live music venues and theater performances, there is something for everyone to experience after the sun goes down.
Overall, Bar Harbor is a vibrant destination that offers a mix of cultural experiences, local festivals, hidden gems, and nightlife opportunities for visitors to explore and enjoy.
1. Budget-Friendly: Two Cats Bar Harbor - A cozy and charming spot offering affordable breakfast and lunch options like fluffy pancakes and omelettes.
2. Fine Dining: Havana - A stylish eatery with a menu inspired by Cuban cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and creative dishes in an upscale setting.
3. Allergy-Friendly: Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast - This breakfast spot is known for accommodating various dietary restrictions, with options for gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian diners.
4. Dietary-Conscious: Rosalie’s Pizza - Offering a variety of gluten-free and vegan pizza options, this casual spot is perfect for those with dietary restrictions looking for a delicious meal.
Here are some essential tips for travelers in Bar Harbor:
Currency Exchange: The official currency in Bar Harbor, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). It is advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, as not all places may accept credit or debit cards.
Financial Tips: It is recommended to notify your bank and credit card companies before traveling to Bar Harbor to avoid any issues with transactions being flagged as suspicious. ATMs are widely available in the town for cash withdrawals.
Local Laws: It is important to adhere to local laws and regulations while in Bar Harbor. Smoking is prohibited in indoor public places, including restaurants and bars. Open containers of alcohol in public are also not permitted.
Customs and Etiquette: When visiting Bar Harbor, it is important to respect the local customs and etiquette. Tipping is customary in restaurants, with 15-20% considered standard. It is also polite to greet people with a smile and a friendly \"hello\" or \"good morning.\"
Safety Advice: Bar Harbor is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is always recommended to take precautions to ensure your safety. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and be mindful of your surroundings, especially when exploring outdoor areas or hiking trails.
Overall, by being mindful of currency exchange, following financial tips, respecting local laws and customs, and staying safe, travelers can have a pleasant and enjoyable experience in Bar Harbor.
