If you are looking for things to do or planning a trip to Bar Harbor Maine here is your guide on things to do. In August of 2023, we decided to take a much-needed break and headed to Bar Harbor, Maine for adventure and relaxation. With the stunning natural beauty of Acadia National Park right at our doorstep, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature. The trip was a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, delicious food, and the peaceful charm of Maine’s coast. Let me tell you more about why!
Getting There: The Road to Bar Harbor
Our journey began with flights, which were only $350 for two since I had airline credit, and then a rental car from Budget, which we picked up at Bangor International Airport. We met my brother and his girlfriend at the airport and started on our way. Our vehicle allowed us to explore at our own pace, a luxury we truly appreciated during our stay. The drive from Bangor to Bar Harbor was scenic and peaceful, taking us through small towns and offering glimpses of the natural beauty that awaited us. There is also a cool thrift/antique shop off the main road. As we neared Bar Harbor, the landscape began to change. Tall pine trees and rocky shores started to dominate the horizon, signaling that we were entering one of the most beautiful places in Maine.
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Our Stay at Hanscom Cottages
Hanscom Cottages turned out to be the perfect base for our stay. Located just outside of Bar Harbor, the cottages offered the ideal balance of seclusion and convenience. The property was peaceful and quiet, offering plenty of space to unwind after a day of exploring. Each morning, we woke up to the sound of birds chirping and a fresh breeze coming in through the windows. The cottages were well-equipped with everything we needed—whether it was for a relaxing evening indoors or a quick breakfast before heading out for the day. They even provided firewood and pits to make for a great end to the day each night.
Exploring Bar Harbor and the Shore Path
The town of Bar Harbor itself is a delightful place to explore. The amount of restaurants and shops can be a bit overwhelming. We made sure to take several trips into the town to experience its charm. One of the highlights was walking the Shore Path, which runs along the edge of the harbor and offers stunning views of the water and nearby islands. The path is an easy walk, with benches scattered along the way where we could stop and take in the breathtaking scenery. We were lucky enough to witness some cruise ships coming into port during our walks. It was fascinating to see these massive ships docked right alongside the small, picturesque town.
The contrast of the sleek, modern ships with the quaint New England architecture made for a unique scene. The weather in August was perfect for walking, though the water was icy cold—far too cold for a dip. While the beaches in the area looked inviting, we quickly learned that swimming was not in the cards during our visit. Still, the sight of the clear, sparkling water was beautiful enough to make up for it.
Things to do in Town
No trip to Maine is complete without indulging in its famous seafood, and we made sure to sample as much as we could. One morning, we headed to Jordan’s Restaurant for breakfast, a local favorite. The atmosphere was cozy, with friendly service and delicious food. We highly recommend trying their blueberry pancakes, which are light, fluffy, and packed with the fresh, sweet blueberries that Maine is known for.
During our time in Bar Harbor, we also had the chance to enjoy a classic Maine treat—lobster rolls. We ventured out of town to C-Ray’s, a charming roadside stand known for its lobster rolls. The roll was perfect—fresh lobster, lightly dressed in mayo and nestled in a buttered, toasted bun. It was a quintessential Maine meal, and we were grateful to enjoy it in such a relaxed setting.
While in town, we also tried something a little more adventurous: lobster ice cream. This Maine delicacy has been gaining popularity in recent years. While I was eager to try it, I have to admit it wasn’t my favorite. We also ate at The Thirsty Whale which was one of the higher-priced eats during our stay but worth it. On another morning, we decided to check out Fog Town Brewery for some local brews and snacks. We also checked out Bar Harbor Beer Works as well. The vibe at both was laid-back, making it the perfect spot to relax and sample some craft beers. Nearby, we also visited Thrive Town Market, where we enjoyed fresh smoothies for breakfast. Their smoothies were a healthy start to the day and a great alternative to heavier breakfast options. Side Street Cafe was a favorite for our breakfast as well. You can see a full list of restaurants and breweries to enjoy here.
Acadia National Park
The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly Acadia National Park. This natural wonder boasts a stunning variety of landscapes, ranging from rugged coastlines to dense forests and majestic mountaintops. We spent several days hiking, soaking in the views, and immersing ourselves in the park’s beauty. There are so many trails and things to see.
One of our first stops was Jordan Pond. Surrounded by towering mountains, this pond is one of the most photographed spots in Acadia—and for good reason. The scenery was breathtaking. However, parking at Jordan Pond can be challenging, especially during the summer months. We were fortunate to find a spot, but it’s something to keep in mind if you plan to visit. Once settled in, we treated ourselves to a local delicacy—popovers. These fluffy, golden pastries are a must-try at Jordan Pond House, and they pair perfectly with the stunning view. We then took the hike around the pond as well which was easy to do and had some great photo spots.
More To See & Things to Do
We also took the time to explore the many hiking trails that Acadia offers. There are trails suitable for every skill level, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs. One of our favorite hikes was up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point in Acadia. The ascent was a bit strenuous, but the panoramic views of the park and the surrounding coastline made it all worthwhile. We did sunset here and it was iconic. We were lucky enough to have a clear day, and the sight of the ocean stretching out before us was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
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One of the highlights of our trip was a day spent on the water. We rented canoes from a local outfitter for just $30 per person and paddled out onto a serene lake in Acadia. The weather was perfect—clear skies, gentle winds, and calm waters. We spent the morning paddling around, enjoying the peacefulness of the lake, and trying our hand at fishing. Although we didn’t catch anything, it was still an enjoyable experience and a great way to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Visiting the Lighthouse and a Ghost Tour
Another unforgettable experience was visiting the Bass Harbor Head Light, a historic lighthouse located just outside of Bar Harbor. The lighthouse is perched on a rocky cliff, offering stunning views of the coastline and the ocean beyond. The site is incredibly picturesque, and it’s easy to see why this lighthouse has become one of the most iconic landmarks in Maine. One evening, we also decided to do something a little different and joined a ghost tour in Bar Harbor. The tour took us through the town’s historic streets, where we learned about the eerie tales and local legends that have haunted the area for centuries. It was a fun, spooky way to end the day, and our guide did an excellent job of weaving together history and folklore.
Wrapping Up a Perfect Trip
As our six days in Bar Harbor came to an end, we took a moment to reflect on how much we had enjoyed the trip. Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park offered a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, leaving us feeling rejuvenated and inspired by the natural beauty around us. Whether you are a nature lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Bar Harbor has something to offer everyone. From the town’s quiet charm to the breathtaking landscapes of Acadia, it is a destination that truly embodies the spirit of Maine. If you are planning a trip to the Northeast, I highly recommend adding Bar Harbor to your itinerary—it’s an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss.
With Love,
Lex Paige
