Things to Do in Bar Harbor
Explore Our Local Attractions and Find New Adventures
Relaxing and restorative, cultural and informative, or high energy activities—there are just so many unforgettable activities and things to do in and around Bar Harbor, Maine. And all amidst stunning ocean and forested mountains. From whale watching adventures in Acadia National Park to championship golf, biking, hiking, bird watching and more, do what you can, then start planning your next visit to Maine.
Bar Harbor Manor, located in the center of town, offers the ideal starting point to enjoy all the activities available in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. We have selected just a few things to do to get you started. Once you arrive, our knowledgeable staff can provide additional activity information, brochures, maps and guidebooks, whatever you need to help make the most of your Maine getaway.
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Scenic Drive
Start here—driving or taking a tour around the island will give you a glimpse of all there is to see and do, plus help you get your bearings. The Park Loop Road, a spectacular 27-mile drive through Acadia National Park has incredible views of soaring cliffs, cobblestone beaches, granite mountains and lush forests. If you do little else, do this!
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Whale Watching
Watching whales, seals, eagles, and just being on the ocean is inspiring. Tour boats leave several times a day from the pier here in downtown Bar Harbor.
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Biking
Acadia National Park has more than 50 miles of car-free carriage roads, perfect for getting up-close with all the natural beauty of this island. Bike right from Bar Harbor Manor into Acadia National Park—bicycle rentals are conveniently located just a few steps away.
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Hiking
Love to hike? You’ll love Acadia. More than 120 miles of hiking trails from meadow walks, to steep ascents where rungs and caution are advised. The Great Meadow Loop trail begins at Bar Harbor Manor’s doorstep.
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Kayaking
You can’t get much closer to the water without getting wet—explore the coast with a seal’s eye view. Kayak from Bar Harbor and see porpoises and bald eagles, and feel the salt air and sun on your face.
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Bird Watching
Grab your binoculars and head to the park. More than 300 species of land, sea and shore birds are waiting to be checked off your list.
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Golfing
Get into the swing of things and play a round or two of golf at one of New England’s premier championship golf courses. Kebo Valley Golf Club is a short pitch and putt from Bar Harbor Manor.
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Bus And Trolley Tours
Sit back and just take it in, you don’t even need to drive. There are several bus and trolley tours that give you an overview of the island, and it’s a great way to learn about Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island.
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Rock Climbing
Reach new heights! For the truly adventurous, climb the sheer and bold granite cliffs overlooking the powerful Atlantic Ocean.
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Shopping
Gift shops, galleries, crafts, and boutiques are all within walking distance. The village of Bar Harbor has fine made-in-Maine jewelry, crafts, and gifts, as well as colorful t-shirts for the grandkids.
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Micro Brewery Tour
Tour and taste a sample (or two) at some of the area’s award-winning micro breweries. Bring some home to help remember your days in Bar Harbor.
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Museums And Oceanariums
Culture, but with a twist. Touch tanks with marine critters, hands-on learning, interactive exhibits—our museums are small and fun.
www.abbemuseum.org
www.barharborhistorical.org
www.nps.gov/acad
www.coa.edu/dorr-museum-microsite.htm -
Boating
Sail or power? It is an old argument, but there is no arguing that a day spent on the ocean is not wasted. Don’t know how to sail? You can even take private lessons.
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Dining
Choose from more than 65 restaurants, all within walking distance of Bar Harbor Manor. Ethnic, foodie, casual, stylish—we can help you choose, and have a stack of menus in the parlor for you to check out
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Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
Slow things down with a gentle ride through Acadia National Park in a historic buckboard carriage, or charter your own ride through Bar Harbor.
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Ferries
Visit one of the nearby islands or a village across the bay—each has its own personality.
Ferries leave from Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, Northeast Harbor and Bass Harbor
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Deep Sea Fishing
Drop a line in the deep blue sea. There are departures from Bar Harbor daily.
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Canoeing
Once a means of transportation, canoeing can be a means of fun. Rent and go out on your own, or in the company of a Maine Guide.
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Nature Cruises
See seals, porpoises and bald eagles, and the breathtaking scenery of coastal Maine and Acadia National Park.
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Sailing
Put the wind back in your sails with a relaxing schooner cruise in Frenchman Bay.
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Gilder Rides And Scenic Flights
Enjoy the beauty of Acadia and the bold Atlantic in your own private glider or airplane.
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Walking Tour
Take a guided walking tour through historic Bar Harbor with a not-so-prim Victorian lady or gentleman. When the tour goes right by the Bar Harbor Manor, you can add, “We stay here!” The town also has a self-guided walk with interpretive signs called Village in the Streets.
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Lobstering
Sure, they are delicious to eat, but there is a lot that happens before that lobster lands on your plate. Board a traditional lobster boat, and you can even help haul up a trap.