Bar Harbor Activities

The charming town of Bar Harbor offers the quintessential Downeast Maine experience. From the quaint shops and variety of dining options, to whale watch and boat tours, Bar Harbor offers something for every traveler.

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.

Get out on the open seas and see whales, puffins, and more with the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.

Thompson Island

Directly across from Island View Hotel Bar Harbor, the tiny Thompson Island stands between Trenton and Mount Desert Island. This picturesque spot is perfect for a picnic or family gathering with a large grassy field overlooking the water for some fun and games. Across the road, visit the Thompson Island Information Center where you can get information on Acadia when staffed during normal business hours before heading into the park.

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK

Originally the home of the Wabanaki, Woodrow Wilson granted federal designation to Acadia under the name Sieur de Monts National Monument in 1916. What we now know as Acadia became a full national park in 1919. The first national park east of the Mississippi contains so many things to do! If you’re looking for a relaxed experience, start the day by driving up to Cadillac Mountain’s summit for sunrise, then head over to Jordan Pond House for popovers with a view of the Bubbles. Take a break at Thunder Hole to experience the dramatic meeting of rock and ocean. From there, enjoy a lobster lunch with ocean views at Stewman’s Lobster Pound and walk over to Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co for a tour of Acadia from the water. After all that salt air, you’ll be ready for a burger and a local brew at Paddy’s Irish Pub & Restaurant!

If you’re looking for a more active Maine adventure, kick the day off with a sunrise paddle. After a kayaking trip, it’ll be time for breakfast at La Bella Vita. Then hike the challenging Beehive or Jordan Cliff Loops for views of the Gulf of Maine or Jordan Pond. Finally, grab some lobster rolls for lunch and finish off the day relaxing on Sand Beach!

Please note Acadia is now requiring reservations to access some areas of the park. For more information, read here.

DOWNEAST DINING

Looking for Maine Lobster? Wander over to Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound just across the street from the Island View Hotel or head into downtown Bar Harbor on Mt Desert Island and crack into a “bug” at Stewman’s Lobster Pound. While Downeast Maine is well known for lobster caught from traps just off the shore, the Bar Harbor, ME restaurant scene contains multitudes- pub fare, local craft beer, upscale American, Italian, Mexican, and fresh seafood, even locally made ice cream. From Paddy’s Irish Pub & Restaurant for burgers to La Bella Vita for pasta, our local Maine restaurants offer something for everyone!