Best Places to Visit in Bar Harbor, ME
Surrounded by Acadia National Park’s 33,000 acres of woodland, lakes, and shoreline, Bar Harbor, and the Mira Monte Inn, offer an incredible variety of things to see and do. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing coastal escape, there’s something here for everyone. From mountain hikes to lobster boat cruises, museums to musical performances, and peaceful strolls to thrilling bike rides, Bar Harbor is the perfect basecamp for your Maine vacation.
Hiking and Trails
With more than 60 mountain and shoreline trails, Acadia National Park is a hiker’s paradise. Trails range from gentle forest paths to strenuous climbs with breathtaking views. Some favorites include:
- Sand Beach to Otter Point (2 miles): A stunning ocean path—take the bus to Sand Beach and return from Otter Point.
- North Ridge Trail on Champlain Mountain: (formerly called Bear Brook Trail). There is a vernal pool of water in the rocks that looks as though it was designed by a Japanese master gardener.
- Beechcroft to Champlain via Huguenot Head: A beautiful, forested climb.
- Bald Peak to Parkman Mountain: There are a lot of choices here: go to the waterfall bridge on the way (if it has been raining) and at the top of Parkman, a right turn will take you to the Sargent Mountain Complex, or a left turn will take you down to the carriage road and back to your car.
Bicycling
Bar Harbor offers rides for every level of cyclist. Explore the Park Loop Road or Acadia’s famous carriage roads. Two excellent bike rental shops: Acadia Bike and Canoe and Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop, are just steps from Mira Monte.
Strolling and Walking Tours
- Bar Harbor’s Shore Path: A must-do scenic coastal walk that’s an easy stroll with the most spectacular views. It begins just five minutes from Mira Monte.
- Bar Island Walk: Reachable at low tide via Bridge Street—check the tide chart!
- Village Connector Trails: Begin at the cemetery on Kebo Street and lead to Dorr Mountain and the Wild Gardens of Acadia.
- Wonderland & Ship Harbor Trails (Southwest Harbor): These short, serene walks showcase arctic plant life, unique coastal ecosystems, and quiet beauty.
On the Water
- Sea Kayaking : Get close to Bar Harbor’s coastal wildlife with full- or half-day guided tours. Coastal Kayaking Tours is a trusted option.
- Lulu Lobster Boat : Experience the life of a lobsterman on a traditional Downeast boat—an unforgettable and authentic Bar Harbor adventure.
- Whale Watching, Puffin Cruises & More: Numerous boat tours depart from the harbor daily. Be sure to bring layers—it’s chilly on the water even in summer!
Museums & Cultural Attractions
- Abbe Museum (pictured) is the anchor museum for the Wabanaki Trail, the cultural history of the Abenaki Indians. It is just down the street from Mira Monte Inn. It is a great place to learn more of Maine’s Native Americans through their art, culture and archaeology. There is also a trailside museum at Sieur Des Monts Springs.
- Dorr Museum of Natural History is at the College of the Atlantic: Exhibits of native animals, taxidermy, and settings done by the students
- Wendell Gilley Museum (Southwest Harbor) displays the carved bird collection by Wendell Gilley, local plumber and outdoorsman, and renowned bird carver.
- Seal Cove Auto Museum is home to a world-class collection of early Brass Era cars. Tucked away in a metal building on a back road of Mount Desert Island, these automobiles represent the technology, design aesthetic, and lifestyle of the years between 1895-1917.
- The Sound Museum , located on Rte. 198 towards Northeast Harbor displays the history of the Sound village during the early years when this was a thriving village at the head of Somes Sound. It was a village of stone cutters and fishermen. The building is the former schoolhouse.
Events & More!
- 4th of July: Enjoy a quintessential small-town celebration with a parade, fireworks, lobster festival, and live music.
- Oceanarium : This unique attraction includes a lobster hatchery, marsh tours, a touch tank, and knowledgeable staff who bring Maine’s marine life to life.
- Bar Harbor Music Festival : A summer-long celebration of music with performances across genres and venues.
- Theater & Arts : Catch a show in Bar Harbor or nearby Somesville, with options ranging from local plays to musical events.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Bar Harbor
- Weather: Summer days are mild (low 80s) with cool nights (60s). Ocean breezes make for brisk boat rides—bring layers!
- Packing Advice: Sweaters, jeans, socks, scarves, gloves, and a small backpack for layering. Even in summer, the water is cold (50–60°F), and wind can make outings chilly
Page Photo Credits: Abbe Museum photo courtesy the Abbe Museum, licensed under the CCA Share Alike 4.0 International license.
What our Guests are Saying: “This beautiful property is truly amazing! Incredible location so close to Main Street and the waterfront. We walked downtown every day, multiple times to the shops and restaurants…We spent 3 weeks traveling to Martha’s Vineyard, Boston and Bar Harbor. Mira Monte was our favorite! You’ll love this place! Bruce and Cheryl really have a wonderful property.“ Theresa L.