How to spend three unforgettable days exploring charming Bar Harbor, hiking Acadia National Park, and discovering one of New England’s most beautiful coastal escapes.
By Riley Schnepf
Perched on the rugged coast of Maine, Bar Harbor is one of those quaint towns that looks like it belongs on the front of a postcard. Lobster boats bob in the water, pine trees are everywhere you look, and historic buildings line the streets filled with souvenir shops, bookstores, and seafood restaurants. While it is primarily known as the town closest to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor itself is just as much worth visiting as the natural wonders that surround it.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend getaway, a New England road trip, or a summer escape from the city, three days in Bar Harbor gives you enough time to experience the best of coastal Maine. From sunrise on Cadillac Mountain to my personal favorite fresh lobster rolls, here’s how to spend the perfect three days in America’s most charming coastal town.
PLANNING YOUR BAR HARBOR GETAWAY?
Jump to: Where to Stay | Where to Eat | What to Do
Day 1: Explore Downtown Bar Harbor and the Shore Path
Start Your Morning with Breakfast in Town
Ease into your first day with a delicious breakfast at one of Bar Harbor’s cozy cafés. Because Downtown is so walkable, finding a spot to eat is easy. A couple of my personal favorites include Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast (highly recommend their pancakes and camp skillet) and Cafe This Way, which has an adorable patio, perfect for a cool, sunny morning. Though I also ran out of time to try it, 2 Cats is another extremely popular option, too.
After breakfast, take some time to explore Main Street. You’ll find locally owned bookstores (fun fact: Sherman’s has been there since 1886), outdoor outfitters, art galleries, and gift shops selling everything from Maine-made jams to clothing to handcrafted pottery. The town is one of the few left in the country that has managed to keep its small-town character despite its popularity, and part of the fun is simply walking around and taking it all in.
Walk the Shore Path
One of Bar Harbor’s most iconic attractions is the Shore Path, a scenic waterfront walkway that stretches along Frenchman Bay. Over a century old, the path offers stunning views of the harbor, nearby islands, and some of the area’s grand historic cottages.
The walk is relatively short, sitting at only about a mile and a half, but you’ll want to take your time to appreciate the views.
Lunch by the Water
No first day in Bar Harbor would be complete without seafood. With so many different seafood options, choosing where to eat can be overwhelming, to say the least. If you’re looking for a quick lobster roll that you can sit while eating on the bluff overlooking the water, head over to Frenchman Bay Lobster Rolls. The sister of the Travelin’ Lobster—another extremely popular spot on the other side of the island—allows you to grab a bite to go and eat it with a view.
If you’re hoping for something a little nicer, where you can sit inside and/or enjoy other seafood options outside of a lobster roll, Thirsty Whale Tavern and Geddy’s are both popular options. The Barnacle is also a great spot if you’re craving oysters.
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Maine lobster is as fresh as it gets here, often arriving directly from local boats, so if you like seafood, I can’t recommend it enough. However, if seafood isn’t your thing, don’t worry. Bar Harbor has plenty of options. Hit Side Street Cafe for American food (but be sure to get one of their famous margaritas and a slice of their incredible blueberry pie) or head to Melt for some of the best grilled cheese sandwiches you’ll ever have.
Enjoy Happy Hour Drinks and Music at Ivy Inn Manor
After a day of exploring Bar Harbor’s shops, unwind at the Garden Bar at Ivy Manor Inn, a hidden oasis right on Main Street. Open daily from noon to 8 p.m. (with an exclusive guest-only hour from 8 to 9 p.m.), this outdoor gathering spot is everything you could want and more. The grounds are incredibly lush, and Adirondack chairs are scattered throughout, so you can enjoy a curated selection of beer, wine, and whiskey while listening to live afternoon music.
It’s the perfect place to visit just as the sun starts to set. During the busy months, it fills up quickly, so I suggest arriving early to snag a spot—especially if you’re interested in listening to the live music. Fortunately, people always seem to be coming and going, so if you do wait, it shouldn’t be too long.
Dinner and Dessert
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, settle in for dinner at one of Bar Harbor’s standout restaurants. Galyn’s is a favorite for fresh seafood and harbor views in case you haven’t had enough. If you’re in the mood for an elevated experience, head over to Brassier Le Brun, a French-inspired restaurant with an extensive wine list.
I hope you left room for dessert, because Bar Harbor is known for its ice cream. After dinner, grab a scoop from Mt. Desert Island Ice Cream. The small-batch, artisanal shop has a wide variety of unique flavors, so there’s something for everyone. Of course, I had to have the blueberry ice cream, and it was the perfect sweet treat.
Day 2: Discover Acadia National Park
No trip to Bar Harbor is complete without dedicating a full day to Acadia National Park. Covering nearly 50,000 acres of mountains, forests, lakes, and coastline, it’s one of America’s most beloved national parks for a reason.
Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain
Because last night was an easy-going day, day two is going to start early. Set your alarm early because the adventure begins before dawn.
Cadillac Mountain is famous for its sunrise views. Standing at 1,530 feet, it’s the highest point on the North Atlantic, which makes it one of the first places to see the sunrise, depending on the time of year.
It’s important to note that during peak season (May through October), reservations are required. 30 percent of reservations are available up to 90 days in advance, and the remaining 70 percent become available 2 days in advance.
If you’re visiting when reservations aren’t required, it’s wise to get there early. Parking is extremely limited, so it gets congested quickly.
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Explore Park Loop Road
After sunrise, spend the morning driving Park Loop Road, a scenic route that connects many of Acadia’s most famous attractions.
Highlights include:
- Sand Beach — A rare sandy beach tucked between rocky cliffs
- Thunder Hole — Where crashing waves create dramatic sprays and booming sounds
- Otter Point — Known for its rugged coastal views
- Jordan Pond — Famous for its crystal-clear waters and mountain backdrop
There are countless pull-offs and overlooks along the route, so leave room in your schedule for spontaneous stops.
Go For a Hike
Acadia offers hiking options for every skill level.
For an easier experience, the Jordan Pond Path is a great choice. This mostly flat, 3.3-mile loop circles the crystal-clear lake, winding through forests, wooden boardwalks, and rocky shoreline while offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
If you’re up for more of a challenge, the Beehive Trail and Gorham Mountain Trail are two of Acadia’s most popular hikes. The Beehive is a short but steep climb featuring iron rungs, exposed cliffs, and panoramic views over Sand Beach and the coastline. Fair warning for those afraid of heights: this one isn’t for the weak.
If you still want the stunning ocean views without the technical sections of Beehive, consider Gorham Mountain. You still get the views without having to climb the side of a mountain.
Lunch at Jordan Pond House
One of Acadia’s most beloved traditions is a stop at the Jordan Pond House. Set on a lawn overlooking Jordan Pond and the rounded peaks known as the Bubbles, it’s the perfect place to take a break after a busy hiking day.
While there, order the warm, freshly baked popovers that are served with butter and jam. Light and airy, they’ve become a longtime favorite for visitors looking for a classic Acadia experience.
Spend the Afternoon on the Water
Depending on how much time you’ve spent driving around and hiking, consider experiencing Acadia from a different perspective.
Boat tours depart regularly from Bar Harbor and give you the chance to see:
- Lighthouses
- Harbor seals
- Puffins (seasonally)
- Historic coastal landmarks
- Working lobster boats
Day 3: Coastal Adventures and Hidden Gems
For your final day, explore some of the lesser-known spots that make Bar Harbor such a beloved destination.
Visit Bass Harbor Head Light
Located on the quieter side of Mount Desert Island, Bass Harbor Head Light is one of Maine’s most photographed lighthouses.
Built in 1858, the lighthouse stands on rugged cliffs high above the Atlantic Ocean, with waves crashing far below. A short, easy walk leads you to the main viewpoint, making it an accessible stop even if you’re not planning a long hike.
Like with anything else, getting there earlier is going to be your best bet if you’re looking to beat those crowds.
Explore Southwest Harbor
While Bar Harbor gets most of the attention, nearby Southwest Harbor offers a quieter, more local experience.
You’ll find cozy cafés like Clark Point and Vacationland Coffee Roasters, local bakeries, and independent shops along Main Street. And, of course, I have to mention seafood one more time. Beal’s is an extremely popular spot to enjoy one more lobster roll before your trip comes to an end.
Go on a Scenic Walk
If you have time, take a scenic walk through the nearby Seawall Picnic Area, or stop at the Wonderland Trail, an easy coastal walk through the woods that opens out to tide pools and ocean views. Both are low-effort, high-reward ways to end your trip outside of the busier spots that can get overwhelmed with tourists.
YOUR BAR HARBOR QUICK GUIDE
Short on time? Bookmark this list of tips and some of our favorite places to stay, eat, and explore in and around Bar Harbor.
When to Visit Bar Harbor
Summer is the most popular season to visit, thanks to its warm temperatures and long daylight hours. However, this popularity also means larger crowds.
If you’re on the search for fall foliage, I can’t recommend autumn enough. The trees are changing colors, there’s a crispness to the air, and most importantly, there are fewer visitors.
I personally love spring, which is often viewed as shoulder season. You’ll get to see blooming wildflowers, and the streets are quieter. However, many restaurants and stores close for the winter, so depending on when you visit in the spring, they might still be closed. To ensure you’ll be able to do everything that you want, I recommend doing some research beforehand.
Where to Stay in Bar Harbor
Atlantic Oceanside
Bar Harbor Inn & Spa
Salt Cottages
From charming boutique inns to waterfront resorts, Bar Harbor has plenty of great places to stay, depending on the kind of trip you’re planning. Here are a few favorites:
- Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center – Set right on Frenchman Bay, this waterfront hotel offers private balconies with ocean views, walking paths along the shore, indoor and outdoor pools, and easy access to both downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. It’s a great, affordable option for families, couples, and anyone who wants to wake up by the water.
- Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – One of the town’s most well-known hotels, this historic waterfront property features elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and unbeatable views of Frenchman Bay, all within walking distance of downtown. It’s definitely a luxury experience, but if you’re hoping for a more romantic vacation, this is the perfect place to spend your weekend.
- Salt Cottages – These renovated coastal cottages offer a classic seaside Maine experience. Located just minutes from the Hulls Cove entrance of Acadia and downtown Bar Harbor, they’re so cute that you’re going to have a hard time leaving. During your downtime, enjoy their firepits, picnic snack bar, and heated outdoor pool.
Where to Eat in Bar Harbor
Breakfast: Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast · Cafe This Way · 2 Cats
Lobster & Seafood: Frenchman Bay Lobster Rolls · Travelin’ Lobster · Thirsty Whale Tavern · Geddy’s · The Barnacle · Beal’s Lobster Pier
Lunch & Casual Bites: Side Street Cafe · Melt · Jordan Pond House
Dinner: Galyn’s · Brasserie Le Brun
Drinks: Garden Bar at Ivy Manor Inn
Something Sweet: Mt. Desert Island Ice Cream
Southwest Harbor: Clark Point Cafe · Vacationland Coffee Roasters · Beal’s Lobster Pier
What to Do in Bar Harbor
In Bar Harbor: Explore Main Street · Walk the Shore Path · Shop local bookstores, galleries, and boutiques · Take a boat tour of Frenchman Bay
In Acadia National Park: Watch sunrise from Cadillac Mountain · Drive Park Loop Road · Visit Sand Beach · Hear the waves at Thunder Hole · Stop at Otter Point · Explore Jordan Pond
Take a Hike: Jordan Pond Path for an easier outing · Gorham Mountain for ocean views · Beehive Trail for a more adventurous climb
Explore Mount Desert Island: Visit Bass Harbor Head Light · Spend time in Southwest Harbor · Walk the Wonderland Trail · Stop at Seawall Picnic Area
