About Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is a resort town on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, Maine, United States. As of the 2020 census, its population is 5,089. The town is home to the College of the Atlantic, Jackson Laboratory, and MDI Biological Laboratory. During summer and fall seasons, it is a popular tourist destination.
Places to visit in Bar Harbor
-
Acadia National Park
Nature · 2 mi from centreSurrounding Bar Harbor, this park combines rocky coastline, granite peaks, clear lakes and historic carriage roads for biking, with ranger-led programs, scenic overlooks and the free Island Explorer shuttle.
-
Cadillac Mountain
Viewpoint · 3 mi from centreThe highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard, reached by road or hiking trails, with sweeping views of Frenchman Bay and its islands; driving up in peak season requires a vehicle reservation.
-
Park Loop Road
NatureA scenic drive linking many of Acadia's highlights, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff, with numerous pull-offs for photos and trailheads for short coastal walks.
-
Jordan Pond
Nature · 4 mi from centreA clear glacial lake framed by the rounded Bubbles mountains, with an easy loop trail around the shore and the Jordan Pond House restaurant, known for afternoon tea and popovers.
-
Bar Island
NatureAround low tide a gravel bar connects the town to this wooded island, letting visitors walk across and hike to a viewpoint; check tide times carefully to avoid being stranded.
-
Shore Path
ViewpointA gentle walking path along the waterfront starting near the town pier, passing grand summer cottages and rocky shoreline with views of the harbor and the Porcupine Islands.
-
Sand Beach
BeachA small, pretty beach tucked between rocky headlands in Acadia; the water is very cold even in summer, but it is lovely for walking and is the starting point for the Great Head Trail.
-
Abbe Museum
MuseumThis museum in downtown Bar Harbor presents the history, art and living culture of the Wabanaki, the Native peoples of Maine, through archaeology, basketry and contemporary work.
Where to stay in Bar Harbor
Popular hotels in Bar Harbor, out of 29 properties you can book.
The Inn On Mount Desert
From $108 per night
Primrose Inn
From $120 per night
The Pathmaker Hotel
From $119 per night
Bar Harbor Manor
From $100 per night
Hearthside Inn
From $159 per night
Anchorage Motel
Port Inn Bar Harbor, Ascend Hotel Collection
Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbour
Moseley Cottage Inn & Town Motel
Hampton Inn Bar Harbor
Holbrook House
Bar Harbor Grand Hotel
Best time to visit Bar Harbor
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Bar Harbor is September, when average daytime highs are around 71°F and rain falls on about 6 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Bar Harbor weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 51° 39° 0%
- Thu 22 Oct 54° 39° 8%
- Fri 23 Oct 49° 34° 19%
- Sat 24 Oct 55° 32° 8%
- Sun 25 Oct 57° 38° 2%
- Mon 26 Oct 60° 47° 1%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/New_YorkUTC−4
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Bar Harbor
These are the airports closest to central Bar Harbor. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- BHB Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport9 mi (14 km) from the city centre
Getting around Bar Harbor
Depending on the time of year you find yourself in town, and your intended goals, your visit may necessitate different modes of transportation. With many of the nearly 3 million annual visitors arriving in the summer months, getting around town by motor vehicle is a bad idea. Bar Harbor is much, much quieter between October and April.
Bar Harbor travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Bar Harbor?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Bar Harbor is September, when average daytime highs are around 71°F and rain falls on about 6 days a month.
What is the weather like in Bar Harbor?
July is usually the warmest month in Bar Harbor, with average highs of 79°F (26°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 16°F (-9°C). The wettest month is typically March, with about 158 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Bar Harbor?
Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) is the closest airport, about 9 miles (14 km) from the centre of Bar Harbor.
What time zone is Bar Harbor in?
Bar Harbor uses the America/New_York time zone (currently UTC−4). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Bar Harbor?
Depending on the time of year you find yourself in town, and your intended goals, your visit may necessitate different modes of transportation. With many of the nearly 3 million annual visitors arriving in the summer months, getting around town by motor vehicle is a bad idea.
What are the best places to visit in Bar Harbor?
Top sights in Bar Harbor include Acadia National Park, Cadillac Mountain, Park Loop Road and Jordan Pond. Surrounding Bar Harbor, this park combines rocky coastline, granite peaks, clear lakes and historic carriage roads for biking, with ranger-led programs, scenic overlooks and the free Island Explorer shuttle.
Where should I stay in Bar Harbor?
Popular areas for hotels in Bar Harbor include Downtown. Well-reviewed options include The Inn On Mount Desert and Primrose Inn.
How many hotels can I book in Bar Harbor?
Destina Holidays currently lists 29 properties in and around Bar Harbor, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
