Of course, when you go on vacation, you could just kick off your shoes and snooze your break away, but more people are finding that one of the best ways to shed the cares of the workaday world is to turn their energy in a different direction. To that end, Bar Harbor offers all manner of activities for all manner of people; truly something for everyone.

    For the culturally inclined, Bar Harbor offers two celebrated music festivals offering everything from string orchestras, through chamber music, to jazz. Bars and clubs host a range of bands and solo artists that complete the musical mix. Movies have never seemed more enjoyable than when seen in our art-deco theater, and the scope of Bar Harbor's museums belie the small size of the town. Here you can learn about Bar Harbor's "Gilded Age", the island's Native American heritage, the Gulf of Maine's unique eco-systems and species, our town's award winning micro-brews, and the natural wonder of Acadia National Park. It is also worth noting that Bar Harbor is home to the USA's eighth oldest golf course which wraps itself between the mountains and the shore, and has other, non-traditional, places to sink a putt; ever tried to eagle through a waterfall?

    On both sea and land, you can explore the area under your own steam, or let experienced islanders show you their environment. For both the novice and experienced cyclist, opportunities abound along the 55 miles of carriage trails that lace through Acadia. Bike beside crystal lakes and rose-colored mountains and you might even begin to feel like a kid again, when the bike was your only vehicle and you could peddle forever. For a different view, hop a bus or trolley tour and let someone else worry about driving for an hour or two. Local companies are expert in the wildlife and the history of the area; there are also walking tours of downtown that can tell you for example which industrial magnate died from the complications of dropping a pair of scissors. . . Alternatively, strap on a harness and let one of our guiding companies show you the best spots to learn or polish your climbing; you will see the island from a whole new angle! On the water, paddle a canoe or kayak either on your own or in the company of Maine Guides and explore Mount Desert Island's fascinating coastline, or set sail with one of the professional crews in search of whales, seals, seabirds, the stories of the cottage era, or some R & R under billowing sails. Whichever way you choose, you will be in capable, hospitable hands.

   If you are planning to visit in the winter, don't forget that the carriage trails make for excellent cross-country skiing, the park loop road is a haven for snowmobilers, and the trails under their coating of white take on a whole new aspect. Acadia's peaks and cliffs also offer new workouts to the experienced in this most challenging of seasons. Ice climbing routes abound and trails show a true wild side. Be sure though to take the correct precautions, keep an eye on the weather, and pay attention to the rangers. Bar Harbor offers a whole slew of answers to the couch potato blues and the stress of work. Do as much or as little as you wish, or even have someone else do the work for you! Whatever you end up doing, novice or old hand, chances are you'll want to do it again and again, and again. . .

NOTE: Listings here are in a rotating alphabetical sequence. That means each time you visit this page, you'll see the entire list beginning (and ending) with a different listing.