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. If you're not sure what to do in Maine for your vacation, or the range of family things to do in Maine, Bar Harbor offers a wonderful selection of activities.
For the culturally inclined, Bar Harbor offers two celebrated music festivals offering everything from string orchestras, through chamber music, to jazz. As for Bar Harbor nightlife, 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 ecosystems and species, our town's award winning microbrews, and the natural wonder of Acadia National Park. Bar Harbor shopping is another relaxing pastime, if you'd like some mementos with which to remember your trip or need any clothing, accessories, or crafts. 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?
What to Do in Maine and Bar Harbor: Biking Acadia National Park, Whale Watching in Bar Harbor, Maine Camping Guides, and Much More
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, biking in Acadia National Park opportunities abound along the 55 miles of carriage trails that lace through it. 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 pedal 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 camping 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.
Enjoy one of the many whale watching in Bar Harbor trips. 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. . .
Business Listings
NOTE: Listings here are in a rotating alphabetical sequence. That means each time you visit the page, you'll see the entire list beginning (and ending) with a different listing.
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Tel: (207) 963-2341 or (866) 235-2341 (toll free in Maine only)
Harborside Hotel & Marina, , 55 West Street Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Discover Bar Harbor's most exclusive, personal and unique sightseeing cruise. Join Captain John on Lulu, a traditional Downeast lobster boat, for a 2 hour tour of Frenchman Bay. Enjoy an up-close demonstration of lobster fishing, fascinating seal watching and breathtaking coastal scenery. Share the Captain's interest in nature and local history and folklore. Sailings daily May to October. Adults $30, seniors $27, children $17. Ticket office - 56 West Street (corner of West and Rodick Streets).
Since its inaugural edition, the Mount Desert Island Marathon has earned the distinction of 'Most Scenic in North America' by ESPN. The event continues to grow and attracts both national and international competitors and spectators. The scenic, yet challenging foot race starts in downtown Bar Harbor. The course runs past the mountains of Acadia National Park, through pristine woodlands during peak fall foliage, along stunning sea-side vistas, and visits six separate towns and villages. It finishes in the center of Southwest Harbor. Like its name, the Mount Desert Island Marathon is a true island-wide event. As a not-for-profit organization the event benefits civic and local charitable organizations, making the MDI Marathon a popular community resource. The event is traditionally held the Sunday following Columbus Day.
145 Pretty Marsh Road, , Somesville Mt. Desert, Maine 04660
Welcome to the most beautiful island in America. You are invited to discover the quiet beauty of Acadia National Park with the same peaceful means of travel as was used by the Penobscot Tribe of the Abenaki Indian Nation.
We encourage those who have never canoed or kayaked, as well as those with experience, to get away from it all and enjoy what might be the highlight of your vacation to Acadia National Park.
We have the finest equipment available and are happy to assist you with instruction if needed. We ask that you make reservations (8am thru 5pm) to avoid disappointment, particularly during the months of July and August.
39 Cottage Street (Nxt to Criterion Movie Theatre), Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Paddle to remote "Western Side" of MDI with Professional Maine Guides. Personalized (12 people max) Ecological Tours, 1/2 day (4 hour) morning, afternoon & sunset tours (2.5-3 hours on the water). Best wildlife sightings: harbor seals, osprey, porpoise, eagles & more. Featuring comfortable, stable tandem Necky Kayaks. All tours include a brief stop on a beach/island. Kayaking is our only business. Locally owned/operated with a perfect safety record since 1993. All equipment, van transp., & instruction included for $48/person. Beginners welcome. Open daily at 8am.
Enjoy an up-close experience with marine life. At the oceanarium at 1351 Route 3 take a guided tour of a salt marsh and the Maine Lobster Museum. At the working lobster hatchery we take you on a fascinating tour to see mother lobsters & baby lobsters & the hatchery process. We also feature a hands on Discovery Pool with lots of local sea life to learn about, have fun and get wet! Group discounts and tours.
Route 3, , Hancock County / Bar Harbor Airport Trenton, Maine 04605
Experience the Island the Best Way - See it from above! Hop aboard a closed cockpit, Cessna 172 aircraft with an experienced Commercial Pilot, who will point out sights you can only view from above. You will gain a unique perspective of Bar Harbor, Coastal Lighthouses, Acadia National Park, Cadillac Mountain, Somes Sound and much more. You may choose from one of our popular flights or custom tailor your own, with prices starting at $46 per person. Reservations are not required, with the exception of our unforgettable Sunset Flights and 'off-season' flights. You may also give the gift of flight with a Gift Certificate.
For a different kind of adventure, if you have always wanted to know what it is like to fly an airplane, schedule a "Discover Flying Experience" with one of our Certified Flight Instructors. You can take a 30, 60, or 90 minute "First Flight Lesson". Just call to schedule or for more information.
Treat yourself! Captain Winston Shaw, an expert naturalist with 30 years local experience, offers totally unique private boat tours for individuals and parties of up to 6. Wide variety of enjoyable 1 to 8 hour trips custom designed around your interests and timetable. Discover eagles, seals, loons, and other fascinating wildlife, along with spectacular sea cliffs, secluded coves, picturesque island lighthouses, and breathtaking sunsets. Affordable prices. Free no-hassle parking.
Enjoy a luxurious, state-of-the-art Spa ready to cater to your every whim. The Spa at the Bar Harbor Club offers each guest an experience born of the privileged elite. Our staff is accomplished, seasoned professionals skilled in the art of pampering. Services include massages, wraps, facials and nails. Call today to book your day of luxury. Open May-October.
Bar Harbor’s Soda-Fountain Pharmacy
Family owned and operated since 1917.
Recognized as one of America’s 50 most innovative pharmacies…and the only one with an old-fashioned soda fountain!
State-of-the-art pharmaceutical care.
• Prescription compounding.
• Home healthcare supplies and medical equipment.
• Mail order and in-town delivery services.
Up until 1913 no automobiles were allowed on Mount Desert Island. Horses and horse drawn carriages were the primary mode of transportation. Wild Iris Farms offers you the opportunity to experience that time via a historic carriage ride. Let one of our carriages, drawn by our experienced and beautiful Shire draft horses, create a memory that will last a lifetime. Whether you have a wedding, a special event or are looking for something different to do while in town, consider taking a trip with the Wild Iris Farm horse team. Please contact us for more information regarding our availability and rates for weddings, special events, private carriage rides, carriage driving lessons, and horse boarding.
53 Main Street, Bayside Landing, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Our studio is a haven for peaceful relaxation-right in the center of downtown Bar Harbor. Yoga at Cattitude offers an incredible array of yoga styles. Whether you are looking for vigorous vinyasa or restful restorative, we have the class for you. Please check the website for the latest schedule, class descriptions and teacher bios. Air-conditioned studio. Open year-round.
The Abbe offers innovative exhibitions and programs on Maine’s Native American heritage. In recent years, the Abbe has grown from a small but lovely trailside museum, privately operated within Acadia National Park, to an exciting contemporary museum in the heart of downtown Bar Harbor.
The modern Abbe Museum facility offers a unique and interesting venue for your wedding, corporate meeting, retirement party, cocktail reception, kids birthday, etc. For more information about renting this space, please contact our Events Coordinator at info@abbemuseum.org or just stop by for a visit!
26 Mount Desert Street, , P.O. Box 286 Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
The most fascinating journey in Bar Harbor begins at the Abbe Museum! Discover the story of the first people of Maine through exhibitions and programs that span 10,000 years of history, art and archaeology. Learn about the Native people of Maine today and enjoy their songs and stories, arts and crafts. Visit the Museum Shop for high quality gifts crafted by Maine Native people. Downtown museum: open year round with reduced winter hours. Historic Abbe at Sieur de Monts Spring: open May-October. Admission charged.
53 Main Street (Testa's Restaurant), Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Bar Harbor and Acadia's premier sightseer: 2 1/2 hours of the best sights, sounds & stories available with 3 - 15 minute stops in Acadia National Park. Tour includes Bar Harbor, Cadillac Mtn., Park Loop Rd., Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliffs, etc. 50 yrs. of informing & entertaining satisfied customers. Reservations recom. Tours daily 10 & 2. MC/Visa accepted. Open May - Oct. Write to PO Box 603, Bar Harbor, ME 04609 for brochure.
Tickets at 1 West St., Harbor Place Bldg. next to Town Pier., Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Allow us to take you on a historical tour of the days gone by & transport you back to the cottage days of Bar Harbor with whimsical tales of a lost era. Then through the highlights of Acadia National Park. Fun for the whole family. We offer 2 1/2 or one hour trolley tours with stops for walks and pictures. Tickets at 1 West St., Harbor Place Bldg. next to Town Pier. 2 1/2 hr.tours depart daily May-Oct 10am & 2pm; 1 hour tours July & Aug. 10am, 11:30am, 2pm & 3:30pm. we provide wedding and convention transportation
Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport & Harbor Place (on the pier), Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
MAINE'S PREMIER AVIATION TOUR COMPANY!
CHOOSE FROM 4 DIFFERENT AVIATION ADVENTURES:
BIPLANE - Experience the magic of flying in an “Open Cockpit” BIPLANE as you put on your leather helmet, pull down your goggles and prepare to lift off into the wild blue yonder.
CHOOSE FROM 4 FLIGHTS
GLIDER - Have you ever wondered what it would be like to fly like a bird? Today that dream can become your reality!
CHOOSE FROM 3 FLIGHTS
FIGHTER PILOT - “Bogey 11 o’clock high! Feel your weight press hard into your parachute as you pull through a high-G aerobatic maneuver.
CHOOSE FROM 3 MISSIONS
SCENIC FLIGHTS - STARTING AT $39 PER PERSON. Pay for 3 and the 4th (child) flies FREE!
CHOOSE FROM 4 FLIGHTS
WHICHEVER FLIGHT YOU CHOOSE, YOU ARE SURE TO TRANSFORM AN ORDINARY DAY INTO AN EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME!!
A Guided Tour in the Comfort of Your Own Car!
See Acadia at your pace, in your own vehicle, at one low price ($12.95 plus tax) for your whole group. Spend as much time as you wish at any location & learn about the park’s history, geology & natural resources. This tour was prepared w/ the cooperation of the National Park Service & has been enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of Acadia’s visitors for more than 35 years! Pick up your copy online (our website) or in-person at the National Park Visitor Center. Also at select local lodging & retail locations.
Acadia Bike features the largest bicycle rental fleet in New England, so you're sure to get the bike you want. Enjoy Acadia's natural wonders as you pedal the car-free carriage roads or Park Loop Road. Our bikes - new each year, most with front suspension - are meticulously maintained and custom-fitted to ensure you'll have a great ride. All sizes, plus tandems, trailers & kids' bikes. Low rates, with discount for advance reservations. Located in downtown Bar Harbor, across from the post office. Open daily at 8am.
228 Main St., Bar Harbor, ME, , Mail: P.O. 121, Orono, ME 04473 Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Maine's most respected climbing school! Enjoy personalized rock or ice climbing instruction on the scenic seacliffs of Acadia or join us on a regional or international destination trip. All instruction is customized to the needs of individuals, families & groups of any ability. Our guides have world-wide climbing experience spanning three decades and are individually certified by the Professional Climbing Instructors' Association and/or the American Mountain Guides' Association. We guarantee more engaging, comprehensive, and safer climbing instruction. Maine's only climbing school to be accredited by both the PCIA and the AMGA. Exciting 2011 summer climbing & adventure summer camps. (http://www.climbacadia.org) Offering Ice Climbing and Mountaineering trips in the Winter Season.
• Interactive Multimedia Map: including pictures, addresses, contact info
• Info on Hiking, Biking, Kayaking, Shopping, Dining, Touring, etc.
• Trail & mountain peak info
• Access to directions to all locations
• Booklet of all the destinations (It's a FREE download)
• Rent a Preloaded GPS at the Bar Harbor Visitor Center
• Already have a Garmin GPS? Stop in and just load up the Points of Interest
• GPS Data ("Lost" Prevention... Saves Time... Saves Gas)
-Two hour sightseeing, nature cruises daily. Learn about cultural and natural history from naturalists. Observe eagles, porpoises, seals, and many land and sea birds. Views the cottages of the rich and famous, Egg Rock lighthouse and awesome views of Acadia National Park. Heated cabin, restrooms and snack bar on-board.
Sea kayaking at its finest with some of the most experienced guides & instructors in the area. You will find a kayak waiting for you at our specially designed kayak launch facility on the waterfront. We have the largest variety of tours & instruction programs. Family groups can enjoy kayaking with their kids on our Discovery Adventure. Solo kayaks available for the more experienced paddlers. Small groups of six kayaks to personalize the experience. Fastest access to the Bay. Incredible wildlife sightings & awesome views. Call today!
6 Mt. Desert St., , PO Box 200 Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
The mission and goal of Argosy Dance, of Bar Harbor, Maine, is to educate and support the full experience of social partner dancing for residents as well as visitors to Acadia and Downeast Maine. Social dance has an established and deep history on Mount Desert Island and the surrounding area, and offers a wonderful complement to our scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
Located 10 minutes from downtown Bar Harbor, off Route 3. Come see how Bar Harbor's #1 local beers, wines and sodas are produced. Free tastings from 10am to 5pm every day. Free Tours @ 2, 3 & 4pm daily. On site gift shop and tasting room, plus the Knox Road Grille Restaurant (open 11:30-8pm) and the famous Dougie Douglas Mainely Meat barbeque. Special Events & group functions are welcome.
PO Box 514, 67 Main Street, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Rated the #1 activity in Bar Harbor by Tripadvisor! Named BEST OF MAINE 2009 by Down East Magazine!
For 18 years Atlantic Climbing School has offered world-class rock climbing courses in Acadia National Park. We specialize in instructing first-time climbers. Half day and full day courses are available for individuals, couples, families and groups of all ages and ability levels. As Maine's premier rock climbing school we guarantee the best instruction, the most experienced guides and of course, the most rewarding rock climbing experience you’ll ever have. All of our staff are certified AMGA Instructors and Guides and we are proud to be the only guide service in Maine to have this distinction. In fun, in professional commitment, in everything we do — at Atlantic Climbing School, WE CLIMB HIGHER.
All equipment provided. Call us at
207 288 2521 or stop by- we’re upstairs at 67 Main St.
Accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association
DiscoverÖExploreÖLearnÖ. Join an Acadia National Park ranger on this amazing island adventure. Leave Bar Harbor and travel by boat nine miles to this uninhabited park island and land by launch. Visit the historic Gilley family farmstead dating back to 1806 and the famous Baker Island Lighthouse - first built in 1828. Explore the fascinating dance floor rock formation and while there eat lunch on the ocean. On the return, take in spectacular coastal park scenery. Throughout the trip we look for and identify birds, porpoise, and seals. Leaves from Harborplace, Mon. ñ Sat at 8:45AM.
Rejuvenate or relax at the edge of the salt-rich sea.
World-class service, state-of-the-art- facilities and
a variety of spa treatments that will nurture your
body and lift your spirits. Treat yourself to one of our
many spa services available. Advanced reservations
are recommended.
The Bar Harbor Summer Seminar Program (BHSSP) offers seminars tailored practically towards business, financial and professional audiences. Other courses are directed at understanding ethical and philosophical issues. Some programs fall into both categories. The BHSSP exists for three major reasons. First, lifelong learning is too important to be left exclusively to formal institutions of higher education. Second, intellectual and personal growth need not be divorced from more pleasant aspects of life, and can take place very effectively and enjoyably in inspiring contexts such as a Mount Desert Island “vacation.” Third, participation in the BHSSP can lead to sharing the experiences and wisdom of, and the formation of enduring relationships with, other active and interesting thinkers and doers. Seminars are currently held throughout the Summer and Fall.
Come with us and see the largest animals on earth - Humpbacks, Finbacks, Right; also porpoise, dolphins, sharks, and tuna. We visit a puffin seabird-nesting wildlife refuge island and also encounter a great diversity of offshore seabirds. All tours are fully narrated by professional naturalists who are available to answer all your questions. We are Maine's largest boating tour company and offer lighthouse, lobster and seal, nature, and park tours. Conveniently located next to the downtown pier. Trips run daily May - October.
We specialize in small groups (12 people per tour) and personalized service, featuring the island's most experienced guide staff. Glide among the islands of Frenchman Bay, seeing seals, porpoises, bald eagles and other wildlife. Trips from 2-and-a-half hours to 3 days. Paddle with us and see why Coastal Kayaking Tours, with 24 years experience, is New England's premier sea kayaking outfitter. Have fun with our superb guides! No experience necessary. Located in downtown Bar Harbor, across from the post office. Open every day at 8am.
Located at College of the Atlantic, , 105 Eden Street Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Ranked among the top-five family camps in the U.S. by Good Morning America and Family Fun Magazine, College of the Atlantic's week-long Family Nature Camp is the vacation you and your family will talk about for years to come.
Under the guidance of experienced naturalists, you will delight in the wonder and adventure of the outdoors as you sight humpbacks and seals on your whale watch and nature cruises, hold sea creatures on the Starfish Enterprise, dip your hand in warm tide pools, hike the trails of Acadia National Park, visit beaver lodges, put together the bones of a Minke Whale, and delight in the tales of the "Bug Man." You will share all this and more with other families, who will become your life-long friends, in one of the most beautiful vacations spots in America. Suitable for adults and children 5 years and older.
College of the Atlantic, , 105 Eden Street Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Come aboard The Seal and watch live underwater footage as Diver Ed searches the bottom of Frenchman Bay for fascinating critters. Then roll up your sleeves and get ready to touch starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, lobsters, and whatever else he can fit into his catchbag to bring up to the boat! Diver Ed makes this vacation adventure entertaining as well as educational! Daily trips at 9:30am, 1:30pm & 5:30pm. Open: Memorial Day weekend-Columbus Day.
Personalized bird watching and nature tours for individuals, couples, families and small groups. Bicycle, hiking and cross-country ski tours; 1/2 day & full day, camping and more. We help you discover the flora and fauna of Mt. Desert Island and Down East Maine with special emphasis on native birds. Bald Eagles, Osprey, Shore-birds, Warblers. A truly unique and enjoyable learning experience.
Come enjoy a 1 1/2 to 2 hour windjammer cruise aboard the majestic 151' 4-masted schooner, Margaret Todd. Sail among the islands of Frenchman Bay. Bring your binoculars & keep a look out for bald eagles, seals & porpoise. Help the crew hoist sail or just relax on our spacious decks.
Improvisational comedy theater featuring a professional cast of improvisors 7 nights a week. You will never see the same show twice at ImprovAcadia because this professional troupe spontaneously creates scenes, songs and plays from audience suggestions.
Tel: Tee Times 288-3000; Clubhouse 288-5000; Superintendent 288-2200
100 Eagle Lake Road, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Surrounded by the mountains of Acadia National Park, Kebo Valley has been enticing golfers from all over the world for more than 100 years to the challenges of the finest 18 holes of championship golf in Maine. Just minutes from downtown Bar Harbor. Kebo Valley consistently ranks among America's best public golf courses. Expert PGA staff. Private and group lessons. Fully modern clubhouse. Banquets. Lunch served daily 11am-4pm. Open daily spring, summer & fall.
Sailing daily from Harborplace, 1 West Street, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
Considered Bar Harbor's best tour! Let the fast 90 ft. jet powered catamaran Bay King III whisk you away. Visit five beautiful island lighthouses and a historic life saving station - with ample time at each for photographs. Cruise among Acadia's coastal islands and crown jewels; Otter Cliffs, Sand Beach, Champlain Mountain, and Thunder Hole. Enjoy fun-filled and fascinating stories from our onboard historian; learn of French explorers, the founder of Acadia ñ Mr. George Dorr, and all about Maine's legendary lighthouses, light keepers, ghosts and much more. Discover Bar Harbor's golden age as we view mansions along ìmillionaires rowî; the Ford, Rockefeller, High Seas and Pulitzer Estates; and the spectacular coastal mansions owned by Dick Wolf (Southerly) and Martha Stewart (Skylands).
Truly A must see tour!
Fish with local Captain Jeff Black aboard the Downeast lobster boat the M/V Miss Samantha. She has the most room for your comfort and is specially designed so that you can venture onto the bow to view scenery and watch wildlife. The only lobster tour in Bar Harbor that has a live aquarium touch tank so you can hold a lobster, sea stars, and a great variety of fascinating marine life. Learn all about Maineís lobster fishery and how to catch a lobster, about the medicinal benefits of ocean life, and visit seals and their pups up close! Your professional captain and naturalist will answer all your questions. Trips leave daily from Harborplace next to the downtown pier and last for 1æ hours.