There are many exciting and fun-filled things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine. Located on an island off the coast of Maine, Bar Harbor is within easy driving distance of Acadia National Park. The first national park to be established east of the Mississippi River, Acadia National Park features bike riding, hiking and rock climbing.
Hiking
Acadia National Park covers most of the island surrounding Bar Harbor and offers some beautiful hiking trails. There are 120 miles of trails throughout the park. Some trails, including the Great Meadow Loop trail, begin right in Bar Harbor and lead hikers up through Acadia and back again. The park is open year-round and features many places to camp.
Biking
In addition to hiking, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park feature a number of bike trails as well. Guests can rent mountain bikes, tandem bikes or even child strollers that attach to the back of a bike. With more than 57 miles of carriage roads and bike trails, you can easily explore this gorgeous national wildlife preserve while working off all of that fresh Maine lobster at the same time.
Kayaking and Swimming
Bar Harbor offers a number of places to go kayaking, sailing or swimming. Sailboats and kayaks are available for rent at establishments throughout town. Acadia National Park and nearby Bar Island feature several scenic launch points that offer tourists an opportunity to observe eagles and porpoises from the water. Guided tours are offered for less experienced sailors.
Rock Climbing
The Acadia Mountain Guides Climbing School offers courses for all levels of climbers to learn safe rock- and mountain-climbing techniques. It also offers instruction and guide services for ice climbing, alpine climbing and skiing along the various peaks of Acadia National Park.
Other Activities
Once you are done hiking or kayaking your way around Bar Harbor, you can settle in for food, shopping and music. Bar Harbor features a number of eclectic shops and restaurants. The Bar Harbor nightlife features pubs that offer wine and beer tasting as well as jazz music. There are historic cemeteries and a whale museum, too. Or take a boat out to go whale watching and learn about lobster fishing.
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