Art Galleries in Bar Harbor & Greater MDI

Whether you’re a fan of striking photography, sweeping oil landscapes, abstract compositions, or meticulously crafted sculptures, there’s something on display for your tastes across the island. There are five art galleries in Bar Harbor and the surrounding area for you to explore:

Argosy Gallery
Located right downtown at 6 Mount Desert St, the Argosy Gallery was opened in 1996 and has assembled an outstanding collection of original works in American traditional and impressionist styles. More 36 artists who either reside in or travel to Maine to create art, show their works here.

Gallery at Somes Sound
Located on the innermost corner of the Somes Sound in the historic Village of Somesville, this gallery is a stunning showcase of contemporary fine art and sculptured furniture. The space is bright and open, with windows overlooking the water. In addition to art on display, the gallery also hosts workshops and small events.

The Cygnet Gallery
Modern and yet still so Maine, the new Cygnet Gallery sits on the corner of Main street and Village Green Way in Southwest Harbor. They have rotating exhibitions, sip & shop events, and trunk shows throughout the year.

Clark Point Gallery
Just down the street in Southwest Harbor, the Clark Point Gallery features a sweeping collection of 19th and 20th century paintings of Maine and Mount Desert Island from 36 artists. Currently open by appointment only, enthusiasts sure to call ahead for your chance to browse this gorgeous collection.

Isleford Artists Gallery
Ready for an art adventure? Catch the mailboat out of Northeast Harbor and plot your course for Little Cranberry Island, otherwise known as Isleford. This picturesque harbor town is home to the Isleford Artists Gallery where you can enjoy works from over 25 local artists, with styles ranging from realistic to abstract. Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at the Isleford Dock Restaurant before you head back to MDI.

Abbe Museum

Our state’s one and only Smithsonian affiliate, the Abbe Museum is a must-see Native American history & art museum in Maine. Located in downtown Bar Harbor, the museum features evolving exhibits of art and cultural artifacts from the Wabanaki, Maine’s Native people. Their core exhibit offers perspectives going back as far 12,000 years into the history of the land and the people that steward it. Additional exhibits of contemporary art such as the Micmac Indian Craftsmen and Waponahki Student Art Show bring an even broader picture of creative skills and stories into view.
Venture to the museum’s outpost in Sieur de Monts for special showcases of the Wabanaki basketmaking tradition and how current generations are working to protect the art of basket production in the face of invasive species.

Dawnland Festival of Arts & Ideas

July 12-14, 2024
This year, the Abbe Museum will be premiering its Dawnland Festival of Arts & Ideas at the College of the Atlantic. If you happen to be visiting or can make a special trip July 12-14, 2024, this multi-day Bar Harbor art festival promises to be a real treat for art lovers. Brimming with Native arts markets, performances and special speakers, the event will be free to public and offer visitors an opportunity to engage Wabanaki thought leaders and artists in a weekend of inquiry, creativity, and celebration.

Bar Harbor’s Art in the Park

June 15-16, 2024
Just like the plants and trees around Mount Desert Island, June brings a burst of life and color to the Village Green. One of the most anticipated annual Bar Harbor events for locals and visitors alike, Art in the Park is the longest running art show in town, now in its 72nd year. For two days, artists in painting, print making, photography and more set up tents to display and sell their works. Not only is it a great time to find a beautiful addition to your home’s décor, it also offers an opportunity to connect in person with the art community of Mount Desert Island.

Grab a lemonade from Side Street Café or a few scoops of ice cream from Mount Desert Island Ice Cream and get about wandering the stalls on the green.

Bar Harbor Craft Fairs

Thanks to Island Arts Associations, not a month goes by that there isn’t at least one Bar Harbor craft fair. Shop from local Maine artisans & crafters peddling hand carved spoons, leather bound journals, quirky knits, sea-inspired jewelry, and much more. The craft fairs are hosted in a range of locations depending on the time of year so be sure to check their schedule of upcoming events for details and when and where to find such a wealth of Maine crafts.

Art Classes & Workshops

It’s hard not to feel inspired when visiting Mount Desert Island. So, if you’re looking to get hands on or are in need of unique things to do in Bar Harbor on a rainy day, a workshop could be the answer. ArtWaves, a community arts center and hub for artistic expression, offers lots of opportunities to participate in the arts. Located in Town Hill on the Northwest edge of the island, they host open figure drawing sessions, sewing circles, stained glass workshops, color theory classes and so much more. Plus, they have a state-of-the-art dance studio where you can participate in yoga, barre, and other fitness fusions.

Performing Arts at the Criterion

The Criterion theater has been beacon of the arts on MDI since 1932 and is the perfect way to round out a day of touring galleries and museums with a live performance. From dance and comedy performances to live music and plays, this historic theater is great way to experience local and touring artists. Find a full list of their upcoming Bar Harbor events and grab your tickets now.
In Bar Harbor, art is all around us. Gallery or no, a wander down Main Street reveals architectural interest. Dinner at the Reading Room gives you a front row seat to the lapping waves of the Atlantic. A hike in Acadia introduces you to blooming flowers, shy foxes, and other curious subjects. Even your room at the Atlantic Oceanside provides a balcony from which you can sit and sketch the lobster boats coasting through Frenchman Bay. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of your family’s smiles as they spot puffins on a nature cruise, or a pad of watercolor paper to bring along to Jordan Pond House. While this Bar Harbor itinerary for art lovers provides lots of options, there’s no bad way to experience art on Mount Desert Island. Our advice…get creative!

Each year the Acadia Inn welcomes hundreds of families to our slice of Downeast Maine and we’ve learned a few tricks for exploring Bar Harbor with kids. If your kids are having fun, you’re more likely to have fun too—and spend less time curbing tantrums. We’ve put together a nature scavenger hunt for kids that will take you to all the best spots around MDI, from Acadia’s iconic carriage roads to the lakes, peaks and beaches that make our island special. Kids will have objectives to keep them interested and excited to explore and along the way, they’ll learn a bit about the environment and the history of our island.

Preparing for Your Adventure

The best explorers are always well prepared! Before you head out on your outdoor scavenger hunt, check a few things off your list.

• Everyone should be wearing comfortable clothes and shoes that are appropriate for physical activity. It can be helpful to plan your outfit in layers in case you get hot or cold while out and about in Acadia.
• No matter the weather, sunblock is always a good idea. Apply before you go and bring it along so you can reapply every 2-3 hours, especially on your face and the back of your neck.
• Scavenger hunts can be hungry work, so pack some snacks and water for the journey. You can grab some fruit from the Acadia Inn’s continental breakfast or visit the concierge to buy granola bars, trail mix and more.
• Make sure you’ve got a map, which are available at the front desk or any visitor center in the park. It’s fun to bring along a few colored pens so you can mark the places you visit.
• Review what it means to leave no trace. While the purpose of our scavenger hunt is to get out in nature, we must always remember to respect and protect our environment. This means properly disposing of any waste, being respectful of the wildlife, and doing our best to not disturb or alter their habitats.
• Don’t forget your scavenger hunt checklist! You can download them and print at home or ask the front desk for a printed copy on your way out the door.

Mount Desert Island Nature Scavenger Hunt for Kids

There’s so much to explore in Acadia! As you head out on your outdoor scavenger hunt prepare to use all your senses. Listen closely for birds, take a deep breath to smell the forest air, feel the soft moss under your feet and perhaps even taste the salty mist off the ocean. For each item in our scavenger hunt, we provide a tip for how to spot it!

Animals You Can Spot in Acadia

Sometimes the best place to spot the wildlife of Acadia is from the window of your room at the Acadia Inn! In the mornings and evenings, we often get visiting squirrels, rabbits, deer and birds so keep your eyes peeled while enjoying your breakfast or settling in at the end of the night.

• Snowshoe Hare: These are bigger than your backyard bunnies but can be shy! Find them early in the morning nibbling grass or ferns near the Great Meadow Wetlands.
• Whitetail Deer: Deer are plentiful in Acadia but their perfectly camouflaged brown coat can make them hard to spot. Look for their signature white tail through the trees.
• Eastern Painted Turtle: Stroll around Jordan Pond where these colorful little turtles love to warm up in the afternoon sun on rocks and logs.
• Red Fox: These elusive omnivores are most active in early morning and evening so keep your eyes peeled as you’re leaving the park at the end of the day or on your drive up Cadillac for sunrise.
• Grey Squirrels: It’s tough not to spot a grey squirrel while visiting Acadia but you can listen for their chatter to help identify where they’re hanging out.
• Red Squirrels: The smaller counterpart to the Grey Squirrel, these critters are characterized by their ginger coat and fuzzy ears. They love to eat seeds from conifers so look for them among pine trees.
• Spotted Salamander: Acadia’s largest salamander species, these guys can be up to 10 inches long and like to hang out by rocky streams like the ones found along the Witch Hole Pond section of the park’s carriage roads.
• American Toad: Did you know this is the only toad that lives in Acadia? You’ll have the best chance of spotting them on rainy days or after a storm has ended. And even if you don’t see them, you might hear their chorus.
• North American Beaver: Freshly chewed stumps are a good sign in you’re in beaver territory. These hardworking fellows can be seen around Jordan Pond, the Tern and Witch Hole Pond.
• Common Loon: Time to use those ears again! While walking around Eagle Lake listen for their long, expressive calls.
• Harbor Seal: Driving along Otter Cove, Somes Sound, or Southwest Harbor you’re likely to spot these marine mammals. Look for dog-like heads bobbing in the water or on rocks and other resting spots.
• Harbor Porpoise: These members of the whale family are shy but like to travel in small groups around the island and can sometimes be spotted in the Somes Sound fjard.
• Bald Eagle: While hiking Acadia’s granite mountains don’t forget to glance up. The majestic Bald Eagle can be spotted cruising the thermal currents and swooping for fish in Acadia’s lakes and ponds.
• Great Blue Heron: These long-legged birds stalk their pray slowly in shallow waters. Watch how quietly they move through the Great Meadow Wetland or Bass Harbor Marsh.
• Downy Woodpecker: Look among deciduous trees for these small woodpeckers and listen for their shrill call and rapid drumming on trees.
• Pileated Woodpecker: This woodpecker is one of the biggest and most striking forest birds. Can you spot the distinctly rectangular holes they drill on trees?
• Blue Jay: Bright blue and characteristically loud, you’ll know when a blue jay is nearby!
• Chickadee: This adorable songbird is Maine’s state bird and can be quickly identified by its call which sounds just like its name: chicka-dee-dee-dee.
• Cardinal: Their red feathers announce these birds quickly, but they prefer to hang out in dense brush so make sure you’re on the lookout.
• Wild Turkey: Turkeys are early risers who forage in groups along roadsides and in meadows so if you spot one, there’s probably more where that came from!
• Monarch: While common throughout the park, you can visit the Wild Gardens of Acadia  for a good opportunity to spot these orange pollinators fluttering about.
• Luna Moths: These gorgeous, pale green moths only make their appearance for a short time in spring. Their caterpillars feed on birches so take a stroll around Hemlock Loop for a good chance to stop these pretty moths.

The Plants of Acadia National Park

Mount Desert Island is home to more than 1000 species of plants thanks to its variety of different habitats. Wetlands to coastline to mountains, forests, and freshwater environments such as streams, lakes and ponds bring together unique factors and foster the growth of diverse plants. See if you can identify the plants in this outdoor scavenger hunt.

• Cattail: They look a little like hot dogs on sticks! They grow in swamps and marshes like the Great Meadow Wetland or Bass Harbor Marsh.
• Lady Slipper: In June, these little gems decorate the forest floor with their pink blossoms. They also happen to be a favorite snack of deer.
• Lowbush Blueberry: Maine’s blueberries prefer acidic soil and make their homes atop rocky mountains. They ripen throughout August and can be found along most hiking trails like North Bubble or atop Gorham Mountain.
• Lupine: These bouncy purple, pink and white blossoms make for a colorful landscape in May and June and can be seen along roadsides or woodland clearings. They are also planted in the Hulls Cove Visitor Center garden.
• Mountain Holly: Also called catberry, this plant prefers wet soil and is most often found growing near streams, ponds or lakes.
• Red Clover: Clover is essential for pollinators and puts on white and purple flowers all the way from June through September. You can probably spot it at any picnic area or campsite in Acadia, and if you’re lucky, you might find a four-leaf clover too!
• Rugosa Rose: Beach roses dot the coastline so keep your eyes peeled when walking the shore path or visiting Thunder Hole. They bloom in late June but you may also spot their orange and red ‘hips’ later in the summer and fall.
• Wild Blue Iris: The bluish, purple flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators hanging out in brackish waters like those around the interior of Otter Cove.

Mount Desert Island’s Deciduous Trees

A deciduous tree is one with leaves that drop in autumn, carpeting the forest floor and insulating it over winter. Most of Acadia’s deciduous trees can be found at lower elevations. How many can you find?

• Sugar Maple: That’s right, this tree is where most maple syrup comes from! Identify their leaves by looking for 3-5 lobes with slightly toothed edges.
• Silver Maple: As the name suggests, these maples can be identified by looking at both sides of the leaves. On top, they appear pale green but underneath they are a silvery white.
• Striped Maple: This tree prefers to stay under the cover of larger trees and only grows to about 25 feet. They have large, 3-lobed leaves that look like a goose’s foot.
• Red Maple: Who knew there were so many types of maple?! Red maples have leaves with 3-5 lobes and plenty of teeth.
• Paper Birch: These birches grow in straight lines with distinct white bark that peels in thin papery sheets. You can feel the bark, but don’t peel it off the trees!
• Grey Birch: The trunks of these trees look a little like cookies and cream with flecks of dark brown or black marking the white.
• Red Oak: These giants can grow up to 80 feet tall and have long leaves with 5-9 lobes that end in points. If you’re visiting in fall, you might find acorns scattered around their bases.
• White Oak: The leaves of the white oak are similar in shape to red oaks but can be distinguished by the rounded ends of each lobe.
• American Beech: Large, oval leaves with small teeth lining the edges mark this try. In fall they turn a vibrant golden color.
• American Elm: While the leaves are similar in shape to a beech, you can tell an Elm leaf by its sandpaper texture.

Conifers of Acadia National Park

Maine is also known as the pine tree state—home to many conifers. Conifers are trees that produce cones to distribute their seeds. They often have needles for leaves and are evergreen, meaning they don’t drop their leaves in fall like deciduous trees. Most of Acadia’s forests are made up of conifers so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to check these off your outdoor scavenger hunt checklist.

• White Spruce: Spruce needles are shaped like rectangular cylinders with four distinct sides. Try rolling them between your fingers to feel the shape. While hiking, look for them on the north side of mountains and slopes.
• Red Spruce: With needles shaped like the white spruce, you can tell the two apart by the slight reddish hue of their twigs and their smaller, shorter cones.
• Red Pine: Characterized by their tall, straight growth, these pine trees have long, flexible needles that grow in groups of two. These needles blanket the forest floor and make for soft walking and great nest building material.
• Eastern White Pine: Our state tree stands tall and proud, even more picturesque the older it gets. The needles are bluish green and they produce long, slender pinecones. Did you know there are white pines that have been dated as more than 500 years old?
• Balsam Fir: Christmas trees in the wild! These pines have flattened needles in a dark green color and a wonderful fresh scent.
• Northern White Cedar: Smaller than their spruce and pine counterparts, the white cedar grows lovely fan-like leaves that look a bit like ferns. They prefer to grow in wet areas and are most common around Acadia’s lakes and ponds.
• Eastern Hemlock: Hemlock’s produce petite, round cones about the size of an acorn. They have droopy branches of flattened needles and prefer growing in cool areas like the north side of a slope.

Making Memories on Your Trip with Acadia National Park with Kids

With nearly fifty different plants and animals to keep your eye out for, this nature scavenger hunt for kids provides plenty of opportunities for young adventurers to interact with their environment. Along the way, snap some photos of your finds or get the whole family in the shot to document what spot in Acadia you discovered an item from the checklist. For quiet evenings or rainy days, kids can draw their favorite finds or locations throughout the park.

Planning a family trip can often feel like navigating through a maze, especially with the added challenge of keeping young minds engaged and entertained. The Mount Desert Island Scavenger Hunt guides families through the stunning landscapes of Acadia National Park, occupying and engaging little ones. As children learn to interact with nature, parents can relish the moments of discovery and joy that unfold with each step of the hunt. Next time you visit Bar Harbor with kids, use this scavenger hunt to transform every corner of Acadia into a classroom alive with wonders and opportunities to create lasting family memories.

Weather in Bar Harbor Maine

Now, let’s set something straight before we begin: the weather in Bar Harbor. Of course, weather depends greatly on the time of year you visit, but even in the span of a few summer days, it can be variable. As Mark Twain said, “if you don’t like the weather in New England now, just wait a few minutes.” In fact, if I turn my head to the left my window is full of blue sky and sunshine, but the window to my right features some glum looking grey clouds.

We recommend checking trusted weather services like the Weather Channel or AccuWeather 2 to 3 days ahead of your Bar Harbor vacation to get the most accurate prediction for temperature and potential precipitation. That said, here’s a general breakdown of weather in Bar Harbor by month:

• January & February: About as cold as it gets! Typically, between 10-30 with occasional snow or chilly drizzle.
• March: The island starts to heat up with mid 20’s to mid 40’s temps and spring rains pick up.
• April & May: We mostly move away from freezing overnight and can get up to low 60’s during the day. Expect a few days of rain.
• June: Summer is just beginning, and temps can range between 50-75. You might still see rain but plenty of sunshine too.
• July & August: Hot days and cool nights during the high season, ranging between 50’s and 80’s.
• September & October: Mild temps mid 40’s to high 60’s along with drier conditions.
• November & December: Teens to mid 40’s plus our snow season kicks off as we head towards the holidays.
  Aside from ranging day to day, Acadia National Park weather can also vary depending on where you are. The blustery top of Cadillac Mountain can be much colder than the tree-protected Park Loop Road, or sunny Sand Beach. Which is why you’ll hear us preach layering for your Bar Harbor vacation. More on that next…

Packing List for 3 Days in Bar Harbor

Okay folks, get out your suitcase—or waxed canvas duffel in my case—and get ready to pack. We’ll plan our packing list for early July, when the park is bursting with life and downtown Bar Harbor’s restaurants and shops are in full swing. Of course, you’ll need the basics like a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, socks, and underwear. The rest, we can help with.

Clothing

Mainers are pretty down-to-earth when it comes to our attire, and with all the walking around town and exploring Acadia National Park you’ll be doing, we suggest prioritizing items that are comfortable. As we mentioned earlier, layering is also important as it helps you adapt to variable temperatures throughout the day without having to fully change your outfit. Here’s my essential inventory when packing for Bar Harbor:

• 3 t-shirts
• 1 long sleeve cotton shirt
• 2 pairs of utility shorts
• 1 pair of comfortable jeans or hiking pants
• 1 cardigan
• 1 set of pajamas
• 1 sweatshirt

I also always bring a light rain jacket. Even if rain isn’t in the forecast, you might find yourself reaching for it to protect against wind on one of Acadia’s mountain peaks or to stay dry as your Bar Harbor boat tour sends ocean mist into the air.

Heading out to dinner at The Bistro or one of Bar Harbor’s many downtown spots and want an excuse to get a little dressed up? Breezy linen pants pair well with a (clean) t-shirt, or a sundress is easy to throw on. Jeans and a button down also add a touch of class. Just make sure to bring a sweater for when you stroll back to your hotel room in the cool night.

You might also want to add a bathing suit to your packing list so you can enjoy a swim in the pool or brave a dip in the ocean at Sand Beach—just be prepared for 50-60 ocean water.

The takeaway is to cater to versatility. Try to pick items that can be mixed and matched or transition from daytime activity to a night in downtown Bar Harbor. And hey, if you forgot something, there’s plenty of shops in town or at the Acadia visitors centers where you can pick up a t-shirt or sweatshirt to remember us by.

Shoes

The first time I ever took a Bar Harbor vacation, I walked 9 miles on day one! Of course, you can drive to many of Acadia’s best attractions, but chances are you’ll want to get out at some point to wander around, so comfortable shoes are important. A good pair of sneakers will do the job just fine, but hiking boots are also a great option if you plan to tackle steeper trails like the Precipice Trail or Cadillac South Ridge.

Sandals are a great addition to your weekend footwear selection for hanging by the pool or going out to dinner. As a Mainer, I’m partial to my Tevas or Birkenstocks but any comfortable sandal will do.

Outdoor Gear

While hanging out in your room at the Acadia Inn can be relaxing, we encourage you to go out, go out, go out! There’s so much to see and enjoy in nature on Mount Desert Island; it’s what will make you fall in love with our coastal haven. That said, you should be prepared with a few items when spending so much time outdoors:

• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Park maps
• Sunglasses and/or a hat
• Simple first aid like band-aids
• Refillable water bottle
• Daypack or bag

Whatever you do, don’t forget to put on sunscreen and don’t be fooled by the weather in Bar Harbor. When you’re outside climbing mountains all day, even cloudy weather can lead to a sunburn.

Bonus Items

With this basic guide to packing for Acadia, you should be set up for a fantastic—and well prepared—3 days in Bar Harbor. You can scale this packing list up if you’re taking a longer trip. And adding a few bonus items to the list might make your Bar Harbor vacation even better.

For example, I love having a disposable camera or Instax on hand to snap photos while out and about. Perhaps it’s old school, but the physical photos just have a certain something that smartphone pics can never achieve.

Portable batteries and chargers are a useful item to bring along, ensuring you can recharge your phone while out exploring Acadia National Park.

If you plan to spend time on a nature boat tour or sunset cruise and have trouble with sea sickness, picking up some Dramamine can be a lifesaver. P.S. we stock this at our front desk for purchase in case your forgot some or weren’t expecting that woozy feeling.

Books to read, playing cards or other packable games ensure you have something to do while lounging by the pool, having a picnic at Fabbri, or winding down at the end of the day. If you want to add another layer to your Bar Harbor adventure, consider bringing or renting bikes to explore the carriage roads on two wheels—just don’t forget a bike lock!

Share your Bar Harbor packing list or pic of your essentials with us to help other visitors get ready for an awesome Bar Harbor vacation!

Whether you’re already an avid biker, ready to take on a 50 to 100 mile day (and not a small amount of elevation) or you’re visiting our island with your family and want a fun and easygoing way to explore the park there are amazing Acadia bike trails waiting for you. Before your hop on two wheels, let’s talk logistics!

Step 1: You Need a Bike!

Bike owners: consider what type of riding you’re interested in before you load your bike rack and hit the road to Mount Desert Island. While there are certainly places for a road bike to feel at home in Bar Harbor, many of our favorite Acadia National Park bike trails are packed dirt or gravel where a mountain bike, gravel bike, or cyclocross bike will serve you best. You can use a cycling app like Komoot to explore routes and different surface types before selecting from your quiver of bikes.

With a little under a 5-hour drive from Boston, you’ll also want to ensure your bikes are secure for the journey. Many bikes have a quick release on the front wheel so you can remove them to stash more easily inside your vehicle. Or you can use a bike rack, ensuring they’re locked in place and even taking a neighborhood drive to test stability before jumping on the highway.

For those of you who are bike-less or would rather not travel with your bikes, you’re in luck! It’s easy to acquire trail friendly bikes from one of five Bar Harbor bike rentals.

Bar Harbor Bike Rentals

Acadia Bike Rentals

Acadia Bike rents out mostly hybrid bikes with flat top handlebars and a relaxed, upright riding position for the most versatility on paved and gravel roads. They also have a fleet of E-bikes to make riding more accessible, as well as various sizes of children’s bikes and child trailers. Every bike includes a bottle cage, helmet, and map of Acadia’s carriage roads. As one of the most popular Bar Harbor bike rental options, they recommend reserving your bikes ahead of your trip.
Acadia Bike Rentals Website
Rates: Starting at $36 for adults

Acadia Ebike Adventure

Rents exclusively E-bikes limited to ages 16 and older with the option to add a trailer for children at an additional fee. These Acadia bike rentals must be reserved in advance and are picked up at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center within the park between 8:30 and 10 am where you’ll receive a quick orientation from staff. Bikes must be returned between 2 and 3pm of the same day.

Acadia Ebike Adventure website

Rates: $110

Acadia Outfitters

Acadia Outfitters has a large selection of 21-speed mountain and hybrid bikes in all sizes, plus a wide variety of accessories, including child seats, trailers, tagalongs, and bike racks. Each bike rental comes with a helmet and bottle cage. They also have E-bikes and even 49cc scooters for biking Acadia National Park with a little more zip. You can reserve bikes ahead of time by calling their store.

Acadia Outfitters website
Rates: Starting at $36 for adults

Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop

Since 1978, the Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop has served the recreational and sport bikers of Mount Desert Island and continues to offer Acadia bike rentals for hybrid, kids, and E-bikes. They include free helmets and bike locks with all rentals. They also sell snacks and sports drinks to take with you and can meet you in the park to change a flat tire if needed. Call or use their online form to make bike reservations at least 48 hours in advance.

Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop website

Rates: Starting at $30 for adults

Pedego Bar Harbor

Pedego is an E-bike brand with a retail location in Bar Harbor that also offers rentals for their standard and premium models. All rentals are 8 hours and include helmets and locks. Trailers can be purchased for an additional fee. Designed to be accessible, Pedego bikes are a great way for older or less physically able adventurers to enjoy biking Acadia carriage roads.

Pedego Bar Harbor website

Rates: Starting at $125

Other Gear for Biking Bar Harbor

Two wheels aren’t the only thing you’ll need for biking in Acadia National Park. First and foremost, you’ll want to bring water. Like cup holders in your car, bottle cages won’t fit your wide Nalgene or Stanley water bottle. Use a water bottle that is under 3 inches in diameter or bring a backpack that can fit your water. Snacks or picnic food is also great as the only food for purchase inside the park is at the Jordon Pond House. Most bike shops offer maps of trails, but those can also be picked up at visitors’ centers around Acadia.

Want to go a step further in preparing to bike Mount Desert Island? Here are some other items to bring along:

• Sunglasses
• Rain jacket or wind breaker
• Bike lock
• Basic bicycle repair kit
• Wallet or cash

Step 2: Choosing Your Bar Harbor & Acadia Bike Trails

From the Park Loop Road to climbing Cadillac Mountain, enjoying Acadia carriage roads, or finding peace along the less trafficked Western Mountain Roads, there are too many amazing trails to discuss in one blog. And that’s not even to mention biking Bar Harbor itself! Below you’ll find some of our favorites to make your Mount Desert Island bike adventure special.

Biking Acadia Carriage Roads

Of course, Acadia is known for its 45 miles of carriage roads, commissioned by John D. Rockefeller, and built between 1913 and 1940. These motor free gravel roads follow the contours of the land, emphasize scenic views, and are shared by pedestrians, cyclists, and horse-drawn carriages to this day. They are perfect for bikers of all skill levels and allow you to check off some of the best sights in the park atop two wheels. Most Acadia carriage roads do have some variable elevation, but you can always hop off and walk while enjoying the views.

We love the tri-lakes loop, an 11-mile route that takes you along the edge of Eagle Lake, Bubble Pond, and Jordan pond. This route can also be broken into two smaller loops for those looking for a shorter ride with equally rewarding views.

Note that you will need a park pass to access Acadia carriage roads. It’s $20 per day to enter the park via bicycle or $35 if you have a vehicle. Passes can be reserved online or purchased same day at the front desk of any Bar Harbor Hospitality Group property or Acadia Visitors’ Center.

 Bar Harbor Bike Trails

You don’t need to be limited to biking Acadia National Park during your trip to Mount Desert Island. Bikes are also a great way to get to downtown Bar Harbor and avoid the stress of vehicle parking. It’s easy to bike from your Witham property to convenient bike racks along Cottage St. or Main St. before taking on the town by foot. Bikers should be aware of traffic in downtown and ride with caution, always wearing a helmet. Practice your turn signals to ensure you’re communicating with other road users and enjoy wandering the busiest sections of town on foot once you arrive.

Cycling Routes for Expert Riders

Road cyclists will also enjoy biking the park loop road, a 27-mile paved scenic route around the Northeast section of Mount Desert Island. A large portion of the road is one-way traffic only and bikers must obey the direction of traffic. There is no bike lane and many narrow sections and steep turns, so this Acadia bike trail is recommended only for experienced cyclists. The best times to bike the Park Loop Road are mornings before vehicle traffic picks up or on weekdays. For an extra challenge, cyclists can also bike up the Cadillac Summit Road, gaining almost 1,000 feet of elevation in just over 3 miles.

For a good workout and fewer cars to share the road with, sport cyclists can head to Southwest Harbor where you’ll find well-paved surfaces and views of the Cranberry Islands, Bass Harbor Head Light, and more. Depending on your starting point, these routes can be anywhere from 16 to 86 miles long.

Step 3: Start Your Ride

Are your feet antsy to pedal yet? Before you launch, let’s talk about transporting your bikes and starting your ride. If you’re staying at one of the downtown Bar Harbor accommodations like the Bar Harbor Grand or Villager Motel, it’s a quick 1.5 mile road bike to the Cadillac park entrance. Guests of the Acadia Inn or Bar Harbor Motel can head into the park by walking their bikes along the connecting Duck Brook Path, putting you and your family on some of the best carriage roads to bike in Acadia in less than a mile.

The free Island Explorer shuttle bus also stops directly in front of many of the Witham properties and other convenient downtown locations. Equipped with bike racks, the bus can easily transport you into the park and bring you home at the end of an adventurous day biking Acadia National Park.

If you do choose to drive into Acadia with your bikes, we recommend getting to the Hulls Cove Visitor Center early to secure parking and then taking the bus to other destinations throughout the park.

Step 4: Storing Your Bikes

It’s nearly impossible to see all Acadia has to offer in one day and there are many amazing hikes and activities that can’t be done on a bike. The Bar Harbor Motel offers fully enclosed and locked bike storage on site, so you can keep your bikes safe while you explore our Island on foot or by car. Bikes are also generally safe on a locked vehicle bike rack overnight.

Step 5: Recouping From Your Ride

When you’ve had your fill of biking in Acadia National Park and exploring Bar Harbor bike trails, it’s time to wind down. Make sure to rehydrate after your ride, stretch to avoid sore muscles to following day, and return your bikes at the appropriate time if renting from a local shop. And for the kids who just can’t get enough, they’ll find companions lapping the ¼ road that runs the length of the Bar Harbor Motel property into the evening.

Cheers to traveling on two wheels!

In this blog, we’ll journey through Bar Harbor, discovering how to savor the charm and adventure of our idyllic town, all while keeping your budget happily intact. You’ll find 8 free things to do in Bar Harbor and the surrounding area, plus our best advice on budget friendly accommodations and more. 

And to kick things off, here’s one tip that every visitor to Bar Harbor on a budget should know: take the free Island Explorer Shuttle wherever you go! The Bar Harbor free shuttle has 11 routes around the island and will stop anywhere along the routes for passengers if it’s safe to do so. It’s a great way to get to all MDI’s greatest hits and eliminates the need to find (and pay for) parking in Bar Harbor. Just note, if you use the Island Explorer to visit Acadia National Park, be sure to have a park entrance pass.

Walk the Shore Path 

Being more than a century old, the Bar Harbor Shore Path is close to our town’s heart. This 1.5 mile walking path leads from the Ells Pier in downtown to Wayman Lane along the east shore, following the edge of Frenchman Bay for views of the water, surrounding islands and the town’s oldest inn and several historic summer cottages. Its level surface makes it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs and those with limited mobility. You’ll find visitors and full-time residents alike ambling along or going for a jog from early morning to late in the evening. 

In fact, the Shore Path is so treasured by Bar Harbor residents that when it was severely damaged in the unprecedented coastal storms of January 2024, the town rallied funds to repair and improve it. The restoration includes the construction of new seawalls to protect the path and the addition of gorgeous new landscaping around it.  

“I think a new hidden gem will be the Shore Path,” said Jeremy Dougherty of the Bar Harbor Inn. “Especially with all the amazing gardens that we’re putting in… it will have hardscaping and then these beautiful flowers and plantings around it. I mean, I think people will show up thinking it will look like it did for the last 20 or 50 years but it’s going to be very different. In a very, very good way.” 

You can find updates on the project at the Bar Harbor Inn and contribute to its restoration and preservation at the VIA’s gofundme. 

Walk Across the Ocean to Bar Island 

Exploring Bar Island has to be one of the most underrated things to do in Bar Harbor—and it doesn’t cost a dime! The Island sits just half a mile off the mainland and each day for about 3 hours at low tide, it is accessible via the gravel Bar Island Land Bridge. The natural bar allows you to walk to the island from the end of Bridge St where you can then explore the 1.5 mile Bar Island Trail.  

“I always say how amazing it is that the ocean lowers down to this convenient island. So many other attractions you have to drive to,” Jeremy said. “If you didn’t know about this, it’s gonna change your life! You have all these coves, various beaches and different little trails.” 

Bar Island offers a great opportunity for tide pooling and an easy hike to its highest point provides views of Bar Harbor and Frenchman Bay. Just try not to lose track of time or you might be waiting 9 hours for the next low tide! Or, if you’re like local mom, Christina, you could plan with a picnic and books to get “stuck” for a lovely summer afternoon. 

Explore Local Art 

Our town is home to some talented artists and craftsmen! You can visit up to five different art galleries and open studios across the island that cost nothing to enter. You’ll find a mix of oil paintings, photography, sculptural works, hand made furniture and much more—often drawing inspiration for the beautiful landscape and rich history of the area. And if you’re tempted to buy something, well, we’d love the support for our local artisans! 

]Listen to the Town Band on the Village Green 

When evening rolls around, there’s music to be had in downtown Bar Harbor! Every Monday and Thursday of the summer, the Bar Harbor Town Band puts on an hour-long, free concert on the Village Green. People bring chairs, blankets, drinks, and snacks to lounge on the grass and enjoy the show. You may even catch visiting musicians jumping in to join the regular cast on a special night! If the forecast says rain, the show goes on—the band and audience move to the Bar Harbor Congregational Church to stay dry. 

Photo-Op at Bass Harbor Lighthouse 

Ready to see some classic Maine sights? One of about 80 lighthouses in Maine, the Bass Harbor Head Light Station guards the southern entrance of Blue Hill Bay and warns boats against Bass Harbor Bar. Built in 1858, its tower and lightning road stand at 37 feet tall and its light has a 13 mile range. Because of its western location, it is a popular spot around sunset, when Frenchman bay is painted in pink and orange, but we think it makes for an equally stunning and iconic photo in morning or midday. 

Wander Asticou Azalea Garden 

Visiting Maine, you may not expect to find Japanese inspired landscaping, but at Asticou Azalea Garden you’ll be transported. This lovely preserve in MDI’s Northeast Harbor is free to visit and beautifully combines Japanese design with native Maine plantings and natural features. Every season is different at Asticou with a flowering cherry tree, colorful azaleas and rhododendrons, Japanese iris, smoke bush, water lilies and more. Wander its trails at your leisure, keeping an eye out for frogs, songbirds and the occasional volunteer, carefully raking the sand garden. 

To take in even more natural beauty, visit the preserve’s sister, Thuya Garden or the meadows and trails around Little Long Pond. The Preserve often holds guided walks, demonstrations and discussions that offer a great way to learn more about our natural landscape. Please note that most require a small donation and registration in advance to ensure there’s space. 

Sign Up for Schoodic Institute Events 

Continue your learning and perhaps even contribute to Mount Desert Island’s scientific research by signing up for a free event through the Schoodic Institute. Located on Schoodic Point, an area steeped in the history of the Wabanaki people, the Schoodic Institute occupies the former Navy Base from which it conducts research on Acadia’s ecology, climate change adaptation, and biodiversity.  

Each summer their events calendar is full of opportunities to get involved with this work. Learn about the forces that shaped Maine’s coast on a Geology Walk, practice your nature journaling, or become a citizen scientist by assisting with data collection on one of Schoodic Institute’s many field trips around the island and surrounding area. Some of these events require advance registration and for those that make excursions into Acadia National Park, a day pass will be required for entry. 

Visit the Dorr Museum 

Part of the College of the Atlantic, the Dorr Museum of Natural History is housed in the original headquarters of Acadia National Park. Its exhibits are designed and produced by students of the college, so you’re bound to discover new ways to learn about Maine’s wildlife with each visit. It features dioramas of our coastal creatures, a tide pool tank, and of course the gift shop full of goodies inspired by the natural sciences. 

The Dorr is free to enter and is open year-round with seasonal changes to their hours, which you can find on their website. Plus, the Bar Harbor free shuttle stops at the museum so you can catch a ride there. 

Tips on Lodging for Bar Harbor on a Budget 

When it seems like every block in Bar Harbor has an option for hotel, inn, B&B or short-term rental it can be tough to uncover out the best deals. Here are our best recommendations for budget accommodations in Bar Harbor: 

1. Bar Harbor Villager Motel: Located in the heart of downtown Bar Harbor, this charming motel has all the convenience at one of the best prices. Free off-street parking, complimentary grab & go breakfast, a pool, and pristine rooms make this property a fabulous deal. And catch the Island Explorer right around the corner at the Village Green. 

2. Bar Harbor Motel: Talk about hidden gems! Perfect for families, young couples and solo travelers who are keen on maximizing their time in Acadia, this newly renovated motel has direct trail access to the park. Its retro decorated rooms are totally unique and a stay there feels much like renting a private cabin. 

3. Acadia Inn: More traditional hotel accommodations, this property hones the home-away-from-home feeling. Their backyard is teeming with things to do for kids and adults alike such as movie nights, a playground, s’mores roasting parties and more. 

4. Acadia National Park Campgrounds: For those equipped with a tent, RV or trailer, Acadia’s four campgrounds are some of the cheapest accommodations in the area. Sites are just $30-60 a night, depending on the size and equipment you bring and offer flush toilets, running water, fire pits and picnic benches.