There are summer destinations, and then there are summer destinations. Does any place portray the true essence of summertime in America better than Maine? For a few short months, Maine sheds its blistery cold and wintry outer shell and transforms into a sublime summertime haven, complete with picturesque coastal towns, hundreds of miles of jagged indented shorelines, and seemingly never-ending lobster to satiate even the most gluttonous of appetites.
We spent a wonderful week in Bar Harbor, an easy one hour drive from Bangor International Airport, thanks to my sister who was working at a local hospital for a two-week stint.
While many of our summer trips typically take us to more exotic and faraway locales, we (somewhat surprisingly) found ourselves captivated by Bar Harbor, an enchanting oasis of small-town charm surrounded by spectacular scenery that’s just begging to be explored.
Below are the highlights of our week-long getaway in beautiful Bar Harbor.
Discovering Acadia National Park
It’s hard not to be completely enamored by the grandeur and pure splendor or Acadia National Park. Its abundance of jaw-dropping natural sights is truly impressive. The park is brimming with countless hiking and biking trails, crystal blue waters, and magnificent peaks.
There’s no shortage of attractions and things to do in Arcadia. Below are some of the park’s treasures that we loved most.
Cadillac Mountain
At 1,530 feet, Cadillac Mountain is the East Coast’s highest mountain and arguably Acadia’s most popular sight. Vistas for days here, people! The view of mountains giving way to sea and then islands is truly breathtaking. While you can certainly drive up to the summit, hiking is obviously much more rewarding and lends to more arresting views in all directions. The North Ridge Trail runs about 2.2 miles and the hike is moderate; the time and effort here are definitely worth it. Cadillac Mountain’s majestic views and idyllic scenery truly capture Maine’s incomparable natural beauty.
Jordan Pond
Jordan Pond is a pristine pond nestled within the park. The 3.4 mile circuit that loops around the perimeter of the pond is relatively easy to navigate. The first half of the hike is mostly shaded and follows a flat and wide-paved trail, while the second half is more rugged and requires some scrambling across rocks and narrow logs planks.
The dramatic views of the The Bubbles, two glacially sculpted mountains at the northern end of the pond, as well as the extraordinary environs that envelope the reflecting blue waters are definitely worth the trek!
Mount Desert Island
This island, which calls Acadia home, offers a plethora of outdoor adventures and sweeping views. We loved hiking here–the trails are well-marked and range in difficulty.
For more information about visiting Acadia National Park: https://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm
Whale Watching
We took our nephews Julian and Roman on a whale and puffin watch tour with Bar Harbor Whales and had a blast. The fully-narrated trip runs on the gulf of Maine and lasts about four hours. Expect to see a wide variety of species including puffins, seals, eagles, seals, offshore birds, and of course whales. We were lucky and spotted several whales. This was our very first whale-watching experience and we were not disappointed. Dress warmly and in layers. Snacks and drinks are sold on boards and restrooms are available.
Cruising by lighthouses and the Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge
Bar Harbor Town Pier
A stunning spot to soak up the 180 degree panoramic view of the harbor dotted with boats, lobster traps, and islands. This was our first stop in Bar Harbor and a lovely way to get oriented.
She’s Your Lobster
Tying on a bib and getting up close and personal with a whole boiled Maine lobster is pretty much the epitome of summer feasting in Maine. Not a day went by on this trip that we didn’t gorge on lobster at least once, sometimes even twice, and it seemed like each lobster encounter was better than the last.
While it’s hard to have a bad lobster meal in Maine, we did of course have our favorites.
Delicious lobster rolls at Galyn’s, located near the Bar Harbor Town Pier
Julian enjoying a lobster nearly as big as him at Thurston’s Lobster Pound
So. Much. Lobster. Enjoying our last dinner of the trip at Stewman’s Lobster Pound
Exploring Magical Bar Harbor
The delightful town of Bar Harbor is pure magic. Each night, locals and visitors alike stroll along the busy Main Street popping in and out of family-owned ice cream parlors like Ben and Bill’s Emporium and adorable shops and boutiques selling various local crafts ranging from jewelry to woven baskets.
Spend some time in the Village Green, a grassy square located in the heart of Bar Harbor. A great place to relax and picnic during the day, and see an outdoor concert at night.
The take-away? Bar Harbor makes for a perfect summer vacation for anyone who enjoys outdoor active pursuits, adorable coastal towns, and endless amounts of mouth-watering, butter-dripping-down-your chin lobster goodness.
Happy Traveling, All!
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