Scenic seaside Bar Harbor is the gateway to Maine’s Acadia National Park, one of the 10 most popular national parks throughout the United States. The Pine Tree State’s abundance of breathtaking scenery and stellar dining options satisfies all the senses—on and off the water.
Top Acadia Sights
It’s worth the early start and extra layers to watch the sunrise at the summit of Cadillac Mountain, elevation 1,530 feet, the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard. The effort will be rewarded with stunning views of the glaciated coastal and island landscape, overlooking Frenchman Bay out toward the Schoodic Peninsula and beyond. Allow a good half-hour for the drive up the mountain. From May through October, both a national park pass and a car reservation are required; the latter can be booked on recreation.gov.
The 27-mile Park Loop Road accesses the park’s top attractions, including Otter Cliff. The 110-foot-high granite precipice is a popular scenic overlook for photos. Nearby, Sand Beach is noted for its (chilly) aquamarine waters and stunning views, as well as for ranger-led stargazing programs. In between these two attractions on the 2.2-mile Ocean Path Trail is Thunder Hole, where the churning waters one to two hours before high tide create a deafening roar and wave sprays as high as 40 feet.
Read More: Cruising to Historic Portland, Maine
Sieur de Monts is referred to as the “heart of Acadia.” Its nature center has exhibits on the science behind the park’s scenery. Its Wild Gardens of Acadia include more than 400 plant species native to the park. Its short hiking trails range from steep Schiff Path, which connects to the summit of Dorr Mountain, to the leisurely Jesup Path boardwalk favored by birdwatchers on the lookout for the park’s 20-plus warbler species.
Dining
Bar Harbor’s dining scene satisfies at any time of day. After the sunrise atop Cadillac Mountain, refuel with breakfast at Café This Way, known for its blueberry pancakes and corned beef hash. Partake in a park tradition by booking afternoon tea at Acadia’s Jordan Pond House. Enjoy the delicious popovers, first served in 1893, while looking out over the luxuriant lawn along Jordan Pond. Mount Desert Island Ice Cream is considered a requisite stop in Bar Harbor. Order a flight to sample several of the creative, ever-changing flavors, which range from Maine Sweet Cream to Bay of Figs to Salt Wildflower Honey.
A lobster meal is mandatory in Maine. The Travelin’ Lobster, a casual outdoor venue, is worth the wait for its lobster bisque, lobster bake and flavorful, generously sized lobster rolls. (Save room for blueberry pie.) The Reading Room Restaurant serves up a refined seafood repast along with spectacular harbor views and live piano music. And don’t miss Havana for its award-winning wine list, craft cocktails and inventive Latin-inspired fare.
