Bar Harbor's Finest Attractions

Jan 05, 2023 By Juliana Daniel

Bar Harbor, Maine, on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, is considered the entry point to Acadia National Park, one of New England's most popular tourist destinations. The town's population of 5,000 increases dramatically when spring and summer vacationers arrive. Bar Harbor is known for its abundance of historical, cultural, and natural landmarks, The College of the Atlantic and a few prominent biotech enterprises.

Hulls Cove Visitor Center

If you need to familiarise yourself with Bar Harbor, stopping by the Hulls Cover Visitor Center first might be a great idea. Part of the national park's visitor centre is a massive scale model of the area, detailing the park's roadways and most prominent landmarks. There are rangers onsite who can answer any questions, and a short film that gives a comprehensive introduction to the park is also available. The facility also offers the chance to sign up for guided tours.

The Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is approximately 50,000 acres of essentially pristine environment amid the islands, streams, marshes, and dunes on Maine's rocky coast. It has inspired artists, authors, and travellers for decades. Cadillac Mountain, the tallest point on the Atlantic coast of the United States, may be found in this park, along with several other recreational opportunities.

Anyone passionate about the outdoors and national parks may spend days here without becoming bored. Bar Harbor is a picturesque town with many great places to shop, dine, drink, and relax after a day of exploring the coast.

Thunder Hole

One of the most well-known attractions in Acadia National Park is Thunder Hole, which can be found on the park's Loop Road. Incoming waves are channelled through a crack in the rocky beach, creating a dramatic and beautiful sight reminiscent of a geyser.

The roar and power of the river can be heard and felt from far away, and those who are curious can go near it. This is an activity best suited for those with sure feet and a sense of adventure due to the slippery, uneven surface of the wet rocks.

The House On Jordan's Pond

Residents attest that Jordan's Pond House Restaurant has been a neighbourhood staple for over a century. The only full-service eatery within Acadia National Park, the restaurant occupies a previously constructed farmhouse in the early 1800s. The ancient and quaint eatery is situated adjacent to a gorgeous pond and offers lunch and supper. There may be other visitors, especially between May and September, as this is the high season for vacationers.

Gorham Mountain

Gorham Mountain, also in Acadia National Park, isn't the park's tallest peak, but it does provide some of the nicest views. While much of Gorham Mountain's famed 2-mile Loop Trail is straightforward, a few spots can be dangerously wet or icy.

Some of the mountain's lesser-known paths are more challenging than others, including sections that involve climbing narrow, rocky ladders. If you plan hiking in the park, stop by the information centre first to pick up a trail map.

Go On An Excursion by Boat

Although there are many stunning vantage points in Acadia National Park, experiencing the park from the water adds a particular dimension to the experience. The Maine coast has a thriving fishing culture, and the state's islands and bays are filled with homes, villages, and boats straight out of an 18th-century picture. You may schedule a boat trip at the park's visitor centre or in town. Most of them include a historical narration given by a ranger or knowledgeable local, discussing the area's long history of lobstering.

7. Timber Tina's Maine Lumberjack Show

In the days before chainsaws, Maine's forests were full of lumberjacks whose duty was to cut down enormous trees using cumbersome two-person saws and axes. Even though the lumber business has been automated, its legacy remains.

Timber Tina's Maine Lumberjack Show is the best venue to see this fascinating facet of New England heritage. Lumberjacks perform an incredible act that includes sawing, chopping, climbing, and even axe-throwing competitions against the clock and other competitors.

8. Go Whale-Watching

Between Cape Cod in the south and Sable Island in Nova Scotia in the north, you'll find the Gulf of Maine, frequented by several whale species at various periods of the year. The tourist season runs from June to September; fortunately, many friendly marine creatures show up then.

Common whale sightings include humpbacks and finbacks, while seals and other marine creatures are also common. Layer up, even in the summer, because the sharp sea breeze might make you feel cold.

More Articles
niannieng
Copyright 2019 - 2023