Bar Harbor is a beautiful coastal town located on Mount Desert Island in Maine. It is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason! There are plenty of things to see and do in Bar Harbor, from whale watching to hiking to exploring the charming downtown area. May is a great time to visit Bar Harbor, as the weather is typically mild and the crowds are smaller than in the summer months. Here are 9 of the best things to do in Bar Harbor in May 2024:
1. Go whale watching
Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in Bar Harbor. There are several companies that offer whale watching tours, and you can choose from a variety of different types of tours, including boat tours, kayak tours, and even Zodiac tours. Whales are most commonly seen in the Gulf of Maine from April to October, so May is a great time to go whale watching.
2. Hike in Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is a beautiful park that is home to mountains, forests, lakes, and coastline. There are over 150 miles of hiking trails in the park, so you can find a hike that is perfect for your fitness level and interests. Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the Beehive Loop Trail, the Cadillac Mountain Trail, and the Jordan Pond Loop Trail.
3. Explore the Abbe Museum
The Abbe Museum is a museum that is dedicated to the history and culture of the Wabanaki people. The museum has a variety of exhibits that tell the story of the Wabanaki people, from their early history to their present day. The museum also has a number of educational programs and activities, so it is a great place to learn about the Wabanaki culture.
4. Visit the Bar Harbor Historical Society
The Bar Harbor Historical Society is a museum that is dedicated to the history of Bar Harbor. The museum has a variety of exhibits that tell the story of Bar Harbor, from its early days as a fishing village to its present day as a popular tourist destination. The museum also has a number of educational programs and activities, so it is a great place to learn about the history of Bar Harbor.
5. Take a drive along Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive is a beautiful scenic road that winds along the coast of Mount Desert Island. The road offers stunning views of the ocean, the mountains, and the coastline. Ocean Drive is a great place to take a drive and enjoy the scenery.
6. Visit the Asticou Terraces
The Asticou Terraces are a beautiful garden that is located on the coast of Mount Desert Island. The gardens were designed by Beatrix Farrand, one of the most famous landscape architects of the early 20th century. The gardens feature a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees, and they offer stunning views of the ocean.
7. Shop in the downtown area
The downtown area of Bar Harbor is a great place to shop for souvenirs, gifts, and other items. There are a variety of shops and boutiques in the downtown area, so you can find something for everyone.
8. Eat at a local restaurant
There are a number of great restaurants in Bar Harbor. You can find everything from seafood to Italian to American cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local seafood, such as lobster, clams, and mussels.
9. Stay at a local hotel
There are a number of great hotels in Bar Harbor. You can find everything from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts. Be sure to book your hotel in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak tourist season.
Bar Harbor is a great place to visit any time of year, but May is a particularly special time to visit. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the flowers are in bloom. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Bar Harbor has something to offer everyone.
Culture
Bar Harbor is a town with a rich culture. The town is home to a number of museums, art galleries, and historical sites. There are also a number of festivals and events held in Bar Harbor throughout the year.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Bar Harbor are May, June, September, and October. These months offer mild temperatures and smaller crowds than the summer months.
Nearby Transportation
Bar Harbor is accessible by car, plane, and ferry. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB), which is located about 10 miles from Bar Harbor. There is also a ferry that runs from Rockland, Maine to Bar Harbor.
Local Food
Bar Harbor is known for its seafood. Some of the most popular local dishes include lobster, clams, mussels, and haddock. There are also a number of great restaurants in Bar Harbor that serve a variety of cuisines.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels in Bar Harbor. Some of the most popular hotels include the Bar Harbor Inn & Spa, the Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina, and the Asticou Inn.
Conclusion
Bar Harbor is a beautiful town with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Bar Harbor is the perfect place to visit.
