At our bed and breakfast near Acadia National Park, we love the outdoors and treasure all the natural beauty that surrounds us on Mount Desert Island. Our unique area provides for a variety of wonderful outdoor Bar Harbor activities and attractions to enjoy, including whale watching, hiking, biking, boating, and more. In town, you’ll also find unique things to do like shopping, enjoying a live performance, perusing museums, and savoring local cuisine at wonderful restaurants. Keep scrolling to see our favorite things to do or peruse our special packages that include curated local activities.
Book Direct for Best Rates!
Area Experiences
Plan your ideal Acadia experience with all of the best Bar Harbor activities and attractions near our inn.
Things to Do
Experience the Best Activities on Land and Sea in Acadia & Bar Harbor
Our Favorite Acadia Attractions
Below are a few of our recommended area activities, or we’d be happy to help make other suggestions so that your trip to Maine is memorable!
Hiking
There are options for every type of hiker. From shorter hikes that you can do in an hour or less to day-long hikes that leave your legs burning, Acadia has something for everyone.
Biking
Take a look at some of our favorite trails and partners. You’re sure to come back tired AND smiling!
Tours
It can be overwhelming to know where to start with so many options from which to choose. Reach out to some of our partners and friends below to arrange a tour or guided experience.
Kayaks and Paddleboards
Acadia Ocean Adventures
With individual and two-person kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and guided sailboat tours, Chris at Acadia Ocean Adventures will give you an on-the-water experience you’ll never forget.
Whale Watching
Bar Harbor Whale Watching Co.
Enjoy tours filled with whales, puffins, and lighthouses on these special tours! Choose from tours lasting about 90 minutes to over 5 hours.
Nova Scotia Day Trip
The Cat Ferry to Nova Scotia
With daily trips during the season, the CAT Ferry is a great way to take advantage of Bar Harbor’s proximity to the Maritime Provinces. Don’t forget your passport. Schedule your trip now!
Museums
Abbe Museum
Associated with the Smithsonian Institute, the Abbe Museum celebrates the culture of Mount Desert Islands and Maine’s Native communities. Learn how the native people of Maine lived and thrived here for the past 10,000 years.
Dorr Museum of Natural History
Learn about the natural history and wild residents of Maine with exhibits and displays, including touch tanks that house a variety of marine creatures.
Improv Acadia
Improv Acadia
Featuring live improv shows most nights, and stand-up comedy performances throughout the year, Improv Acadia is the perfect place to get a dose of the best medicine: laughter.
Theatre
Criterion Theatre
Built in 1932, the Criterion is one of only two Art Deco theaters in Maine. With a consistently rotating selection of entertainment, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in the heart of Bar Harbor!
Acadia Repertory Theatre
Celebrating 50 years of live theater, join in on the fun at the longest-running community theater troupe on Mount Desert Island. With several different shows throughout the summer, all featuring live performances by local and national actors, ART is a great way to spend an evening.
Bird Watching
Our unique geography makes Mount Desert Island a haven for bird lovers. You’ll be able to spot a wide variety of birds including songbirds, egrets, owls, puffins and so much more!
Rock Climbing
Acadia Mountain Guides
Set out for a new adventure year round in Acadia! These mountain professionals can help you with rock climbing and ice climbing.
Sailing & Boating
Downeast Windjammer Cruise Lines
Set sail for adventure on Frenchman Bay on a schooner. These boating pros can set up private tours and fishing excursions as well.
Acadian Boat Tours
This marine outfitter provides a wide variety of unique water excursions, from sunset cruises to nature and lighthouse tours.
Acadia Ocean Adventures
With individual and two-person kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and guided sailboat tours, Chris at Acadia Ocean Adventures will give you an on-the-water experience you’ll never forget.