Maine - Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor week trip

29 Jun 2026

Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor Week Trip Overview

This week-long trip to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor is a great blend of classic Maine coastal scenery, easy sightseeing, scenic drives, and memorable outdoor adventures. You can spend your days exploring some of the region’s most famous landmarks, including Cadillac Mountain for sweeping summit views, Jordan Pond for peaceful waterside scenery, and Sand Beach for a rare and beautiful oceanfront setting framed by rocky cliffs and forest. Park Loop Road makes it easy to connect many of Acadia’s highlights in a single outing, while stops like Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff add dramatic waves, rugged shoreline, and excellent photo opportunities.

Bar Harbor adds a charming small-town base to the trip, with the Shore Path offering a relaxing walk along the water and beautiful views of Frenchman Bay. For travelers who want more activity, trails like the Beehive Trail and Bubble Rock provide rewarding hikes with iconic scenery. A visit to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse brings in one of Maine’s most photogenic coastal landmarks, especially near sunset. Altogether, this itinerary creates a balanced week of nature, viewpoints, hiking, and classic New England atmosphere, with enough variety to keep each day scenic and memorable without feeling rushed.


Recommended Activities

Day 1
  • 1

    Bar Harbor Shore Path

    Visit for an easy, scenic waterfront walk with beautiful views of Frenchman Bay, the Porcupine Islands, elegant historic cottages, and a classic Bar Harbor atmosphere right in town.
  • 2

    Cadillac Mountain

    Visit for one of Acadia’s most famous summit experiences, offering sweeping panoramic views of the coast, islands, and surrounding mountains, especially memorable at sunrise or sunset.
Day 2
  • 3

    Sand Beach

    Visit for its rare ocean beach setting surrounded by rocky cliffs and forested mountains, making it a great stop for coastal scenery, relaxing, photography, and easy access to nearby Acadia highlights.
  • 4

    Beehive Trail

    Visit for one of Acadia’s most exciting short hikes, featuring iron rungs, cliffside climbing, and rewarding panoramic views over Sand Beach, the coastline, and nearby peaks.
Day 3
  • 5

    Thunder Hole

    Visit for a signature Acadia coastal stop where waves crash into a narrow rock inlet, creating dramatic splashes and the famous thunder-like roar during the right surf conditions.
  • 6

    Ocean Path

    Top-rated coastal walking trail connecting several signature Acadia sights with continuous ocean scenery.
Day 4
  • 7

    Otter Cliff

    One of Acadia’s most iconic coastal viewpoints, known for dramatic sea cliffs and scenic ocean views.
  • 8

    Park Loop Road

    Visit for a scenic drive that connects many of Acadia’s top sights, making it an efficient and beautiful way to experience mountains, forests, lakes, and rugged shoreline in one route.
Day 5
  • 9

    Jordan Pond

    Visit for its calm, crystal-clear water and iconic views of the North and South Bubbles, plus easy walking paths and one of Acadia’s most classic scenic settings.
  • 10

    Jordan Pond Path

    A highly rated easy walk with classic views of Jordan Pond and the Bubbles, great for a relaxed outing.
Day 6
  • 11

    Bubble Rock

    A well-known Acadia landmark reached by a short hike, famous for its glacially perched boulder and scenic outlooks.
  • 12

    Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

    Visit for one of Maine’s most photogenic lighthouses, perched dramatically above rocky shoreline with beautiful sunset views and a classic coastal New England feel.
Day 7
  • 13

    Acadia Mountain Trail

    Popular moderate hike on the quieter west side of Mount Desert Island with rewarding summit views over Somes Sound.
  • 14

    Schoodic Point

    A favorite for rugged granite shoreline, crashing surf, and fewer crowds than the main park loop area.

Restaurants

  • Picture for Siren & Sailor
    Trending now

    Siren & Sailor

    7 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
    Opened May 2, 2026, this new Main Street cocktail bar and restaurant is generating early buzz with a 4.7/5 rating from roughly 70 recent reviews, an elevated scratch-food menu, and highly shareable karaoke and event programming. Its newcomer status and lively social-media-friendly atmosphere make it one of Bar Harbor’s current hot spots.
    4.7
    $$$$
  • Picture for Bear Creek Tavern
    Trending now

    Bear Creek Tavern

    336 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
    Opened September 4, 2026, this roadside newcomer is already drawing attention as the latest Bar Harbor restaurant from the team behind Beal’s Lobster Pier. Its combination of scratch-made pizza, seafood, coffee, craft drinks, and scheduled live music is producing strong early buzz among current travel and food guides.
    4.1
    $$$$
  • Picture for Havana, Bar Harbor, Maine

    Havana, Bar Harbor, Maine

    318 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
    Often praised for a more refined meal in Bar Harbor, Havana is worth a visit for seasonal ingredients, polished seafood dishes, and a good option when you want a special dinner during the trip.
    4.6
    $$$$
  • Picture for Thurston's Lobster Pound

    Thurston's Lobster Pound

    9 Thurston Rd, Bernard, ME 04612, United States
    A classic Maine stop frequently recommended for a traditional lobster pound experience, with fresh lobster, harbor views, and a relaxed setting away from the busiest part of Bar Harbor.
    4.7
    $$$$
  • Picture for Beal's Lobster Pier

    Beal's Lobster Pier

    182 Clark Point Rd, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679, USA
    Worth visiting for casual waterfront dining and a reliable taste of local lobster, crab rolls, and fried seafood in Southwest Harbor.
    4.5
    $$$$
  • Picture for Side Street Cafe

    Side Street Cafe

    49 Rodick St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
    A popular casual choice known for hearty comfort food, lobster dishes, and an easygoing atmosphere that works well after a day in Acadia.
    4.4
    $$$$
  • Picture for The Travelin Lobster

    The Travelin Lobster

    1569 ME-102, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
    A favorite for a low-key seafood stop, especially if you want fresh lobster rolls and shellfish without a formal restaurant experience.
    4.8
    $$$$

Hotels

  • Bar Harbor Inn

    Bar Harbor, ME, USA

    A classic waterfront stay in downtown Bar Harbor with convenient access to the Shore Path, shops, restaurants, and easy driving access to Acadia National Park.
  • Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center

    119 Eden St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA

    Worth considering for its oceanfront setting, spacious grounds, and good location between downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia’s main attractions.
  • The Bayview Hotel

    111 Eden St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA

    An adults-focused oceanfront option known for quiet surroundings, scenic views, and a relaxing atmosphere while still being close to Bar Harbor and Acadia.
  • Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor - Acadia Natl Park

    123 Eden St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA

    A practical resort-style base with waterfront views, useful amenities, and a location that works well for exploring both Bar Harbor and Acadia.
  • Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina

    55 West St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA

    A strong choice for travelers who want a central Bar Harbor location with marina views, walkable access to town, and comfortable resort amenities.

Local Events & Happenings

  • Picture for High Stakes House of Comedy Presents: Jimmy Dunn and Tony V

    High Stakes House of Comedy Presents: Jimmy Dunn and Tony V

    Hollywood Casino Bangor in Bangor (42 mi)13 Sep 2026
    The event will take place at Hollywood Casino Bangor in Bangor.
  • Picture for Bangor Comedy Festival- Festival Passes

    Bangor Comedy Festival- Festival Passes

    Hollywood Casino Bangor in Bangor (42 mi)23 Oct 2026
    The event will take place at Hollywood Casino Bangor in Bangor.
  • Picture for Suites: Elmo's Got Moves

    Suites: Elmo's Got Moves

    Cross Insurance Center in Bangor (42.02 mi)29 Sep 2026
    The event will take place at Cross Insurance Center in Bangor.
  • Picture for Elmo's Got Moves -Photo Experience

    Elmo's Got Moves -Photo Experience

    Cross Insurance Center in Bangor (42.02 mi)29 Sep 2026
    Parents, please note that while most children are excited to meet their favorite characters up-close, others can feel frightened. If your child is scared or hesitant to meet the characters, we recommend moving to the back of the line; This will allow...
  • Picture for  Elmo's Got the Moves

    Elmo's Got the Moves

    Cross Insurance Center in Bangor (42.02 mi)29 Sep 2026
    SENSORY NOTICE THE SHOW CONTAINS FLASHING LIGHTS HAZE (FOG) AND CONFETTI Make unforgettable memories with your little ones at Elmo's Got the Moves- the all-new Sesame Street Live Show! This exciting experience brings Elmo and his Sesame Street friend...
  • Picture for Queen City Expo- Friday 4PM-8PM

    Queen City Expo- Friday 4PM-8PM

    Cross Insurance Center in Bangor (42.02 mi)3 Oct 2026
    The event will take place at Cross Insurance Center in Bangor.
  • Picture for Queen City Expo- Saturday 10AM- 6PM

    Queen City Expo- Saturday 10AM- 6PM

    Cross Insurance Center in Bangor (42.02 mi)3 Oct 2026
    The event will take place at Cross Insurance Center in Bangor.

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Bar Harbor itinerary!

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Weve done that both times that we have visited Acadia. ... Go visit NorthEast Harbor, go see Southwest Harbor, have a lobster roll at Beals. The wildlife boat trips are outsta...

  • Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park (August 8-10)

    /r/acadianationalpark

    My husband and I stayed in Bar Harbor and hiked in Acadia a little over a week ago and it was AMAZING! It was our first time there and we loved every second. Below are a few d...

  • Should we spend the whole week in Acadia?

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Now I see where you are staying. That is on the quiet side. You are about as far away from Bar Harbor as you can get and still be on the island. ... You can also day trip to t...

  • Acadia/Bar Harbor Trip Recap!

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Boat to take: really enjoyed our sunset tour with Acadian Boat Tours! Learned history, as some seals and bald eagles! Hope this was helpful. We had a great time. ... Sounds li...

  • I spent a week in Bar Habor and Acadia National Park with 5 Other People. We're From the South. Here's My Thoughts

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Go towards the end of the day to be able to get parking. We went at sunset and it was stunning Want to really really beat the crowds? Drive over to Winter Harbor, do a mostly ...

  • Acadia and Bar Harbor recommendations

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Hello! Five of us are going to be spending 5 nights camping in Acadia later this week and Id love some recommendations of things to do! We are

  • Would you stay in Acadia National Park and also Bar Harbor? Need advice!

    /r/acadianationalpark

    We camped for a week (Blackwoods Campground) and visited Bar Harbor several times with no issues. Its a very close distance from the park. If you arrive early in the day, park...

  • Acadia trip in October

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Thursday, October 2 Explore Bar Harbor & Bar Island at low tide (tidepool critters!) Visit Shermans Bookshop Sieur de Monts Spring, Wild Gardens of Acadia, Jesup Path Visit Sa...

  • Rate my Itinerary!

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Its going to be crowded everywhere that weekend so park as early as you can or use the island explorer shuttle. If you have time or want something a little more strenuous but ...

  • Bar Harbor and Acadia Trip

    /r/acadianationalpark

    For all those who have an interest in Acadia National Park! ... My wife and I are are coming to Bar Harbor/Acadia in September. We have ideas and things to do in Acadia, but w...

  • Acadia: things to do in and around the park

    /r/nationalparks

    First Time in Acadia! ... A community for those who love National Parks... anywhere in the world! ... A community for those who love National Parks... anywhere in the world! ....

  • Opinions on my mid-June itinerary?

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Park at the Newport cove parking lot and Hike the beehive loop! Go to lunch in bar harbor at Bar Harbor Lobster Co. supposedly the BEST lobster rolls around? Explore Bar Harbo...

  • Acadia/Bar Harbor Recs

    /r/acadianationalpark

    15 votes, 17 comments. Hi everyone! My friends and I have a trip booked to Bar Harbor over Memorial Day Weekend and being the type A planner I am, I

  • Weeklong trip - advice on lodging, touring, and everything

    /r/acadianationalpark

    A friend had a late September trip last year and couldn't get parking at any of those spots by driving, and didn't learn about the shuttle until the last day, so the...

  • Bar Harbor + Acadia trip 06 April 24

    /r/acadianationalpark

    For all those who have an interest in Acadia National Park! ... Its a short 2 day trip before we head up further north for the solar eclipse. Share ... I live in Bar Harbor. G...

  • [ACADIA] Realistic Planning for a 3-day weekend?

    /r/NationalPark

    For all those who love National Parks! ... This is our first time Acadia and I got some amazing tips already, but I'm not sure if I'm going overboard on a three-day ...

  • Bar Harbor

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Share ... I actually recommend staying somewhere in Ellsworth and hitting up the Acadia gateway center in Trenton for the free island explorer during the day. It'll get y...

  • acadia national park & bar harbor

    /r/travel

    128 votes, 15 comments. just visited acadia national park & bar harbor for the first time (& stopped in portland on the way up!) we drove from nj

  • Critique/aid my itinerary (4 days in Acadia)

    /r/acadianationalpark

    Afternoon free to explore, perhaps drive Park Loop Road and check out the bass harbor light house Day 4- Entirely a free day just hanging out in Bar Harbor and going with the ...

  • Trip recommendations?

    /r/acadianationalpark

    We did the Margaret Todd sunset cruise and really enjoyed it! There were drinks you could purchase as well. ... I did sunset instead of the popular sunrise on Cadillac mt. Les...