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Innkeepers Tips

for a great visit to Bar Harbor and Acadia

  • Plan a visit long enough to experience a taste of all the things that make our area great. Frankly, we dissuade one-day visits because you’ll miss the point of Bar Harbor.
  • Plan your journey so that you don’t arrive late at night. The roads into Bar Harbor are dark and can be unfamiliar. No need to arrive stressed and tired.
  • Don’t over-pack! Bar Harbor is not a fancy place. Even the nicest restaurants are ‘nice casual’.
  • Bring supportive shoes for hiking and walking. (If not, we have several local outfitters who can sell you some new hiking footwear.)
  • If you plan to head out on the ocean, bring a jacket or sweatshirt.
  • Make advance restaurant reservations and whale watch reservations during high season.
  • Enjoy hiking in Acadia, but also get out on the ocean. Whale watching, nature cruises, lobster boat tours and kayaking are a blast, and will give you spectacular views of Mount Desert Island.
  • Alternate active days in Acadia with lazy days at the Bass Cottage Inn and the village of Bar Harbor. Pamper yourself and have fun!
“Completely renovated...this elegant and refreshing inn...respects its Victorian history — without the stuffy Victorian decor.”Fodor’s Maine Coast
den with fireplace at the Bass Cotage Inn