Bar Harbor

Though Bar Harbor is one of several towns located on the celebrated Mount Desert Island, many people associate this seaside town with Acadia National Park. It remains the most well-known of the island vacation spots and serves as both a destination in itself and springboard to nearby explorations.

B&Bs abound within city limits, but there are also inns and cottages. Accommodation can be a challenge to find during the busy summer months, so be sure to book ahead. If you do decide to go without reservations you will find something, though it may be out of town a bit. If you plan to camp in town, try Bar Harbor Campgrounds & Rentals or the Bar Harbor KOA (for the best sites, make reservations ahead of time).

Antique shops, clothing boutiques, gift & book stores, art galleries and home-made candy shops line the picturesque town. If the weather is nice, grab a scoop of home-made ice cream or bring a picnic and relax on Agamont Park near the harbors's edge or on the scenic in-town "Village Green," where free summer concerts are offered July and August.

Whether you're on the lookout for casual or fine dining, just park the car and stroll the downtown main streets and you'll have plenty of options. If you pass a place during the afternoon that piques your interest, it might not be a bad idea to stop in and see if they take reservations for the evening. If you're a seafood lover, now is the time to sample some of Maine's famous fresh mussels, lobster, oysters and clams.

Like micro-breweries? Try the Atlantic Brewing Company or the Bar Harbor Brewing Company.

If you'd like to get out on the water try a sea-kayak tour or one of the scenic cruises or charter fishing trips.

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