bar harbor city tours

Looking forward to seeing you in May 2024!

Oli's Trolley

Narrated trolley tours of bar harbor & acadia national park on mount desert island maine.

CLICK HERE FOR FAQ’S – PARKING, CHECK IN AND MORE!

Narrated Trolley Tours

All itineraries/routes may change due to weather, construction, and congestion both inside and outside of Acadia National Park

• Most Popular!

Acadia National Park Tour

Our fully-narrated tour offers the most complete and comprehensive sightseeing experience of the Downeast area.

• Hour Glass 30 minutes

Downtown Bar Harbor Tour

Explore this unique area, from the quaint village to the downtown district of Bar Harbor, on a scenic trolley tour.

• Hour Glass 3 hours , 4 hours

Acadia National Park Private Small Group Tour

Experience the biggest attractions of Acadia National Park, including Cadillac Mountain, the Jordan Pond area, Thunder Hole on Ocean Drive, Sand Beach, and Otter Cliffs.

Mount Desert Island's Best Tour Company

Our fully narrated tours of Mount Desert Island are a fun, relaxing way to discover the unique treasures of the island. Enjoy our friendly guides’ knowledge and flair for storytelling as you journey past historic landmarks and fantastic scenery.

For new visitors and returning guests alike, Oli’s Trolley offers an unforgettable way to explore Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Join us to see why guests say it’s the best tour they have ever taken!

We can accommodate manual wheelchair needs on our Acadia National park tours with an advance reservation, which must be made via telephone with an agent to ensure availability.

Named Business of the Year by the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce!

"Jim was our tour guide. He was funny and experienced. I'm expected the tour company should included the tipping of his excellent services because we're paying $10.00 more per person on-line compared if I purchase right at the tour location on the same day we arrived."

"Took the 2 hour tour on a Friday afternoon. Our guide/driver was very good and knowledgeable regarding the park. Was able to answer our questions and keep the presentation lively. Would certainly recommend this tour company. Ticketing was easy. Good value for the price of the tour."

"Fred was great.. very knowledgeable he had information for the entire 4hrs tour. only issue was the fog that blocked the view from Cadillac Mtn. 30 min stop at 4 locations provided time to view and even get popover at Jordan Pond."

"Great tour which I would highly recommend! Tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and it was fun to hear all the background history and stories about the park. Trip was perfectly timed and the stops were amazing."

• 207.288.0300

The Best Way to See One of the World's Most Beautiful Islands!

Get into acadia with us..

Acadia National Park Tours

Looking to immerse yourself in the beauty and splendor of one of the world’s most beautiful areas?  Trust our Acadia National Park Tours experts! Nature lovers, history buffs, photographers, or anyone wanting to get oriented with Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park will appreciate the knowledge and experience of our tour guides. Sit back, relax, and let us share with you the human and natural history of this exceptional locale. Whether you are here for the day, or an extended period, there is no better way to start your visit!

All tours depart from Testa’s Restaurant, 53 Main Street in downtown Bar Harbor.

No Park Pass required.

What our guests are saying

We took the Acadia National Park tour on a Cruise stop in Bar Harbor. I am thankful that we had reservations because it was sold out by reservation only! That says a lot for a tour. The bus driver (Santos) was very knowledgeable and we had a wonderful time. The views are spectacular from Cadillac Mountain and Santos gave us a ton of information about the area. I recommend this tour to anyone traveling to Bar Harbor.

Stories were wonderful. It was a great way to start our visit to Acadia and Bar Harbor

The tour was great!! A lot of history information was giving, we would have known all that if not for the tour. The tour guide was great!! Santo did an excellent job and made it fun!!

Rita Wallace

Tour leader had a ton of information and his presentation was fantastic --very knowledgeable -history and environment. We loved it and had a great time.

Curtis Schmid

This was a great tour! Our guide, Heather, was so knowledgeable and entertaining. I learned a lot in just a short amount of time. I would definitely recommend it to others.

Kim Woodbury

The Guide is knowledgeable, the price is right and the scenery is pretty, the pacing is correct, perfect 3hr tour, what more do you want. Ideal for shore excursion when you don't have that much time.

Debbie Blum

A phenomenal tour experience especially with our guide Heather. Thanks for this memorable experience

Donna M Diaz

Size of tour was perfect. The transportation was very comfortable. Our tour guide was a local, environmentalist, former national park employee who was enthusiastic about the park and extremely knowledgeable. Loved the history she shared with us.

Cheryl & Nile Luedtke

We really enjoyed the tour. The Park was magnificent and Mike was an incredible guide! His knowledge of the park and its history was amazing.

Jack Morgan

What a wonderful tour this was. We were happy that we booked this tour instead of cruise line tour. Great information about the area, the park, and what a fun ride. Beautiful vista views from the top of the park.

Yvonne Forbes

Leach From the time we called to make our reservation we were treated as family. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and quite funny. The tour was amazing!

This was a great tour! We learned a lot and got to see as many park highlights as possible in the short time we had. We went to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the Nature Center and wildflower garden, and Thunder Hole. It's such an amazing place and I can't wait to go back.

Jennifer Stachnik

Our tour guide Roger was excellent! He was extremely informative and entertaining! We would recommend these tours to everyone!

Morgan Reimers

This was a very comfortable tour with an excellent guide. We got to see the countryside, make some short (but just long enough) stops and even visit with some locals. The bus leaves from the center of town which is very convenient and it was fun to walk around Bar Harbor. And the price was worth every penny.

O9472VRjohns

The tour guide was very knowledgeable and the bus stopped enough times to get the great fall leaves shots we were after. If you get back on the bus in good time, you'll have more time to see the sites down the road. If not, some of the spots will be cut short. Our times were adequate. The price for the tour was very reasonable and the driver was great.

Since we traveled a long distance to spend a week in the area, we wanted a guided tour to help us get the lay of the land to help us maximize our time. This tour certainly filled the bill. Our guide was knowledgeable and entertaining, mingling local stories with history, interspersed with some terrible jokes that kept us groaning and laughing. I highly recommend it.

My husband and I were delighted to stumble upon this bus tour in Bar Harbor, that took us all the way to the top of Mt. Cadillac. Bus driver/tour guide Heather painted a colorful picture of life in Bar Harbor through her stories, jokes, and in-depth knowledge of the area, its history, and environment. And she gave us a discount coupon to Testa’s, where I had a tasty lobster roll (with garlic butter)!

Amazing tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. The Female tour guide was extremely knowledgeable about the island and the park. She made it a 10 Star tour!

This tour covers the entire National Park Tour Loop including Cadillac Mountain. The tour guide was very good. There was plenty of time at the stops. Be sure to reserve your tour online as it often sells out, especially when there are cruise ships in port. When we got our tickets the ticket agent gave us a coupon for Testa's Restaurant and we had an excellent lunch there. This tour is a very good value.

ChuckBrooks

We enjoyed this tour on our first full day and glad we did. We learned many things about the park we wouldn’t have found out otherwise. Our guide was funny and tailored the trip to our group. You will see the highlights of the park and get some great ideas on where you want to return to explore later. We thought it was worth the money.

Greengirl87

Get the Story Behind the Scenery.

Operating from mid-May through the end of October, our fully narrated sightseeing excursion features three stops within Acadia National Park.

OTHER SERVICES

We offer private group tours of Acadia National Park! Contact us for availability and pricing.

Want to learn more? Here are the most common questions from our guests.

Four generations of Acadia expertise

Our tours began in 1955, but our experience with Acadia National Park goes back much farther than that. Learn more about the origins of this family owned and operated company.

acadianationalparktours

Bar Harbor   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Try Media | Getty Images

11 Best Things to Do in Bar Harbor, Maine

Nature lovers are truly spoiled for choice in Bar Harbor. Awe-inspiring  Acadia National Park  edges the town, and all kinds of nature, bird-watching and  boat tours  are offered. Two of the most popular things to do here are walking across the water,

• All Things To Do

Acadia National Park Acadia National Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're planning a day in the park or want to maximize your exploration time, get a boxed lunch from Downeast Deli & Boxed Lunch Co . Order the night before and skip the lines the following morning to grab your food. – Hilary Nangle

A big reason visitors come to Bar Harbor in the first place is that the town is the gateway to Acadia National Park. The park wraps around Bar Harbor, and even some of its smaller offshore islands are part of the park. More than 30,000 of Acadia's nearly 50,000 acres of land are located on Mount Desert Island, where Bar Harbor also sits. The 27-mile Park Loop Road  takes in the best of Acadia on this island, including stunning coastline, enchanting forests and shimmering ponds and lakes.

Shore Path Shore Path free

The best introduction to Bar Harbor and its beautiful scenery is the town's 1.4-mile (round-trip) Shore Path. The Shore Path isn't necessarily a hiking trail, but more a leisurely level pathway edging the harbor and Frenchman Bay. Start your journey at the beautiful Agamont Park, located right next to the town pier, where whale watching tours typically depart. Meander down and you'll bump into the Town Beach, a small shoreline perfect for those who want to quickly dip their toes in Maine's rich blue waters. Continue farther along and you'll be treated to beautiful views of Bar Island , Sheep Porcupine Island and Bald Porcupine Island, all part of Acadia National Park , as well as craggy coastline and forested landscapes. Along the way are benches and tide pools to explore and lovely Grant Park. There are also scattered signs that educate visitors on the history of the path (it's more than a century old). The Shore Path ends at Wayman Lane. You may either return the same way or walk just one block inland, and you'll hit the town's Main Street.

Recent travelers loved the Shore Path and highly recommend that everyone who visits Bar Harbor enjoy it, even more than once. Some found it peaceful, a few enjoyed peeking at mansions along the way, and many raved about the views. Others enjoyed sitting on the rocks and watching the lobster and sailboats.  

Bar Harbor Boat Tours Bar Harbor Boat Tours

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after a tour with Diver Ed, tour the College of the Atlantic's gardens . Nationally renowned garden designer Beatrix Farrand created her namesake garden, a series of rock-walled rooms, in 1928. Also worth viewing are Turrets Seaside Garden and the Sunken Garden. – Hilary Nangle

One of the best ways to take in the region is on the water. Bar Harbor offers a bevy of boat tour options that will cater to all kinds of interests.

Popular Tours

Guided Ebike Tour of Acadia National Park Carriage Roads

(27 reviews)

from $ 174.00

Narrated Bus Tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park (2. 5Hr)

(1357 reviews)

from $ 64.11

4 Hour Private Tour: Explore Acadia Nat'l Park, Fjord & Mansions

(155 reviews)

from $ 700.00

Downtown Bar Harbor Downtown Bar Harbor free

Considering Bar Harbor's small size, chances are you'll be hanging out in downtown Bar Harbor pretty often. And that certainly isn't a bad thing. Main Street and the thoroughfares surrounding it are downright charming thanks to the bevy of colorful, clapboard storefronts that house local restaurants and shops. Independent shops and galleries combined with the Bar Harbor's proximity to the water and the darling city parks that dot the area make for a romantic atmosphere. Start your tour of Bar Harbor at Agamont Park, where you can kick back and enjoy the views of Bar Island and Frenchman Bay.

Sure, you'll find plenty of T-shirt and trinket souvenir shops, but you'll also find some intriguing stores and excellent galleries. If you need to ramp up your outdoor activity apparel and gear, Cadillac Mountain Sports has you covered. Part store, part museum, the fun and funky Rock and Art Shop delivers on its name with natural-history-related merchandise and curiosities. Island Artisans shows a curated selection of Maine-made fine crafts. You'll find a huge selection of Acadia-related gifts, goodies, and souvenirs at the Acadia Shop .

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.

In addition to a stunning setting, visitors to Bar Harbor also get a chance to behold the region's spectacular wildlife. Whales of all kinds can be found in the Gulf of Maine and are easily spotted on a whale watching cruise. The most popular tour operator is Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company .

Located downtown, Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company offers whale watching tours from late May until mid-October and a high accuracy rate in spotting marine life on any given day. Plus, the company's high-speed catamarans make it easy for the boat to catch up to whales that are spotted from a distance. Tours, which are approximately three to five hours long, typically head 30 to 50 miles offshore where whales are known to congregate. Tours depart at the northern end of the Shore Path adjacent to the Town Pier.

Abbe Museum Abbe Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip : Pair touring the Abbe Museum with viewing 10 Tiffany stained-glass windows inside St. Saviour's Episcopal Church across the street. You can pick up a brochure in the back detailing these and 43 memorial windows created between 1886 and 1992. – Hilary Nangle

History lovers will enjoy a trip to the Abbe Museum, the first Smithsonian-affiliated organization in Maine. The Abbe Museum earns this distinction for its focus on the Wabanaki Nations, Maine's Native American population. Dr. Robert Abbe, an amateur archeologist and seasonal resident, founded the museum to protect the Wabanaki artifacts he found. He encouraged others with similar collections to come together to create a museum about Maine's Native Americans to help educate the public. Over time, more artifacts were excavated. The museum eventually grew to include ethnographic materials from the 17th to 20th centuries, contemporary works from the Wabanaki people and the country's largest Maine Indian basketry collection.

Compass Harbor Compass Harbor free

On a peak summer day, when it seems the town and park are bursting at the seams, Compass Harbor awaits. This pocket-sized parcel of the park is an easy milelong walk southward along Main Street from downtown Bar Harbor. Since it's not well marked and has a small parking lot, most visitors skip this gem. George Dorr, considered the Father of Acadia, lived here on what was known as Old Farm. You can still see the ruins of his estate on the easy 0.8-mile, Compass Harbor Trail, which loops through forested site and edges a scenic stretch of shoreline fronting Frenchman Bay. You can follow spur trails to the waterfront. While exploring the cottage foundation, the stone steps leading to the water and what's left of what once was a saltwater pool, try to imagine what Dorr's estate must have looked like in its heyday.

Recent visitors enjoyed this easy hike, exploring the tide pools, clambering over rocks and taking in the shoreline views. They appreciated the site's seclusion as well as its history. Although there's some interpretive signage, previous visitors recommended watching park videos about Old Farm and downloading the informative app before coming here.

Bar Island Bar Island free

Travelers and locals alike love this small island that's part of Acadia National Park . Although you can see it from the Town Pier end of the Shore Path , access is from West Street. And it's the access that makes it unique. At low tide, the water recedes far enough to expose the bay's floor, creating a temporary walkable pathway from Bar Harbor to Bar Island. 

If you happen to be around when the tide is out, know that time is limited. According to Acadia National Park, the half-mile-long sandbar is accessible from roughly 1.5 hours before to 1.5 hours after low tide, allowing three hours to explore the sandbar and island. Keep in mind that the sandbar terrain will vary depending on the time you go. Once you reach Bar Island, you'll find a gentle trail that gradually ascends to the top of the island's summit, which affords lovely views of Bar Harbor and the mountains that back it, including Cadillac Mountain . Including the sandbar, the hike totals 1.9 miles roundtrip. 

2-Hour Windjammer Sailing Trip in Maine with Licensed Captain

(189 reviews)

from $ 79.00

3 Hour Private Tour: Explore all the top spots of Acadia!

from $ 600.00

Premium Narrated Bus Tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park (3. 5 Hours)

(342 reviews)

from $ 92.96

La Rochelle Mansion and History Museum La Rochelle Mansion and History Museum

Delve into Bar Harbor's rich history and get a sense of what it was like to spend the summer in a seaside mansion during the Gilded Age. The Bar Harbor Historical Society's downtown museum, located in the West Street Historic District, fronts on Frenchman Bay. The views alone are reason enough to visit, but touring here provides answers to almost any question you have about the town and the island.

The 1903 mansion, called La Rochelle, was home to the Bowdoin family. It has 41 rooms, including 20 bedrooms and 10 full bathrooms. Some of those rooms are now house offices and the excellent gift shop, but many are open to the public and filled with intriguing exhibits. Rooms highlight different exhibits showcasing topics such as garden designer Beatrix Farrand, working lives of locals, children's entertainment, a map collection and rooms sharing the life of the Bowdoin family. Venture up to the third floor to see the minimalistic household staff's quarters. In addition, exhibits highlight and interpret Bar Harbor's history, from the Wabanaki Nations to the Great Fire and beyond.

George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History free

If you're interested in learning more about Maine wildlife, pencil in a visit to the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History. Run by the College of the Atlantic, this little museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the creatures above and below Maine's waters. The museum is filled with dioramas that depict taxidermies of local wildlife in their natural habitats. You'll see Atlantic puffins, North American beavers constructing their environment and both foxes and great horned owls eyeing prey. The museum also houses touch tanks where visitors can get up close to marine life, such as sea stars, snails and hermit crabs, to name a few.

Recent visitors said this is an excellent place to take the kids. Those with little ones in tow said children were fascinated with the exhibits and loved interacting with the critters in the touch tanks. Adults were also impressed with the offerings, especially since it is a student-led museum. Travelers do remark that the museum is pretty small, so you don't need to reserve more than an hour or two to tour it.

Down East Nature Tours Down East Nature Tours

Whether you don't know a robin from a red-winged blackbird or are an experienced ornithologist looking to add a new species to your life list, Registered Maine Guide Michael J. Good is your man. Good's two-hour Wetland Ecology tour is geared to families and delves into the flora and fauna residing in Three Pines Bird Sanctuary. The four-hour Discover the Native Birds of Mt. Desert Island and Down East Maine teaches beginners to recognize East Coast species, how to identify them by listening to their songs and to observe them in the wild. Among the birds often sighted are osprey, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, pileated woodpeckers, woodland warblers and shore birds. Personalized tours are available for those seeking to take their birding to the next level or aiming to find a specific species. Good supplies a spotting scope but advises bringing binoculars. Prices begin at $135, including transportation from your lodging; kids are half-price.

Recent travelers have called it a highlight and a must-do for birders or those desiring to learn more about local ecology. They found Good to be a knowledgeable, patient and excellent guide who could answer questions ranging from geology and history to animal, bird and plant life. They also appreciated that he personalizes the trip to guests' desires and preferences. Visit the company's website for more information and to book a tour.

Explore More of Bar Harbor

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ALL TRIPS DEPART FROM 119 EDEN ST-THE ATLANTIC OCEANSIDE HOTEL- 5 MIN DRIVE FROM DOWNTOWN BAR HARBOR

Lighthouse & National Park Tour

Quick Details

• Clock Duration: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Take an Unforgettable Bar Harbor Lighthouse Tour in Acadia National Park!

Welcome aboard the M/V Islander as we visit three unique Maine Island Lighthouses and the historic Islesford Lifesaving Station, with plenty of time at each for photography. We’ll cruise the breath-taking coastlines of Bar Harbor and the islands of Acadia National Park. Our naturalist will share tales of America’s lighthouse history, the bravery of the early Lifesaving Service crews, and the ghostly legends of Maine’s lighthouses. Our journey takes us along the coasts of Bar Harbor and Seal Harbor for views of some of the stately and historic “cottages” of Mount Desert Island’s Golden Age, as well as natural wonders like Thunder Hole and Otter Cliffs. Along the way we’ll meet the wildlife of Frenchman Bay including seals, bald eagles, harbor porpoise and sea birds. Your lighthouse tour in Bar Harbor, Maine awaits!

Visit three unique island lighthouses and the historic Islesford life-saving station — with plenty of time at each for photographs. Enjoy this tour as we cruise along the shoreline of Bar Harbor and among the islands of stunningly beautiful Acadia National Park. Learn all about America’s fascinating lighthouse history — heroism, bravery, ghosts and much more.

Discover Bar Harbor’s golden age as we view mansions along millionaires row; the Ford, Rockefeller, High Seas and Vanderbilt estates among others. Watch as our experienced naturalist points out local wildlife such as seals, bald eagles and harbor porpoise. Along the way visit Acadia’s crown jewels including; Otter Cliffs, Sand Beach, and Thunder Hole.

Available Departure Times

August 16 to October 13 – 9:30 a.m. Daily

Meeting Location

119 Eden St. (the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel), Bar Harbor, Maine 04609

Cancellation Policy

Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.

Related Activities

• Most popular!
• Clock 1.5 – 2 hours

Sightseeing & Nature Cruise

Take a two hour, fully-narrated nature cruise of Frenchman Bay and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of coastal Maine, Acadia National Park, and the Bar Harbor shoreline. ( Pet friendly!) Book online today! 

• Prettiest Trip of the Day!

Sunset Cruise

Join our captain and crew for one of the prettiest trips of the day on our Acadia sunset cruise! This seasonal sunset sail from Bar Harbor will allow you to spot seabirds and marine life with a lovely sunset filter. Book your tour online!

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• Culture & Tours

American Ghost Walks - Bar Harbor

Haunted history walking tour of beautiful Bar Harbor. Real ghost stories. Real paranormal experiences. Real spooky fun.

• Agamont Park Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (833) 446-7813
• Visit Website

Bar Harbor Historical Society

Bar Harbor's rich history is beautifully exhibited at La Rochelle, a 1903 oceanfront, Gilded Age mansion. Experience this history over three floors, gardens, and outdoor spaces, while marveling at La Rochelle's opulent architecture.

• 127 West Street Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 288-0000

Abbe Museum

The mission of the Abbe Museum, Maine’s first and only Smithsonian Affiliate, is to inspire new learning about the Wabanaki Nations with every visit.

• 26 Mount Desert Street Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 288-3519

Create unique Acadia memories at the community arts center! All ages and abilities get to MAKE & TAKE artwork in Stained glass, batik, weaving, printmaking, geological felting, painting with fleece, or oils.

• 1345-A State Highway 102 Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 266-0010

The Natural History Center

Bird, nature, and adventure tours in Acadia National Park, Downeast Maine, and beyond.

• Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 266-9461

Woodlawn Museum

Woodlawn is a 180-acre historic property with a seasonal house museum, a new year-round events Barn, a nationally accredited croquet court, two miles of easy walking trails, a permanent story trail, a fairy village in the former tree nursery...

• 19 Black House Drive Ellsworth ME 04605
• (207) 667-8671

Ambrosia Cooking School

Sharon Joyce is a trainer/educator/chef and studied in Advanced French Cooking and French Pastry at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. In 1981 she opened and operated a catering business and cooking school in Chicago and the Virgin Islands. She has taught vari

• 19 Rodick Street Bar Harbor ME 04609-0536
• (207) 288-4523

At Your Service Tours

Private Guided Van Tours of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. We will pick you up at your location on MDI to start the tour. Private for your group only, parties of 2-10 with a choice of a minivan or 14 passenger van. Covid-19 approved

• 55 West Street Mount Desert ME 04609
• (207) 288-9222

Seal Cove Auto Museum

The Seal Cove Auto Museum fosters joyful experiences for people of all ages and interests. Our collection features some of the earliest automobiles and motorcycles, as well as clothing and accessories, from 1895 through the early 1920s.

• 1414 Tremont Road Seal Cove ME 04675
• (207) 244-9242

Bar Harbor Ghost Tours

Bar Harbor Ghost Tours tell tales no one else will! Follow our historically dressed guides with blue lanterns to the town's most haunted sites to hear stories of authentic ghosts and Wabanaki Spirit Tales. All history thoroughly researched by us!

• (207) 404-4113

Acadia Birding Festival

• 22 Village Green Way Southwest Harbor ME 04679
• (207) 233-3694

Jesup Memorial Library

• 34 Mount Desert Street Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 288-4245

Wendell Gilley Museum

• 4 Herrick Road Southwest Harbor ME 04679
• (207) 244-7555

Oceanarium and Education Center

• 1351 State Highway 3 Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 288-5005

Reel Pizza Cinerama

• 33 Kennebec Place Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 288-3828

Acadia Repertory Theatre

• 1154 Main Street Mount Desert ME 04660
• (207) 244-7260

Bar Harbor Music Festival

• 59 Cottage Street Bar Harbor ME 04609-1800
• (212) 222-1026

1932 Criterion Theatre

• 35 Cottage Street Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 288-0829

Cadillac Mountain Summit Shuttle

• 317 Main Street Bar Harbor ME 04609
• (207) 669-2476

Friends of Fort Knox

• 740 Fort Knox Road Prospect ME 04981
• (207) 469-6553

Bar Harbor Town Band

• Village Green Bar Harbor ME 04609

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It all starts with a visit...

Voted into the 2023 & 2024 "Top 10 Best Food Tours" by USA Today!

Bar Harbor Food & History Tours

​ Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island are stunning and you will love a visit here! It is home to the beautiful town of Bar Harbor along the rugged coast boasting all sorts of eateries, taverns and restaurants, parks to enjoy, and a rich maritime, Wabanaki and gilded age history. Join Maine Day Ventures as we uncover the storied past of this vibrant town with our highly entertaining guides. Click on the tours of your choice or view the calendar and see what’s offered. We are adding to our schedule all the time.

• Calendar Open May-October
• Hour Glass 3 hours
• Info Walking Foodie Tour
• Tags Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor Culinary Walking Tour

Sample delectable and unique offerings on a culinary walking tour to several local establishments around Bar Harbor. History, fun facts, and lore included!

• Hour Glass 2 hours

Bar Harbor Lunchtime Tasting Tour

Bring your appetite and sense of adventure while we stroll through Bar Harbor tasting our way through town! This is a picnic tour enjoying foods from some of Bar Harbor’s favorite restaurants, deli and more. We order your foods to-go and then enjoy 3 picturesque parks in Bar Harbor Village.

• Info Walking History Tour

Bar Harbor’s Walk Through Time – Guided History Tour of LaRochelle Mansion & the Village

Ever wonder how American’s wealthiest turned Bar Harbor into a national treasure? Find out on this walking history tour that takes you back in time.

• Info Happy Hour Tour , Walking Tour

Bar Harbor Happy Hour: A Beer and Food Adventure!

Get Hoppy and happy in Bar Harbor on a spirited walk to 3 tasting rooms on the island! This afternoon tour introduces you to taste the locally sourced, Maine-grown ingredients

THE 10 BEST Bar Harbor Sightseeing Tours

Sightseeing tours in bar harbor.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Walking Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Guided Ebike Tour of Acadia National Park Carriage Roads

2. 3 Hour Private Tour: Explore all the top spots of Acadia!

3. 4 Hour Private Tour: Explore Acadia Nat'l Park, Fjord & Mansions

4. 6 Hour Private Tour: Acadia National Park, Fjord & Lobster Lunch

5. Acadia National Park and More Private Day Trip from Portland

6. Acadia Full Day Private Tour and Hike

7. Ultimate Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

8. Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour

9. Historic Bar Harbor Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour Guide

10. 3 Hour Fiord, Mansions, Rocky Coastline

11. Self-Guided Driving & Walking Bundle of Maine Tours

12. East Coast USA: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour Bundle

13. Acadia Mount Desert Island Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Windjammer Classic Sunset Sail from Camden, Maine

Windjammer Classic Day Sail from Camden, Maine

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Book Your Boat Cruise Adventure Today! Whales, Puffins, Lighthouses, Acadia, Lobster Fishing & More!

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.

Whale watching, puffins, lighthouses, acadia national park & more, set sail for adventure.

• Most Popular
• Clock 3 - 5.5 hours
• Users All Ages

Whale Watch

An adventure to remember! Head offshore in search of whales while your guide educates you about the whales and other species of the Gulf of Maine.

• Clock 2 hours

Bar Harbor Nature Cruise

Join us for a spectacular nature cruise among the islands and shorelines of beautiful Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. Take in breathtaking scenery, rugged maritime landscapes, and ocean teeming with wildlife.

• Clock 2.5 - 3 hours

Puffin & Lighthouse Cruise

Ride aboard state-of-the art catamarans with professional and knowledgeable naturalists and crew to see 3 island lighthouses! Spot puffins, razorbills, guillemonts, and common and Arctic terns!

• Clock 1.75 hours

Lobster Fishing and Seal Watching

Join us aboard the Miss Samantha, Maine’s largest lobster passenger boat! Watch our experienced fisherman haul in lobster traps, then head off to a small island to view seals basking on the rocks.

Sunset Nature Cruise

This evening trip is one of the most beautiful ways to experience Frenchman Bay and Acadia National Park as the sun sets. Learn information about the environment, history, and culture of the area.

Lighthouse, Wildlife & Acadia National Park Cruise

Coming to Bar Harbor in late summer and fall? If yes, this is a boat cruise not to be missed! Join us as we explore the waters of Mount Desert Island and beyond to enjoy spectacular views of historic lighthouse, coastal islands, and Acadia National Park. This cruise can feature a variety of wildlife including harbor and grey seals, bald eagles, and seabirds.

• Clock 5 hours

Baker Island Tour

Travel aboard the M/V Miss Samantha 9 miles out from Bar Harbor, to visit one of the crown jewels of Acadia National Park. Explore the 130-acre island, Gilley family farmstead, and Baker Island Lighthouse.

Downeast Offshore Seabird & Lighthouse Cruise

An offshore boat cruise into the Gulf of Maine to see offshore species of seabirds and lighthouse stations!

Mid-Coast 16 Lighthouse Cruise

Cruise aboard a stable and comfortable jet-powered catamaran to view 16 lighthouses including two offshore stations- Mount Desert Rock & Matinicus Rock!

View amazing wildlife and the best natural and historical sites that Maine has to offer with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company!

WHALE CONSERVATION

We believe strongly in protecting the whales we love and the many we know as individuals and by name. Our captains, crews and naturalists are expertly trained and promote responsible whale watching and conservation efforts on our Bar Harbor tours.

WHALE GUARANTEE

If no whales are spotted on your whale watching cruise, your trip ticket(s) will serve as a “Rebook Voucher” to go out on another whale watch or any of our other available cruises within three (3) years.

GULF OF MAINE SPECIES

Learn more about the wildlife seen on our boat cruises!

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

Get the details – Maps, Parking, Weather, What to Wear, Eat and Drink, and more.

RECENT SIGHTINGS

View and learn about the marvelous creatures we are seeing on our recent tours.

OUR VESSELS

Any sea voyage is only as good as its boat and crew. Learn about our fleet.

WHALE WATCHING CRUISES

Offshore adventures to see whales and other marine life in the Gulf of Maine!

LIGHTHOUSE CRUISES

Historic lighthouses, stunning coastal mansions, wildlife and Acadia National Park!

BAY CRUISES

View Acadia up close. A great fun-filled adventure for all!

LOBSTER FISHING & SEAL WATCHING

See and touch creatures from the ocean floor. A great trip for the whole family.

OVER 1,000 5-STAR REVIEWS!

The crew was fantastic and went out of their way to find whales. I highly recommend this excursion.

We enjoyed getting to see what came up with the traps and getting to hold a live lobster. It was a good length of a tour and I'd definitely recommend it for the kids or adults like me who are still kids at heart. The ship captain and naturalist were very friendly and great guides.

We booked a whale watching tour through this company. It was a great experience we saw several whales and porpoise and dolphins while on the tour. The crew and staff were great and they really took time to make our tour extra special. We highly recommend this company to all who want to experience an once in a lifetime experience.

During our adventure we saw seals, the infamous puffins, bald eagles along with many other critters as well. The crew were accommodating, professional, a little humorous, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend if you're up for a boat ride in the Bar Harbor area.

So fun! Our guide was extremely knowledgeable, the boat had plenty of room to walk around and the captain did a great job making sure we could all see the landmarks they were pointing out. I’d go again!

Interesting history of Bar Harbor area coupled with eagles, hawks, cormorants, gannets and other sea birds. Good narration by our naturalist, Ruth, who was informative and interesting. Enjoyed the lighthouses and seeing the diverse harbors and island shores.

We loved both Captain Edwin and narrator Andy. Both were so gracious, clearly caring about everyone's comfort and involvement. The knowledge that both shared regarding the local seas, lobsters, crabs, seals, and landmarks was very interesting and informative. We caught a variety of sea life in the traps - lobster, crabs, and a sea cucumber. We spotted dozens of seals. The boat itself was stable, clean, and well maintained. It had flaps to protect from high winds and sea spray, but you are allowed to open the flaps as you want. I am someone who can get seasick easily, but I did not feel even the bit queasy. They do post a sign at the dock on the day of your tour that states the sea sickness level, so if it indicates a high level of sea sickness, you can take Dramamine or other in advance. Kids and adults alike enjoyed this tour and it was very interactive.

The boat is roomy, both inside ans out on the decks; staff friendly and knowledgeable. The sound system is nice and clear so all guests can hear what the naturalist is saying about the wildlife. And...oh...the whales!!! It was amazing, and I hope to do it again. Well worth the price.

On this once in a lifetime experience, we chose to go with this whale 🐋 watching 👀 tour There are many companies that offer varying tours, and this is the only one I've ever experienced, so can only speak about this one; nor do I have anything to compare it to. This experience was 100% as expected (and advertised) with zero surprises. The Captain, crew, ancillary staff,safety/security personnel and tour guide were all highly trained, knowledgeable, courteous, professional, & welcoming. It was just a fantastic overall 'refreshing' vibe. The scenery was nothing short of amazing, awe-inspiring, and magical. We saw EIGHT humpback whales!!! I am a seasoned world traveler, have visited numerous bucket list places, and have done literally hundreds of excursions through Trip Advisor and similar platforms. I 100%, would do this again if the opportunity presented itself. For others? I highly, highly recommend this experience. 👌

We went on the lighthouse tour and it was wonderful! The guide did a fabulous job informing us about lighthouses, history of the area and alerting us to wildlife. Highly recommend this tour!

The captain and crew went off their route to find interesting sights and sea life for our cruise. The Naturalist on board was knowledgeable and interesting. Highly recommend it!

We had a great experience with the Nature Cruise, we learned a lot about the area and saw some great scenic views! I highly recommend binoculars, you can rent some on the boat, but they’re limited. We got to see seals, porpoises, and a few bald eagles, which was really cool because I had never seen one before and they were what I wanted to see most! I definitely plan on going back again for more cruises!

My Bookings

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Best of Bar Harbor w/ Thunder Hole and Acadia National Park

Discover the Best of Acadia National Park from Bar Harbor on an exhilarating adventure! Explore iconic attractions like Sieur de Monts Spring, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff. Enjoy crystal-clear waters at Jordan Pond while savoring Maine's finest culinary delights. Book now for an unforgettable journey through Acadia National Park, the highlight of your Maine visit!

Thunder Hole

Acadia national park.

What's Included

• Driving tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
• Photo stops at Sieur de Monts Spring, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff
• Intimate, small-group tour size with 7 guest limit
• Pick up and drop off from anywhere in Bar Harbor, ME
• A delectable, local lobster roll
• Admission to Cadillac Mountain

What you'll see

Customer Reviews

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Starting from $ null

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WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

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Ships anchor off Bar Harbor and tender passengers to the Town Pier in the center of town. The Information Center, where you can book tours, get maps and ask questions, is located at the tender dock.

Printable map to take along on the cruise.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Monthly Climate Averages for Bar Harbour USA

Sightseeing:

Bar Harbor is a village on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County in the Down East area of Maine.

Bar Harbor is home to the largest parts of Acadia National Park, including Cadillac Mountain the highest point within 25 miles (40 km) of the coastline of the Eastern United States.

The Bar Harbor Whale Museum (West St facing the harbor). 10AM-8PM. The museum is devoted to whales and other sea creatures. There are many real skeletons (from stranded marine mammals) on display including a 28-foot long juvenile humpback whale. Other exhibits include climate change, bioacoustics, marine adaptations, and a brief history of whaling. Great for kids and adults.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

The Island Explorer features eight bus routes linking hotels, inns, and campgrounds with destinations in Acadia National Park and neighboring village centers. Clean propane-powered vehicles offer Mount Desert Island visitors and residents free transportation to hiking trails, carriage roads, island beaches, and in-town shops and restaurants. There is no charge for this service. It does not provide commentary.

The central area of Bar Harbor is quite small and easily explored by foot.

Rent an electric car to explore Acadia on your own.

Oli's Trolley : 30 minute Trolley Tours June through October Daily tours leave downtown Bar Harbor at 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM

2½ hour Acadia National Park Trolley Tours April 26 through October Daily Tours leave downtown Bar Harbor at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

4 hour Acadia National Park Trolley Tours July though October. Both are narrated Trolley Tours

Whale watching tours are also popular.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

The second most visited National Park in the United States, Acadia National Park is open year round. Visitors can visit the visitor's center from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May through early October.

In Acadia National Park there are more than 120 miles of marked trails. There are 17 mountains to climb. The Carriage Road consists of over 50 miles of broken stone roads built by John Rockefeller, Jr. which he later donated to the park. There are 18 stone bridges in the park. The Park Loop Road is 27 miles long. You can get to Sand Beach, Cadillac Mountain and Otter Cliffs on the Park Loop Road. In the park, you will find 20 lakes and ponds.

Acadia National Park also includes substantial tracts of land off Mount Desert Island. Fifty miles from Bar Harbor by road. Acadia preserves 2000 acres on the tip of Schoodic Peninsula, the only section of the park on the mainland. A one-way, six-mile loop road skirts the edge of the peninsula, bringing into view a rugged coastline offering sweeping panoramas of Mount Desert Island. Acadia also preserves another 2000 acres on Isle Au Haut, an offshore island linked to the mainland by a mail boat from Stonington.

Shopping and Food

The official U.S. currency is the United States dollar (symbol: $). ATM's everywhere.

Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely used and accepted, even for transactions worth only a few dollars. In fact, in some cases, it may be the only way to make a transaction. Note to overseas visitors: Prices of goods and services always seem lower than they really are, as taxes and gratuities are seldom included.

Note to overseas visitors: Prices of goods and services always seem lower than they really are, as taxes and gratuities are seldom included.

Most states have a sales tax, ranging from 2.9% to nearly 10% of the retail price; 4-6% is typical. Sales tax is almost never included in posted prices (except for gasoline, and in most states, alcoholic beverages consumed on-premises), but instead will be calculated and added to the total when you pay.

Tipping in America is widely used and expected. While Americans themselves often debate correct levels and exactly who deserves to be tipped, generally accepted standard rates are:

• Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (Often this is the only income of the wait(ress). Tips are either left in cash or you can add it to the credit card slip) Note: Few restaurants add an automatic service charge, in which case it is up to you how much you tip extra. Check your bill!
• Taxi drivers, hairdressers, other personal services: 10-15%
• Bartenders: $1 per drink if inexpensive or 15% of total
• Bellhops: $1-2 per bag ($3-5 minimum regardless)
• Hotel doorman: $1 per bag (if they assist), $1 for calling a cab
• Tour guides: Depending on tour length, size, and overall quality of guided tours; for half day tours or less $5-10 per person, for longer tours $10-20 per person.
• Private car & limousine drivers: 15-20%
• Housekeeping in hotels: $1-2 per day for long stays or $5 minimum for very short stays (optional)
• Food delivery (pizza, etc.): $2-5, possibly more for very large orders

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Communication:

Free wireless Internet is available at the Town Pier and Village Green.

The U.S. has no official language at the federal level, but English is by far the standard for everyday use. Several states have declared their official state language as English. Spanish is also official in the state of New Mexico, where it is widely spoken; French is official in Louisiana and the Hawaiian language is official in Hawaii, but neither approaches the use of English and are official for primarily historical reasons.

Emergency 911

Opening Hours and Holidays:

In major metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles, many drugstores and supermarkets are routinely open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, while department stores, shopping centers and most other large retailers are typically open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and often with shorter hours on Sundays - generally 11 a.m. or noon to 5 or 6 p.m. On holidays, the tendency is to remain open (with the exception of the most important holidays like Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day where stores are generally closed)

Holidays in the USA

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Shore Excursion Details

Let's take a selfie - bar harbor, bar harbor, maine.

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• 3 1/2 hrs Estimate Duration

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Bar Harbor, many of them iconic attractions that define the city. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie expert guide will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Bar Harbor, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include: • La Rochelle mansion • Otter Cliff. • Somes Sound • Bar Island • Village Green

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Bar Harbor. • Follow tips from your selfie expert guide to ensure the very best pictures. • Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings. • Pose at Somes Sound, a deep waterway that an ancient receding glacier created. • Stand before precipitous Otter Cliff, a dramatic vertical wall of granite along the sea. • Walk along the scenic Shore Path that hugs the rocky coastline.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. • Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Need to Know:

Check out the, activity attributes, excursion type:.

Scenic & City Tours

Activity level:.

• 3 Challenging