I have found the best/quickest way to get information about hiking trails (most are dog-friendly at Acadia), scenic auto routes, "must-see" sights, etc., is to talk with a park ranger. There were long lines (out the door) to pay the park entry fee ($25 for 7-day vehicle pass) and to talk to a park ranger. Because we have our senior pass, we were able to forego the entry fee line, but waited a few minutes to talk to a park ranger (well worth it). We checked out the gift shop where we purchased a Park Loop Guide for the next day. The park ranger advised that the best times to drive the loop trail (due to heavy traffic) is before 9 am and after 4:30 pm (this time of year).
With information for planning our Acadia NP visits in hand, we went to Bar Harbor to see some of the sights of this famous town. There is a free shuttle service (pet-friendly) available for transportation around MDI because finding a parking spot in town can be a challenge! We were lucky enough to find a space on the street (2 hour limit) near Village Green.
The first of many concerts was held here in 1898. Along Main Street on the edge of the park is the original Town Clock. The exquisite 17th-century bronze fountain is from Florence, Italy and was donated by Philip Livingston in memory of his wife, Julia.
We got our bearings with the map of the area at Village Green. Across the street was this antique clock that chimed on the hour.
Walking towards the waterfront, we passed many restaurants, shops, and lots of people! Great views of the harbor can be seen from Agamont Park.
The beautiful Bar Harbor Inn Ocean Resort is located next to the park.
The Shore Path was first planned around 1881 by the Bar Harbor Village Improvement Association to help attract visitors to the picturesque town. The path is about a half mile along the ocean's edge beginning at the municipal pier. It is dog friendly and we enjoyed a leisurely stroll along it.
Of course, after seeing the water along the path, our sweet doggie, Sadie was anxious to go for a swim.
There are many hotels along West Street affording guests great views of Bar Harbor.
I had been looking forward to eating a fresh lobster here in Maine, so we decided to stop for lunch at C-Ray's Lobster (www.c-raylobster.com). It is a casual setting with outdoor seating on picnic tables around the property.
When you order, lobsters are pulled out of the tank and prepared (about 10 minutes). Some opt for take out. Your food is brought to your table when ready. We ordered two lobsters (1.25 pounds each), 2 dozen mussels, and 2 ears of corn for the bargain price of $35. The restaurants in the village of Bar Harbor were much more expensive...And everything was just delicious!! You've just got to love the fresh lobsters here.
It was great to see this picturesque New England coastal village that I have heard so much about over the years. It is, indeed, as beautiful as I had hoped it would be!
General info about Bar Harbor can be found here: www.barharborinfo.com.
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