The Bar Harbor Inn is the town's best-known waterfront address, a shingled landmark on Newport Drive where the lawn runs down to Frenchman Bay and the Shore Path begins just beyond the door. The original building dates to the 1880s, when Bar Harbor was a fashionable summer resort, and the property has grown into a complex of the main inn, a lodge and a newer building, with well over a hundred rooms and suites in total. Staying here puts you within a few minutes of Main Street, the town pier, whale and sailing boats, shops and restaurants, so you can leave the car parked for much of your visit. Many rooms have bay or garden views, some have balconies, and the oceanfront rooms are among the most sought after in town. The Reading Room restaurant, with its wide windows over the bay, serves breakfast and dinner, and a casual grill and terrace handle lighter meals when the weather allows. Seasonal pool and lawn space add resort touches, and the setting makes it a favorite for weddings and anniversaries.
Choosing a room
The oceanfront rooms and suites cost more and are worth it for the sunrise over the Porcupine Islands, while garden and town-view rooms give the same location for less. Ask about the building, because the historic main inn has more character, and the newer wings may have larger bathrooms and modern fittings. Rooms vary, so look at the descriptions carefully when you book. Summer weekends and the October foliage season sell out early, and minimum stays are common, so reserve months ahead if you have specific dates.
Location and getting around
From the front door you can walk to the Shore Path, Agamont Park, the village green, Cottage Street and the town pier, where whale watch, sailing and nature cruises depart. The Island Explorer shuttle stops in the village, and the trolley tours leave from West Street, a short walk away. Parking is available on site, though policies and fees change, so confirm when you book. The location also means summer noise from the waterfront at night, so request a quieter room if you are a light sleeper.
Who it suits
Couples celebrating something, travelers who want the classic Bar Harbor experience, families who want to be in the middle of the action and anyone arriving without a car. It is less suitable for budget travelers or those who want a quiet, rural setting. Pair a stay with a sunset sail, a walk to Bar Island at low tide, and a lobster dinner in town. Check current amenities and restaurant hours when you book, since services vary by season.
Why stay here
- ✓Oceanfront Frenchman Bay setting
- ✓Steps from the Shore Path
- ✓Reading Room restaurant
- ✓Terrace and lawn dining in season
- ✓Rooms in main inn, lodge and newer building
- ✓Seasonal pool
- ✓Walkable to town pier and shops
- ✓On-site parking
Good questions
Where is the Bar Harbor Inn?+
On Newport Drive on the downtown waterfront, next to the start of the Shore Path and a short walk from Main Street and the town pier.
Does it have ocean views?+
Many rooms have bay or garden views, and oceanfront rooms are available at a higher rate. Check the room description when you book.
Can I walk to restaurants and tours?+
Yes. Dining, shops, cruises and trolley tours are within a few minutes on foot.