The Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor is one of the larger and more familiar names on Eden Street, operated under the IHG brand and set on a hillside overlooking Frenchman Bay. For travelers who value predictable standards, a loyalty program and plenty of facilities, it is a reliable choice in a town of independent inns. The resort-style property has a large pool area, landscaped grounds and rooms with balconies or patios facing the water, along with a restaurant and bar on site. It is about two miles from downtown, so the feel is more of a resort than a village inn, and it works especially well for families and groups who want recreation facilities between park days. The Island Explorer shuttle serves the area in season, and the road to Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach and the Park Loop Road is a short drive.
Rooms and facilities
Rooms are standard Holiday Inn style, with comfortable beds, work desks, coffee makers and wifi, and many have views over the bay. Suites and larger rooms accommodate families, and some rooms connect. The pool area is a draw in summer, with children enjoying the water after a day of hiking, and fitness facilities and a game area add to the options.
The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, which can be handy after a long day. As with other seasonal hotels, services vary during shoulder periods, so check what is open when you book.
Location and logistics
Eden Street is the main route into town from the mainland and also runs toward Hulls Cove and the park visitor center, so you are well placed for early starts. Parking is free and plentiful, which many guests find a relief compared with the downtown parking squeeze. If you want to walk to dinner in the village, it is a longer walk than from downtown hotels, so plan on driving, taking the shuttle or ordering a ride. Traffic on Eden Street can be heavy on summer afternoons.
Who it suits
Families, groups and loyalty-program members who want a full-service hotel with a pool and easy parking, as well as visitors on organized tours that use Eden Street properties. It is less suited to travelers seeking a historic or intimate atmosphere. Book early for July, August and October, compare rates for the days around holidays and check seasonal opening dates, since Eden Street resorts usually close for winter.
Ask about packages that include breakfast or activities, and check whether pool access, parking and wifi are included in the rate so that there are no surprises at checkout.
Why stay here
- ✓Frenchman Bay views
- ✓Large seasonal pool
- ✓On-site restaurant and bar
- ✓Balconies and patios in many rooms
- ✓Fitness facilities
- ✓Free parking
- ✓Wifi
- ✓Island Explorer shuttle access
Good questions
Is the Holiday Inn Resort near downtown Bar Harbor?+
It is on Eden Street, about two miles from the village center, so most guests drive or take the seasonal shuttle.
Does it have a pool?+
Yes, there is a pool area that is popular in summer, though seasonal schedules vary.
Is parking free?+
Parking is on site and generally free, but confirm current policies when you book.