Bar Harbor Maine Named The #1 Best Small Town to Visit in USA!
There’s big travel news for 2026. Bar Harbor Maine has been officially named the #1 Best Small Town to Visit in the United States on U.S. News & World Report’s annual list of best small towns to visit in 2026! Our charming coastal gem of a town topped the rankings thanks to its stunning scenery, vibrant downtown, outdoor adventures, and authentic New England character.
If you’re thinking of planning your first visit or returning to explore more, there’s never been a better time to fall in love with Bar Harbor Maine. Trust us when we say there are plenty of things to do in Bar Harbor that keep travelers coming back year after year!
We love seeing both new and repeat guests, and always recommend booking far in advance to ensure you get your desired dates and room type.
Things to Do in Bar Harbor That You’ll Love
What makes Bar Harbor, Maine the #1 Best Small Town to Visit to visit in the USA? The question should be what doesn’t! There is so much to do in the area year-round. Adventure seekers, foodies, outdoorsmen, and shopaholics can all find common ground in Bar Harbor.
Acadia National Park
No trip to Bar Harbor Maine is complete without spending time in Acadia National Park! With scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views atop Cadillac Mountain to peaceful carriage roads perfect for biking, Acadia offers unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Keep your camera ready for sunrise and wildlife sightings!
Rent Bikes and Ride the Carriage Roads
One of the most popular things to do in Bar Harbor is cruising the historic Acadia National Park carriage roads by e-bike! These smooth, traffic-free routes wind through the park’s forests and past sparkling lakes. Renting an e-bike is a great way to see a lot of scenery with less effort!
Stroll Downtown Bar Harbor
After outdoor adventures, head into downtown Bar Harbor to try one of the many local restaurants, browse charming boutiques, and enjoy ice cream by the waterfront. The streets are lined with artisanal shops, galleries, and cafés, perfect for a laid-back afternoon of discovery!
Coastal Adventures
From whale-watching cruises in Frenchman Bay to taking a sunset sail aboard the Downeast Windjammer, Bar Harbor’s coastal beauty is always on full display. Add in scenic shoreline walks like the iconic Shore Path, and you’ll find no shortage of ways to soak in the views. And if you love fresh seafood (who doesn’t?), local lobster shacks and waterfront restaurants are another highlight of your visit.
Stay at a Local Bar Harbor Hotel
When it’s time to unwind, our Bar Harbor lodging options combine comfort, charm, and coastal views. Here are two wonderful hotels in Bar Harbor Maine that make your stay extra special:
Perched atop a scenic granite-terraced hillside with views of Frenchman Bay, the Bluenose Inn offers elegant accommodations and classic charm just minutes from downtown Bar Harbor Maine and Acadia National Park.
On-site amenities include the Great Room Piano Lounge with nightly live music, indoor and outdoor heated pools, a steam room, hot tub, and fitness center, plus complimentary bike rentals to explore the area!
Featured: EDEN BUILDING SUITES at bluenose inn
Stay in our Eden Building, featuring spacious, brand-new single king bedroom apartment-style accommodations. Each has a full kitchen, comfortable living area with electric fireplace, private balcony overlooking the bay, and thoughtful touches like a 55″ Smart TV and luxurious en-suite bathroom.
Perched high on a scenic hilltop overlooking Frenchman Bay, Wonder View Inn delivers classic Bar Harbor lodging with stunning coastal panoramas mintues from downtown Bar Harbor Maine and the entrance to Acadia.
At Wonder View Inn, guests can choose from comfortable rooms in several distinctive buildings, many with private balconies that showcase expansive views of the bay and islands.
The property also features a seasonal outdoor heated pool, beautifully manicured grounds perfect for an evening stroll, and the Looking Glass Restaurant, known for its spectacular breakfast with a view.
Pet-friendly and full of Maine charm, Wonder View Inn is a welcoming home base for your Mount Desert Island adventures!
