Top 10 Things to do in Bar Harbor, ME in 2021

Despite the pandemic, some events are starting again in Bar Harbor. The events we're looking forward to this year include,

• Mount Desert Island YMCA Sharks Swim Team Aquathon in March
• Maine Nutrition Council Annual Conference in April
• Scooter Cannonball in June
• Bike Night with Mainely Meat and BBQ in August
• Cancer Short Course in August
• Jesup Memorial Library's Annual Book Sale in August
• Bar Harbor Bank & Trust Half Marathon in September
• New Year's Celebration at the end of December

There are also amazing festivals that happen every year, like the Acadia Birding Festival in June, the Gala Concert for the Winter Harbor Music Festival in August, the Maine Lobster Festival in August and the Acadia Night Sky Festival in September. 

Whales are magnificent creatures, so why not get an in-person view of one on a boat tour! Whale watching allows you to watch whales in their natural state without having to step into the water. Watch their tails slap down on the water and feel the spray of the ocean as you take photographs of these gentle giants.

Or if you decide to take a tour of Egg Rock Lighthouse, you can see seals sun tanning on the rocks. The knowledgeable staff on board will gladly share their knowledge about the lighthouse and the animals you'll see, making for a cool experience.

Whale watching tours start in May.

One of the more popular places to visit in the area, exploring Acadia National Park is an inexpensive way to explore nature. You can hike, swim, bird, stargaze and more here. Learn more about the park by reading this article.

Find a unique souvenir to bring home to the family at the many shops in Bar Harbor. Some of the shops that are open year-round include:

• Cool as a Moose
• Bark Harbor
• Willis' Rock Shop
• Bar Harbor Book Shop
• Queen Anne's Flower Shop
• Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop
• FIORE Artisan Olive Oils & Vinegars
• Fair Trade Winds

Take a stroll or read a book at a bench while overlooking Frenchman Bay at Agamont Park: a clean, green place full of bustling people.  

The George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History is a family-friendly place to go if your kids are into animals and skeletons. Enjoy a hands-on experience with wildlife like starfish, turtles, sea cucumbers and other sea creatures. Your kids can go on a scavenger hunt, too.

Learn about Maine's history with Maine Foodie Tours. You'll see the Abbe Museum, Shore Path, St. Saviour's Church, LaRochelle Mansion and more!

If you're looking for a cute place to take photos and make memories, Duck Brook Bridge is the place for you. This bridge is quiet and quaint, only being wide enough for bikers or joggers to go across. During the fall, the leaves turn into beautiful shades of yellow, red and orange, which is why, along with having a cool bridge in the background, this area makes for a great photo shoot spot.

Running underneath the bridge is Duck Brook, so bring shoes that you're okay with getting wet.

Built in 1932, Criterion Theatre is a beautifully designed and renovated theater in the heart of Bar Harbor. While you can't watch a film there because it's closed for COVID-19, you can get a virtual tour of the historic theatre on their website. Enjoy looking at a floating balcony, antique art decorations and other charming architecture.

Go on a walk through the Wild Gardens of Acadia to see native plants of Maine in their natural habitat. Smell the different scents of the flowers and read the plaques scattered around the garden trail with your friends or family.