Plan a Winter Getaway to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

Photo credit Heather & Maine

Plan a Winter Getaway to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

The holidays are over and the new year is upon us: It’s time to refresh your senses and clear your mind with a winter weekend getaway. Things are certainly quieter this time of year, but it’s the kind of quiet that warrants appreciation: serene, with plenty of space to explore, hike, and get cozy.  
 
Spending time in the outdoors and setting aside time for your mental well-being has never been more important — and Bar Harbor is here to help you do just that. Cozy lodging, locally sourced meals, and shopping await, and Acadia National Park remains open year-round for your enjoyment.  
  
Plan Your Bar Harbor Winter Escape: Stay 
These inns, cottages, and hotels are ready to welcome you for your winter getaway.

• The Inn on Mount Desert: New rooms located on spacious land in the heart of Bar Harbor’s historic corridor. 
• The Saltair Inn: Waterfront bed and breakfast in downtown Bar Harbor. 
• The Acadia Hotel: Historic ship captain’s house turned modern hotel. 
• Atlantic Oceanside Hotel and Event Center: Expansive hotel with waterfront views, continental breakfast, indoor pool, and on-site bistro.
• Little Fig Hotel: Renovated in 2022 with all new rooms and suites, offering elegant comfort.
• Primrose Inn: Idyllic, historic Maine cottage-style experience with modern-day amenities.
• Seaside Cottages: On the shores of Blue Hill Bay in the neighboring town of Tremont; a serene, oceanfront getaway.
• Looking for more places to stay in Bar Harbor this winter? Put in your dates and go!

 
Plan Your Winter Escape: See & Do 

• Walk to Park Loop Road and witness the sunset. You can either hike the 3.5 miles to the Cadillac Summit or walk part of the road and still catch a great sunset view. Parking is available at Schooner Head Overlook.  
• Spot snowy owls: Down East Nature Tours and Natural History Center will help you get the most out of your Acadia visit with personalized nature experiences, including winter birdwatching.
• Get out into the crisp air for a winter hike (check Acadia National Park's current conditions and plan ahead as darkness falls early). Check out these winter hikes in Acadia National Park:
  • Ocean Path   
  • Ship Harbor Trail  
  • Jordan Pond Loop Trail  
  • Gorham Mountain Trail   
  • 45 miles of Carriage Roads (great for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, conditions permitting!) 

 
Restaurants and Cafes Open in Bar Harbor This Winter  
Even with fewer options available at this time of year, these restaurants have you covered, whether you crave surf or turf. Be sure to give them a call ahead of time to ensure you know their most up-to-date hours.

• Choco-Latte: Open daily with dreamy lattes, hot chocolates, breakfast sandwiches, and more.
• Dog and Pony Tavern: A year-round tavern serving local brews and hearty meals.
• Jack Russell’s Steak House: Serving up high-quality steaks, burgers, and surf-and-turf combos.
• Siam Orchid: Freshly prepared Thai cuisine and sushi.
• Pat’s Pizza: Hot, cheesy deliciousness ready for your enjoyment.

​We recognize planning a trip during this time of year can be a little tricky, so please know we are here to help! Don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly with any questions — simply call our visitor center at 207-288-5103.