5 Best Things To Do Around Bar Harbor This Fall
Fall in Bar Harbor is a magical time of year. Here are some of our favorite fall activities
to help you make the most of every crisp and colorful moment around Acadia National Park!
#5 Leaf Peep the Day Away
Nature’s fireworks show begins in late-September and lingers into mid-October. The simple act of admiring the brilliant orange, flaming red, and vibrant yellow waves of color that transform the landscape is as relaxing as it is awe-inspiring during fall in Bar Harbor.
From the Air
Scenic Flights of Acadia – There’s nothing like a gull’s eye view of Mount Desert Island in the fall, and no outfit has been doing it better or longer than Scenic Flights of AcadiaTheir Instrument Rated Commercial Pilots are as knowledgeable about the local geography as they are experienced and they offer aerial tours ranging from 25 to 75 minutes.
On Two Wheels: The Carriage Roads
One of Acadia National Park’s most popular summertime attractions becomes even more impressive under a canopy of colorful foliage. With fewer crowds and no cars, taking in the fall foliage by bike gives you access to miles of beautiful views.
From the Water
Take advantage of the last few weeks of paddling season and enjoy the unforgettable experience of seeing fall colors framed by the deep blue-green hues of the sea and bluebird skies. If you don’t own a sea kayak, you’ll find plenty of outfitters who rent all the gear you need and offer expert guide services.
From the Summit: Cadillac Mountain
The tallest peak on Mount Desert Island is the perfect vantage point to appreciate all the fall colors. A manageable day hike for most recreational hikers, you’ll enjoy the views even more than those who drive to the summit.
From the Car: Drive Park Loop Road
There’s no better time to drive the Park Loop Road than foliage season. Mount Desert Island’s version of a roller coaster has plenty of “ooh’s and ahh’s” for an experience that is positively mesmerizing.
#4 Welcome the Night with a Haunted Tour
Once you’ve feasted your eyes on colorful leaves, get your ears in on the fun with scary ghost stories told by knowledgeable guides at the places where the events unfolded many years ago. The professional storytellers of Bar Harbor Ghost Tours have earned rave reviews on all the major websites and the locals’ respect.
#3 Sample Season Beers & Ales from Local Craft Breweries
Shorter days and cooler nights mean darker beers with richer flavors that even the most devoted IPA fan can appreciate. Below is a list of our favorite places to enjoy a cold, autumn brew:
#2 Bite Into a Crisp, Local Apple at Farmers' Markets
There are no Pick Your Own orchards on Mount Desert Island, but you can still enjoy the incomparable flavor of Maine-grown Macoun, Honeycrisp, Cortland, and McIntosh apples. Check out the local farmers’ markets around the island for the freshest apples on MDI.
- Southwest Harbor: Fridays from 9a-12:30p, St. John’s Church parking lot. Runs until Columbus Day Weekend.
- Bar Harbor: Sundays from 9a-12p, Mount Desert Island YMCA parking lot.
- Northeast Harbor: Thursdays from 9a-12p, Northeast Harbor Marina
#1 Bundle Up Around the Firepit
Our nightly campfire is even more enjoyable when there’s a slight chill in the air, the moon is high, and the spooky story conditions are perfect. Enjoy with hot apple cider and the perfect s’more of your making. To make your stay even more enticing, we’re offering our BEST discount of the season!
