Trip Tip: Bar Harbor Winter Activities & Off-Season Guide – Hotels, Dining & Things to Do
Activities: Museums, art, walking, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sightseeing, dining, shopping, historic downtowns.
Region: DownEast and Acadia
Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island may be best known for its lively summer season, but the quieter months reveal a different kind of magic. From snow-dusted carriage roads through Acadia National Park and cozy museums and art workshops, the off-season offers plenty of things to do at a more relaxed pace. With fewer crowds, lower hotel rates and plenty of outdoor adventure, arts, culture and dining still in play, Bar Harbor proves it’s a year-round destination—especially rewarding for travelers who love breathing room and a quieter, unhurried escape.
Bar Harbor Activities by Season
Winter Activities in Bar Harbor (December-March)
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing in Acadia National Park: Many trails in the park can become icy and packed with snow in the winter, but more easily accessed routes like Ship Harbor, Ocean Path and 45 miles of carriage roads are recommended for intrepid winter explorers. Rent cross-country skis or snowshoes at nearby outfitters, or bring microspikes or crampons for winter hiking.
Museums & Culture: Step inside the Dorr Museum of Natural History and get a close-up look at Maine’s coast, from lifelike wildlife dioramas designed by College of the Atlantic students to a hands-on tide pool tank teeming with live sea stars, hermit crabs, snails and other fascinating marine life. At the Wendell Gilley Museum, wander through a remarkable permanent collection of more than 300 intricately carved birds by master carver Wendell Gilley, then dive into the ever-changing rotating gallery showcasing fresh, thoughtfully curated work by local artists and makers across a range of mediums.
Shopping Events & Holiday Festivities: Stroll Bar Harbor’s Main Street to take in holiday lights and seasonal deals during the Village Holidays Celebration & Sale. Visit with Santa, sip hot chocolate in the Village Green and enjoy special discounts at local stores such as The Acadia Shop, A Little Mad Shop and Ben & Bills Chocolate Emporium.
Spring Activities in Bar Harbor (April-May)
April in Bar Harbor offers the perfect transition from winter to spring. As snow melts and temperatures rise, visitors can enjoy both late-season winter activities and early spring hiking, as well as off-season hotel rates before peak summer crowds arrive.
Coastal Walks, Easy Hikes & Wildlife Watching: With lingering snow in Acadia National Park, lower elevation hikes are recommended to avoid mud and ice. Take in beautiful coastal views along the 1.4-mile Great Head Trail loop or meander the 3.5-mile Jordan Pond Path loop for pond and mountain views. At the end of May, accompany naturalists and experts on a variety of guided birding walks and hikes during the Acadia Birding Festival.
Cultural & Arts Events: Set on a sprawling 180-acre historic property in nearby Ellsworth, Woodlawn Museum is open seasonally (June-Sept.) but its barn and grounds host activities and workshops year-round. Check their events calendar for upcoming winter and spring programs ranging from tracking animals in the snow to winter markets and painting classes.
Bar Harbor Hotels Open in Winter
Many Bar Harbor hotels remain open during winter months, offering cozy retreats with off-season rates. Visitors can enjoy intimate accommodations with ocean views, fireplaces and easy access to winter activities. Popular winter-friendly hotels include The Inn on Mount Desert, The Elmhurst Inn, The Pathmaker Hotel, Bar Harbor Inn and Spa, Bass Cottage Inn and The Bayview Hotel.
Year-Round Dining in Bar Harbor
Hiking, shopping and exploring can leave one hungry, and rest assured there are dining options in Bar Harbor during the off-season. Order takeout straight from the boat at Peeky Toe Provisions, or enjoy classic tavern fare at The Dog and Pony Tavern. For an energy boost, fill up on hearty diner fare at Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast or order specialty coffee or tea from Choco-Latte. It’s always a good idea to call a business ahead of your visit so you know their most up-to-date schedule.
Mileage:
From Bangor: 48 miles
From Augusta: 102 miles
From Lewiston/Auburn: 152 miles
From Portland: 175 miles