September in Bar Harbor

Question

Staying right in town for a week in September. Our group of 5 is 35-65 years old, plus a dog. Will there still be outside dining open that is dog friendly? Any suggestions? Love seafood. I am assuming there are quite a few places within walking distance? What is the best boat cruise to take? And are dogs allowed on any of them?

Answer

September is a beautiful time to visit Bar Harbor, and it's great to hear you'll be spending a week there with your group. The weather is usually mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor dining and exploring the area. Here are some tips and suggestions for your trip, especially with your dog in tow:

Dog-Friendly Outdoor Dining

Yes, you’ll definitely find dog-friendly outdoor dining options in Bar Harbor, even in September. Many restaurants with outdoor patios or sidewalk seating are happy to accommodate dogs. Here are some popular spots you can check out:

Jordan's Restaurant: A local favorite, known for its delicious seafood, Jordan’s has outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. It’s casual and has a great selection of Maine lobster and other seafood dishes.
Side Street Café: This spot is also dog-friendly and offers a great selection of seafood. It’s just a short walk from the downtown area and has outdoor seating, so you can enjoy your meal with your dog by your side.
Thurston's Lobster Pound: If you're in the mood for an authentic Maine lobster experience, this casual eatery with outdoor seating allows dogs on the patio. It’s a great place for lobster rolls and seafood boils.
Bar Harbor Cellars: While not a restaurant, this local winery offers a dog-friendly outdoor area where you can relax and enjoy local wines. It's a great option for a laid-back afternoon with your pup.

Many other cafes and restaurants in town are also dog-friendly, especially in September when the weather is still nice enough for outdoor dining. Just be sure to check with individual restaurants when you arrive to confirm their pet policies.

Best Boat Cruise in Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is known for its stunning boat cruises that explore the coastline, Acadia National Park, and the surrounding islands. Here are a few popular options that you might enjoy:

Acadia National Park Tours: Several companies offer boat tours around Acadia, including Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company and Atlantic Brewing Company’s Boat Tours. These tours give you a great view of the park’s rugged coastline, and you’ll likely spot seals, seabirds, and even whales (depending on the time of year). Most of these companies offer tours that last from 1.5 to 3 hours, with some special sunset or wildlife tours available.
Cadillac Mountain Summit Cruise: For a slightly different experience, this boat cruise offers scenic views from the water with the opportunity to view Cadillac Mountain from the ocean side. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, picturesque cruise with stunning views of the island’s highest point.
Island Explorer Tours: For a laid-back tour of nearby islands and coastal sights, consider an Island Explorer boat tour. It’s a slower, more scenic cruise, which can be great for capturing the area’s beauty.

Dog-Friendly Cruises

As for bringing your dog on the boat, some of the boat tours in Bar Harbor are dog-friendly, but it’s important to check in advance, as policies vary by company and time of year. Many boats will allow small dogs or dogs in carriers, and some tours may have designated times for pets or outdoor seating where dogs are allowed.

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company: This company is known to allow pets on board their wildlife cruises. You should call ahead to confirm the pet policy and make arrangements for your dog’s comfort.
Other Tours: While many other boat tour companies may allow dogs, it’s always a good idea to contact them beforehand to verify their pet policies. Some tours may limit dogs to certain areas of the boat or offer specific pet-friendly tours.

Things to Keep in Mind

September is a great time to visit Bar Harbor, but it’s still a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for some crowds, especially during the weekends. However, you should be able to find some quieter moments during weekdays or early mornings, which will make exploring with your dog more enjoyable.

Overall, you’ll have plenty of dining options that are dog-friendly, and Bar Harbor offers a variety of great boat tours for nature lovers. Make sure to check individual boat tour policies regarding pets, and enjoy your week in this beautiful coastal town!