Acadia / Bar Harbor

Question

My friend and I are planning a trip in mid September. We were shocked at the hotel/motel prices in Bar Harbor and MDI and are wondering how to make this more affordable. We do not mind staying up to an hour away if the town we stay in has shops, restaurants and hiking trails so that we aren't driving 2 hours every day to the park. Any suggestions?

Answer

It’s understandable that hotel and motel prices in Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island (MDI) can be quite high, especially in mid-September when the tourist season is still in full swing. However, there are several ways to make your stay more affordable without sacrificing access to Acadia National Park and the charm of the area. Here are some suggestions for more budget-friendly accommodations that are still within a reasonable distance to the park:

Consider Staying in Nearby Towns: While Bar Harbor is the most popular and convenient place to stay near Acadia National Park, there are several other towns within an hour’s drive that offer a more affordable stay while still providing access to shops, restaurants, and hiking opportunities. Here are a few options:

Ellsworth: Located about 20-30 minutes from Acadia National Park, Ellsworth is a larger town with a variety of accommodations, including motels, inns, and budget-friendly hotels. The town has several restaurants, cafes, and local shops, and it’s close enough to Acadia to make for an easy daily drive. It’s also a good jumping-off point for exploring the Blue Hill Peninsula.
Southwest Harbor: Situated on the “quiet side” of Mount Desert Island, Southwest Harbor offers a more laid-back and less touristy atmosphere than Bar Harbor. While there are still plenty of restaurants, shops, and hiking opportunities, accommodations here tend to be more affordable, especially during the shoulder season. Plus, you’ll be only about 15 minutes from Acadia National Park’s main entrance.
Trenton: Just across the bridge from MDI, Trenton is a small town with more affordable lodging options and a convenient location for getting into Acadia. It’s not as busy as Bar Harbor, but it’s close enough to make for a quick drive to the park and other attractions on MDI.
Blue Hill: A bit further to the east, Blue Hill offers a charming, small-town vibe with art galleries, cafes, and local shops. It’s a peaceful location, and you can easily drive to Acadia or explore some of the local trails in the area.

Alternative Accommodations: In addition to traditional hotels and motels, consider some other lodging options that might be more affordable:

Vacation Rentals: Renting a house, apartment, or cabin through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can often be more affordable than booking a hotel, especially if you’re staying for several nights. Renting a place with a kitchen can also save you money on meals.
Campgrounds: If you’re open to camping, Acadia has several campgrounds within the park, including Blackwoods Campground. Staying at a campground is a great way to save money and enjoy the outdoors, and it’s a short drive to all of Acadia’s attractions. Be sure to reserve early, as campgrounds can fill up quickly.
Hostels or B&Bs: While less common in the area, there are a few hostels and bed-and-breakfasts that offer affordable, no-frills accommodations with a more personal touch. These are often less expensive than hotels and provide an opportunity to meet other travelers.

Additional Tips for Saving Money: To keep costs down while still enjoying the best of Acadia and the surrounding area, here are a few additional tips:

Visit Acadia Early or Late in the Day: Since you’ll be staying a little further from Bar Harbor, consider arriving at Acadia National Park either early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds. The park is beautiful at any time of day, and visiting during off-hours can help you avoid both crowds and parking fees.
Cook Your Own Meals: If your accommodation has a kitchen, take advantage of local markets and grocery stores to prepare your own meals. Dining out in Bar Harbor and the surrounding towns can get expensive, so cooking some of your own meals is a great way to save money.
Explore Free or Low-Cost Activities: Acadia National Park is filled with free or low-cost activities, including hiking, exploring the coastline, and enjoying the many scenic views. Some of the park’s best features, such as the Jordan Pond Loop or the Cadillac Mountain Summit, are completely free to visit!

In conclusion, there are plenty of affordable options near Acadia National Park, and with a bit of planning, you can enjoy a wonderful, budget-friendly stay while still being close to the park’s natural beauty and charm. Whether you stay in Ellsworth, Southwest Harbor, or another nearby town, you’ll find plenty of activities, dining options, and hiking trails to make your trip memorable without breaking the bank.

Hope this helps, and enjoy your trip to Acadia and Bar Harbor!