Bar Harbor/Acadia NP in June

Question

My sister and I (both in our 50s and decent shape) are taking our 83yo dad (long time backpacker, cyclist and mountain guy) for what is likely to be his last big trip (dementia). He’s never spent any time in New England and wants the quintessential experience. We are wanting to do some easy hikes (he’s not so light on his feet any longer), boat excursions, OliTrolley (?), lighthouse tour, good food, fun pubs, etc. I’ve been on A LOT of the forums here and think we’ve narrowed it down to flying into Bangor, renting a car, and staying in Bar Harbor for 5 nights in June. We plan on spending time in Acadia NP. We LOVE our NPs. He and my mother lived for the last 30+ years about 15 minutes from Sequoia NP in CA. I’m starting to look into accommodations and very disappointed at what’s available on VRBO and AirBnB. Hotels for the 3 of us seem steep but if that’s our only option then we will figure it out. I am a bit of a “snob” when it comes to travel (my husband’s doing), but my dad would sleep in a train car and my sister just needs someplace clean. B&Bs are def not our thing. We are not opposed to something that is a little wacky or out of the box and enjoy an adventure. If anyone can throw some ideas out there we’d appreciate it! Now back to “trolling” the 4,000 forums!

Answer

It sounds like you have a beautiful and meaningful trip planned to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Your father’s health considerations, your love of national parks, and your interest in a unique experience all make this an adventure worth crafting carefully. Here’s a mix of accommodation ideas, activities, and suggestions for your time in Bar Harbor and Acadia in June:

Accommodation Options in Bar Harbor

While it’s understandable that you’re disappointed by the available VRBO and Airbnb listings, there are some alternatives that might offer you comfort and quality for a range of budgets. Since you mentioned not being big fans of B&Bs, here are a few options that are a bit more off-the-beaten-path but still comfortable:

The Bluenose Inn – Known for its beautiful views and upscale amenities, this is a great option for those who want a bit of luxury without the steep price tag of waterfront properties. It's close to the park and offers comfortable rooms with a lot of charm. They also have accessible rooms, which could be helpful for your father.
The Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – Located right on the waterfront, this historic inn offers stunning views of the harbor and is just a short walk to downtown Bar Harbor. The rooms are comfortable and the location is ideal for easy access to both Acadia NP and the town's restaurants, shops, and pubs.
Hadley Point Campground – If you’re looking for something a little more unique, this campground offers cabins and tent sites that might be an adventurous option for your family. The cabins are clean and comfortable, and you can still enjoy the outdoor experience without having to camp in a tent. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Bar Harbor and offers a more rustic but cozy setting.
Acadia Hotel – Downtown Bar Harbor – This boutique hotel is located right in the heart of Bar Harbor, making it a great choice for easy walking access to shops, restaurants, and the harbor. It’s a small, charming property with modern amenities and a friendly atmosphere. Perfect if you don’t want to stray too far from town but still want some comfort and convenience.

Activities in Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park offers an incredible mix of scenic drives, easy hikes, and outdoor activities. Since your father has a lifetime of experience in nature but may not be able to do strenuous hikes anymore, here are some activities that would be enjoyable and accessible:

Ocean Drive & Cadillac Mountain – You can’t miss a drive up to Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak in Acadia NP. In June, the weather will likely be mild, and it’s a very accessible drive. Once at the top, the views of the surrounding islands and ocean are breathtaking. This is also a great spot for a short, leisurely stroll.
Jordan Pond Path – This is a fairly easy and accessible trail with a stunning view of Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains. The trail is relatively flat, making it manageable for your dad, and it’s a wonderful spot to enjoy a packed picnic or just take in the scenery. It’s also near the Jordan Pond House, where you can enjoy their famous popovers and tea.
Boat Tours – There are several boat excursions that offer scenic views of the coast and Acadia from the water. Some options include the classic schooner tours, which are a relaxed way to take in the harbor, or the Islander Cruise, which offers a comfortable boat ride with views of the park’s coastline and surrounding islands. Since your dad is a longtime adventurer, this could be an easy way to get a feel for the landscape while relaxing.
Oli’s Trolley – The island’s public trolley system is an easy way to explore the area without worrying about parking or walking too far. This could be an especially good option for getting around Acadia NP and the town of Bar Harbor without exhausting your father. The trolleys are very comfortable, and the staff is knowledgeable about the area.
Lighthouse Tour – Bar Harbor is home to some beautiful lighthouses, and a relaxing guided lighthouse tour would be a great way to see the coastline. There are several companies offering boat tours that include stops at various lighthouses, so you can combine history, beauty, and a bit of adventure in a low-key way.

Dining & Pubs

Bar Harbor offers plenty of delicious dining options, from seafood to comfort food. Since you mentioned enjoying pubs, here are a few suggestions that might appeal to you:

The Thirsty Whale Tavern – A local favorite for great seafood and casual pub fare. They offer a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating, and it’s a great place for a casual meal after a day of exploring the park.
Side Street Café – Known for its great seafood and friendly service, Side Street is a casual spot where you can enjoy lobster rolls, fried clams, and more. It’s a great place to relax after a hike or boat tour.
Bar Harbor Brewing Company – If you’re into craft beer, this local brewery offers a variety of unique brews and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Things to Keep in Mind for Your Trip

June is a popular time in Bar Harbor, so it’s great that you’re planning ahead. Be sure to book accommodations early, especially if you’re looking for something a bit unique or off the beaten path.
Since your father has dementia, be sure to pace your activities and plan for some downtime in between. Acadia’s beauty can be enjoyed at a slower pace, so you don’t have to rush.
If you’re looking for an adventure but with a unique twist, consider renting a kayak or taking a guided nature walk, where you can enjoy the beauty of the park from different perspectives while keeping the difficulty level low.

In summary, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park offer a beautiful combination of nature, relaxation, and adventure that should be perfect for your family. With the right balance of easy hikes, scenic drives, and leisurely boat tours, you can create lasting memories with your father. Enjoy your time in one of New England’s most beautiful destinations!

Bar Harbor/Acadia NP in June

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