If you’re headed to Maine, there’s no doubt that Acadia National Park is high on your list of places to visit. Spanning 47,000 acres and offering some of the most beautiful natural attractions on the East Coast, nature lovers flock to this stunning corner of the world all year long. There’s a good reason why this is one of the most-visited national parks in the US!
Nestled on Mount Desert Island on the coast of the Atlantic, Acadia National Park offers endless outdoor adventures no matter what the season. Go hiking or biking along its seemingly endless network of trails, kayak or canoe around the massive Long Pond and Eagle Lake, or watch the sunrise from the top of the famous Cadillac Mountain. And that’s just scratching the surface!
From cross-country skiing along gentle slopes to hiking to picturesque lighthouses to passing historic homes on carriage roads, there are countless things to do in this spectacular park. Time your visit during the fall if you want to take in the colorful views of the fall foliage. You won’t be disappointed!
Acadia National Park is located just a mile from the quaint town of Bar Harbor, which is nestled on the shores of Frenchman Bay. Once you’ve had your fill of the park’s heart-pumping activities, you can stroll around the historic downtown area and dine at upscale eateries, shop at cute boutiques, and peruse impressive art galleries. Bar Harbor is also one of the best spots in Maine to go whale watching!
As one of Maine’s top attractions, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of luxurious centuries-old inns, iconic waterfront hotels, and quaint B&Bs surrounding Acadia National Park. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels near Acadia National Park to help you plan your perfect getaway!
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Where to Stay Near Acadia National Park
Unfortunately, you can’t actually stay in Acadia National Park. On the plus side, the beautiful coastal town of Bar Harbor is just a 5-minute drive away. So it makes sense that the majority of hotels near Acadia National Park are sprinkled around Bar Harbor.
Bar Harbor is a blissfully small town so not only is it a convenient home base for visiting the park but you can easily explore the town on foot. The downtown area boasts a stunning waterfront location and is home to over 100 restaurants, bars, and shops. So it’s a wonderful spot to base yourself if you want to be in the heart of the action.
If you prefer a more secluded location, there are quite a few hotels located within a couple of miles of downtown Bar Harbor. You’re still just a short drive from one of the park’s entrances but chances are you’ll be surrounded by nature and be able to take in stunning views of the mountains, Frenchman Bay and, the Atlantic’s island-studded waters directly from your hotel room. Expect to find quintessential New England-style inns and cozy B&Bs in these parts of town!
12 Best Hotels Near Acadia National Park
1. The Inn on Mount Desert
Located just one mile from Acadia National Park, Inn on Mount Desert is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring one of Maine’s most popular natural gems. This historic inn was recently renovated and opened its doors in 2018 so expect the perfect blend of New England charm and modern amenities. There’s a good reason this beautiful inn has quickly become known as one of the best boutique hotels near Acadia National Park!
You’ll love the rooms which boast modern furniture, nautical decor, and deluxe ensuites with specialty handmade soap. The coffee makers, mini-fridges, and microwaves are useful amenities. Upgraded rooms feature private terraces and balconies where you can sip your morning cup of coffee or evening glass of wine.
The hearty complimentary continental breakfast is perfect for fueling up for a day of hiking in Acadia National Park or whale watching in Bar Harbor. The amazingly friendly innkeepers also put out free coffee, fresh lemonade, and hot tea 24/7. And be sure to snag some freshly baked goods and fruit in the lobby in the afternoons!
The inn is just a 10-minute walk to the waterfront, Village Green square, and the free shuttle to Acadia National Park. Plus, all of the quaint boutiques and excellent eateries of Bar Harbor are just a short stroll away.
2. Bar Harbor Inn and Spa
If you’re planning an excursion to Acadia National Park, why not make the most of it and stay right on the water’s edge? The iconic Bar Harbor Inn and Spa is perched right over the water and is by far one of the best hotels near Acadia National Park.
There are 50 rooms in the Main Inn, 64 rooms in the Oceanfront Lodge, and 38 rooms in the Newport Building. To take full advantage of the hotel’s waterfront location, we highly suggest booking an oceanfront front room.
All rooms in the Oceanfront Lodge boast classic furnishings and decor, large flat-screens, and private balconies with bistro sets. The balconies are the perfect place to listen to the waves lapping up against the rocky shore, watch the lobstermen pulling up their traps, and even spot harbor seals, porpoises, and eagles!
You’ll love the lavish continental breakfast, which is served on the lawn overlooking Frenchman Bay (when the weather is nice). You can also enjoy gourmet local Maine dishes at The Reading Room, enjoy alfresco cocktails and delicious local fare at Terrace Grille, or sip sundowners and listen to live music at The Oasis Club Lounge.
If you want to go for a swim, work out, or get a massage, there is a heated outdoor pool, a fully outfitted gym, and an on-site spa!
3. The Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina
The Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina is yet another incredible option if you want to be right on the water overlooking Frenchman Bay. Located in the heart of Bar Harbor, all of the trails, lakes, and forests of Acadia National Park are just a jaunt away.
You’ll love relaxing in the newly-renovated rooms and suites, which boast comfy beds, natural wood trimmings, and luxe marble ensuites. Suites offer living rooms, up to three bedrooms, and fully outfitted kitchens. But the coolest rooms are by far the four exclusive Boathouse Suites, which feature luxurious bedrooms, lavish living rooms with fireplaces, and furnished rooftop patios with hot tubs and unobstructed bay views!
This place has so many cool amenities you won’t ever need to leave. You can get pampered at the spa, soak in the heated pool and hot tub, play tennis at the club, or embark on a whale watching tour at the marina.
The hotel is also home to an excellent Italian restaurant, a chic wine bar, and a casual pool bar. For an authentic “Downeast Lobster Experience,” be sure to head right down the road to Stewman’s Lobster Pounds. With a combo of New England clam chowder, 1.25 pounds of steamed Maine lobster, local mussels, and homemade blueberry pie, you’d better come hungry!
4. Ullikana Inn
If big hotels and resorts aren’t your thing, Ullikana is a refreshing alternative. Located a short stroll from all of the restaurants and shops on Bar Harbor’s Main Street and Town Pier, this refurbished 1880s Tudor Revival cottage is one of the best boutique hotels near Acadia National Park – especially if you’re looking for a luxurious and ultra-relaxing B&B experience.
The 11 totally unique rooms and suites are spread across three floors of this historic home. The rooms were recently redecorated with high-end furniture, plush beds with 600 thread count sheets, and thoughtful little touches in every nook and cranny. Expect country-style furniture and decor, luxurious accents, and (depending on the room) fireplaces, private terraces, and bay views.
You’ll love the freebies, including the Molton Brown bath products, daily wine and cheese social, and freshly baked cookies. But one of the best amenities is the complimentary gourmet breakfast, which you can enjoy next door at the Bass Cottage Inn. Before exploring this beautiful corner of Maine, indulge in a leisurely breakfast with Maine-roasted coffee, homemade scones, and dishes from crème brulee French toast to seafood quiche to banana ricotta pancakes.
5. Bar Harbor Grand Hotel
This stunning building might look historical but it’s actually a replica of the iconic 19th-century Rodick House. The building was once touted as the largest hotel in Maine but was demolished in 1906. You’ll find all sorts of historic throwbacks blended seamlessly with modern amenities throughout the unique Bar Harbor Grand Hotel.
Not only is this architectural masterpiece located right in the heart of Bar Harbor but it’s less than 2 miles from the entrance to Cadillac Mountain. It’s the perfect pick if you want to hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain or drive to the mountain’s peak for epic sunrise views!
You’ll love sipping your morning coffee from a rocking chair on the front porch, swimming in the heated outdoor pool, and star gazing from the hot tub. Fill up with the hotel’s complimentary breakfast or if you’re headed back to town after viewing the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast serves up the best breakfast in Bar Harbor.
The rooms are the perfect place to rest up after an action-packed day exploring Acadia National Park. You can have a relaxing movie night with the flat-screens and DVD players, soak your aching muscles in the bathtubs, or simply crash out on the ultra-comfy beds!
6. The Primrose
Housed in a historic 1878 building, this sweet bed and breakfast was fully reimagined in 2020. From the customer service to the amenities, expect nothing but the best! Plus, it’s just one mile to Acadia National Park and a 5-minute walk to Main Street, the waterfront, and the Bar Island Land Bridge.
This B&B boasts 15 distinctly decorated rooms all designed with the help of acclaimed Maine-based designers. All rooms come with comfy beds, smart TVs with Netflix, and luxurious baths with super soft robes. Each room is different and is adorned with beautiful decor from antique furnishings to original artwork from the local Artemis Gallery to eye-catching nautical decor.
Depending on the season, the specialty breakfast is served in the lovely dining room or alfresco on the wraparound porch. The chef serves up a selection of freshly baked pastries and the option of sweet or savory entrees like French toast and waffles or frittatas and quiches. A spread of tea, coffee, fruit, and desserts is also available in the lobby each afternoon.
The friendly innkeepers will help you with anything you need, including giving you insider tips on the best restaurants, hidden gems, and hiking trails in the area. They’ll also let you borrow a handy GPS device for navigating the massive Acadia National Park!
7. Bayview Hotel
The Bayview Hotel was completely redesigned in 2021. With its new rustic-chic decor and awesome amenities, this is definitely the coolest boutique hotel near Acadia National Park!
Located just 1.5 miles up the coast from central Bar Harbor, Bayview Hotel is perched right on the shores of Frenchman Bay. Unlike most hotels in the area, each of the 26 rooms faces the water and has private balconies with sweeping ocean and island views.
The rooms are located on three stories and you can choose from the Ocean, Island, and Peak rooms. The Peak rooms are located on the top floor and are the best in the house. They are outfitted with boho-chic furniture, colorful artwork, and furnished oceanfront patios.
The attentive staff will deliver breakfast directly to your room each morning. Options are vegetarian and vegan and include freshly made baked goods, homemade granola, assorted yogurt, seasonal fruit, and juice. All rooms come with coffee makers so you can brew your morning cup of joe.
With its ocean views, The Rusticator Lounge is the perfect place to wind down after a long day exploring the area. You can choose from a long list of creative vegetarian dishes and innovative drinks. But you can’t go wrong with their signature Rusticator Barcuterie – a selection of locally sourced cheeses and light vegetarian bites.
8. Sand Bar Cottage Inn
If you’re looking for a romantic retreat, look no further than the Sand Bar Cottage Inn. This adorable 3-story yellow cottage is located on historic West Street and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The property boasts 18 stylish guest rooms and cottages. If you really want something special, one of the three garden cottages is well worth the splurge!
A room in Boscobel Cottage is the perfect pick if you want to stay in a piece of history. Built in 1887, the original three-story cottage boasts nine guest rooms, a wraparound porch, and partial ocean views. If you’re looking for something more modern, rooms in the newer Acadia Cottage feature spacious bedrooms, spa tubs, and fireplaces.
The innkeepers serve up a full breakfast for you each morning. During the 4 pm teatime, you’ll find all sorts of goodies in the original 1887 Butler’s Pantry! Plus, if you want to dine on the town, all of Bar Harbor’s best restaurants are just steps away.
9. Acadia Hotel – Downtown
Acadia Hotel is located right on the Village Green, so you’ll be within two blocks of over 100 restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Plus, Acadia National Park is just a mile away. You can even walk there if you don’t feel like driving!
One of the many things that makes this boutique hotel special is that it’s family-owned and operated. Rest assured, the friendly hosts will make you feel right at home the moment you check in. Rather than your typical hotel, expect a friendly, offbeat, and relaxing inn-inspired experience.
Acadia Hotel is housed in a former ship captain’s house and an attached Boat House that dates back to the 1880s. Both buildings have been tastefully renovated to maintain their historic charm while adding all the creature comforts of a modern hotel.
Rooms and suites all boast contemporary furnishings, sitting areas or living rooms, and handy mini-fridges. The Cadillac Mountain Suite is the perfect pick for a family vacation or a romantic getaway. The 1,200-square-foot suite boasts a private deck with Cadillac and Dorr mountain views, a bedroom with a plush king bed, and a luxe ensuite with a jet tub.
The complimentary breakfast is essential before hitting Acadia National Park for the day. You can also borrow one of the hotel’s free bikes if you want to cruise around Bar Harbor!
10. Acadia Inn
The Acadia Inn is one of the best hotels near Acadia National Park if you want to be within walking distance to Maine’s most sought-after natural attraction. Nestled on the shores of Frenchman Bay, Acadia Inn even has an on-site trail that gives you direct access to the park! Plus, you can reach the top of Cadillac Mountain for sunrise (a must-do activity) in just 10 minutes.
With so many cool amenities, The Acadia Inn is a great option for families. You can soak in the heated pool and hot tub, mingle with guests on the lawn during movie nights, or get cozy and roast s’mores around the fire pit in the evenings. There’s also a beautifully manicured garden and picnic area where you can have a casual alfresco meal with the whole family.
You’ll love the freebies including the continental breakfast, all-day tea and coffee, and a (seasonal) free shuttle to the heart of Bar Harbor (5 minutes). After a long day adventuring around the park and Bar Harbor, you’ll love having a relaxing movie night in the modern rooms with their plush beds, designer linens, and large flat-screen TVs. The mini-fridges are a nice added touch if you want to snack on leftovers!
11. Thornhedge Inn
Built in 1900, Thornhedge Inn is set right in the heart of Bar Harbor’s Historic Corridor District. From the outside, this Queen Anne shingle-style cottage is just picture perfect. But step inside and you’ll undoubtedly be impressed by this impeccably decorated inn.
The inn features 11 distinct rooms all adorned with original woodwork and art, ornate decor, and unique antiques. Depending on which room you choose, you’ll get special features from regal 4-poster beds to fireplaces to private balconies.
The complimentary breakfast is served in the stunning dining room – which boasts the original 1920s silk wall coverings – each morning. You can choose from a rotating list of gourmet dishes like blueberry French toast to quiche and sausage, as well as fresh fruit and yogurt, homemade muffins and bread, and freshly brewed coffee and tea.
If you’re not out on the town be sure to stop by the lobby to partake in the complimentary wine and cheese hour. You can also hunker down with a good book on the breezy veranda or gather in the sitting room where you can warm up by the fireplace and play one of the many board games on offer.
12. Hampton Inn Bar Harbor
Perched on a tree-studded hill overlooking Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands, spend a day at the Hampton Inn and you’ll feel like you’re worlds away from civilization. But Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor are both roughly a mile away.
Hampton Inn is the perfect pick if you want all the modern amenities of a traditional hotel but want to be surrounded by the natural beauty of coastal Maine. You can do laps in the indoor and outdoor pools, go for a soak in the soothing hot tub, work up a sweat in the fully outfitted gym, or simply take in the ocean views from the gorgeous grounds.
In the mornings, the hotel serves an excellent buffet breakfast with all the fixings. If you feel like dining at a local restaurant (with a view!), The Looking Glass Restaurant is just down the street and dishes out elevated American breakfasts and dinners.
The rooms are all outfitted with super comfortable beds, 42-inch flat-screens, and ergonomic workstations in case you need to catch up on emails. To take advantage of the setting, you should definitely consider the ocean and island-facing rooms, which boast furnished balconies where you can watch the sunset each evening. It’s the perfect way to end the day!
That completes our list of the 12 best hotels near Acadia National Park! Did we miss any great Bar Habor hotels? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina is an incredible option if you want to be right on the water overlooking Frenchman Bay. This place has so many cool amenities you won’t ever need to leave. You can get pampered at the spa, soak in the heated pool and hot tub, play tennis at the club, or embark on a whale watching tour at the marina.
Bar Harbor Grand Hotel might look historical but it’s actually a replica of the iconic 19th-century Rodick House. The building was once touted as the largest hotel in Maine but was demolished in 1906. You’ll find all sorts of historic throwbacks blended seamlessly with modern amenities.
Acadia Hotel is located right on the Village Green, so you’ll be within two blocks of over 100 restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Plus, Acadia National Park is just a mile away. You can even walk there if you don’t feel like driving!
The Acadia Inn is one of the best hotels near Acadia National Park if you want to be within walking distance to Maine’s most sought-after natural attraction.With so many cool amenities, The Acadia Inn is a great option for families. You can soak in the heated pool and hot tub, mingle with guests on the lawn during movie nights, or get cozy and roast s’mores around the fire pit in the evenings. There’s also a beautifully manicured garden and picnic area where you can have a casual alfresco meal with the whole family.
Built in 1900, Thornhedge Inn is set right in the heart of Bar Harbor’s Historic Corridor District. From the outside, this Queen Anne shingle-style cottage is just picture perfect. But step inside and you’ll undoubtedly be impressed by this impeccably decorated inn. The inn features 11 distinct rooms all adorned with original woodwork and art, ornate decor, and unique antiques.
The asticouShould be on that list
And our favorite, Saltair Inn. This B&B has great hosts, fabulous breakfasts, and sits overlooking the sand bar that gives Bar Harbor it’s name.