Bar Harbor, Maine Voted America’s #4 Summer Destination

The popular travel site, TripAdvisor.com has released their list of America’s Top 50 Summer Hot Spots based on the greatest increase in seasonal hotel booking interest. According to a recent survey of more than 1,300 U.S. travelers, 88 percent are planning to vacation this summer, and 91 percent of them will travel domestically.

Of the 50 locations with the most bookings this summer, 5 New England spots made the list with Bar Harbor, Maine scoring the highest rating at #4. Ogunquit, Maine took the #7 spot; North Conway, New Hampshire nabbed the seventeenth spot; Newport, Rhode Island came in at #21; and Boston rounded out the New England hot spots at #45.

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So what is it about the quaint seaside town of Bar Harbor that has the tourists flocking? The combination of history, luxurious accomodations, pristine beaches, top-rated dining, and family-friendly activities like kayaking and whale watching certainly add to the charm!

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For adventurous couples and families – or those keen on seeing all of America’s parks – Acadia National Park is a major draw. Featuring more than 50 square miles of mountains, lakes, hiking, biking, breathtaking views and pristine coastline, Acadia is a vacation in and of itself!

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When it comes to the finest in luxury accomodations, you have your choice of quaint inns, romantic boutique hotels, personal and cozy B&Bs, or woodland camping options. Moseley Cottage Inn & Town Motel scored TripAdvisor’s top honor for most romantic accomodations, while The Bayview Hotel was the best choice for families.

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Bar Harbor has some of Maine and New England’s best restaurants, serving fresh off the boat seafood and local farm-grown produce. Travelers come from around the world to experience the succulent Maine lobster Bar Harbor is known for. Top-rated dining options include Rose Eden Lobster, Mache Bistro and the Reading Room Restaurant.

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When it comes to enjoying the natural beauty of New England, there is no topping Bar Harbor! Soaring granite cliffs, miles of untapped wilderness and the deep blue waters of the Atlantic offer countless ways to enjoy your vacation under the open sky. Tour a historic lighthouse, hike Arcadia National Park, or play a round of golf.

Starting June 12 on Friday, Saturday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 8:00 am, you can go see this historic lighthouse on Baker Island. This tour takes you through Frenchman's Bay and lands you on the island, where an Acadia National Park ranger will take you into the island right up to the lighthouse! You will learn about the families that used to live on the island and how they lived off the land. This is a super educational and fun sightseeing tour! Hope to see you all out there!

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If you prefer to take advantage of the ocean and nearby lakes, book a whale watch cruise, go fishing, canoing or kayaking, or simply enjoy a quiet day at the beach!

We practice #WhaleSENSE, which means we don't approach too close to whales, we don't approach them head-on, and we never separate mothers and calves with our boat. Sustainability applies to #whalewatching too, folks! #bhww

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For those who aren’t outdoorsy, there is still plenty to do in Bar Harbor! Try a stroll down the specialty shop and gallery lined streets where you’ll find the finest handcrafted Maine items. Known for unique tourmaline jewelry, maple syrup, and nautical themed products from local artists, you are sure to find the perfect treasure to take home.

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With so many amazing options, it’s no wonder Bar Harbor has become such a popular spot for tourists! We New Englanders have the distinct advantage of having this vacation wonderland right in our own backyard!