About the Area

What time do things close in Bar Harbor?

Most of the restaurants in Bar Harbor are open until 9 or 10pm. The shops will stay open until 10pm or so and the local pubs and bars can serve until 1am. In season (May – Oct.) everything for the most part is open 7 days a week. Don’t worry about Sundays being dull, everything is still open.

How long does it take to drive through the Park Loop Road?

To drive through Acadia on the 27 mile Park Loop Road, we recommend allowing yourself around 3 hours. Depending on how much you want to stop and look around, that time may vary. The guided tours through the park generally last about 2 ½ to 3 hours and they let you out at 3 different stops. Add a little extra time if you want to treat yourself to tea and popovers at the Jordan Pond House.

What is Bar Harbor like in the winter?

Well, cold and quiet is the first thing that comes to mind. Many of the area businesses are seasonal so not much is open in the way of lodging, dining and shopping during the winter months. The quiet time in the winter can be a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the summer months, but by spring most locals are looking forward to things getting going again.

About the Property

Can you walk to downtown Bar Harbor from the Highbrook?

From the Highbrook to downtown Bar Harbor it’s about 1 mile. There is a sidewalk from the motel to town and many of our guests who like to get out and stretch their legs will walk to town. From the end of June to Columbus Day the Island Explorer offers free transportation all over the Mount Desert Island and it will pick you up in front of the motel and bring you to the center of downtown Bar Harbor. You can also mix it up and walk in to town and take the Island Explorer back or vice versa.  

Do you have information on things to do and places to eat?

In our office you will find plenty of information on activities and dining. Our office is open from 7am – 10pm everyday and there is always someone there to answer your questions and provide some local insight. We can also make reservations for you and give you directions to anywhere you would like to go.

Reservations and Cancellations

What is your policy for cancellations and early departures?

Due to our short season we require advanced notice in order to cancel or shorten your reservation. Deposits will be promptly refunded (less a $10.00 handling fee) if cancellation notice is received at least 72 hours prior to arrival. Cancellations received after 2 P.M. three days before the arrival date will be subject to a charge equal to the amount of the first night stay. To shorten your stay we also require 72 hours notice prior to your scheduled day of arrival.

If I want to reserve a package do I have to do it when I reserve or can I switch to a package when I check in?

You can book one of our packages anytime. We do recommend waiting until you arrive before picking a specific day to go on a boat tour as long as you’re going to be in Bar Harbor for a few days. It is usually a good idea to wait and see which day will be the best for weather.

Should I reserve a spot on a tour when reserving a package or wait until I get there?

We do recommend reserving your spot on a tour in order to assure that you get a seat. In the case of boat tours where weather can be a factor, you may want to wait until you get closer to your arrival in Bar Harbor before picking a specific day. The Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company requires 24 hours notice to change or cancel a reservation. Due to the popularity of the local attractions and weather sometimes causing cancellations, trips can get sold out. If you are only going to be in Bar Harbor for just a couple days, advance reservations for tours are a good idea.