Bar Harbor, Maine, is a place where natural beauty and charming town life go hand in hand. Its walkable streets, historic landmarks, and seaside scenery make it ideal for exploring on foot. Walking tours here aren’t just about taking a stroll—they offer a chance to experience local stories, secrets, and flavors firsthand. Whether you’re interested in spooky tales, fascinating history, or delicious food, Bar Harbor has a tour that fits your interests. These guided walks give you a relaxed way to connect with the town’s personality and uncover hidden stories that you might miss on your own.
Instead of just wandering around, you can join a themed tour that dives into Maine’s haunted past, tantalizes your taste buds with local flavors, or simply offers a friendly overview of the town’s main sights. Each tour is designed to be easy to follow, with some lasting around an hour and others stretching to three hours, so you can pick what suits your schedule and curiosity.
1. 90-minute Ghost Walking Tour in Bar Harbor
At number 1 on our list, the 90-minute Ghost Walking Tour in Bar Harbor stands out for its engaging focus on ghost stories combined with local history. Priced at $32.99 per person, this tour is led by a local paranormal expert, making it an authentic dive into the town’s haunted side. The tour covers iconic haunted landmarks like Agamont Park, the Bar Harbor Inn, and the Criterion Theater, all while walking along Main Street and scenic spots like Shore Path.
What makes this tour unique is how it intertwines ghost tales with historical context. For example, at Agamont Park, you’ll hear about the Wabanaki legends and sightings of mysterious animals, tying ancient stories to modern accounts. The Bar Harbor Inn has its own reputation for ghost sightings, linked to a once-private club called The Reading Room. As the tour moves along, stories of sea serpents and lighthouse hauntings keep the atmosphere lively and slightly spooky. Guests love the storytelling style of guide Doug, who is praised for making history come alive without relying solely on scares. The tour’s length makes it manageable even after a day of sightseeing and is ideal for history enthusiasts who prefer a mix of intrigue and education.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-balanced combination of spooky tales and local history, perfect for those who enjoy a little ghostly mystery with their Maine charm.
2. Bar Harbor: Haunted Ghost Walking Tour
Second on our list, the Bar Harbor: Haunted Ghost Walking Tour is celebrated for its nearly perfect 4.9/5 rating and its affordability at $24 per person. It lasts about 1.5 hours and covers a broad range of haunted sites, including the Shore Path, Bar Harbor Inn, and Ledgelawn Inn. This tour is especially appealing to those interested in paranormal stories tied to specific locations like the Father of Acadia, whose ties to the town add a historical dimension to the spooky tales.
The tour features stops at popular landmarks, with time allocated for photos and short visits, making it flexible yet comprehensive. Highlights include stories about residual hauntings and poltergeists, which add layers of mystery to familiar sights. The Ledgelawn Inn is known locally for paranormal activity, and the Shore Path offers tales of ghostly sailors and sea monsters, blending Maine’s maritime character with ghost lore. Guests frequently mention guides who are knowledgeable and passionate, making the stories more engaging. It is a perfect choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded ghost tour that balances history, local lore, and fun.
Bottom Line: For a slightly shorter, very well-reviewed experience with a mix of ghost stories and scenic stops, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable night walk.
3. Savor Bar Harbor Culinary Walking Tour
Coming in at number 3, the Savor Bar Harbor Culinary Walking Tour is a treat for food lovers. Priced at $159.99, it lasts about 2 to 3 hours and takes small groups of no more than 14 people through downtown Bar Harbor. This tour focuses on tasting the local flavors and understanding how Maine’s fresh seafood, dairy, and farm produce influence the town’s culinary scene.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on food as a window into local culture, with stops at the Village Green and various eateries. You’ll sample Maine specialties like lobster rolls, homemade fudge, and ice cream, while learning about regional agriculture and cooking traditions. The guide’s commentary adds context about the area’s food history, making it more than just a tasting experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention and opportunities to ask questions. Many reviewers highlight the fun atmosphere and the chance to try both classic and hidden gem eateries.
Bottom Line: If you’re a foodie eager to taste Maine’s signature dishes and learn about its food traditions, this tour provides excellent value in a relaxed, intimate setting.
4. Bar Harbor Walking Tour
In fourth place, the Bar Harbor Walking Tour offers an accessible, hour-and-a-half introduction to the town’s main sights. Starting at the Village Green, it’s ideal for visitors with limited time or those wanting a general overview. The tour covers significant landmarks such as the Criterion Theater, St. Saviour’s Church, and Agamont Park, blending history, architecture, and local stories.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Bar Harbor’s evolution from Wabanaki summer camps to a prominent art destination. The guide offers insights into the town’s development and notable residents, making it suitable for history buffs and first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive snapshot. The small group setting makes conversations easy and allows for questions. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s enthusiasm, especially mentioning how the history, culture, and even recommendations for local restaurants enrich the experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a quick but meaningful walk through Bar Harbor’s story, especially for those who enjoy cultural insights alongside sightseeing.
5. Best of Bar Harbor: 2-Hour Guided Food Walking Tour
Rated a perfect 5.0, the Best of Bar Harbor: 2-Hour Guided Food Walking Tour is a highlight for serious food fans. Costing $129 per person, it offers a focused culinary journey with stops at lobster roll hotspots, ice cream shops, and the Village Green. This tour emphasizes Maine’s seafood and sweet treats, making it a delicious way to experience the town.
During the tour, you’ll taste signature Maine dishes like lobster rolls and fudge, while also learning about the local food scene. The guide’s stories add depth, making each sample part of a larger cultural picture. Many reviews praise the guide’s humor and storytelling skills, which make the experience fun and informative. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a culinary focus but also appreciate some local history and scenic stops along the way.
Bottom Line: For those who want to indulge in Maine’s culinary classics in a compact, engaging tour, this is a tasty choice worth the price.
6. Best of Bar Harbor Food Walking Tour
Last on our list, the Best of Bar Harbor Food Walking Tour offers a similar culinary experience but is slightly more affordable at $129 per person. It lasts about 2 hours, walking through the streets from Agamont Park to Balance Rock, with plenty of opportunities to sample lobster rolls, ice cream, and fudge. This tour emphasizes famous local treats and the scenic beauty of the shoreline.
What makes this tour appealing is its combination of delicious tastings and scenic walking, giving a taste of Maine’s coast and cuisine. It’s ideal if you want a flavorful overview with a relaxed pace. The tour’s scope covers iconic treats and provides some local history, making it a practical choice for those who want a balanced experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want to enjoy Maine’s culinary heritage while taking in Bar Harbor’s seaside views.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Bar Harbor
When selecting the best walking tour, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. For ghost stories and spooky lore, the Ghost Walking Tour and Haunted Ghost Tour offer engaging nighttime experiences. If your passion is food and local flavors, the Savor Bar Harbor or Best of Bar Harbor Food Tour are excellent options.
For a quick overview of the town’s history and architecture, the 1.5-hour Bar Harbor Walking Tour provides a broad picture. Budget travelers might prefer the more affordable ghost walk, while foodies will find value in the multi-sample tours. Remember to book early in the busy season, especially for popular tours, to guarantee your spot.
Final Thoughts
Bar Harbor’s walking tours encompass a wide range of interests, from ghost stories to culinary delights. If you’re intrigued by Maine’s haunted past, the ghost tours offer atmospheric storytelling at reasonable prices. For food lovers, the culinary tours provide a deep dive into local flavors, making your visit both tasty and memorable. The general town tour is perfect for those who want a quick cultural overview.
No matter what you choose, these guided walks help you see Bar Harbor from a new perspective—whether you’re walking at night with ghost stories, tasting Maine’s iconic lobster and fudge, or learning about the town’s art and architecture. To make the most of your trip, book your preferred tour early, especially in peak season, and prepare for an engaging, authentic experience in this charming seaside town.