Last Minute Hotel Help

Question

Hi,

I hear you guys are good at making recommendations for hotels. Grown daughter and father looking for a hotel in Bar Harbor for 3 nights, Sept 11 - 14. Will have car. First time to area. Looking to spend $250 a night. Would prefer to stay in the hustle and bustle but looking at hotel prices, we might have to stay a little out of town. Two beds, doubles are fine.

Any help is appreciated, many thanks.

Answer

For a first-time visit to Bar Harbor with a budget around $250 per night and needing two beds, you have a few good options. Since you’ll have a car, staying slightly outside the town center can give you more room and amenities while still keeping you within a short drive to restaurants, shops, and the waterfront.

Options within or near downtown Bar Harbor

Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center – Located just a few minutes drive from downtown, this hotel has spacious rooms, a waterfront view, and a pool. Parking is included, and it’s convenient for accessing both the shops and the Island Explorer bus system.
Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – Right on the harbor, a short walk to Main Street. Rooms can be slightly above your budget, but you might find deals or smaller rooms within $250. Great location for first-time visitors who want to be in the bustle.
Acadia Hotel – Smaller boutique option near downtown. Simple, clean rooms with free parking, often at rates near your budget.

Options slightly outside town (drive required, but often more affordable and spacious)

Quality Inn Bar Harbor – About 2 miles from downtown, comfortable rooms, free breakfast and parking, often comfortably within your budget.
Bar Harbor Motel – Located along Route 3, a short drive to the downtown area. Offers clean, basic accommodations and easy access to the park entrance.
Hampton Inn Bar Harbor – Located just outside town, offers pool, breakfast, and free parking. Reliable brand and often good rates for early September.

Tips for booking last minute:

Call hotels directly, as some last-minute deals are not listed online.
Consider flexible check-in/check-out times; some hotels can accommodate early arrival or late departure if needed.
Check cancellation policies carefully; Bar Harbor can fill quickly in September, so you may want a place with free cancellation if plans change.

Overall, since you’ll have a car, staying just outside the downtown area gives you more options and value, while still keeping you close enough to enjoy the shops, dining, and proximity to Acadia National Park. Prioritize free parking and easy access to the Island Explorer bus if you prefer to minimize driving within the busier areas.