For travelers with a layover in Bar Harbor, the proximity of BHB to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 70 minutes via Taxi/Ride-share, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Bar Harbor, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Bar Harbor is roughly 70 minutes from BHB via Taxi/Ride-share. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into Bar Harbor
From BHB, the Taxi/Ride-share gets you to Bar Harbor in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Ride-share offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Bar Harbor, budget roughly $48 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $25 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at BHB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Bar Harbor’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Bar Harbor, here are two things worth checking out:
City Center Walk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Local Market is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BHB, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near BHB
For food in Bar Harbor, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at BHB, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Taking a Break at BHB
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BHB has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
WiFi at BHB should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Bar Harbor genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.