Village Green

Bar Harbor's Village Green is the beating heart of downtown — a lovely open public space surrounded by restaurants, shops, and the waterfront that serves as the natural gathering point for families throughout the summer season.

The green itself is modest in size but enormous in atmosphere. In summer, it hosts live music, community events, and the constant happy chaos of tourists and locals mixing on warm Maine evenings. For families, it's an easy, low-cost way to soak up the quintessential Bar Harbor experience without spending much money.

Horse-drawn carriage rides departing near the green are a particular favorite with young children — the novelty of clip-clopping through a coastal New England town is hard to beat. The waterfront is steps away, as is the start of the Shore Path for families who want to extend the evening with a sunset walk.

Some of Bar Harbor's best ice cream shops are right on the green, and there's something deeply satisfying about grabbing a cone and sitting on the grass watching the world go by after a full day in Acadia. Evening visits are especially atmospheric as the summer crowds thin out and the light turns golden over Frenchman Bay.

The Village Green is stroller-accessible, welcoming to all ages, and requires no planning or admission — just show up and enjoy.