Bar Harbor Inn
Bar Harbor, Maine
The casual elegance of the Bar Harbor Inn provides a perfect backdrop to explore the rocky Maine coast and Acadia National Park. Located on eight landscaped acres overlooking Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands, and in walking distance of town, the Bar Harbor Inn is an iconic vacation destination with a storied history. The property dates to 1887, when the Oasis Club, devoted to promoting "literary and social culture" in Bar Harbor, completed its new clubhouse called the Mount Desert Reading Room. The cedar-shingled structure became a cultural and social hub in the region during the summers before World War I, hosting yachtsmen, naval officers and dignitaries. Over the years, the clubhouse changed hands numerous times, expanding to become a hotel in 1950. Subsequent decades brought additional accommodations and renovations. A luxury spa was added in 2006. Today, the original Mount Desert Reading Room is the Reading Room restaurant and Oasis Club lounge.
Guest rooms are located in three separate buildings throughout the complex, and many have views of the ocean and bay. Traditional New England style sets the theme for decor and ambience, though amenities are thoroughly contemporary, with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, flatscreen cable TV, safe and coffeemaker included in all rooms. Shared features include two full-service restaurants, outdoor pool and hot tubs, a fitness room and a full-service spa. A bountiful continental breakfast is included each morning, offering harborside views from inside or on the terrace. In the afternoon, enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and cookies.