Bar Harbor is getting its recognition as one of the coolest downtowns in the country.
HGTV recently published a list of the top 40 most charming small-town downtowns in the United States, and Bar Harbor was the only Maine town to make the cut.
“Nothing charms like a small downtown that beckons visitors with historic architecture and boutique shops or local culture and tree-lined streets,” the article said. “Many small-town downtowns are located in beautiful settings or have stunning views.”
Here’s what HGTV had to say this piece of New England history, situated along Maine’s Frenchman Bay on Mount Desert Island.
Lobster boats in the waters near Bar Harbor, Maine, in August, 2019. Cousins Boats
What HGTV recommends visitors do in Bar Harbor
HGTV named Bar Harbor’s commercial area as one of the top 40 most charming small-town downtowns in the United States.
What HGTV said about it: “Three hours northeast of Portland sits Bar Harbor, Maine, New England’s prestigious summer resort town and the gateway to stunning Acadia National Park. Such 19th century notables as Joseph Pulitzer and George Vanderbilt built cottages on the island, leading Bar Harbor to rival the likes of Newport, Rhode Island. Today, this charming town is a popular summer escape for all kinds of visitors, thanks to its boutique shops, nautical views and outdoor activities like windjammer cruises and electric bike tours and rentals. Don’t miss the wild blueberries. A breakfast stop for wild blueberry pancakes at Jordan’s Restaurant is essential, and be sure to order a scoop of lobster ice cream from Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium.”
Rin Velasco is a trending reporter. She can be reached at rvelasco@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Bar Harbor ME downtown named one of most charming by HGTV. See why