Bar Harbor, Maine in Spring: A Dreamy Dog-Friendly Coastal Getaway

Looking for a spring trip with your dog that blends coastal charm, outdoor adventure, and small-town vibes? Bar Harbor, Maine checks all the boxes. This historic seaside town on Mount Desert Island is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in New England, especially in spring, when crowds are lighter, temperatures are cool, and Acadia National Park is waking up from winter.

From pet-friendly hotels and lobster shacks to scenic trails and ocean cruises that welcome dogs, Bar Harbor makes traveling with your pup refreshingly easy.

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Dog-Friendly Places to Stay in Bar Harbor

Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin or a classic coastal inn, Bar Harbor offers plenty of pet-friendly accommodations that go the extra mile for four-legged guests.

Gallagher’s Travels Bar Harbor Motel & Cabins

This locally loved option welcomes up to two pets (100 lbs each) for a nightly fee. Select motel rooms and all cabins are pet-friendly, and both dogs and cats are allowed. You’ll find grassy relief areas, waste bags, and the rare bonus – well-behaved pets may be left unattended, which is a big win for dog parents.

Wonder View Inn – Bar Harbor Collection

Situated on 14 acres of scenic property, Wonder View Inn allows two dogs of any size in designated rooms. Pets are pampered with treats, water bowls, and waste bags, and the dog-friendly shuttle makes getting downtown easy. Dogs must be supervised in rooms.

Atlantic Eyrie Lodge

Overlooking Frenchman Bay, Atlantic Eyrie Lodge welcomes two pets up to 65 lbs per stay. Pets receive a welcome treat bag, and there are grassy areas for quick walks. While pets can’t be left unattended, the views alone make this a memorable stay.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is famous for lobster- and yes, your dog can tag along. The town boasts dozens of dog-friendly restaurants, many with outdoor patios and even dog menus.

Stewman’s Lobster Pound

A Bar Harbor classic with waterfront seating, fresh Maine lobster, and a dog menu. Coastal dining doesn’t get more iconic than this.

Looking Glass Restaurant

This casually upscale spot offers panoramic ocean views, excellent seafood, and dog-friendly deck seating for leashed, well-behaved pups.

Mainely Meat BBQ

Dogs are welcome on the covered patio, and there’s a dog menu so your pup doesn’t feel left out while you enjoy hearty BBQ.

Pizzeria 131

Grab a seat on the wraparound deck where dogs are welcome, bowls of cold water are provided, and pizza sharing is optional.

Best Dog-Friendly Hikes & Walks

Spring is prime hiking season in Bar Harbor, especially for dogs who enjoy cooler weather and scenic trails.

Acadia National Park

Acadia is one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the U.S., offering over 100 miles of leashed trails. Dogs must be on leash in the park. Top picks include: Ocean Path Trail, Witch Hole Pond Loop and Compass Harbor Trail.

Expect coastal views, carriage roads, forests, and plenty of sniff-worthy scenery.

Bar Harbor Shore Path

This historic, flat waterfront path stretches along Frenchman Bay and is perfect for leisurely walks with your dog. It’s scenic, accessible, and a local favorite.

Agamont Park

Located near the town pier, this grassy park offers beautiful views of Bar Harbor and the bay – ideal for a relaxed stroll or sunset break with your pup.

More Dog-Friendly Things to Do

Island Explorer Shuttle

This free, pet-friendly bus system makes exploring Acadia National Park easy. Dogs are welcome if they’re leashed, making it a stress-free alternative to driving.

Acadian Nature Cruises

Bring your leashed, well-behaved dog aboard for a two-hour narrated cruise of Frenchman Bay. Spot seals, porpoises, seabirds, and maybe even bald eagles. Dress warm- spring breezes can be chilly.

Windjammer & Ferry Cruises

Both Downeast Windjammer Cruise Lines and the Bar Harbor Ferry allow leashed dogs on board. Morning sails are calm and relaxing, while afternoon trips bring more energy with sea breezes.

Dog-Friendly Shopping in Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor’s downtown shops are refreshingly welcoming to dogs.

Debbahs – Maine-inspired clothing, jewelry, and gifts with dogs allowed inside

Acadia Park Company – Pet-friendly shop stocked with Acadia merch and souvenirs

Bark Harbor – A must-visit dog boutique offering treats, toys, and accessories

You’ll also find water bowls, biscuits, and even hitching posts outside many stores.

Final Thoughts: Why Bar Harbor Is Perfect for a Dog-Friendly Spring Trip

Bar Harbor is one of those rare destinations that truly welcomes dogs, not just tolerates them. With pet-friendly hotels, hiking trails in Acadia National Park, ocean cruises, and patios where pups are treated like VIPs, it’s an ideal spring getaway for dog lovers.

If you love coastal scenery, fresh seafood, walkable towns, and outdoor adventure, Bar Harbor deserves a spot on your dog-friendly travel bucket list.

We love to give you tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your next adventure. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.