Things to do in Bar Harbor in January

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Overview

January is a less popular time to visit Bar Harbor. The weather is usually really cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 21—33°F (-6—1°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Bar Harbor during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a photography tour of the winter landscapes, go snowshoeing on Cadillac Mountain, take a scenic drive along the coast, and more!

Bar Harbor has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your January trip to Bar Harbor. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to January. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Bar Harbor in January. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout January, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Don't take our word for it
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Best events and things to do in Bar Harbor in January

Top experiences in January
Take a photography tour of the winter landscapes
Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park offer endless opportunities for capturing stunning winter landscapes with your camera. Join a photography tour or venture out on your own to capture the snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and dramatic coastal scenery. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just enjoy taking snapshots, you'll find plenty of inspiration in the winter beauty of Bar Harbor.
Go snowshoeing on Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, offers incredible views of the surrounding winter wonderland. Strap on some snowshoes and trek through the snow-covered trails to reach the summit, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains and frozen coastline. It's a peaceful and invigorating way to experience the beauty of Bar Harbor in January.
Take a scenic drive along the coast
Bundle up and hop in the car for a leisurely drive along the coast, where you can take in the stunning winter views of the rugged coastline, lighthouses, and frozen harbors. Stop at scenic overlooks and charming coastal towns along the way, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as seals and bald eagles. It's a relaxing and scenic way to spend a winter day in Bar Harbor.
Visit the Abbe Museum to learn about Native American culture
The Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the Wabanaki people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. Explore the museum's exhibits and artifacts to learn about the traditions, art, and contemporary issues of the Wabanaki tribes. It's a meaningful and educational way to spend a winter day in Bar Harbor.
Go whale watching in the winter
While most people associate whale watching with the warmer months, January is actually a great time to see whales off the coast of Bar Harbor. Join a guided whale watching tour to see humpback, finback, and minke whales as they migrate through the area in search of food. It's a unique and thrilling experience that you can only have in Bar Harbor in January.
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Go birdwatching at the Great Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary
January is a great time for birdwatching in Bar Harbor, as many species of birds can be spotted in the area during the winter months. Head to the Great Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary to see a variety of wintering birds, including waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. Bundle up and bring your binoculars for a peaceful and rewarding birdwatching experience.
Take a winter hike in Acadia National Park
January is a great time to explore the stunning landscapes of Acadia National Park without the crowds. Bundle up and hit the trails to see the park's snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and breathtaking coastal views. Just be sure to check the weather and trail conditions before you go, and dress appropriately for the cold.
Attend the Bar Harbor Winter Beer Festival
This annual event brings together local breweries and beer enthusiasts for a day of tastings, live music, and food. Sample a variety of craft beers and ciders while enjoying the festive atmosphere and mingling with fellow beer lovers. It's a great way to warm up and have some fun during the chilly winter months.
Go ice fishing in Bar Harbor Harbor
January is the perfect time to experience the thrill of ice fishing in Bar Harbor. With the harbor frozen over, you can join a guided tour or venture out on your own to try your hand at catching some fish through a hole in the ice. It's a unique and exhilarating experience that you won't soon forget.
Go cross-country skiing in the surrounding countryside
Bar Harbor and the surrounding area offer plenty of opportunities for cross-country skiing in January. Rent some skis and explore the scenic trails that wind through the snow-covered forests and fields. It's a peaceful and picturesque way to get some exercise and enjoy the winter scenery.
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Holidays in Bar Harbor in January
January
  • New Year's Day (January 1)
Other notable holidays

Weather in Bar Harbor in January

Temperatures on an average day in Bar Harbor in January

The average temperature in Bar Harbor in January for a typical day ranges from a high of 33°F (1°C) to a low of 21°F (-6°C). Some would describe it as really cold and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Bar Harbor, August, has days with highs of 71°F (22°C) and lows of 60°F (15°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 33°F (1°C) and lows of 21°F (-6°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Bar Harbor in January based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in January
33°F
highs
21°F
lows

General weather summary

Really cold and breezy
Feels like
31%
Chance of rain
0.155 in
Amount
16.9 mph
Wind speed
87%
Humidity
9.3 hrs
Daylight length
7:03 AM
Sunrise
4:19 PM
Sunset
43%
Cloud cover
Thick winter coat with gloves
What to wear
What to wear in January
With an average high of 33°F (1°C) and a low of 21°F (-6°C), it generally feels really cold and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something toasty like a thick winter coat with gloves
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Best attractions for Bar Harbor in January

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Bar Harbor has to offer for travelers in January, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Bar Harbor that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Bar Harbor for January.
Mt Desert Island
1. Mt Desert Island
4.9
(128)
Island
Nature & Parks
Maine island that's home to a number of villages, as well as part of Acadia National Park.
The Shore Path
2. The Shore Path
5.0
(18)
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Acadia National Park
3. Acadia National Park
4.9
(19617)
National park
Nature & Parks
47,000-acre park covering woodland, granite peaks & rocky shores, offering camping, hiking & more.
Ocean Path
4. Ocean Path
5.0
(1)
Outdoor Activities
Hiking Trails
Coastal, 2-mile walking path offering various lookouts with scenic views of cliffs, coves & beaches.
Schoodic Peninsula
5. Schoodic Peninsula
4.9
(100)
Peninsula
Nature & Parks
Promontory known for its coastal scenery, containing 2,266 acres of Acadia National Park.
Frenchman Bay
6. Frenchman Bay
4.7
(20)
Bay
Nature & Parks
National park bay with small islands stretching about 15 miles named after a 1600's French explorer.
Village Green
7. Village Green
4.6
(1038)
Park
Nature & Parks
Grassy, central town square with benches, a gazebo, summer concerts & a national park info center.
Abbe Museum
8. Abbe Museum
4.4
(288)
Ethnographic museum
Museums
Modern museum showcasing the culture of the native Wabanaki people with various exhibits & events.
Mount Desert Oceanarium
9. Mount Desert Oceanarium
4.2
(127)
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Educational, hands-on aquarium with a lobster hatchery & ecological marsh walk.
Atlantic Brewing Company
10. Atlantic Brewing Company
4.5
(336)
Brewery
Brewpub
Microbrewery with daily tours & tastings of beers like blueberry ale plus housemade sodas for kids.
Agamont Park
11. Agamont Park
4.7
(1509)
Park
Nature & Parks
This bustling ocean-side park offers live events, open green space, trails & picnic spots.
Bar Island
12. Bar Island
4.6
(25)
Island
Outdoor Activities
Small island accessible by foot during low tide with forests, walking trails & scenic views.
Bar Harbor Cellars
13. Bar Harbor Cellars
4.3
(138)
Winery
Food & Drink
Egg Rock Lighthouse
14. Egg Rock Lighthouse
4.7
(106)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
St. Saviour's Episcopal Church
15. St. Saviour's Episcopal Church
4.6
(47)
Episcopal church
Sights & Landmarks
Eagle Lake
16. Eagle Lake
5.0
(32)
Lake
Nature & Parks
Scenic lake for kayaking, canoeing & fishing, with a 6-mile trail for walking & cycling.

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Bar Harbor?

Get inspired for your trip to Bar Harbor with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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