I'm planning on a few days in Acadia the first week in October. I've heard some say Bar Harbor is pretty touristy and can be crowded. Will I be better off staying in a smaller town nearby on the coast or staying in Bar Harbor?

The summer months are the most crowded so October may not be too crowded. We stayed at the Holiday Inn, which is right outside the Acadia Park entrance and is also within walking distance to all the shops in Bar Harbor or a few minutes drive. This way you're not right downtown but close to everything. It is very touristy but Acadia makes it all worth it! Riding bikes on the carriage trails is a good way to see the park. Have fun!

we were in bar harbor in october a few years ago and didn't find it too touristy (then again we live in orlando). the worst part is during the morning/early afternoon when the cruise ships start bringing people ashore and the buses start jamming the streets...taking the passangers to acadia NP. we stayed at the quality inn which was w/in walking distance of the shops & crowds....but far enough away that we didn't have to "live in it".

we visited bar harbor in september and had a wonderful time! not packed at all, stay in town, it's beautiful. the bar harbor inn is beautiful but pricey. we stayed in a little place at the end of the street and it came with a full breakfast at their restaurant which was actually a boot on the water, was delicious! You'll love it there, make sure you visit cadillac mountain!

sorry, a boat on the water!!!!!! not a boot!!!!!!!