My boyfriend and I are planning a trip in September to Bar Harbor. We would like to fly into Boston and drive to Bar Harbor. Can anyone tell me how long a drive it is? Any must visit restaurants or bars along the way? Or does anyone have any recommendations on accomodations? This is my first trip to New England. We are considering B & B's, but don't want to stay anywhere too "Laura Ashley"! No canopy beds or lace! It sounds like the Bar Harbor Inn is nice. Any water views there? Or anywhere! Help!!

Just drove two weeks ago-on the way up took Route 95/Maine Turnpike until Bangor to Exit 45, then Route 1A to Route 3 right into Bar Harbor. We stopped in Freeport(LL Bean)on the way. It takes about 5 hours travel time. By the way you need change for the toll booths in Maine on the turnpike(.50 to $1.50); there were about 4 toll booths. Have a great time-fall in New England is absolutely beautiful!

Thank you for the advice!

Michele, have you check fares to Manchester NH? Portland ME would be closer but usually the airfare is higher. MHT is a much smaller airport and there will be less hassle. If you have time to make a leisurely drive, getting off Rt 95 in Brunswick is a wonderful drive and will take your thru towns like Wiscasset, Rockland, Camden and Belfast. Depending on when your flight arrives, you might want to spend the night part way there. Consider Portland ME. You'll find plenty of good bars and restaurants.

We stayed at the 2 Cats Inn in Bar Harbor (http://www.2catsbarharbor.com). I don't recall lace and canopy beds, just clean rooms and breakfast included in the price of the room. This was a major bonus, not only because the food was awesome, but for our family of four this represented a significant savings of approximately $40-50/day.

September is perfect, but not Labor Day weekend I hope! How many days will you have for the trip? I agree that if you're in a city that has good fares to Manchester, it's easier to navigate than Boston Logan.

I'm going to check out fares into Manchester. Thanks for the advice. We are planning a one week vacation. We love to explore great restaurants and bars, as well as window shop. We like hiking too and it sounds like there are many places to do that too!

Patrick,

I just checked out the web site for 2 Cats Inn- it looks pretty neat! Food sounds wonderful. Thanks for the tip!