Bar Harbor, Maine, Named the Best Small Town to Visit in 2026

Imagine being named the best town in an entire country.

Now imagine living in that town. You can bet there would be plenty of folks envious of you.

And now imagine that town can be found right here in Maine.

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Bar Harbor is One of Maine's Most Beautiful Towns

Bar Harbor is a picturesque town located in the southern part of Downeast Maine. Known for encompassing much of Acadia National Park, it’s also a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from near and far.

Considering that Acadia National Park draws millions of visitors each year, it’s no surprise that Bar Harbor receives its fair share of attention—especially during peak tourist season. It’s truly a match made in heaven. Visitors can explore a charming town packed with top-notch restaurants, ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale dining experiences. Bar Harbor also features a variety of unique shops showcasing local artists, a thriving craft beer scene, and a stunning natural setting that adds to its appeal.

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There’s also a wealth of outdoor activities beyond Acadia. Whale-watching tours, sailing charters, bike rentals, birding, and coastal hikes are all part of the magic of this Maine town. It’s the perfect destination for any nature lover.

With all that in mind, it’s no surprise that Bar Harbor was recently named THE best small town to visit in 2026.

Bar Harbor, Maine, Has Been Named the Best Small Town to Visit in the Country

The folks over at the legendary U.S. News & World Report released their massive list of the best small towns to visit this year, with Bar Harbor claiming the number-one spot.

Here’s a look at why this iconic Maine town earned its place on the list:

With cottage-style bed-and-breakfasts and a Main Street lined with shops and art galleries, Bar Harbor is small-town Maine at its finest. Join a boat tour, history tour or culinary tour to get acquainted with this New England coastal retreat, or stroll along the scenic Shore Path at your own pace. Come hungry: Lobstering is still an important contributor to Bar Harbor's economy, which means local restaurants feature fresh lobster and plentiful seafood on their menus.

And that’s without even mentioning the fact that Acadia is literally right there. Pretty impressive, to say the least.

Congrats once again to Bar Harbor for being named THE best small town to visit in the United States this year. With roughly 20,000 incorporated municipalities in the country, that’s seriously impressive. It’s certainly bragging rights that are truly deserved.