Family reunions are all about heritage. As the planner of your reunion, your main goal is to bring your family together to reminisce about the past and look forward to the future. When it comes to the location for your reunion, you want a place that evokes a sense of heritage and tradition, while also integrating modern amenities and culture. If you plan your reunion at Bar Harbor Inn & Spa, you will find exactly that. Once a sanctuary for some of the country’s most famous debutante families, the land on which Bar Harbor Inn sits has played an important role in Maine’s past, and has been happily welcoming guests from all over the country since 1950.

How Do I Get to Bar Harbor Inn & Spa?

Situated near Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor Inn is a delightful escape that spans across eight acres of lush lawns and gardens, complemented by a serene shore path. You can enjoy exciting activities during your stay, from yoga by the sea and nature walks to kayaking and whale watching. A quick drive from Bangor, Portland and Boston, the hotel is easily reached by car. The region is served by the Bar Harbor-Hancock County Airport, which is only 12 miles from the hotel and has many direct or connecting flights from Boston.

What Activites Are Available at Bar Harbor Inn & Spa?

Your family will inevitably want to know what they can do at Bar Harbor Inn. This historic hotel has been serving the Bar Harbor area for decades, and upon arrival, your reunion will quickly learn why people keep coming back. The hotel has been named one of the region’s best, offering top rated activities, tours and service.

Your family can enjoy a two-hour, narrated nature cruise of Frenchman Bay, with boats leaving from the Bar Harbor dock daily. Or hop aboard a watercraft from a bygone era on a Windjammer Cruise, which will whisk you away on a lively, exhilarating sail to islands in the bay. Experience a slice of Maine life on a Lulu Lobster Boat Ride, where your reunion can watch the captain haul up lobster traps, learn about the lifecycle of the Maine lobster and discover what exactly lobster boxing is. In addition, the boat will float right up to the rock ledges to let you get an exclusive view of the dozing seals.

Those who prefer to stay on dry land can head to Acadia National Park, filled with over 120 miles of hiking trails offering spectacular views of the ocean, lakes and surrounding mountains. You can also take an invigorating morning or afternoon bike ride along Eagle Lake Loop, consisting of more than 55 miles of grated gravel roads to explore.

After all these adventures, it’s inevitable your group will be a little tired. If someone in your family is looking to recharge, they can nurture themselves at the world-class Spa. Rejuvenate with a relaxing mud body wrap or aromatherapy massage, and leave feeling refreshed and ready to take on more reunion activities.

The Bar Harbor Inn & Spa is a short walk from the town center and a variety of local attractions. Your group can visit the Abbe Museum to learn about the Wabanaki Nations, discover the natural world of Maine at the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History, or peruse the many shops and galleries downtown.

Where Can Our Reunion Grab Some Grub?

Let’s face it, some of the best family stories are rehashed at the dinner table. Food brings families together in a unique way, and allows everyone to remember their heritage and bond over delicious delicacies. Great food and service can be found at Bar Harbor Inn’s famous Reading Room Restaurant. Dine on fresh seafood—caught right out in the bay—choice meats and decadent desserts. The night is complemented by grand piano performances and breathtaking views. You can also enjoy the fresh air on the Terrace Grille, where the family can experience the ever popular Downeast Lobster Bake.

At the end of a long day, your family will be longing for a restful sleep. Bar Harbor Inn has a variety of comfortable accommodations that will suit your family’s needs. Book your stay in any of the resort’s three distinctive guest room buildings. The Main Inn welcomes guests with its large, stylish lobby, friendly staff and freshly brewed coffee—available even in the early morning hours. The building features large, quiet, comfortable rooms and suites, many of which are equipped with a fireplace and balcony overlooking the ocean or the lovely gardens. Groups can reserve rooms in the Oceanfront Lodge, with contemporary style, ocean views and a lobby serving complimentary continental breakfast. The Newport Building houses comfortable, reasonably priced guest rooms with patios or balconies overlooking the grounds.

Reunions are a great way to revisit your past and appreciate your heritage, and finding a location that embodies that sense of tradition makes it even more special for the family. The Bar Harbor Inn & Spa offers genuine care and compassion for guests, and your reunion will be welcomed with open arms and warm smiles at this lovely New England getaway.

Get started by contacting Bar Harbor Inn & Spa using one of the methods provided. If you’ve held a reunion at the Atlantic Oceanside before, we’d love to hear what you have to say in the comments section.