East Coast with Erin

Blog

  • Nantucket Day Trippin’

    Nantucket Day Trippin’

    There’s something about a summer day on Nantucket that never gets old. Living in Massachusetts means I’m lucky enough to have two incredible islands just a ferry ride away, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. This year, my friend and I decided Nantucket was the perfect choice for a girls’ day trip.

    Getting there couldn’t be easier. The high-speed ferry from Hyannis gets you to Nantucket in just one hour, making it ideal for a spontaneous summer adventure. There are two ferry companies that offer high-speed service from Hyannis: The Steamship Authority and Hy-line Cruises. Whichever you choose, I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months, since popular departure times often sell out.

    Once you’re on board, the vacation vibes begin immediately. Find a cozy seat inside in the air conditioning or head outside to enjoy the ocean breeze and beautiful coastal views. Grab a snack, a drink, or even a cocktail from the onboard café, sit back, and relax. Before you know it, the ferry is pulling into Nantucket Harbor and your island adventure is about to begin.

    Our first stop after stepping off the ferry was Handlebar Cafe, and it was the perfect way to kick off our day on the island. This charming little coffee shop has such a welcoming atmosphere and is definitely one of my favorite spots on Nantucket.

    I ordered an iced coffee with vanilla bean cold foam, and it was absolutely incredible. The cold foam was rich, creamy, and had the perfect hint of sweetness. Whether you’re looking for your morning caffeine fix or just a cozy place to start exploring, Handlebar Cafe is definitely worth adding to your Nantucket itinerary.

    After our coffee stop, we headed over to Provisions for some breakfast. This popular Nantucket spot is known for its made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, house-made bagels, and fresh pastries, making it the perfect place to fuel up before exploring the island.

    We grabbed one of the cozy tables inside and ordered breakfast. I went with the Original Breakfast Sandwich on an English muffin, which features herbed egg frittata, cheddar cheese, bacon, and their signature house-made tomato chipotle jam. The sandwich was delicious, but the tomato chipotle jam was the real standout. It added the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that made every bite memorable.

    With a little time to spare before heading over to Cisco, we wandered into Mitchell’s Book Corner, a great stop in downtown Nantucket. This charming bookstore is cozy, welcoming, and filled with everything from the latest bestsellers to the perfect beach reads.

    If you’re a fan of Nantucket-based novels, you’ll definitely want to stop in. They have a wonderful selection of books set on the island, including an entire section dedicated to Elin Hilderbrand‘s novels.

    One of the things I really enjoy about Mitchell’s Book Corner is that they often carry signed editions and occasionally host authors in the store. During our visit, author Sarah Vacchiano happened to be there signing copies of her debut novel. We couldn’t resist picking up a signed copy, and I already know it’ll be the perfect beach read for this summer.

    No trip to Nantucket is complete without a visit to Cisco Brewers, and getting there couldn’t be easier. Cisco offers a complimentary shuttle that runs seven days a week on a continuous loop. You can hop on at the corner of East Chestnut and Federal Street in downtown Nantucket, and it’ll drop you off right at the brewery entrance. It’s such a convenient (and stress-free!) way to get there without worrying about transportation. During the busy summer season, the shuttle line can get a bit long, so Uber and Lyft are also great options if you’d rather skip the wait.

    As soon as you arrive, you’ll understand why Cisco is such a popular destination. The atmosphere is lively and the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. There are plenty of picnic tables and outdoor seating areas, often with live music playing, creating the ultimate summer vibe.

    One of the best things about Cisco is the variety of drinks. Whether you’re a beer lover, prefer wine, enjoy hard seltzers, or are in the mood for a handcrafted cocktail, there’s truly something for everyone. We opted for one of the seasonal specialty cocktails, and it was incredibly refreshing, exactly what we needed on a warm June afternoon.

    If you work up an appetite, several food trucks are parked on-site serving everything from tacos to seafood and other local favorites. Before heading out, be sure to browse the large gift shop, where you’ll find everything from apparel and glassware to fun Nantucket souvenirs to remember your visit.

    After enjoying our time at Cisco, we hopped back on the shuttle and headed into town for some shopping. Downtown Nantucket is filled with so many adorable boutiques and unique shops, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around.

    One of my favorite parts of shopping on Nantucket is that every store has something different to offer. From clothing and accessories to home décor and unique island-inspired finds, it’s always fun to pop into a shop and see what catches your eye. Even if you don’t have anything specific in mind, walking through downtown and browsing the different stores is an experience in itself.

    No trip to Nantucket is complete without stopping at The Gazebo for one of their iconic mudslides. This spot has been a beloved part of the island for 34 years, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors.

    We stopped by to enjoy their famous mudslides, get some french fries, and soak in the atmosphere one more time. There’s something so special about enjoying a drink at a place that has been such a big part of Nantucket for decades. Sadly, The Gazebo is closing its doors after 34 years, making our visit feel even more memorable. We made sure to grab one of their mudslide t-shirts as a goodbye souvenir!

    Of course, we had to end a day exploring Nantucket with something sweet! We stopped at Nantucket Juice Bar for a treat and decided to try their Coffee Oreo flavor served in waffle cones. The combination of rich coffee ice cream and Oreo was absolutely delicious, and the freshly made waffle cones were the perfect touch. Nantucket Juice Bar is definitely worth adding to your itinerary for delicious cone!

    a little local shoutout to @boostedbakes - who makes delicious protein backed goodies! a little post summer recap ☀️ your sign to get a girl dinner this tuesday at @bar.cino.gather 🍝 my summer fueled by @hausof_brew ☕️ start your night out at @encorebostonharbor with dinner and drinks at the @rareloungeencore 🍸🥩 add the @ritzcarltonbostonma to your list of spots for a perfect night out in the city🍸 in denial that summer is almost over a weekend well spent on long island ☀️ a tucked away patio, oysters, affogato martinis… everything you could ever want is at @thehourly02138 🍸🦪
  • A Very Nashville Bachelorette

    A Very Nashville Bachelorette

    Nashville is truly an iconic bachelorette destination. It has everything you could want- live music, tons of bars, and lots of fun.

    Where We Stayed

    When searching for the perfect place to stay, our main goal was to find something close to downtown, ideally just a quick Uber ride away. After scrolling through what felt like endless Airbnb listings, we finally narrowed down a handful of favorites.

    We had a few non-negotiables when it came to accommodations. First and foremost: everyone needed a real bed. We’ve officially reached the stage of life where couch surfing is no longer part of the plan. The moment we found this townhouse, we knew it was exactly what we were looking for. With its stylish décor, spacious layout, and convenient location near downtown, it checked every box for the ultimate bachelorette weekend.

    One of the best features of this townhouse is the incredible amount of sleeping space. On the top floor, you’ll find the primary suite complete with a comfortable king bed, walk-in closet, and private ensuite bathroom. Just down the hall is another bedroom with a king bed and its own ensuite. There was also a third room on this floor featuring six twin bunk beds, though our group didn’t end up needing the extra space.

    The main living level offers plenty of room to gather, with a cozy living room, a piano, and a large, fully equipped kitchen. There’s also a convenient laundry area, which came in handy for drying our bathing suits before packing up. An additional bathroom is located on this floor as well.

    Head downstairs and you’ll find even more sleeping arrangements. One bedroom features a king bed and private ensuite bathroom, while the room next door includes a king bed with a bunk bed above it, along with another bathroom nearby. In the hallway, there’s a daybed that works perfectly for lounging, storing bags, or accommodating an extra guest.

    On the lowest level, you’ll find two additional queen sized bunk beds and an adorable vanity area for getting ready.

    The rooftop deck was truly a gem. With plenty of space to relax, enjoy drinks, soak up the views, and unwind in the hot tub, it was a perfect place to gather.

    We absolutely loved having so much space to spread out while still feeling like we were all together. For a larger group celebrating a special occasion, this townhouse couldn’t have been a better fit.

    Nashville Townhouse

    Where We Ate

    Hampton Social

    Hampton Social was the perfect brunch spot for our Nashville weekend. From the moment we walked in, we loved the bright, coastal-inspired atmosphere. The space is beautifully decorated throughout, with plenty of photo opportunities at every turn, making it just as much about the experience as it is the meal.

    The brunch menu offered a wide variety of delicious options, making it easy for everyone in our group to find something they loved. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic brunch dish, something sweet, or a refreshing cocktail, Hampton Social truly delivers. Of course, no brunch is complete without drinks, and their brunch cocktails were the perfect complement to the meal. While we enjoyed our food, we were treated to a great acoustic set, which added an extra layer to the already lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

    It’s the kind of place that feels made for celebrations—whether you’re visiting Nashville for a girls’ trip, bachelorette weekend, or just a fun getaway with friends. Between the great food, beautiful setting, and overall vibe, Hampton Social was a brunch stop we’d happily return to on our next trip to Nashville.

    Sixty Vines

    Sixty Vines in Nashville was a great dinner spot. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between stylish and welcoming, with an open, airy design that somehow still feels cozy. Even with our large group, we were seated comfortably without ever feeling cramped, which made it an ideal spot for a group brunch or dinner.

    We loved the cocktail and drink menu. As big espresso martini fans, their version was an absolute hit. It was smooth, rich, and the perfect pick-me-up before a night out in the city. The wine flights were another highlight, making it easy to sample a variety of options and turn the meal into a fun tasting experience.

    On top of the drinks, the food was just as impressive. Everything we ordered came out fresh and flavorful, with plenty of shareable options that worked perfectly for a bigger group. Between the great menu, beautiful space, and easygoing vibe, Sixty Vines ended up being one of those places that just works for any occasion. It’s a spot I’d recommend for anyone visiting Nashville who wants a slightly elevated but still relaxed dining experience with a group-friendly setup.

    Blanco

    Blanco in Nashville was a solid spot for a dinner. It had delicious food and a fun, energetic atmosphere. Everything we ordered was flavorful and perfect for sharing. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser spot, especially if you’re in the mood for tacos, guacamole, and margaritas.

    We did go in with a large group, and while the restaurant is lively and popular, it’s not necessarily set up for big parties to all sit together at one long table. That said, the staff was very accommodating and worked with us to get tables placed right next to each other, which made it easy to still feel connected throughout the meal. Overall, great food, great energy, and a reliable choice for a dinner in the city.

    Where We Danced & Drank

    THE FAVORITES:

    Tootsie’s

    No trip to Nashville is complete without a stop at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. It’s my favorite bar in the city and an absolute Broadway staple. With three floors, three bars, and three stages, every level offers a unique live music experience and its own distinct vibe.

    While Tootsie’s is always a great time, we got to experience it in a whole new way with a VIP package and it was worth every penny. We entered through the back entrance, skipping the crowds and lines. Our reserved VIP area was located on the top floor, right behind the band, giving us some of the best seats in the house. We had our own dedicated bartender, who kept the drinks flowing. The band was incredible and made a point to interact with our group throughout their set. At one point, they even handed us a cowbell and invited us to join in on the fun, which made the experience feel even more personal and memorable.

    Between the live music, great drinks, and unbeatable atmosphere, we had an absolute blast. Out of all our bar-hopping adventures throughout the weekend, this was easily my favorite stop.

    Honky Tonk Central

    Honky Tonk Central is another Broadway favorite and a spot I find myself returning to every time I’m in Nashville. Like many of the iconic bars on Broadway, it features three floors and three stages, giving you plenty of opportunities to find great live music and a fun atmosphere no matter where you end up. The first-floor stage is always a highlight, with talented musicians playing crowd favorites that keep everyone singing along and dancing. The energy here is consistently great, making it an easy place to spend much longer than you originally planned.

    During our trip, we ended up spending a large portion of our daytime bar crawl here, and it was time well spent. Between the live music and classic Broadway atmosphere, Honky Tonk Central delivered everything we love about Nashville’s bar scene.

    The Stage

    The Stage is always one of the busiest spots on Broadway and for good reason. Between the lively atmosphere, packed crowd, and talented live bands, it’s the kind of place that instantly feels like a Nashville experience. We were lucky enough to snag a table on the main floor with a perfect view of the stage.

    One of the highlights was getting to hear some of our favorite songs played live. Thanks to a few Venmo song requests, the band played some of our favorite requests and gave our group a special shout out! As the first stop on one of our nights out, The Stage set the tone for the evening. Great music, a fun crowd, and plenty of sing-along moments made it the perfect way to kick off a night on Broadway.

    Tin Roof

    Tin Roof was the perfect place to wrap up one of our nights out in Nashville. After spending the evening hopping between the busier Broadway bars, it offered a great balance of lively energy while still feeling a bit more laid-back. The live band kept the party going right up until closing time, playing a mix of songs that had everyone singing along and soaking up every last minute of the night. The atmosphere was fun, but more relaxed, exactly what we needed after a full day of exploring and celebrating.

    If you’re looking for a spot that still delivers great live music and a fun crowd without feeling overwhelming, Tin Roof is a fantastic choice. It was the great final stop to end an unforgettable night in Nashville.

    Jason Aldean’s

    If you’re looking for a change of pace from the traditional live music venues on Broadway, Jason Aldean’s rooftop is the place to be. Instead of country bands and acoustic sets, the rooftop offers a lively dance floor, complete with a DJ set, under the Nashville skyline.

    We had an absolute blast dancing here. The upbeat vibe and open-air setting made it feel completely different from the other bars we visited throughout the weekend. It was a fun way to switch things up while still enjoying all the energy that Broadway has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, grab a drink with a view, or simply experience a different side of Nashville nightlife, Jason Aldean’s rooftop is definitely worth a stop on your bar crawl.

    Friends in Low Places Bar & Honky-Tonk

    Friends in Low Places Bar & Honky-Tonk is another fun Broadway rooftop bar. While the entire venue has the lively energy and great live music you’d expect from a Nashville honky-tonk, the rooftop offers that DJ experience, slinging classic dance hits. This rooftop gave us more of a club-like atmosphere, complete with VIP tables and bottle service. The rooftop DJ kept the energy up, allowing us to scream our favorite lyrics and dance the night away. Friends in Low Places is definitely worth adding to your Broadway lineup.

    Pushing Daisies

    We made a stop at Pushing Daisies after dinner and before diving into the chaos of Broadway, and it ended up being the perfect transition into a night out. Tucked away below street level, this trendy underground cocktail bar offers a completely different vibe from the honky-tonks and live music venues Nashville is known for. The atmosphere was stylish and energetic, with a mix of handcrafted cocktails and DJs creating a fun, upbeat setting. Their margaritas were a standout and the perfect way to kick off the evening. Between the unique ambiance and great drinks, Pushing Daisies felt like a hidden gem and a refreshing change of pace before heading into the heart of Broadway.

    If you’re looking to mix in a cocktail lounge experience with your Nashville bar crawl, this spot is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

    THE HONORABLE MENTIONS:

    Whiskey Bent Saloon – live band karaoke upstairs

    Morgan Wallen’s This Bar

    Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk

    Jelly Roll’s Goodnight Nashville

    Where We Pontooned

    We spent most of Friday soaking up the sun on Percy Priest Lake with Nashville Toons. We booked their Double Decker Pontoon, which comfortably accommodated all 11 of us plus two crew members. We came prepared with plenty of drinks, snacks, and a box of sandwiches from Jimmy John’s for an easy lunch on the water.

    One of the things we loved most was how well-equipped the boat was. Nashville Toons provided coolers, ice, cups, a stereo system, floaties, a water slide, and even a full bathroom onboard. We spent the day cruising around the lake, blasting our favorite songs, floating in the water, and making the most of the beautiful weather.

    The crew truly helped make the experience unforgettable. They kept the energy up, made sure everyone was having a great time, giving us drink refills when needed. They made it so we could just enjoy the day. It ended up being one of the highlights of the entire bachelorette weekend!

    Nashville Toons

    Last tip: get your pet’s head on a stick. Your cute dog will get WAY more attention than your fiance on a stick! Luna truly stole the show so many times while we were out. It was so fun having bands want to bring her head on stage!

  • A Weekend in Bar Harbor

    A Weekend in Bar Harbor

    We spent a wonderful weekend in Bar Harbor, enjoying delicious food, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of outdoor adventures with our dog, Luna.

    Before our trip, I spent hours searching for the perfect dog-friendly place to stay. While dog friendly Airbnb options were surprisingly limited, I eventually came across a charming bed and breakfast called the Inn at Bay Ledge and immediately had a feeling it would be exactly what we were looking for.

    After finishing work on Friday, we packed up the car and made the drive to Bar Harbor, arriving later that evening. Since the inn’s standard check-in hours are between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m., we arranged a late arrival in advance. The process couldn’t have been easier. Our hosts provided a door code, allowing us to check in seamlessly at our own pace.

    Our room was located in the property’s cottage area, which consists of three dog-friendly rooms centered around a shared outdoor space- complete with string lights, comfortable seating, and a fire pit.

    We stayed in Room 1, a cozy retreat featuring a comfortable king-sized bed and a fireplace that made the space feel especially inviting on a cool May evening. One of the things I loved most about the inn was that every room has its own unique personality and style, giving the property a warm, thoughtfully curated feel rather than the cookie-cutter atmosphere of a typical hotel.

    Saturday began with an incredible breakfast prepared by our hosts, Sarah and Dax. After grabbing a fresh cup of coffee, we settled into our table and looked forward to our first meal of the day. Breakfast started with a bowl of creamy vanilla Greek yogurt served alongside a selection of toppings of craisins, sunflower seeds, and granola. Simple as it sounds, it was some of the best yogurt I’ve ever had! The main course was just as delectable: house-made waffles topped with sweet Maine blueberries, served with local maple syrup, maple sausage links, and fluffy scrambled eggs.

    After breakfast, we spent some time wandering around the property, which was every bit as beautiful as we had imagined. The grounds are thoughtfully designed with inviting spaces to relax and enjoy the scenery. A large deck offers plenty of cozy seating, tables, and even blankets for those cooler coastal mornings and evenings.

    Just steps from the deck are two tucked-away hot tubs, perfectly positioned for unwinding after a day of adventure. Beyond that is a grassy lawn with Adirondack chairs and a gas fire pit, creating an ideal gathering spot to enjoy the view or watch the sunset.

    We continued down the narrow path that makes its way out toward the end of the cliff edge. Two Adirondack chairs awaited us, positioned perfectly to take in the sweeping views of Frenchman Bay. The peaceful setting, coastal breeze, and endless ocean views made for a memorable start to our first full day in Maine.

    Next, we made our way down the stairs to the rocky beach below, where an entirely different perspective awaited us. The views from the shoreline are just as breathtaking as those from above. Walking along the water’s edge, we took in sweeping views of the bay on one side and the dramatic rocky cliffs towering overhead on the other. We wandered through the natural rock formations, pausing often to soak in the scenery and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by such stunning coastal beauty, it was impossible not to be completely captivated by the landscape.

    Fueled up and ready for the day, we set off for Acadia National Park with a recommendation from Dax to hike Pemetic Mountain. Our original plan was to tackle the Bubbles and North Bubbles Trail along with the Jordan Pond Path, but when we arrived, the crowds quickly changed our minds. Looking for a quieter adventure, we decided Pemetic was the perfect alternative.

    After lucking out and finding a last-minute parking spot in a small lot near the trailhead, we laced up our boots and hit the trail. The hike offered the ideal balance of rewarding views and just enough elevation gain to keep things interesting for both us and Luna. The well-marked path wound through peaceful forest sections before giving way to rugged rock outcroppings that required a bit of scrambling, adding to the fun and variety of the journey. We encountered a few other hikers, but overall the trail was quiet and calm. Along the way, there were plenty of scenic spots to pause for water, a quick snack, or simply to take in the beauty of Acadia. Luna was loving every second of it!

    Reaching the summit was well worth the effort. From the peak, we were treated to sweeping panoramic views of Cadillac Mountain and Penobscot Mountain, along with stunning overlooks of Jordan Pond, Eagle Lake, and Bubble Pond. It was one of those views that makes you stop for a moment, catch your breath, and appreciate just how incredible Acadia truly is. The natural beauty is part of what makes Mount Desert Island such a special destination.

    After our hike, we traded mountain views for coastal charm and spent the afternoon wandering through downtown Bar Harbor. We strolled along the waterfront and through the streets, soaking up the lively atmosphere that makes this seaside town so special.

    With lunch on our mind, we stopped at Village Green Cafe for a quick bite. We decided to split the Bluebird Brie, a delicious combination of sliced turkey, crispy bacon, creamy brie, fresh greens, and Maine blueberry jam served on warm toasted ciabatta, along with a bowl of clam chowder. We carried our lunch over to the nearby Village Green, where we found a bench and enjoyed some classic people-watching as crowds wandered through a weekend craft fair. It was the perfect spot to slow down and take everything in.

    After lunch, a sweet treat was calling my name. I spotted The Sweet Bite and simply couldn’t resist. I ordered the Double Chocolate Espresso Cookie, and it was every bit as good as it sounds; warm, gooey, rich, and packed with chocolatey goodness.

    We continued exploring the streets for a while longer before stopping at Acadia Perk for a much-needed coffee. Drinks in hand, we took one last stroll through town before heading back to the car.

    We returned to the inn just in time relax and get ready for happy hour! After a full day of hiking and exploring, it was the perfect excuse to slow down and savor the moment. We grabbed a complimentary glass of wine and one of Dax’s oatmeal fudge bars which was beyond delicious.

    With sweet treats and drinks in hand, we found a spot by the water and settled in to relax. The peaceful setting, gentle coastal breeze, and beautiful views created the perfect backdrop for reflecting on the day’s adventures.

    One of the things we loved most about Bar Harbor and Acadia was just how dog-friendly everything was. Traveling with Luna can sometimes require extra planning, but here she was welcome almost everywhere we went.

    After checking BringFido and chatting with Dax for dinner recommendations, we decided on McKay’s Public House. Their spacious outdoor patio is dog-friendly, which immediately earned Luna’s approval. We settled in with a couple of cocktails and an order of warm pretzels to share while enjoying the atmosphere.

    For our entrées, we chose the Beef Short Rib and the Seafood Risotto, and both dishes exceeded our expectations. The short rib was tender and flavorful, while the risotto was packed with fresh seafood and rich, comforting flavors. Every bite was delicious. Of course, we couldn’t leave Luna out of the experience. She happily enjoyed a hamburger patty of her own.

    After dinner, we took walked around downtown Bar Harbor, enjoying the cool evening air and the charm of the waterfront town as the day began to wind down. Before heading back to the inn, we made one final stop at CJ’s Big Dipper for ice cream. Since Maine blueberries are truly a staple of the area, I couldn’t resist ordering the vanilla and blueberry twist soft serve. As we walked back through town with ice cream in hand and Luna trotting beside us, it felt like the perfect ending to an already wonderful day in Bar Harbor.

    Sunday morning began with another wonderful breakfast at the inn, and by then we were already looking forward to what Dax had planned for the meal. We started with fresh coffee, juice, and vanilla yogurt that had quickly become one of our favorite parts of the morning. The main course was equally impressive. Dax served up warm cinnamon rolls generously piled high with icing alongside a made-to-order breakfast scramble with your choice of ingredients. The combination of sweet and savory was the perfect way to start our final day in Bar Harbor.

    As we lingered over breakfast and chatted about our plans for the day, it was easy to appreciate the thoughtful hospitality of Sarah and Dax, whose warmth and attention to detail made our stay feel truly special. Eventually, we made our way back to the room to pack our belongings and prepare for one final day of exploring before heading home.

    After checking out, we parked near the waterfront and spent the morning wandering through downtown Bar Harbor. One thing that continued to impress us was just how dog-friendly the town is. Many of the shops welcomed well-behaved dogs inside, making it easy for Luna to join us as we browsed. We popped in and out of boutiques, gift shops, and local stores, picking up a few Bar Harbor souvenirs along the way and enjoying the unique character each storefront had to offer.

    After some successful shopping, we found ourselves in need of a caffeine fix and decided to stop at The Stadium. Their menu features an impressive variety of specialty drinks. We eventually settled on two of their signature iced lattes: the Moosetracks, made with chocolate, caramel, and peanut butter, and the Precipice, a delicious combination of white chocolate and blueberry syrup. As a self proclaimed coffee connoisseur, I couldn’t have imagined a better latte. No visit would have been complete without trying one of their famous popovers. I ordered one served warm with butter and Maine blueberry jam, and it was every bit as good as I’d hoped. Light, airy, and perfectly paired with the sweet blueberry jam, it was the ideal mid-morning treat.

    Of all the shops we visited, two quickly became favorites: Acadia Park Company for us and Bark Harbor for Luna. Acadia Park Company was a standout for its thoughtfully curated selection of Acadia and Bar Harbor apparel, gifts, and outdoor-inspired merchandise. Beyond the great shopping, we loved learning that the company partners with Friends of Acadia, a local nonprofit dedicated to preserving and protecting Acadia National Park. Through this partnership, Acadia Park Company donates 2% of its annual gross sales back to the park, making it easy to feel good about supporting a business that gives back to the place so many people love.

    Of course, we couldn’t spend the morning shopping without letting Luna enjoy a little retail therapy of her own, which is where Bark Harbor came in. The moment we walked through the door, Luna was completely in her element. Her nose immediately picked up the scent of locally made dog treats, and she eagerly explored every corner of the store. She sniffed her way through, investigating toys, treats, and displays, occasionally stopping to point us toward something that had caught her attention. Needless to say, she didn’t leave empty-pawed. By the time we checked out, Luna had accumulated quite the haul, including pumpkin bones, blueberry pancake treats, a whale toy, and a taco from the store’s Barkery. It’s safe to say she considered Bark Harbor one of the highlights of her trip.

    Between finding a few treasures for ourselves and spoiling Luna with plenty of goodies, our final morning of shopping was the perfect way to wrap up our weekend in Bar Harbor. Luna stopped by the water for a quick photo shoot before we made our way back to the car.

    Before beginning the drive home, we made one final stop at Bar Harbor Lobster Pound for a classic Maine sendoff. An outdoor ordering counter, a spacious seating area filled with picnic tables, heat lamps, and even a game of cornhole, plus an outdoor bar and an ice cream boat that added to the laid-back coastal vibe. Along the side, you can find a small lobster shack and plenty of lobster pots, where workers were hard at work making the magic happen.

    We decided to go all in on lobster and ordered a spread that felt fitting for our last meal in Maine: lobster nachos piled high with fresh meat, lobster tacos, and a traditional lobster roll. We also grabbed blueberry lemonade, which felt like the perfect nod to everything we had been enjoying all weekend. It was the kind of meal that is unmistakably New England.

    The Inn at Bay Ledge was a wonderful home base for our trip, and between the hiking, downtown exploring, dog-friendly dining, and local seafood, Bar Harbor gave us a truly memorable Maine getaway. We can’t wait to go back!