Southwest Harbor is a small picturesque town located on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, Maine, and is part of Acadia National Park. This charming town is known for its picturesque harbor views, maritime activities, and hiking trails. With its rugged shoreline and bustling harbor, there's no shortage of things to do, eat and explore in Southwest Harbor.
1. Southwest Harbor Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
One of the best ways to get to know your date better is to take a romantic stroll through a park. Fortunately, there are many great parks in Southwest Harbor that offer spectacular views and plenty of places to explore. For an intimate walk, try the Shore Path Trail. This path follows the edge of the harbor for a mile, giving you and your date a chance to admire the beauty of the ocean. Or, if you're feeling up to it, you can spend a few hours at Acadia National Park and take a hike on one of the many trails available. If you'd like to take it a step further, the Asticou Azalea Gardens is the perfect place for a romantic picnic. Spend a day admiring the gorgeous displays of flowers and other natural beauty before taking a walk through the gardens. Not only is it an ideal place to get to know each other better, but it also provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic photo or two.
2. Places For a Coffee Date in Southwest Harbor
Coffee dates are a great option for first dates because they are low-key and don't require a long commitment. Fortunately, Southwest Harbor has plenty of places to grab a cup of coffee and get to know your date better. To start, try the Dockside Tavern, a cozy café located right on the water. Here, you can enjoy a cup of steaming coffee while admiring the stunning views of the harbor. Or, if you'd like something a little more intimate, head to the Acadia Crafts Gallery, where you can sip on fresh coffee while browsing the unique works of art on display. If you're looking for something a bit more rustic, then the Cottage Street Bakery & Cafe is the perfect place; enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the quaint atmosphere of this small café.
3. Southwest Harbor Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Southwest Harbor is home to many different galleries, museums, and exhibitions that are perfect for getting to know your date better. Some of the more popular spots include Red Sky Gallery, a gallery featuring works from local artists, and the Museum of Art at Crowley Art Center, which offers a wide range of art installations. If you're looking for something a little more interactive, then consider the Asticou Azalea Garden. This garden is a great place to spend some time together while admiring the beautiful displays of flowers and other plant life. Or, if you'd like to learn more about the history of Southwest Harbor, the Great Harbor Maritime Museum is the perfect place to go. Here, you can take a tour of the museum and learn all about the area's rich history.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Southwest Harbor
Live music and entertainment are great ways to keep the conversation flowing on a first date. Fortunately, Southwest Harbor has plenty of places that offer a variety of different shows and performances. One of the more popular spots for live music is the Southwest Harbor Music Hall, which hosts regular shows featuring a variety of genres. Or, if you're looking for something a little more relaxed, head down to the Schooner Wharf Bar and Grill. Here, you can enjoy a few drinks while listening to local musicians play some acoustic tunes. And, if you're in the mood for some laughs, there's always the Second House American Comedy Club, where you can enjoy a night of stand-up comedy.
5. Southwest Harbor Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
When it comes to finding the perfect spot for a first date drink or meal, Southwest Harbor has plenty of options. For a drink or light snack, head to the Side Street Cafe, a small cafe and bar. Here, you can enjoy a few drinks while taking in the beautiful harbor views. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, try the Asticou Inn, a small inn and tavern that offers a wide range of local beers and pub food. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, then consider the Bar Harbor T
