A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bar Harbor vs. Minneapolis for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bar Harbor and Minneapolis can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a quaint, charming, and picturesque coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of Bar Harbor is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Bar Harbor travel costs.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a dynamic, innovative, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Bar Harbor and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Bar Harbor and Minneapolis are popular destinations, Minneapolis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Minneapolis is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bar Harbor attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bar Harbor is more touristy than Minneapolis and is popular for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park. Minneapolis is famous for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also well known for Mall of America.

How is Bar Harbor different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Minneapolis and Bar Harbor. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Minneapolis. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Bar Harbor and Minneapolis.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bar Harbor makes for a great culinary experience. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

Minneapolis has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for nightlife and partying.

Minneapolis offers plenty to do in the evening. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Bar Harbor doesn't offer many options. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis Better for Resorts?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Bar Harbor is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Minneapolis is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Bar Harbor makes a nice vacation spot. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.


Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis Better for Beaches?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Bar Harbor is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Bar Harbor has a beach worth visiting. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis Better for Hiking?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Bar Harbor is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Bar Harbor has hiking trails worth exploring. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is terrific for shopping. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Minneapolis is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Bar Harbor is well-known for its shopping. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.


Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis More Beautiful?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Bar Harbor is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Bar Harbor is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Surrounded by the water and beautiful landscaping, the town offers visitors plenty of beauty.

Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Minneapolis is a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly coastal town. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.

Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Bar Harbor is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Bar Harbor makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

Minneapolis is a good coastal town for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.


Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a well-known place for students. However, Bar Harbor is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Bar Harbor is not popular with students.

Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Minneapolis has a few public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.

Is Bar Harbor or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Bar Harbor
Minneapolis

Bar Harbor is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Bar Harbor is a very walkable coastal town. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable coastal town. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.


For even more information, also check out Is Bar Harbor Worth Visiting? and Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Bar Harbor?

How long in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Bar Harbor or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Minneapolis due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Bar Harbor, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

Families should spend more time in Minneapolis than Bar Harbor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Minneapolis, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bar Harbor than Minneapolis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bar Harbor that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Minneapolis than Bar Harbor if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Minneapolis.


  • How many days in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bar Harbor 2-3 
    Minneapolis 2-4

One day in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Bar Harbor is a small town with plenty to do. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With museums and nightlife around the diverse city of Minneapolis, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Bar Harbor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Minneapolis, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Because Bar Harbor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Minneapolis, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Since Bar Harbor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Minneapolis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Minneapolis or Bar Harbor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Bar Harbor Prices
    USA Prices
    Minneapolis Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bar Harbor $243
    Minneapolis $235

The average daily cost (per person) in Bar Harbor is $243, while the average daily cost in Minneapolis is $235. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bar Harbor and Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bar Harbor $117
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bar Harbor $234
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in Bar Harbor and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in Bar Harbor or Minneapolis? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bar Harbor


Hotels in Minneapolis


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bar Harbor Hotel Prices and Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bar Harbor $35
    Minneapolis $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

Also for Minneapolis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Rochester: One-Way Shared Transfer to or from MSP: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis and Bar Harbor change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bar Harbor $98
    Minneapolis $70
Typical Food Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • West Street Cafe (for 4)
    $70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bar Harbor $39
    Minneapolis $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • Acadia National Park Entrance Fee
    $25
  • Sunset Cruise (for 4)
    $96

Tours and Activities in Bar Harbor

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bar Harbor are as follows:

  • 4 Hour Private Tour: Acadia, Fjord, Gardens & Mansions: $700
  • 90-minute Ghost Walking Tour in Bar Harbor: $33
  • Acadia Fat tire Ebike Tours: $190
  • Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike: $427
  • Acadia Mount Desert Island Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $25
  • Acadia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Acadia's Ocean Path Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Bar Harbor Premium Driving Tour With Thunder Hole & Acadia: $159
  • Bar Harbor Premium Tour with Cadillac Mountain and Acadia Park: $149
  • Bar Harbor Walking Tour: $30
  • Bar Harbor, Maine: Culinary Walking Tour with Tastings: $160

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Mississippi River Cruise with Narration: $28
  • Mall of America: Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket: $31
  • Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball Game Ticket: $33
  • Mall of America 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $47
  • Past and Present Walking Tour: $60
  • Ultimate Minneapolis Walking Tour & Weatherproof Skyway Loop: $79
  • Minneapolis & St. Paul: Private Highlights Riding Tour: $550

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bar Harbor $30
    Minneapolis $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

Also in Minneapolis, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories: $79
  • Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour in Minneapolis: $100


When comparing the travel costs between Bar Harbor and Minneapolis, we can see that Bar Harbor is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bar Harbor Expensive? and Is Minneapolis Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Bar Harbor. When comparing the sizes of Bar Harbor and Minneapolis, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Bar Harbor or Minneapolis?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Minneapolis in the Summer?

Both Minneapolis and Bar Harbor during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bar Harbor is cooler than Minneapolis. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bar Harbor in July average around 69°F (21°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 76°F (25°C).

Bar Harbor usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Minneapolis. Bar Harbor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bar Harbor 69°F (21°C) 
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bar Harbor and Minneapolis. The autumn months attract visitors to Bar Harbor because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

In October, Bar Harbor is generally cooler than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Bar Harbor average around 48°F (9°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In October, Bar Harbor usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Bar Harbor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bar Harbor 48°F (9°C) 
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Minneapolis in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bar Harbor as well as Minneapolis. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Bar Harbor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Minneapolis. It's quite cold in Bar Harbor in the winter. Bar Harbor is a little warmer than Minneapolis in the winter. The daily temperature in Bar Harbor averages around 18°F (-8°C) in January, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 15°F (-10°C).

Bar Harbor usually gets more rain in January than Minneapolis. Bar Harbor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bar Harbor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Minneapolis in the Spring?

Both Minneapolis and Bar Harbor are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Minneapolis in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Bar Harbor is much colder than Minneapolis. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bar Harbor in April average around 43°F (6°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 49°F (10°C).

In April, Bar Harbor usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Bar Harbor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bar Harbor 43°F (6°C) 
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor Minneapolis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)