Bar Harbor, Maine, Named Most ‘Unwelcoming’ Small Town in America

In just the past few years, there has been so much written about the small town of Bar Harbor, Maine. From its food to its hotels to the fact that it remains one of the hottest tourism destinations in the entire world, especially in the summer.

The residents of Bar Harbor have felt that hype come to life. People have poured into Acadia National Park at record levels, hotels and motels have had limited to no vacancy for months and restaurants have been brimming with hungry visitors. It seems as though Bar Harbor has welcomed visitors with open arms.

Then again, maybe not.

Bar Harbor Deemed the Most 'Unwelcoming' Small Town in America

According to MSN, while Bar Harbor's views and charm may forever be appealing to travelers, the people that live and work in the small coastal town may not feel warm and fuzzy inside when the height of tourist season kicks in.

MSN details tourist accounts of seeing extra eye rolls or snippy comments during their visits to Bar Harbor in recent years. Many have even remarked about being surprised seeing cars with Maine license plates encouraging visitors to leave as soon as possible.

Maine Appreciates Tourism But Towns Like Bar Harbor Have Their Limits

Tourism remains the life blood of many businesses throughout Maine. But many towns in the state simply weren't built for the amount of tourism the state has seen in recent years.

Combine that with the lack of available staff at many restaurants, retail shops and hotels, it all adds up to visitors feeling 'unwelcome' while the people who work and live in Maine feel overwhelmed.