The Central House

The history here was a fun surprise. We learned the house had once belonged to the family who owned the Washington Post, and later the son married the woman who owned the Hope diamond, now at the Smithsonian Institute. The common area also had three coffee choices including decaf, two teas, hot chocolate, and a big ice maker beside the fridge. When the weather turned cold, notes on the common-area doors let us know the heating units had been switched from AC to heat. Our room had its own wall heater and was tastefully decorated, with two very comfy green swivel chairs. The porch was a highlight. We had morning coffee outside in the cold and even ate dinner there, overlooking the street. Fresh plants and hanging baskets made the whole place feel warm and welcoming. The owners put out chocolate chip cookies, and the night before breakfast there were cute little pastries. Our king bed was very comfortable, the shower was nice, and the fan over the bed was a plus. Staff cleaning the rooms were friendly, too. We travel a lot for fun and for work, and this place exceeded what we expected. We arrived about an hour before check-in because we weren't sure how long the drive would take. We were welcomed by someone we believe was the owner's daughter, then met Doreen and Phil, the husband and wife who've owned and rented the rooms for, I guess, six years. It's under a five-minute walk to the water and less than two minutes to most of the things you'd want nearby. Forrest, this place checked every box for us, and we'd stay again if we come back this way.

Everything was exceptionally clean, from our room to the porch and common areas. I'm particular about cleanliness, and I was impressed that such a large place with so many guests was kept so tidy. It clearly gets a regular deep clean. It was my first time staying at an inn, and The Central House couldn't have been a better introduction. Phil greeted us on arrival, explained the important things about the inn and Bar Harbor, and stayed available while still giving us room to enjoy ourselves. The house is quiet and within walking distance of everything. We'll recommend it to family and friends exploring Bar Harbor.

The covered porch and indoor sitting areas made it easy to unwind after a busy day. The rooms were lovely, and the location was ideal: we could walk to shops and restaurants, and Acadia was a short drive away. Not having to worry about parking in Bar Harbor was a real plus. I'd love to stay here again if I'm back in the area.

We spent five nights here as a couple visiting Bar Harbor and Acadia. The innkeepers and other guests were friendly and helpful, and our room was clean, comfortable, and quiet. The house sits right in the middle of Bar Harbor, with all the major trails in Acadia National Park no more than a 20-minute drive away. We also enjoyed relaxing on the beautiful front porch.