Bar Harbor, Maine: A Multigenerational Family Travel Guide

Nature is calling - Explore the wonders of Acadia National Park

Don’t forget to grab your park pass from the National Park Service before you go. You will need one for each vehicle.

One of the highlights of Acadia is Cadillac Mountain. Known for being one of the first spots in the US to see the sunrise at certain times of the year because of its height and location. There are two ways to reach the summit. Drive or hike. Our family split up and did both. Pro tip: Send the drivers with a breakfast spread! You need reservations into the park for your vehicle, but no pass or reservation is needed if you hike up. Plan to leave in plenty of time before sunrise as the roads into the park get busy. For the brave hikers, there are multiple trails that lead to Cadillac Mountain, but you will need to hike in the dark. Headlamps, clothing layers and morning nutrition are a must. This was the highlight of our time in Bar Harbor. From the physicality of conquering the hike, to the joy of the first glimpse of the sun, it felt like a true celebration! We allowed 3-hours for our hike from the Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead. And since sunrise was at 5:05am…you can do the math! We opted to hike back down and the views were spectacular.

Other musts in Acadia National Park: Sand Beach, Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond for family-friendly outdoor experiences.

Another of our family’s favorites: Hike the land bridge to Bar Island. During low tides, you can walk to the island. Our youngest enjoyed seeing all of the sea life and hunting for sea glass.

Tours

Embark on a thrilling whale watching tour from the harbor. Spot humpback, minke and finback whales, as well as other marine wildlife.

Lobster Tours - Take a lobster fishing tour and learn how to catch, cook and enjoy this Maine delicacy together.

Nature Tour - Enjoy family-friendly nature cruises to observe seals, puffins and other coastal wildlife.

Carriage Ride tours - Part of the Acadia National Park system and a gift from the Rockefeller Family, there are 45 miles of motor-free roads to explore by foot, bicycle or horse-drawn carriage.

For plant lovers, Wild Gardens of Acadia, Thuya Gardens and Asticou Azalea Gardens are wonderful places to explore.

Shopping

Stroll through the charming streets of downtown Bar Harbor. Explore boutique shops, art galleries and local goods. There is no shortage of fun shops in Bar Harbor!

Museums

Explore the Abbe Museum to learn about the Native American history and culture of Maine. It's both educational and engaging for all ages.

Bar Harbor Whale Museum: Discover the fascinating world of whales and other marine life at the Bar Harbor Whale. Interactive exhibits make it fun and educational.

Winter Sports

We used Bar Harbor as an escape from the high heat of the summer in Texas, but plenty of snow bunnies enjoy Maine during the winter. Cross Country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, sled dogs and winter camping are several ways to enjoy the colder weather Maine provides.

Day Trips

• Coastal drives to view lighthouses

• CAT high speed ferry to Nova Scotia

• Half or full day deep sea fishing charter

• Brewery hopping in Bangor

Jordan Pond House: Reservations advised. This is inside Acadia National Park with beautiful views of Jordan Pond and many trail heads to explore. Famous for popovers!

Stewmans Lobster Pound: People line up before they open for lunch to grab the perfect ocean view table. Open June-October depending on the weather.

Bar Harbor Inn: One of the best views of the harbor!

Rosalies Pizza: Perfect to take back to your stay accommodations for a relaxing family meal.

Mt Desert Island Ice Cream: The best ice cream.

Chartroom Bar Harbor: Sunday Brunch spot.

C-Ray Lobster: You have to try a roadside lobster pound!

The Barnacle Pub and Oyster Bar: A great oyster bar.