What to do in Acadia National Park with Kids
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If you’re looking for what to do in Acadia National Park with kids (or without!), you’re in the right place. There are so many wonderful things to do in Acadia National Park with kids. From gentle walks along the rugged coastline, mountain hikes, tree-lined carriage roads for biking, and lakes for kayaking and canoeing, Acadia offers many opportunities to get outside and be active. Acadia National Park is first documented back in 1604 when Samuel de Champlain arrived and mapped the entire area. It is home to the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline. Acadia has a rich cultural heritage, an abundance of habitats, and gorgeous glaciated coastal and island landscapes. Acadia National Park preserves half of Mount Desert Island, part of the Isle au Haut, the tip of the Schoodic Peninsula, and parts of 16 smaller outlying islands. Acadia National Park was first designated as Sieur de Monts National Monument on July 8, 1916, but was later changed to Lafayette National Park in 1919. However, in 1929, the park was renamed Acadia National Park. Acadia is visited by approximately 3.45 million people annually and is made up of about 47,633 acres of protected land. Whether you are traveling with kids or without, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this unique National Park.
Every visitor to Acadia National Park should make a stop at one of the visitor or information centers to get a park map, get a weather update, info about the park’s land and water conditions, and possible closures. You can also visit HERE to see up-to-date closures and weather. The Hulls Cove Visitor Center is the only Visitor Center in the park and can be very busy. An alternative is the Sieur Du Monts Nature Center which is staffed with Park Rangers. Park Rangers are a wonderful resource for finding out the parks more off the beaten path spots.
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When to Visit Acadia National Park
The best time to visit Acadia is mid-September until peak “leaf peeping” — the park is absolutely gorgeous this time of year and the summer crowds have dwindled. The temperatures are nearly perfect, trails should be more clear, and everything will be open in anticipation of the arrival of the throngs of Peepers.
Summertime is one of Acadia’s busiest seasons. Since many people have the most time off work and kids are out of school, this is the most popular time of year to visit Acadia. If you’re visiting in summer, expect higher costs for accommodations, very busy roads, and crowded trails. Book as early as possible and be open to pre-dawn starts to avoid the crowds.
In the fall, it’s peeping season. Peepers come from all over the world to witness the changing of the leaves in Acadia. This time of year brings cool crisp temperatures, gorgeous fall colors and is one of the best time to visit Acadia National Park. Be prepared to encounter throngs of tourists who reach Bar Harbor via cruise boat.
The spring is Acadia’s rainy season. Expect very cool temperatures and pack your rain gear! During this time of year, the fog can be very dense making visibility low.
Winter is very cold and very quiet in Acadia. The park gets very few visitors during this time of year and amenities in the park are limited. However, if you love a snowy hike or watching the sunrise over a snowy mountain - this could be the best time to visit Acadia for you.
We visited in July 2021. The park was quiet in the early morning hours, but by around 9 it was absolutely buzzing with other visitors. The museums and visitor centers had a constant flow of people and parking anywhere was hard to find. We visited for 4 nights and during our stay, we had 2 days of solid rain (so plan accordingly!). The temperatures were cool in the evenings and in the mornings, but very nice in the afternoons.
How to get to Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is located along the Northern Coast of Maine. The entrance to the park is located about an hour East of the heavily trafficked I-95 and about 30 minutes East of US-1. The closest town is Bar Harbor which is co-located with the park and the closest city with an airport is Bangor.
Bangor to Acadia National park is 1 hour - only 43 miles.
How far is Acadia National Park from Portland, Maine? 2 hour, 55 minutes
Boston to Acadia National Park is 4 hours, 35 minutes
Quebec to Acadia National park is 5 hours, 30 minutes
Burlington to Acadia National Park is 6 hours, 35 minutes
New York City to Acadia National Park is 7 and 50 minutes.
Acadia National Park is the only National Park in Maine, but there are several other National Historic Sites.
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How Much Does it Cost to Get into Acadia National Park?
Entrance Fee
Private Vehicle: $30. Valid for 7 days. Admits private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants to Acadia National Park.
Motorcycle: $25. Valid for 7 days: Admits one non-commercial motorcycle to Acadia National Park.
Bicyclists, hikers, and pedestrians are per person: $15. Valid for 7 days. Admits one individual with no car to Acadia National Park.
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Where to Stay in Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park Lodges:
There are no lodges in Acadia National Park. However, there are many amazing places to stay very close by in Bar Harbor. Check out my recommended places.
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Acadia National Park Campground:
There are four campgrounds inside Acadia National Park. All of Acadia National Park’s campgrounds currently require advanced reservations and are not accepting walk-up requests. We camped at Blackwoods Campground in our minivan during our stay in Acadia - check out my full guide to turning your minivan into a camper without building anything.
Blackwoods Campground: Season is May-October: Reservations required. This campground has 281 sites including 60 RV sites and 4 group sites. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. This campground has potable drinking water, flush toilets, and a dump station. There are no showers in this campground. All sites are within a 10-minute walk to the ocean. **This is where we stayed on our visit to Acadia and in my opinion is one of the best places to stay Acadia National Park.
Cost: $30/night
Seawall Campground: Season is May-October: Reservations required. This campground has a total of 202 sites including 59 RV, 43 tent only, and 98 walk to sites. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. This campground has potable drinking water, flush toilets, and a dump station. There are no showers in this campground. This campground has potable drinking water, flush toilets, and a dump station. All sites are a short walk to the ocean.
Cost: $22-30/night
Schoodic Woods Campground: Season is May-October: Reservations required. This campground has a total of 89 sites including 41 RV, 13 tent only, and 9 walk to sites. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. This campground has potable drinking water, flush toilets, and a dump station. There are no showers in this campground. This campground has potable drinking water, flush toilets, and a dump station. All sites are a short walk to the ocean. ***Acadia's Island Explorer shuttle service is available on the Schoodic Peninsula from late-May to mid-October.
Cost: $22-$40/night
Duck Harbor Campground: Season is June-October: Reservations required. This campground has a total of 5 walk to sites. The campground has a fire ring, picnic table, vault toilets, and a hand pump water station. ***This campground is located on an Island, has a maximum of 3 night stay, and several other rules that should be reviewed before booking.
Cost: $20/night
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Where to Stay Outside of Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is co-located with Bar Harbor where you can find a hotel size and price for any family or budget.
Recommended Hotels Near Acadia National Park:
Bar Harbor Grand Hotel: With yesterday’s charm, and today’s modern conveniences, the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is a replica of the historic Rodick House. Bar Harbor Grand Hotel offers Deluxe King Rooms, elegant Deluxe Guest Rooms with two queen beds, Extended Stay Suites, and even two-bedroom units to accommodate families. The hotel will provide pack n plays upon request too! While you stay, enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, a fitness center, a heated pool, Jacuzzi, relaxing rocking chairs on the porch, and even an on-site gift shop. Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is located just steps from downtown Bar Harbor and a very short drive from Acadia National Park. This hotel is the perfect spot to begin your adventure!
Other Recommended places to stay near Arcadia National Park:
If you prefer to stay at a different hotel, use the map below to find a hotel that fits your family size and budget.
RV & Camping Near Acadia National Park:
There are so many options for camping or staying in RV parks around Acadia National Park. Also, if you have a self-contained RV, consider a Harvest Host stay where you can stay for FREE while you explore Acadia.
About the Island Explorer Shuttle
The Island Explorer is a clean propane-powered shuttle that features eight bus routes linking hotels, inns, and campgrounds with destinations in Acadia National Park and neighboring village centers. This free transportation takes visitors to hiking trails, carriage roads, island beaches, and in-town shops and restaurants.
Parking around Acadia National Park is very limited. If you know you’ll be exploring specific spots in the park for the entire day or half a day, I definitely recommend this service. We used the Island Explorer after hiking Bee Hive Trail. The bus picked us up right at Sand Beach and dropped us off at the campground. It was very convenient, clean, and the drivers are extremely nice. I wish we had used it to go to Jordan Pond because it was so crowded and it took us about 30-40 minutes to get a parking spot. The Island Explorer would have dropped us out front with no wait!
THE ISLAND EXPLORER OPERATES JUNE THROUGH COLUMBUS DAY. FALL SERVICE BEGINS IN AUGUST.
What to do in Acadia National Park with Kids
1) Hike
Acadia National Park has over 150 miles of hiking trails for any ability. From short, easy hikes with incredible views to longer more challenging trails, Acadia has it all. Hiking is an absolute must do in Acadia National Park! The following trails are ONLY for the Mount Desert Island area of Acadia. Click HERE to check out the Schoodic Peninsula Trails.
Best Hikes for Toddlers in Acadia National Park:
Wonderland Trail: (Do not Miss) This easy 1.4-mile trail follows an old gravel fire road. Hikers walk through a gorgeous wooded area that opens up to the ocean. At low tide, this area is amazing for tide-pooling. **Be gentle with sea creatures and be cautious of the tide.
Jordan Pond Trail: (Iconic Acadia) This easy 3.3-mile loop takes hikers around Acadia’s famous Jordan Pond. It is an iconic spot in the park. The trail can be shortened by simply turning back. Hikers will be rewarded with views of the Bubbles as a backdrop to the pond, beaver dams, several different terrains, and views of the pond the entire way. We did this path easily with a 4 and 6-year-old. I recommend wearing toddlers along the raised footbridges since they have 2-way traffic.
Ship Harbor Trail: This 1.3-mile figure 8 trail is located along the seawall. It is perfect for families and exposes hikers to a variety of birds and bird habitats. Includes great coastal views.
Bar Island Trail: This easy 1.9-mile trail appears only during low tide. As the water recedes, a gravel bar is exposed connecting the town of Bar Harbor and Bar Island. The bar provides opportunities for investigating small tide pools.
Ocean Path: This is an easy 2.2 (one way) path that follows the coastline. The path from Sand Beach to Thunder hole (0.7 miles) is mostly paved, but the rest of the trail is gravel and rocky and includes 2 sets of stairs, so it is not stroller friendly. However, this trail is amazing for experiencing the pink granite, picturesque cliffs, and breathtaking oceans views of Maine’s unique coastline. You can choose to make this trail as long or as short as you’d like.
Best Hikes for Kids in Acadia National Park:
Bubbles Trail (Do not Miss): This moderate 1.5-mile round trip trail takes hikers to the summits of North Bubble, South Bubble, and to Bubble Rock. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Jordan Pond. *We did not do this hike on our visit and I regret it, I know it would have been amazing Consider doing the Bubbles Nubble Loop as an alternative. Also, this trail can be accessed from the Jordan Pond Trail Loop.
Bowl Trail (Beehive without the Rung & Ladder): (Do not miss!) This short trail takes hikers to the summit of Beehive Trail (see Beehive Trail description below) — this is the back way. Instead of the difficult rung and ladder trail, it takes hikers up the back of the mountain on a gradual climb.
Bubbles Nubble Loop: (Recommended) This moderate 2.6-mile trail takes hikers to the summits of Conner Nubble, and both the North and South Bubbles. The path goes through several of the unique terrains of Acadia. It also provides hikers with panoramic views of Jordan Pond, Sargent Mountain, Pemetic Mountain, The Cranberry Islands, and Eagle Lake. **Good hike for fall foliage
Flying Mountain Loop: This moderate 1.5-mile loop trail is great for families. It follows a path to a panoramic overlook of Somes Sound and goes down into a quiet ocean cove with a rocky beach.
Gorham Moutain Loop: This moderate 3.4-mile trail follows blends all the different terrains of Acadia. There are panoramic coast views, mountainous views, sea cliffs, and even a historic plaque.
Beachcroft Path: This 2-mile trail heads towards Champlain Mountain and offers panoramic coastal mountain views of Mount Desert Island, Frenchman Bay, and the outlying islands. The trail is a historic trail named in memory Charles Morton Smith. **This trail can also be started from Sieur de Monts via the Wild Gardens Path (add .6 miles round trip) - could be added on to a visit to Sieur De Months Nature Center
Kebo Brook Trail to Kebo Mountain: This easy to moderate 2-mile trail takes hikers to the summit of Kebo Mountain. The path goes through a forested area and then climbs for 0.3-miles to the summit. From the summit, hikers are rewarded with views of Frenchman Bay.
Gorge Path: This moderate 2.5-mile trail is perfect for kids who love to climb. The path goes between Dorr and Cadillac Mountains, passes steep cliff walls and small cascades, climbs granite steps, a few streams, and is mostly shaded.
Beach Mountain Trail: This easy to moderate 1.2-mile trail takes hikers to views of Long Pond and Mansell Mountain. This is a great option to watch the sunset.
Norumbega Mountain Loop: This moderate 2.2-mile trail climbs to the summit of Norumbega Mountain and then down to walk along the shores of Lower Hadlock Pond. This trail does include a few raised wooden boardwalks.
Best Hikes for Teenagers in Acadia National Park:
Beehive Trail: (Do not miss) Beehive trail is one of Acadia’s famous rung and ladder trails. While it is a short 1.4-mile trail, it is also one of Acadia’s more difficult trails. The Beehive trail ascends a 450-foot cliff with exposed edges. There are no railings and parts of the trail need to be climbed or rung ladders are laid flat for crossing. Hikers must wear appropriate shoes and be prepared for a steep climb.
***My stepdad (63) and I (34) did the Beehive Trail with no issues. I didn’t find it particularly difficult, but I would not bring young children up the front. The views from the top are amazing, so it’s worth climbing up the back with children to get the full view of the Park.
Cadillac North Ridge Trail: This moderate 4.4-mile trail takes hikers to the highest peak in Acadia National Park and the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard. This is an excellent hike for Sunrise or Sunset. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Schoodic Peninsula and Bar Harbor.
Precipice Trail Loop: This 3.2-mile trail climbs 1,000 feet in only 0.9-miles. While it is not a technical climb, it takes strength and endurance to get to the top. Hikers will encounter a wooden bridge and the occasional iron handrail to traverse narrow, exposed ledges. This trail is NOT appropriate for young children.
Giant Slide Loop: This strenuous 5.7-mile trail takes hikers along a challenging "lollipop" hike up a rugged ravine to excellent views atop Sargent Mountain, Gilmore Peak, and Parkman Mountain.
Jordan Cliffs Loop: This strenuous 5-mile trail is a challenging hike across the steep slopes of Penobscot Mountain. The trail includes iron rungs and a strenuous climb up Sargent Mountain. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views from two mountain summits and excellent views of the picturesque Jordan Pond nestled between the mountains.
St. Sauveur and Acadia Mountain Loop: This challenging 3.7-mile trail summits two different peaks. It offers hikers incredible panoramic views of Somes Sound and islands out in the ocean. **Do not attempt in inclement weather
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2) Explore the Sieur De Monts Nature Center, Wild Gardens of Acadia, and The Abbe Museum
Sieur de Monts serves as a memorial to George Durr and his work in preserving the National Park and serving as its first superintendent from 1916-1944. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours in this area.
The Sieur Du Monts area includes the Abbe Museum, Nature Center, historic memorial paths & awesome nature trails, Wild Gardens of Acadia, and the Sieur Du Monts Spring. The area is often referred to as “The Heart of Acadia”
We started in the Nature Center where the kids finished up their Junior Ranger books (yes, the museum is staffed with Park Rangers), then we meandered through the Gardens of Acadia before we hit the trail on the Wild Garden Path. This path led us down to a pond where we found a massive beaver dam. If you want to see the beavers in action, arrive just at dawn or sunset as they are crepuscular.
The day we visited, the Abbe Museum was unfortunately closed. However, if it’s open, do not miss this museum. It is one of Maine’s only Smithsonian affiliated museums and takes visitors through the history of the indigenous peoples of Acadia and Maine, especially the Wabanaki, the People of the Dawn.
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3) Explore the Islands of Acadia
While many of the islands of Acadia are not accessible or closed to the public, there are exceptions; the Cranberry Isles and Baker Island. You can take boat tours or guided cruises to access these islands.
Acadia National Park Morning or Afternoon Cruise: (May-Oct)
This is ranger-led boat tour departs from Northeast Harbor and explores Great Harbor and Somes Sound. Visitors will see mountains, eagles, nesting osprey, and basking harbor seals! This is the most popular cruise, so book well in advance. The trip makes a 45-minute stop at the 200-year-old lobster fishing village of Little Cranberry Island allowing visitors to explore an unspoiled offshore island community reminiscent of days gone by.
Click HERE to view all available cruises from Sea Princess Scenic Nature Cruises.
This cruise is not sponsored by the National Park, but it takes visitors to 3 different lighthouses and the historic Islesford life-saving station. The guides will explain all about America’s lighthouse history and point out local wildlife such as seals, harbor porpoises, and bald eagles while you take in the beauty of Acadia’s shoreline. The cruise also goes along “millionaires row” where you can see the Rockefeller, High Seas, and Vanderbilt estates.
4) Auto Tour
If you’re looking to get acquainted with the layout and history of Acadia National Park, download THIS self-guided driving tour.
This self-guided auto tour brings Acadia’s rich history into your car! Learn about La Rochelle, a Gilded Age Mansion, the raging fire that is the reason for today’s gorgeous fall foliage, and so much more. A scenic drive must be on every family itinerary for Acadia National Park.
The self-guided tour starts at the Hulls Cove visitor center and drives around Park Loop Road. Along the way, you’ll be acquainted with Sieur De Mons, Bar Harbor’s history, Beaver Lake, Thunder Holl, Hunters Beach, Sand Beach, Egg Rock Overlook and so so much more!
The best part about this tour is that you can stop and start it. That means while you’re exploring Acadia day today, you can start the guide in whatever part of the park you’re in. It’s like having a Park Ranger ride around with you!
If you would rather take a guided tour around Acadia, check out this awesome 5 Hour Private Guided Tour!
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5) Take a Carriage Ride through History
Want to do do one of the most historic Acadia National Park family activities?
Between 1913 and 1940, John D. Rockefeller had over 45 miles of carriage roads built along the landscape of Acadia. Rockefeller was a conservationist who wanted to be able to traverse the landscape on horseback, but not with automobiles. He gifted the park these roads that would preserve the line of hillsides and save trees, align with the contours of the lands, and take advantage of scenic views, but were not accessible to cars. The carriage roads are dotted with 17 gorgeous historic cobblestone arch bridges. These roads have been maintained by the park system and are still in use today.
Visitors can explore these historic carriage roads on foot, on a bicycle, on horseback, or even by carriage rides. In the summer months, Wildwood Stables offers visitors a chance to ride along these carriage trails the way they were intended; by carriage. You can book them through the Wildwood Stables website or Carriages of Acadia.
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6) Acadia Junior Ranger Program
Anyone visiting Acadia with kids needs to jump on the FREE Junior Ranger Program. It’s simple to become a Junior Ranger in Acadia National Park!
Pick up one of the Junior Ranger books from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center or Sieur De Monts Nature Center. Then, head out to explore the park’s ecology, coastline, and history! Once the book is complete, head back to a visitor center where a park ranger will check your work in the booklet, give the oath, and then present the coveted Junior Ranger Badge!
Even if you’re traveling to Acadia National Park with toddler, you can help them gain their badge! It isn’t just for big kids!
Check out the Junior Ranger page to learn more!
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7) Go Tidepooling
Tidepooling is one of the must do things in Acadia National Park. With so much of the park along the Atlantic Ocean, there are several places to peek into the natural pools along the coast.
The best time to go tidepooling in Acadia National Park is anywhere from 1.5 hours before to 1.5 hours after low tide. As the water is drawn back out into the ocean, the tidepools and the creatures inside are exposed. Visitors are now able to navigate over the rocky coastline that was underwater during high tide.
While tidepooling in Acadia, you can expect to find barnacles, marine snails, various vibrant algae, green sea urchins, the occasional small sea anemone, long spaghetti-like rockweed algae, camouflaged crabs, and soft green sponges
The best places to explore the tidepools are:
Wonderland (near Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse)
Ship Harbor (near Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse)
Bar Island (near Bar Harbor)
Check the tides for the different areas of Acadia here:
8) Relax on Sand Beach
Surprise! There is a gorgeous beach in Acadia National Park! The only beach with access to swim inside the park is Sand Beach. The turquoise water and soft sand are a gorgeous contrast to the rocky brown coast surrounding it. Here at Sand Beach, there is 290 yards of pristine beachfront where the kids can wade into the water, build sandcastles, and enjoy hearing the waves coming in.
Sand Beach is conveniently located across the road from the trailhead to Beehive Trail. It also has direct access to the Great Head Trail and the Ocean Path. I recommend trying to snag a parking spot in the Sand Beach parking area. It is very limited, so arrive early or have patience. Pack a cooler of food and drinks to enjoy down by the beach. There are no concessions, but there is a restroom co-located with the parking area.
There are two other places to swim in Acadia, but they are on lakes and not the ocean. Check out Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood.
9) Tea & Popovers at Jordan Pond House Restaurant
Jordan Pond House Restaurant is located along the shore of Jordan Pond and overlooks a gorgeous lawn with a direct view of the bubbles. This restaurant and shop have a long tradition within Acadia National Park and it is one of the Acadia National Park top attractions. The restaurant originally opened in 1893 to serve their famous popovers and tea. While the original building burned down in 1979, the current restaurant was built in 1982.
Every single visitor to Jordan Pond House Restaurant must order the famous popovers and tea, but I also recommend the Lobster Stew and freshly squeezed lemonade. Check out their full menu.
Pro Tip: The wait times can be very very long. I recommend getting in line about 30 minutes prior to opening to get a pager to be seated upon opening. Otherwise, try to visit after 4:30 PM. If the weather is nice, definitely ask to be seated on the lawn.
Acadia National Park is the only National Park in Maine. People come from all over the world to experience these gorgeous changing leaves in the fall, the first sunrise in the United States, the highest peaks on the Eastern Seaboard, and the unique rugged rocky coastline. Acadia National Park offers unmatched hiking, incredible vistas, adrenaline-inducing cliff-front climbs, and an opportunity to witness nature thousands of years in the making. No matter whether you camp inside the park or stay nearby in Bar Harbor, your going to love your Acadia National Park family vacation. Don’t forget to check out all the things to do in Bar Harbor with kids!
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