Activities For Kids
Start Your Planning With These Local Businesses
Local Businesses
Acadia Inn | Summer Season Activities
Our property hosts a variety of kid-friendly activities to keep them engaged and having fun. From outdoor pool & tub, to S'mores, movies on the lawn, a firepit and playset.
Oli's Trolley - a fun family vacation activity
Bar Harbor, MEKids love this trolley ride, in town or around Mount Desert Island and the highlights of Acadia National Park. Choose from 2-4 hour duration trips, plus online booking.
Scenic Flights of Acadia - no one loves it more
Trenton, MEWe get a kick out of seeing kids in the air. Families of all ages love seeing Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor and historic lighthouses from above. 25 to 75 minute flights.
Ambergris Private Guided Voyages
Our private tours are good for up to 6 guests. You can spot seals, seabirds and occasional whale. Real sailing off Bar Harbor & Mt. Desert Island.
Acadia Ebike Adventure | Daily or Hourly rentals
The most fun way to get around Mt. Desert Island, whether on paved roads, Carriage roads or packed trails, these e-bikes are fun and easy to operate.
Maine State Kayak Aqua Safari Tour for All Ages
Kids 10+ can paddle calm waters where seals surface right next to the kayak. Guides keep it safe and fun. Often the best part of a Mount Desert Island vacation.
Families should start their planning at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. Browse park related publications, check the schedule of free activities, events and enjoy exhibits and presentations.
Programs and Activities available at the Hulls Visitor Center include:
- A free 15-minute audiovisual program
- Educational material or memorabilia
- Junior Ranger program
Hiking and Biking
- Carriage Roads are protected from vehicle traffic and are great for biking and hiking with kids.
- Cadillac Summit has marked paths that are appropriate for all levels of hiking.
- The Ocean Path is also a level family friendly trail offering scenic ocean views.
- The Bar Harbor Shore Path is a family friendly hike as well as the Great Meadow Loop at Sieur De Mont Springs.
Swimming
- Take a dip in Echo Lake, a somewhat warm fresh water lake.
- Splash in the waves or build sand castles at Sand Beach.
- In the town of Bar Harbor, Glen Mary wadding pool is free for public use.
Fishing and Boating
Fishing on shore or by boat is a great family friendly activity. Mount Desert Island has numerous fresh water lakes and public marinas for ocean access where visitors can go sailing, boating, kayaking or canoeing.
Museums
- Museum of Natural History
The George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History can be found on the College of the Atlantic campus. Year round, you can participate in various family activities to include story hours and a film series. - Mount Desert Oceanarium
The Mount Desert Oceanarium runs one of the few remaining lobster hatcheries in the world. Visitors can also walk an approximately 1/4 mile Marsh Walk where they will learn about the local saltwater marsh and the wildlife that calls it home. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the Touch Tank. Here you can see and handle sea creatures such as sea cucumbers, urchins, and horseshoe crabs.
- Start your planning at Hulls Cove Visitor Center, talk with courteous, experienced and educated Rangers to help you plan your trip
- Hiking, biking, swimming, boating, and fishing are some of the great outdoor activities for kids
- Visit the Natural History Museum and the Mount Desert Oceanarium
Dive-In Theater
Bar Harbor, METrenton Bridge Lobster Pound
Trenton, MEAfter a day of family fun in Bar Harbor, dive into fresh, delicious seafood at Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound—dine where kids love each tasty bite!
Pirate's Cove
Bar Harbor, MEPirate's Cove offers a unique golf experience for the lovers of the game in the Bar Harbor. Famous for its merchandise and unique golf courses.