Acadia National Park: Guide to Visiting with Kids (including Maps, Itinerary, and Tips)

Acadia National Park is an absolute gem that you can’t afford to miss. Its unique charm lies in its remarkable oceanic vistas, setting it apart from most other national parks. The stunning shoreline cliffs, gazing over the Gulf of Maine and stretching to the Atlantic Ocean, are a sight to behold. Imagine sitting at the overlooks, completely captivated by the rhythmic dance of the tides and the crashing waves. The tranquility of the natural sounds and the beauty of the rocky, tree-lined shore have elevated this park to one of our top five favorites. We wholeheartedly recommend a visit with your family to experience this unparalleled beauty and serenity.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson established the park as the Sieur de Monts National Monument. It later evolved into Lafayette National Park in 1919, becoming the first national park east of the Mississippi River. The park’s final name change to Acadia and attainment of national park status occurred in 1929.

Throughout the years, the park’s growth was facilitated by generous land donations. Contributions from figures like George B. Dorr, often referred to as the “Father of Acadia National Park,” and John D. Rockefeller Jr., alongside numerous contributions from individuals, families, and organizations, have played a pivotal role. As of today, the park spans over 48,000 acres.

The park is divided into three distinct regions: Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Peninsula, and Isle au Haut. To ensure comprehensive coverage of both the park and its surroundings, we’ll explore the area through seven sections: Mount Desert Island, West Side of MDI (known as the “Quiet Side”), Schoodic Peninsula, Isle au Haut, Bar Harbor, Local Islands, and Water Adventures. Additionally, we’ll delve into six scenic drives that can help your family make the most of your visit by allowing you to experience as much as possible. We’ll also cover the best family-friendly hikes in another post (coming soon).

Annually, the park welcomes around 4 million visitors, primarily during July, August, and September. For those seeking the peak fall foliage experience, while many factors can affect peak, on average plan for the first two weeks of October.

Exploring Mount Desert Island (MDI) with Kids

Mount Desert Island, the most popular area of Acadia, offers many points of interest. You can conveniently explore these attractions by taking the scenic 27-mile Park Loop Road. The road is one-way in a clockwise direction starting from the loop’s beginning until just past Wildwood Stables.

Sieur de Monts provides a historical touch, showcasing the Wild Gardens of Acadia, the springhouse, and a small museum. Pierre Dugua, Sieur de Mons, was a French nobleman and explorer who played a significant role in the early colonization of Acadia. De Mons along with Samuel de Champlain explored and mapped the coastline of the area, contributing to the early knowledge of geography and natural features of what would become Acadia National Park.

The journey continues to the idyllic Sand Beach, a serene stretch of sandy shoreline framed by rugged cliffs, a great spot for a fun-filled beach day. If the beach is on your itinerary, we recommend making it your first stop of the day as the parking lot fills up fast. A secondary parking lot is available off of Schooner Head Road near the Great Head Trailhead but it is not accessible from the Sand Beach parking lot. If you don’t want to deal with parking, consider taking the Island Explorer to Sand Beach.

Thunder Hole earns its name when crashing waves create a thunderous roar as they surge into a narrow inlet. The best time to visit for the most sound is one to two hours before high tide. Be aware that waves can wash over surrounding rocks and walkways.

Nearby, the Otter Cliffs’ towering granite formations of up to 110 feet high attract both sightseers and rock climbers. Exploring Otter Cliff with your children can be both educational and enjoyable. However, it’s crucial to prioritize safety at all times. Further on, stop to enjoy the views at the pullouts at Little Hunters Beach.

Carriage Roads: Explore 45 miles of meticulously crafted carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller Jr who was worried the park would be overrun by automobiles and wanted a quieter visit to the area. Explore the roads by hiking, by bike, or book a carriage ride through Wildwood Stables.

17 Bridges: One of the distinctive features of Acadia’s carriage roads is the 17 picturesque stone bridges that gracefully arch over streams and valleys. These bridges were constructed between 1917 and 1940 and are a testament to the vision of philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., who financed the Carriage Road Project. Each bridge is a work of art, blending seamlessly with the park’s landscape.

Jordan Pond, known for its clear waters and tranquil ambiance, is perfect for hiking or kayaking, and the historic Jordan Pond House offers refreshments including the famous popovers. We suggest making one of the many available online popover recipes before your trip. If your kids like them and you want to try some at Jordan Pond House restaurant, make a reservation as early as possible. Please note that yellowjackets also love the dining area, you may want to avoid it if that is an issue for anyone in your family.

Bubble Pond: The parking lot at Bubble Pond Carriage Road Trailhead is closed to cars but it is a stop on the Island Explorer shuttle. The 1.5-mile hike is a popular route to see North Bubble, South Bubble, and Bubble Rock.

Eagle Lake is the largest lake in Acadia. You can see the lake from Eagle Lake Overlook along the Park Loop Road or you can access it by utilizing carriage roads.

Cadillac Mountain is the most popular attraction in Acadia. As the highest point on the east coast of the United States, at the summit, you’ll enjoy (on a clear day) stunning panoramic views of Bar Harbor, Mount Katahdin, Hulls Cove, Frenchman Bay, Schoodic Peninsula, Winter Harbor, and more. Continue along the paved path to take in views of the Cranberry Islands and the Atlantic Ocean. The summit is accessible by car or via the short and paved Cadillac Summit Loop Trail. The mountain’s summit provides interpretive waysides, restrooms, and a gift shop.

Sunrise visits are popular year-round, but from October 7 to March 6, this spot becomes especially renowned as the place to witness the country’s very first sunrise. Fog can greatly affect the views from the summit. You may want to book two timed entries to increase your chances of a clear day.

• To manage visitor numbers and prevent overcrowding, a timed-entry reservation for vehicles is mandatory from mid-May to October at Acadia National Park. There are two options available for entry. The Sunrise two-hour entry window starts between 3:30 AM and 5 AM, depending on the time of year. Alternatively, there’s the Daytime 30-minute entry window, allowing visits between 7 AM to 7:30 PM. To secure your preferred time slot, you can make a reservation through recreation.gov. Keep in mind that in addition to the timed-entry reservation, you still need to possess a valid park pass

Include in your day’s schedule Bar Island, accessible on foot over the land bridge during low tide. The window for walking across is 1.5 hours before and after low tide. Explore the tidepools for crabs, snails, small fish, and starfish.

Consider bringing a small net or a tidepooling guidebook to make the water fun more engaging. They’ll love gently catching tiny creatures or identifying various marine species in the tidepools. Remember to encourage respectful interaction with the delicate ecosystem, sometimes it’s best not to touch.

Discovering the Tranquil Side of Acadia National Park: West Side MDI with Children

The western side of Acadia National Park, often referred to as the “Quiet Side,” offers a different but equally stunning experience compared to the more popular eastern side. Less than 20 minutes from Bar Harbor, the area offers plenty for your family to explore.

Acadia Mountain: Acadia Mountain Trail leads you through lush forests and up to stunning vistas. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Somes Sound and the surrounding mountains. The moderately challenging hike is well worth it for the breathtaking scenery, making it a popular must-visit spot on the quiet side of Acadia National Park.

Echo Lake Beach: A sandy beach on Echo Lake is a great place for families to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the clear water. Amenities include flush toilets, changing rooms, and foot wash stations. During our visit, we saw only a few other families making it feel like we had the beach to ourselves.

Beech Mountain: Trek Beach Mountain Trail for a unique hiking experience with its moss-covered granite steps leading to the summit. The summit features a fire tower, which you can climb for even more spectacular views of Echo Lake and the coastline.

Seawall is a beautiful granite and cobblestone beach area where you can relax, have a picnic, or explore tidal pools during low tide.

Wonderland and Ship Harbor Trails: These easy, family-friendly trails lead you through picturesque coastal woodlands and offer scenic views of the shoreline. With little or no parking lots at these destinations, be prepared to park on the street.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse perched on rugged cliffs provides a picturesque view of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a great spot for photography and taking in the coastal scenery. The most photographed angle of the lighthouse is taken by climbing down behind the house and far out onto the cliffs. It was not something I wanted to do, so I give you a purchased image. Be prepared to wait for a parking spot.

Pretty Marsh Picnic Area: Surrounded by lush marshland and with views of the bay, it’s an ideal place to unwind and savor the natural beauty of Acadia.

Schoodic Peninsula: A Tranquil and Less-Traveled Family Adventure

While Western Mount Desert Island (MDI) is often referred to as the quieter side of Acadia, it’s surprising that only around 10% of the park’s visitors explore the Schoodic Peninsula. We highly recommend joining this minority because we found the area to be a fantastic destination well worth the drive. You can reach the peninsula either by taking a 45-minute passenger ferry from Bar Harbor or driving for about an hour. We suggest driving yourself, although there is an Island Explorer route available if you take the ferry.

At the visitor center near the Schoodic Woods Campground, you’ll find essential amenities like flush toilets, helpful rangers to assist with trip planning, maps, and the option to purchase a park pass. Next, you will pass the Frazer Point Picnic Area, with tables, fire rings, comfort stations, drinking water, and a big grassy area to run around along with seacoast views of islands, coves, and rocky beaches.

As you traverse the 6-mile one-way loop, you’ll encounter rocky beaches and cliffs along the road that hugs the rugged shoreline. The entire scenic drive covers a total of 11 miles. We enjoyed it so much that we completed the loop twice.

Notably, the peninsula houses the former United States Navy base, NSGA Winter Harbor, which has been transformed into a National Park Service training center. Be sure to stop at Rockefeller Hall to learn about Schoodic’s’ Naval Heritage. Educational displays inform about sailors who listened and intercepted communication signals, deciphering secret codes to learn about enemy ships.

At the southern tip of the peninsula, Schoodic Point‘s granite and dark basalt rocky cliffs are fun to climb and watch the waves crash on the shore.

Blueberry Hill Parking Area is another worthwhile stopping point, with a large rock beach and views of Schoodic Island, Little Moose Island, and The Anvil, a 180-foot promontory that can be reached via a trail.

Isle au Haut: A Scenic Island Day Trip in Acadia

Isle au Haut stands as the most secluded section of Acadia. The journey from the primary area of Acadia National Park to Stonington typically spans two hours. To reach the island, you’ll need to take the 45-minute passenger mail boat ride from Stonington. The ferry service operates from mid-June to late September and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, the number of day visitors is limited. If your family would like to explore the island by bike, rentals are available for your convenience.

Upon arrival, Duck Harbor Campground provides a rustic camping experience with essential facilities. The village boasts a general store, church, school, and town hall. Explore the island by trekking some of the dozen hiking trails spanning 18 miles, including the scenic 0.7-mile Cliff Trail, offering stunning coastal vistas.

For a visit to Isle au Haut Lighthouse, start at the Robinson Point Trailhead and hike to Robinson Point. While the lighthouse grounds are accessible to the public, please note that the lighthouse itself is not open for visits.

Be sure to schedule some time to visit Stonington. This charming fishing town is renowned for lobster, with nearly 11 million pounds caught in 2021. Explore the town’s history by taking a self-guided walking tour.

Bar Harbor with Kids: The Perfect Home Base for Visiting

While not part of the park, Bar Harbor serves as an ideal base for families looking to explore Acadia National Park. With its rich history dating back to the 19th century, Bar Harbor offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. This charming town once was a favored summer destination for the elite including the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, DuPonts, Livingstons, and Pulitzers.

Today, Bar Harbor caters to families looking to explore Acadia. A must-see attraction in town is the Abbe Museum, dedicated to the indigenous Wabanaki people and their rich cultural heritage. For a taste of Bar Harbor’s maritime history, a stroll along the scenic Shore Path offers glimpses of the town’s shipbuilding legacy.

Bar Harbor also boasts a downtown area filled with quaint shops, ice cream parlors, and restaurants serving up delicious lobster rolls, making it a fantastic place to relax and refuel after a day of exploring the park’s wonders. Or stop by the Hannaford grocery store on Cottage Street to stock up on snacks and picnic meals. Enjoy your grocery store-to-go meal at Agamont Park while you watch the boat traffic in the Mt Desert Narrows of Frenchman Bay.

During the summer months, be prepared for bustling streets and sidewalks in the downtown area, as it can get quite crowded with both vehicles and pedestrians. To make your visit smoother, you’ll find paid parking options available along the streets and in various parking lots.

Nautical Fun: Water Adventures for Kids in Acadia

When it comes to exploring Acadia National Park by water, you’re in for a fun-filled adventure. The park offers a stunning coastal landscape that’s perfect for aquatic exploration. Your family can enjoy kayaking at Echo Lake, Jordan Pond, Long Pond, Eagle Lake, or ocean kayaking. Not interested in kayaking? Consider taking a boat tour to explore the area. From nature to sunset cruises, there are many fun options available.

• Whale Watching and Nature Cruises: These cruises focus on showcasing the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the park. You might spot seals, puffins, porpoises, seabirds, and even whales. The guides onboard often provide interesting insights into the park’s ecosystems and the animals that inhabit them.
• Puffins and Lighthouses: Cruise out on a catamaran to the Gulf of Maine to view puffins and lighthouses. Be on the lookout for bald eagles, seals, and porpoises.
• Historical Lighthouse & Acadia National Park Cruise: If you’re interested in maritime history and architecture, lighthouse cruises are a great choice. These tours often take you past several historic lighthouses along the coast, providing a glimpse into the region’s maritime heritage. Enjoy views of Acadia National Park from a different viewpoint.
• Sunset Cruises: Watching the sunset over the rugged coastline of Acadia National Park is a great experience. Sunset cruises offer a peaceful and picturesque way to end your day, with the changing colors of the sky reflecting off the water. Our sunset cruise was foggy but we still enjoyed the narration and view of lighthouses and islands.
• Lobster Fishing and Seal Watching: Watch lobster traps come up from the ocean floor aboard a lobster fishing demonstration boat. View seals and other wildlife as you explore Frenchman Bay.
• Fishing Trips: Spend the morning or afternoon on a fishing trip in Frenchman Bay. Enjoy beautiful coastline views while your crew catches Seabss, Cofish, Pollock, Mackerel, and more.

Exploring the Outer Islands of Acadia National Park with Children

When exploring the Outer Islands of Acadia National Park, you’ll find several beautiful and unique destinations to visit. Some of these islands are accessible by boat and offer a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area. Here are a few of the outer islands you can consider visiting:

1. Isle au Haut:  As we covered above, this island is known for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and picturesque shoreline. The Isle au Haut Ferry provides transportation to the island from Stonington, allowing you to explore its natural beauty.
2. Baker Island: Features hiking trails, tidal pools, and opportunities for bird-watching. The island is only accessible by boat and offers a glimpse into the coastal ecosystems of Acadia National Park.
3. Cranberry Isles: The Cranberry Isles consist of Great Cranberry Island and Little Cranberry Island (also known as Islesford). These islands offer a glimpse into the traditional fishing and island life of the region. You can take a ferry to these islands and explore their unique charm.
4. Sutton Island: Privately owned but accessible by boat. Visitors can explore its rugged coastline, hiking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding area.

Navigating Acadia: How to Get Around the Park

While exploring the park in your own vehicle is the most popular choice, navigating Acadia National Park is a breeze with its well-organized transportation options. From free shuttle services to convenient island ferries, exploring the park’s stunning landscapes has never been easier.

Acadia National Park Island Explorer Shuttle

For a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the park, hop on the Island Explorer shuttle. This fare-free service connects various park destinations, local communities, and Bar Harbor. It’s an excellent option to reduce traffic congestion and minimize your environmental impact. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the shuttle schedule and routes for a hassle-free and enjoyable ride. Please click here for more route and stop information.

Acadia National Park Island Ferries

To access the park’s Outer Islands, take advantage of the available ferries. These ferries provide access to unique island landscapes and offer a refreshing perspective of the park from the water. Whether you’re heading to Isle au Haut or exploring nearby islands, these ferries offer a delightful adventure. Remember to check the ferry schedules and availability in advance to plan your island excursion seamlessly.

10 Top Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Acadia National Park

1. Visitor Centers: Start your adventure by visiting the park’s visitor centers. They provide valuable information, maps, and exhibits that can enhance your experience. While the park is open year-round, most park facilities are closed between late October and mid-May.
   • Hulls Cove Visitor Center: Located near the entrance of Acadia National Park, this visitor center offers essential information, maps, and exhibits to enhance your experience.
   • Sieur de Monts Nature Center: Situated within Acadia’s Sieur de Monts area, this center provides insights into the park’s natural history and serves as a gateway to nearby trails.
   • Islesford Historical Museum & Visitor Center: Found on Little Cranberry Island, this center offers a glimpse into the island’s history and provides information about Acadia.
   • Rockefeller Hall: Located on the Schoodic Peninsula, you can learn about local naval history, visit with staff, and browse the park store.
2. Junior Ranger Programs: Engage your kids with the Junior Ranger program. They’ll attend ranger programs, complete activities in a workbook, and even take an oath to care for Acadia.
3. Ranger Programs/Tours: Join guided ranger programs and tours to learn about the park’s natural and cultural history directly from the experts.
4. Best Hikes: Acadia offers various hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. The easiest trails include Wonderland and Ship Harbor.
5. Beaches/Swimming: Enjoy the beautiful beaches and swimming areas. Sand Beach and Echo Lake Beach are great spots for kids to splash around.
6. Biking – Carriage Roads: Explore the 45 miles of Carriage Roads perfect for family biking or strolling. These scenic paths provide a safe and enjoyable biking experience.
7. Horse-Drawn Carriage: For a unique experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. It’s a leisurely way to appreciate the surroundings.
8. Sunrise/Sunset Viewing: Witness stunning sunrise and sunset views. For sunrise, Cadillac Mountain offers a breathtaking vantage point, while Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is a popular sunset spot.
9. Tide Pool Exploration: Head to the tide pools to discover fascinating marine life up close. The best time to tidepool is 1.5 hours before low tide to 1.5 hours after. Bar Harbor land bridge sandbar, Wonderland Beach, Ship Harbor Trail, and Schoodic Peninsula offer 3 good places at Frazer Point, Cobble Beach, and Blueberry Hill.
10. Rock Climbing: Families with older kids can enjoy rock climbing adventures. Otter Cliffs and South Bubble offer opportunities for both beginners and experienced climbers to challenge themselves while enjoying panoramic views.

10 Tips for Visiting Acadia with Kids

1. If you’re not keen on visiting Cadillac Mountain at sunrise, consider reserving a timed entry for the mid-afternoon. This approach allows you to make an early stop at Sand Beach to secure parking and then explore the mountain during the mid-day hours when clear views are more likely. This way, you can avoid the morning fog and any potential fog that might roll in later in the afternoon.
2. Make sure to stock up on snacks and lunches from the Hannaford grocery store in Bar Harbor before your adventures in the park.
3. Don’t forget the sunblock! Despite Maine’s relatively mild temperatures, the sun can be quite strong. With highs typically reaching only the 80s, it’s easy to forget to reapply sunscreen.
4. It’s important to be aware of your family’s hiking style, especially since Acadia features many trails that run along steep drop-offs. Rocks and algae can be slippery. Choose trails that match your comfort level.
5. If possible, hold off on booking a cruise until you have a clear idea of the expected weather conditions.
6. Flexibility is key. Rain and fog are common occurrences, so be prepared with rain gear and a willingness to adjust your plans accordingly.
7. Consider purchasing a park map from Amazon. Hanging the map at home can help build excitement for your trip. Involve your kids in marking points of interest, crafting daily itineraries, and learning about maps.
8. Before embarking on a hike, familiarize yourself with the elevation changes involved. Many of the well-known hikes in the area have significant changes in elevation.
9. Keep in mind that Bar Harbor serves as a cruise port, leading to an influx of visitors. These visitors may utilize the shuttle system or bus tours for their visit. However, don’t let that discourage you from using the Island Explorer to get around. It’s a great way to access many points in the park where parking lots fill quickly.
10. Maximize your time outdoors by staying informed about high and low tide times as well as sunrise and sunset times. This knowledge will help you plan your day’s activities accordingly.

4-Day Itinerary for Visiting Acadia National Park with Kids

Creating a full itinerary for Acadia is very easy to do, whether it’s 3, 4, 5, or even 6 days. You can explore one of our 7 designated segments each day or you can build your own schedule and add a daily hike to explore the park’s top trails. While the main highlights of the 27-mile scenic loop can be experienced in a single day, we recommend dedicating a minimum of 3 days to fully appreciate the park’s diverse offerings. We suggest packing a daily lunch so that you can enjoy your meals at your convenience, wherever you happen to be when your crew decides it’s time to eat.

Day One: Exploring the Beauty of Mount Desert Island

Begin your adventure with an early visit to the popular Sand Beach. Then, embark on the scenic loop drive, making stops at Thunder Hole, where waves create dramatic splashes, and Otter Cliff, offering breathtaking views. Don’t miss views of Little Hunters Beach, a hidden gem. Continue to Jordan’s Pond, surrounded by serene landscapes, and conclude your day at the summit of Cadillac Mountain.

Day Two: Discovering Bar Harbor and Coastal Cruises

Explore Bar Harbor’s history and character. Schedule a coastal cruise to explore the region’s stunning offshore beauty. Make sure to check the tides for the opportunity to walk to Bar Island via the Land Bridge Trail. Enjoy the town’s vibrant atmosphere and dine at one of its fantastic restaurants.

Day Three: Venturing to Schoodic Peninsula

Drive to the Schoodic Peninsula, a quieter part of Acadia National Park. Start your day at Frazer Point Picnic Area, surrounded by scenic beauty. Explore Rockefeller Hall and learn about the area’s Naval past. Watch the waves crash dramatically at Schoodic Point and stop at Blueberry Hill for panoramic views of the rugged coastline.

Day Four: Embracing the Quiet Side

Visit the tranquil west side of Mount Desert Island. Begin with a swim at Echo Beach. Schedule a hike on one of the many trails in the area, taking in the peaceful surroundings. Don’t forget to explore the famous Carriage Roads exploring the paths and stone bridges.

Where to Stay with Kids in Acadia: Big Family-Friendly Accommodations

Acadia National Park Hotels for Big Families

Check out our Bar Harbor hotel listings for families of 5 and 6. Bigger families should consider a vacation rental.

Vacation Rentals near Acadia National Park

For vacation rental options on Mount Desert Island, you’ll find most rentals on the west side. We found options for big and large families of up to 14.

Acadia National Park Camping

Five campground options are available throughout the park. Note that some of the smaller campgrounds book fast at a year out.

1. Blackwoods Campground: Located on Mount Desert Island, this campground is close to Bar Harbor and popular park attractions. It’s open from late May to early September and offers both tent and RV sites.
2. Seawall Campground: Also on Mount Desert Island, this campground is on the southwestern side of the island, offering a quieter experience. It’s open from late May to early September and has tent sites.
3. Schoodic Woods Campground: Situated on the Schoodic Peninsula, this campground is open from late May to early September. It’s ideal for those looking to explore the quieter side of Acadia.
4. Duck Harbor Campground (Isle au Haut): This remote campground on Isle au Haut can only be reached by passenger ferry from Stonington. It offers a primitive camping experience and is open from late May to early October.
5. Group Campgrounds: Acadia also has group campgrounds, including ones at Blackwoods and Seawall, designed for larger gatherings.

Entrance Fees for Acadia National Park

We highly recommend buying an America the Beautiful pass for $80. The pass is good for one calendar year and is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. A 7-day pass for Acadia is currently $ 35 per vehicle available online, at visitor centers, and kiosks in the park.

If you have a 4th grader, check out the FREE Annual 4th Grade pass which is good for the duration of the school year through the following summer (September-August).

Current U.S. military members and their dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force, as well as Reserve and National Guard members, qualify for a free annual pass.

Acadia National Park Maps

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