In Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor children can have fun learning about and experiencing nature.
Biking and Hiking
With 45 miles of car-free carriage trails, Acadia is a great place to bike. Visitors can bring their own bikes or rent them at several locations on Mount Desert Island. Acadia National Park has 125 miles of hiking trails. Trail maps and Park rangers can help direct families to the trails that match their skill levels.
Museums
The Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor is the place to learn about Maine Native American culture. Kids can participate in hands-on workshops—great for rainy days.
Learn about the marine world, especially the whales and seals of the Gulf of Maine, at the Bar Harbor Whale Museum.
Boating
Whale watching boats leave from Bar Harbor. In addition to seeing whales and other sea creatures, children get the feel of the ocean. You can also ride a ferry to an offshore island. Take your bikes or go for a walk. Park rangers lead narrated boat cruises into the waters surrounding Mount Desert Island. Guests see seals, porpoises, and sea birds and learn about island life.
Enjoying the Water
Of the many places to swim in and around the Park, Sand Beach (saltwater) and Echo Lake (fresh water) are among the favorites.
Children love to explore tide pools, where they can watch mussels, clams, starfish, and small sea creatures up close.
