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12 Classic Summer Activities for Kids in Bar Harbor, Maine (Lobsters, Lighthouses & More)

12 Classic Summer Activities for Kids in Bar Harbor, Maine (Lobsters, Lighthouses & More)

Tucked along Maine’s rugged coastline, Bar Harbor is a dream destination for families who love nature, sea breezes, and simple summer fun. With its salty air, harbor views, and small-town charm, this spot delivers the kind of vacation memories that last long after the suitcases are unpacked.

In and around this charming town, you’ll find lobster shacks, tide pools, lighthouses, and whale-watching tours, all designed to keep kids wide-eyed and happy. Add in Acadia National Park’s hiking trails and carriage roads, and you’ve got a destination that’s both classic and kid-approved.

Whether your family is into boats, beaches, or just chasing crabs along the shore, these 12 summer activities in Bar Harbor will fill your days with sunshine, laughter, and a big scoop of New England nostalgia.

Explore Tide Pools at Bar Island

Explore Tide Pools at Bar Island
© National Park Service

At low tide, a sandy pathway reveals itself, leading adventurous families to Bar Island. Imagine tiny sand crabs scuttling away as you step over the damp sand, while sea snails cling to rocks. The gentle lapping of the waves accompanies your search for shimmering shells.

Children delight in discovering starfish hidden among seaweed, their fingers tracing the patterns of nature. A picnic on the island offers a perfect midday break before returning home with new treasures. The magic of the ocean at your feet means every visit is a new chapter in your family’s story.

Take a Lobster Boat Tour

Take a Lobster Boat Tour
© theweststreet

The thrill of a real-life lobster boat tour beckons! Your children will marvel as they watch traps hauled from the depths, each containing the mysterious creatures of the sea. The captain shares tales of the ocean’s bounty, while your young explorers touch a lobster’s hard shell.

As the boat glides across the sparkling water, the wind in their hair, it’s a scene of joy and discovery. This is more than a boat ride; it’s a dive into the rich traditions of Maine, creating lasting memories for every family member aboard.

Visit Acadia National Park’s Jordan Pond

Visit Acadia National Park’s Jordan Pond
© visitbarharbor

Nestled among the mountains, Jordan Pond is a gem of Acadia National Park. Families gather here for serene picnics, basking in the tranquility of nature. The clear waters reflect the sky’s azure hue, offering a peaceful ambiance.

Children can explore gentle trails that loop around the pond, their laughter echoing in the crisp air. And don’t miss the delicious popovers and lemonade at the Jordan Pond House—a treat for both young and old. Each visit to Jordan Pond is an escape to nature’s embrace, a perfect family retreat.

Bike the Carriage Roads

Bike the Carriage Roads
© maine.explored

Imagine pedaling along the historic Carriage Roads, where cars are replaced by laughter and scenic views. These gravel paths, crafted by John D. Rockefeller Jr., are a cyclist’s dream. Families find joy in winding through forests, crossing gracefully arched stone bridges.

Kids pedal with freedom, taking in the fresh, pine-scented air. Each turn unveils a new scene of beauty, from serene lakes to lush meadows. It’s an experience that combines exercise and adventure, bonding families through the simple joy of a bike ride amidst untouched nature.

Watch the Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain

Watch the Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain
© robannis

When the first rays of dawn break over Cadillac Mountain, it’s a sight that captures hearts. Families brave the early morning chill, wrapped in blankets, ready for nature’s grand show. As the sun peeks above the horizon, the world is bathed in pink and gold hues.

Children gaze in awe, witnessing the day’s first light in a moment of wonder. This early adventure fosters a sense of togetherness, as families share the beauty of a brand new day. It’s a magical experience, marking the start of unforgettable memories.

Visit the Abbe Museum

Visit the Abbe Museum
© abbemuseum

Step into the Abbe Museum and embark on a journey through the rich history of the Wabanaki people. This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits, where children can touch, feel, and learn. From storytelling sessions to traditional crafts, the museum brings history to life.

Young minds are captivated by the vibrant displays, and parents appreciate the educational value. Each corner of the museum tells a story, sparking curiosity and respect for indigenous culture. A visit here is an enriching experience that blends learning with fun, providing a unique cultural insight.

Grab Ice Cream on Cottage Street

Grab Ice Cream on Cottage Street
© thecottagecreamery

Cottage Street, the lively heart of Bar Harbor, is a summer delight. As families stroll down this bustling street, the allure of ice cream is irresistible. Children choose from classic cones to the exotic taste of wild Maine blueberry soft-serve, their faces lighting up with joy.

The vibrant atmosphere and friendly chatter create a sense of community, with colorful shops lining the path. It’s a simple pleasure, yet one that symbolizes the warmth of summer days. Sharing ice cream here is a ritual that sweetens the family’s day.

Take a Whale Watching Cruise

Take a Whale Watching Cruise
© barharborwhales

Set sail on a whale watching adventure, where the ocean’s giants come to life. Equipped with binoculars and anticipation, families watch for the majestic whales that breach the waves. Guides enhance the experience, sharing fascinating insights about these gentle giants.

Children are thrilled with each sighting, from humpback whales to playful dolphins. The shared excitement of spotting a whale tail or a puffin in flight bonds the family in awe of nature’s wonders. This cruise is an opportunity to connect with the ocean’s mysteries.

Climb to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

Climb to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
© scottkelby

The iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is more than a beacon; it’s a step back in time. This adventure invites families to climb its path, where history meets the sea. The reward? Breathtaking cliffside views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Children revel in the journey, exploring the short trails that hug the coastline. The lighthouse stands as a testament to Maine’s maritime heritage, perfect for family photos. Each visit here is a chance to connect with history and the natural beauty of the rugged coast.

Eat a Lobster Roll by the Water

Eat a Lobster Roll by the Water
© themainemenu_

A taste of Maine’s essence awaits at waterside shacks offering the classic lobster roll. Families gather at picnic tables, savoring this local delicacy, while children relish the crispy fries that accompany it. The scene is completed by boats bobbing gently in the harbor.

It’s a casual dining experience, yet one that echoes the flavors of the sea. For many, it’s not just a meal; it’s a moment to enjoy the simple pleasures of life by the water, making it a must-have on any Bar Harbor trip.

Touch Starfish at Mount Desert Oceanarium

Touch Starfish at Mount Desert Oceanarium
© Visit Downeast Maine

At the Mount Desert Oceanarium, children are invited to explore the wonders of marine life. Imagine the excitement of holding a starfish, its texture both strange and fascinating. The oceanarium offers a close-up view of lobster hatcheries and lively sea exhibits.

Interactive displays engage young minds, making learning an adventure through touch and discovery. Parents appreciate the educational aspect, while children delight in the chance to see marine life up close. It’s an experience that brings the ocean’s mysteries to curious hands.

End the Day with a Sunset at Sand Beach

End the Day with a Sunset at Sand Beach
© only.in.maine

As the day winds down, Sand Beach offers the perfect setting for a family’s last adventure. The sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple. Children splash in the gentle waves, their laughter mingling with the sound of the sea.

Parents can relax, watching as the cliffs become silhouettes against the vibrant sky. It’s a moment of peace and reflection, a fitting end to a day filled with joy and exploration. The sunset at Sand Beach is a cherished family memory.