4 day itinerary for Acadia National Park

Itinerary

Acadia National Park is a fantastic destination, especially for families with teens. With its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and a bit of history, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a fun and engaging 4-day itinerary that will keep your teens entertained and active!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning:

• Arrival in Bar Harbor: Start your adventure by checking into your accommodation. Bar Harbor is a charming town with plenty of options, from hotels to cozy inns.
• Breakfast at a Local Café: Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café like Choco-Latte. Their pastries and coffee are a great way to fuel up for the day!

Midday:

• Acadia National Park Visitor Center: Head to the visitor center to get maps, learn about the park, and check out any ranger-led programs. The staff can provide great tips for your visit!

Afternoon:

• Jordan Pond: Take a scenic drive to Jordan Pond. Enjoy a leisurely hike around the pond (about 3.5 miles) with stunning views of the Bubbles mountains. Don’t forget to snap some photos!
• Lunch at Jordan Pond House: Treat yourselves to the famous popovers and tea at the Jordan Pond House. It’s a must-do!

Evening:

• Sunset at Cadillac Mountain: Drive up to Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking views. It’s the highest point on the East Coast, and the sunset here is simply magical.
• Dinner in Bar Harbor: Head back to Bar Harbor for dinner. Try Geddy’s for some delicious seafood and a fun atmosphere.

## Day 2: Adventure and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel or Local Diner: Fuel up for a day of adventure!
• Biking the Carriage Roads: Rent bikes and explore the park’s famous carriage roads. The 45 miles of gravel paths are perfect for biking and offer beautiful views.

Midday:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic and stop at one of the scenic spots along the carriage roads. The views are stunning, and it’s a great way to relax.

Afternoon:

• Hiking the Beehive Trail: For a bit of a thrill, tackle the Beehive Trail. It’s a short but steep hike with some fun iron rungs to climb. Your teens will love the challenge and the views from the top!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Pizzeria: After a day of adventure, grab a casual dinner at Pizza Bar or Rosalie’s Pizza. Perfect for refueling!

## Day 3: Water and Wildlife

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Try Two Cats for a delicious breakfast.
• Kayaking in Frenchman Bay: Book a guided kayaking tour. It’s a fantastic way to see the coastline and maybe even spot some seals!

Midday:

• Lunch in Bar Harbor: After kayaking, enjoy lunch at The Side Street Café. Their lobster rolls are a hit!

Afternoon:

• Wildlife Watching: Head to the Schoodic Peninsula (a bit of a drive but worth it!). It’s less crowded and offers great opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for birds and seals!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Seafood Shack: Try The Lobster Shack for a casual dinner. Enjoy fresh seafood with a view!

## Day 4: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel or Local Café: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
• Visit Sand Beach: Spend some time at Sand Beach. It’s a beautiful spot for a stroll, and if the weather is warm enough, your teens might want to take a dip!

Midday:

• Hiking the Ocean Path: Take a scenic hike along the Ocean Path (about 2 miles one way). The views of the coastline are breathtaking, and you can stop at Thunder Hole to hear the waves crashing!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Grab a quick lunch at The Chart Room before heading back.
• Last-Minute Shopping in Bar Harbor: Spend some time exploring the shops in Bar Harbor for souvenirs and local crafts.

Evening:

• Departure: Head home with wonderful memories and a camera full of photos!

Tips:

• Pack Layers: The weather can change quickly, so layers are key!
• Stay Hydrated: Bring water bottles, especially during hikes.
• Check for Ranger Programs: They often have fun activities for teens!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Acadia National Park! Enjoy the adventure! 🌲🏞️