Ultimate 8-Day Bar Harbor & Bucksport Family Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Travel & Setup

Abingdon, MD to Bucksport, ME on July 12, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep and Morning Routine

Continue overnight sleep from the previous night and wake up at 7:00 AM sharp to start the drive to Bucksport.
0USD, 7h0m

7:00am-9:00am

Drive from Abingdon, MD

Depart exactly at 7:00 AM for Bucksport; plan a 15-minute break around 9:00 AM near Pennsylvania for refreshments and stretching.
0USD, 2h0m

9:00am-9:15am

Rest Stop 1

Quick 15-minute break to refresh and grab snacks.
Variable, 15m

9:15am-11:15am

Continue Driving

Resume the journey toward Bucksport, enjoying scenic views along the way.
0USD, 2h0m

11:15am-11:30am

Rest Stop 2

Second 15-minute pause for leg stretch and refreshments near New York/Vermont border.
Variable, 15m

11:30am-1:30pm

Continue Driving

Drive farther north toward Bucksport, continuing through scenic rural regions.
0USD, 2h0m

1:30pm-1:45pm

Rest Stop 3

Third 15-minute break perfect for lunch snacks or quick bite; recommended stops include deli or café options.
Variable, 15m

1:45pm-3:45pm

Drive Continuing

Continue driving into Maine, enjoying the changing landscapes and preparing for arrival.
0USD, 2h0m

3:45pm-4:00pm

Rest Stop 4

Final 15-minute pit stop before the city, ideal to stretch and refresh before final leg.
Variable, 15m

4:00pm-5:40pm

Final Drive to Bucksport Airbnb

Finish the drive and arrive at the Airbnb in Bucksport at 5:40 PM for check-in and unpacking.
0USD, 1h40m

5:40pm-6:30pm

Grocery Shopping

Visit a nearby grocery store (such as Shaw's or Hannaford) to stock up for the week.
Variable, 50m

6:30pm-7:30pm

Dinner Preparation & Meal

Prepare a light homemade dinner with groceries or order local pizza delivery for family comfort.
Variable, 1h0m

7:30pm-8:15pm

Evening Wind Down

Relax at the Airbnb, unpack, and prepare for the next day's adventure.
0USD, 45m

8:15pm-10:30pm

Leisure Time & Family Talk

Enjoy quiet family time playing games or chatting to bond after the long drive.
0USD, 2h15m

10:30pm-11:59pm

Get Ready for Bed

Nighttime routine including shower and bedtime preparations; get ready to sleep early for next day activities.
0USD, 1h29m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Bar Harbor Exploration

Bar Harbor, ME on July 13, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Rest in Airbnb to be fully energized for a day of touring Bar Harbor.
0USD, 7h0m

7:00am-7:45am

Morning Routine & Getting Ready

Wake up, freshen up, and get dressed for Bar Harbor exploration.
0USD, 45m

7:45am-8:45am

Breakfast at Jeannie's Great Maine Breakfast

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring classic Maine pancakes, eggs, and local coffee; known for friendly service and cozy atmosphere.
Approx 15-20USD per person, 1h0m

8:45am-9:45am

Drive to Bar Harbor

Drive about an hour from Bucksport to Bar Harbor to begin sightseeing.
0USD, 1h0m

9:45am-11:15am

Acadia National Park – Jordan Pond House & Trail

Walk the scenic Jordan Pond Path (3.3 miles) and enjoy views of the Bubbles; stop at Jordan Pond House for fresh popovers and tea.
Park entrance fee 30USD per vehicle, 1h30m

11:15am-12:45pm

Visit Thunder Hole

Experience the famous Thunder Hole where waves crash dramatically; a must-see natural attraction in Acadia, open from dawn till dusk.
Included with park admission, 1h30m

12:45pm-1:45pm

Lunch at Side Street Cafe

Savor locally sourced lobster rolls and fresh seafood in a family-friendly environment.
Approx 20-30USD per person, 1h0m

1:45pm-3:30pm

Bar Harbor Shore Path

Leisurely walk along the scenic Shore Path with ocean views and charming cottages; great for all ages.
Free, 1h45m

3:30pm-4:30pm

Visit Abbe Museum

Explore the Native American history of Maine at the Abbe Museum, showcasing local Wabanaki culture; open 10am-5pm.
Adults 15USD, Seniors 13USD, Youth Free, 1h0m

4:30pm-5:30pm

Drive back to Bucksport

Return drive to Bucksport for evening relaxation and dinner prep.
0USD, 1h0m

5:30pm-6:30pm

Dinner at Airbnb

Prepare or enjoy a simple meal using groceries stocked earlier or heat local pastries and seafood dishes.
Variable, 1h0m

6:30pm-8:00pm

Evening Stroll in Bucksport

Walk around Bucksport Harbor Park to enjoy waterfront views and peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm-10:30pm

Family Games & Relaxation

Spend quality time indoors playing board games or watching light entertainment.
0USD, 2h30m

10:30pm-11:59pm

Bedtime Routine

Prepare for bed by winding down and freshening up to achieve good rest.
0USD, 1h29m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Acadia Park Scenic & History

Bar Harbor, ME on July 14, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Get a full night's rest to stay energized for hiking and activities.
0USD, 7h0m

7:00am-7:45am

Morning Routine

Freshen up and prepare for an active day exploring Acadia National Park.
0USD, 45m

7:45am-8:45am

Breakfast at 2 Cats Restaurant

Enjoy delicious breakfast dishes in downtown Bar Harbor known for fresh ingredients and warm service.
Approx 15-20USD per person, 1h0m

8:45am-9:45am

Drive to Acadia Visitor Center

Arrive early to pick up park maps and get recommendations from rangers; parking available here.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am-11:30am

Cadillac Mountain Summit

Drive or hike to the summit for panoramic views of Bar Harbor and surrounding areas; try to arrive before 11am for fewer crowds. Shuttle service available.
Park entrance fee applies, 1h45m

11:30am-12:30pm

Visit Sieur de Monts Spring & Nature Center

Educational center with exhibits on the local ecosystem; great for all ages and easy walking paths.
Free with park admission, 1h0m

12:30pm-1:30pm

Lunch at The Thirsty Whale Tavern

Casual spot for seafood sandwiches, chowder, and kid-friendly options in Bar Harbor's downtown.
Approx 15-25USD per person, 1h0m

1:30pm-3:00pm

Carriage Ride or Easy Walking Trail

Choose a relaxing horse-drawn carriage tour for 60 minutes or opt for the easy Jesup Path hike near the Visitor Center.
Carriage Ride approx 40USD adult; Walking free with park admission, 1h30m

3:00pm-4:30pm

Explore Bar Island

At low tide, walk the sandbar to Bar Island for tide pools and views; check tide chart to ensure safe crossing.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm-5:30pm

Drive back to Bucksport

Return to Bucksport to rest and prepare for evening activities.
0USD, 1h0m

5:30pm-6:30pm

Dinner at Bucksport Diner

Enjoy classic American comfort food with seafood and local specialties in a family-friendly setting.
Approx 15-30USD per person, 1h0m

6:30pm-8:00pm

Relax at Airbnb or Local Park

Unwind with light activities or a gentle walk around the neighborhood park in Bucksport.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm-10:30pm

Family Movie or Story Time

Enjoy a family movie night or share stories featuring local history, perfect to wind down.
0USD, 2h30m

10:30pm-11:59pm

Bedtime Routine

Prepare for restorative sleep to recharge for the next day.
0USD, 1h29m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Boat Excursion & Local Culture

Bar Harbor, ME on July 15, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Get deep rest after previous activities and prepare for a boat excursion day.
0USD, 7h0m

7:00am-7:45am

Getting Ready

Morning routine and pack essentials for a boat trip.
0USD, 45m

7:45am-8:45am

Breakfast at Café This Way

Cozy spot with artisanal coffee and creative breakfast options, perfect fuel before boating.
Approx 15-20USD per person, 1h0m

8:45am-9:45am

Drive to Bar Harbor

Scenic drive to ferry docks for embarkation.
0USD, 1h0m

9:45am-12:00pm

Bar Harbor Whale Watching Cruise

Take a memorable boat tour to see whales and marine life in their natural habitat; tours depart in morning and last about 2 hours 15 minutes.
Approx 60-80USD per adult, 2h15m

12:00pm-1:00pm

Lunch at Stewman's Lobster Pound

Relax after the cruise with fresh lobster and Maine seafood at this iconic lobster pound.
Approx 20-40USD per person, 1h0m

1:00pm-2:30pm

Explore Bar Harbor Village Shops

Visit quaint local stores and artisans for souvenirs and local crafts in the downtown area.
Variable, 1h30m

2:30pm-4:00pm

Visit Mount Desert Island Historical Society

Learn about the rich local history of the island in this engaging museum; open 1 PM - 4 PM on weekdays.
Donation suggested, 1h30m

4:00pm-5:00pm

Return Drive to Bucksport

Wind down from the day with the scenic drive back home.
0USD, 1h0m

5:00pm-6:00pm

Dinner at Airbnb

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with meals prepared from groceries or local takeout.
Variable, 1h0m

6:00pm-7:30pm

Evening Walk or Rest

Gentle walk by Bucksport waterfront or unwind indoors for flexibility after boating.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm-10:30pm

Board Games & Family Time

Share laughs and bonding time with games or storytelling.
0USD, 3h0m

10:30pm-11:59pm

Nighttime Routine

Prepare to sleep with calming bedtime rituals.
0USD, 1h29m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Nature & Gardens

Bar Harbor, ME on July 16, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Rejuvenate with eight hours of rest for an active day ahead.
0USD, 7h0m

7:00am-7:45am

Morning Routine

Prepared and ready for time outdoors.
0USD, 45m

7:45am-8:45am

Breakfast at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream

Begin the day with sweet treats and coffee at this local favorite.
Approx 10-15USD per person, 1h0m

8:45am-9:45am

Drive to Thuya Garden

Short drive to the historic and beautifully maintained Thuya Garden.
Free (donations accepted), 1h0m

9:45am-11:15am

Visit Thuya Garden

Explore the exquisite coastal gardens featuring Asian and European plantings in a serene setting.
Free / donations appreciated, 1h30m

11:15am-12:15pm

Visit Agamont Park

Walk to Agamont Park for harbor views and relaxation; great photo opportunity with the famous Bar Harbor lighthouse nearby.
Free, 1h0m

12:15pm-1:15pm

Lunch at Cafe This Way

Return to café for a casual lunch; known for inventive dishes and gluten-free options.
Approx 15-25USD per person, 1h0m

1:15pm-2:15pm

Drive to Asticou Azalea Garden

Travel to nearby Northeast Harbor to visit famed Azalea Garden.
Free with voluntary donations, 1h0m

2:15pm-3:45pm

Explore Asticou Azalea Garden

Stroll the tranquil Japanese-style garden, blooming spectacularly in summer with azaleas and rhododendrons.
Free, donations accepted, 1h30m

3:45pm-4:45pm

Return drive to Bucksport

Drive back to Bucksport to relax and refresh.
0USD, 1h0m

4:45pm-5:45pm

Dinner at Five Islands Lobster Co.

Enjoy fresh lobster or alternative Maine seafood dishes in a casual dining atmosphere located near Bucksport.
Approx 25-40USD per person, 1h0m

5:45pm-7:00pm

Evening Outdoor Relaxation

Relax outdoors at the Airbnb or take a gentle walk nearby.
Free, 1h15m

7:00pm-10:30pm

Family Relaxation & Light Entertainment

Spend the evening relaxing with family board games, reading, or light TV.
0USD, 3h30m

10:30pm-11:59pm

Bedtime Routine

Prepare for tomorrow with a calm bedtime routine.
0USD, 1h29m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Day Trip to Schoodic Peninsula

Schoodic Peninsula, ME on July 17, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Rest well to prepare for a full day outing.
0USD, 7h0m

7:00am-7:45am

Morning Routine

Get ready and pack essentials for a day at Schoodic Peninsula.
0USD, 45m

7:45am-8:45am

Breakfast at the Airbnb

Eat a hearty breakfast prepared at the Airbnb to fuel for the trip.
Variable, 1h0m

8:45am-9:45am

Drive to Schoodic Peninsula

One hour drive east to the less crowded Schoodic section of Acadia for hiking and photography.
30USD park entrance included in previous purchase if valid, 1h0m

9:45am-12:45pm

Hiking & Exploring Schoodic Peninsula

Enjoy easy to moderate hikes with breathtaking coastal views and wildlife spotting; great for all ages.
Included with park admission, 3h0m

12:45pm-1:45pm

Picnic Lunch at Picnic Point

Bring packed lunch to enjoy scenic picnic overlooking the ocean.
Cost of packed lunch, 1h0m

1:45pm-3:00pm

Visit Schoodic Education and Research Center

Explore interactive exhibits about the local environment and conservation efforts; open daily 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h15m

3:00pm-4:00pm

Drive back to Bucksport

Return drive to home base to rest and freshen up.
0USD, 1h0m

4:00pm-5:00pm

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Try Adams' Restaurant or The Docksider for local fare specializing in seafood and classic dishes.
Approx 20-35USD per person, 1h0m

5:00pm-6:30pm

Evening Relaxation

Rest and relax with family or take an evening walk near Bucksport Harbor.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm-10:30pm

Games and Storytelling

Gather for board games, card games, or recount the day’s highlights together.
0USD, 4h0m

10:30pm-11:59pm

Prepare for Bed

Nighttime routine to wind down after an active day.
0USD, 1h29m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Relax & Optional Bar Harbor Stroll

Bucksport, ME on July 18, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Get a restful sleep to recharge after a busy week.
0USD, 7h0m

7:00am-7:45am

Morning Routine

Prepare leisurely for the day ahead.
0USD, 45m

7:45am-8:45am

Breakfast at Airbnb

Enjoy breakfast made from grocery supplies to start a relaxing day.
Variable, 1h0m

8:45am-9:45am

Drive to Bar Harbor (optional)

Optional trip into town for last shopping or sightseeing.
0USD, 1h0m

9:45am-11:00am

Free Time in Bar Harbor

Walk the shops, enjoy coffee or a light snack, and soak in the harbor ambiance at your own pace.
Variable, 1h15m

11:00am-12:00pm

Drive back to Bucksport (if took optional trip)

Return drive to rest and prep for afternoon activities.
0USD, 1h0m

12:00pm-1:00pm

Lunch at Airbnb

Light lunch using groceries, focus on leftovers or easy-prep meals.
Variable, 1h0m

1:00pm-3:00pm

Relax & Pack for Return

Pack belongings and enjoy quiet relaxation in preparation for travel the next day.
0USD, 2h0m

3:00pm-5:00pm

Visit Fort Knox & Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory

Short drive to nearby Fort Knox state historic site and the observatory; open 9am-6pm, great for history and views.
Adults 8USD, Seniors 4USD, 2h0m

5:00pm-6:30pm

Dinner at Bucksport House of Pizza & Subs

Casual dining with pizza, subs, and family-friendly options to fuel up for last night.
Approx 10-20USD per person, 1h30m

6:30pm-9:30pm

Family Time & Light Walk

Spend relaxed time indoors or take a gentle walk around Bucksport town center.
Free, 3h0m

9:30pm-11:59pm

Bedtime Routine & Final Packing

Get ready for bed and finalize packing for next day’s early departure.
0USD, 2h29m
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Return Journey

Bucksport, ME to Abingdon, MD on July 19, 2025

12:00am-8:00am

Sleep and Morning Routine

Get a final full sleep and morning preparations before departure.
0USD, 8h0m

8:00am-10:00am

Drive Leave Bucksport

Depart exactly at 8:00 AM for Abingdon, MD; stop for 15 minutes at 10:00 AM for rest and refreshments.
0USD, 2h0m

10:00am-10:15am

Rest Stop 1

Quick 15-minute break to stretch and refresh.
Variable, 15m

10:15am-12:15pm

Drive Continuing

Continue the journey south with scenic views along the way.
0USD, 2h0m

12:15pm-12:30pm

Rest Stop 2

Fifteen-minute break to refresh and maybe grab lunch snacks.
Variable, 15m

12:30pm-2:30pm

Drive and Lunch Stop

Continue driving; plan a lunch stop midway at a diner or café around 1:30 PM for 45 minutes.
Variable, 2h0m

2:30pm-3:15pm

Lunch Break

Enjoy lunch at a recommended stop such as Friendly's or a local diner offering varied menu options.
Approx 10-20USD per person, 45m

3:15pm-5:15pm

Driving

Resume drive with final stretch toward Maryland.
0USD, 2h0m

5:15pm-5:30pm

Rest Stop 3

Short break for leg stretching and snacks to stay comfortable.
Variable, 15m

5:30pm-7:10pm

Final Drive to Abingdon, MD

Complete the return trip and arrive exactly at 7:10 PM in Abingdon.
0USD, 1h40m

7:10pm-11:59pm

Unpack and Rest

Settle back home, unpack belongings, and rest from the journey.
0USD, 4h49m
View Hotel Availability