Ultimate 8-Day Bar Harbor and Bucksport Family Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Travel & Settle

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

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep at Home

Ensure a full 8 hours of rest before the long travel day ahead, preparing both body and mind for the journey.
Free, 7h

7:00am-7:15am

Departure from Abingdon, MD

Leave precisely at 7:00 AM, starting the drive to Bucksport, ME, with planned breaks along the way for comfort and meals.
Free, 15m

7:15am-9:15am

Drive toward New York, NY

First leg of the trip heading northeast; enjoy the scenery through Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Fuel, 2h

9:15am-9:30am

Stop #1 - Restroom and Refreshment Break

Stretch legs and grab light snacks to stay energized; recommended stop at a highway rest area or service plaza.
Miscellaneous, 15m

9:30am-11:30am

Drive through Connecticut

Continue towards New England enjoying views of rural and urban landscapes as you approach Massachusetts.
Fuel, 2h

11:30am-12:00pm

Lunch Break

Stop at a diner or well-reviewed family restaurant along the route around Springfield, MA, for a sit-down meal.
USD50, 30m

12:00pm-2:00pm

Drive through New Hampshire

Enjoy scenic drives through the Granite State along interstate highways and state routes.
Fuel, 2h

2:00pm-2:15pm

Stop #2 - Coffee and Rest

Recharge with coffee and light snacks at a local cafe or rest area.
USD20, 15m

2:15pm-4:15pm

Drive into Maine

Final stretch through southern Maine heading toward Bucksport; enjoying coastal views as you progress.
Fuel, 2h

4:15pm-5:40pm

Final Arrival and Grocery Shopping

Arrive at the Airbnb in Bucksport by 5:40 PM. Stop at the nearby Hannaford grocery store for essentials to stock the Airbnb.
USD100, 1h 25m

5:40pm-6:30pm

Settle In and Unpack

Make yourself comfortable in your Bucksport Airbnb, unpack, and prepare for dinner.
Free, 50m

6:30pm-7:30pm

Dinner at Airbnb

Family-cooked dinner using grocery store fresh ingredients from earlier, relaxing after a long travel day.
Free (included in groceries), 1h

7:30pm-9:30pm

Evening Walk in Bucksport

Leisurely stroll around Bucksport town center to stretch legs, see the harbor views, and enjoy the evening ambiance.
Free, 2h

9:30pm-10:30pm

Prepare for Bed

Evening routines including showering, light reading or relaxation to wind down after a travel-intensive day.
Free, 1h

10:30pm-12:00am

Sleep

Sleep to rest for the exciting days ahead exploring Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
Free, 1h 30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Bar Harbor Exploration

Bar Harbor, ME on July 13, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Enjoy a full night's rest to recharge for a full day in Bar Harbor.
Free, 7h

7:00am-7:30am

Morning Routine

Get ready for the day with a refreshing shower and morning prep.
Free, 30m

7:30am-8:15am

Breakfast at Jeannie's Great Maine Breakfast

Enjoy hearty breakfast with classics like blueberry pancakes and Maine lobster eggs Benedict; open from 7:00 AM.
USD70, 45m

8:15am-9:15am

Drive to Bar Harbor

One-hour scenic drive from Bucksport to Bar Harbor to start the day's tours.
Fuel, 1h

9:15am-12:00pm

Acadia National Park - Park Loop Road Tour

Spend time driving the iconic 27-mile loop featuring stunning views including Thunder Hole and Sand Beach; accessible and manageable for all ages.
USD30 (park entry per vehicle), 2h 45m

12:00pm-1:00pm

Lunch at Side Street Cafe

Enjoy casual dining with locally sourced sandwiches, seafood, and vegetarian options; open 11:30 AM to 9 PM.
USD85, 1h

1:00pm-3:30pm

Explore Bar Harbor Village

Walk the charming shops, galleries, and waterfront promenade, visiting the Abbe Museum to learn about Wabanaki culture; museum open 9 AM to 5 PM.
USD50, 2h 30m

3:30pm-4:30pm

Afternoon Break at Cafe This Way

Relax with coffee, tea, and pastries before heading back to Bucksport, open until 5 PM.
USD30, 1h

4:30pm-5:30pm

Return Drive to Bucksport

Return home after a full day of exploration, ready for a relaxing evening.
Fuel, 1h

5:30pm-6:30pm

Relax at Airbnb

Unwind and freshen up after the day’s adventures.
Free, 1h

6:30pm-7:45pm

Dinner at Primo Restaurant in Rockland

Special occasion dinner featuring farm-to-table cuisine about 20 minutes from Bucksport; open until 8 PM on Sundays.
USD150, 1h 15m

7:45pm-9:00pm

Evening Walk or Board Games

Enjoy quiet evening activities back at the Airbnb for family bonding.
Free, 1h 15m

9:00pm-10:00pm

Prepare for Bed

Evening routine including showers and relaxation.
Free, 1h

10:00pm-12:00am

Sleep

Rest well for another active day exploring Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor.
Free, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure Day

Acadia National Park, near Bar Harbor, ME on July 14, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Full rest period rejuvenating for a hiking-focused day.
Free, 7h

7:00am-7:30am

Morning Prep

Get ready for a day outdoors with proper hiking gear and breakfast.
Free, 30m

7:30am-8:15am

Breakfast at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream

Enjoy light breakfast items and coffee to energize for hiking; open from 7 AM.
USD50, 45m

8:15am-9:15am

Drive to Acadia National Park

Arrive early to find parking for your day’s hikes and activities.
Fuel, 1h

9:15am-12:00pm

Hiking Jordan Pond Path and Bubble Rock

Scenic, moderate 3.5-mile loop with stunning views of Jordan Pond and unique bubble rock; suitable for multiple fitness levels.
USD30 (Park Entry included), 2h 45m

12:00pm-1:15pm

Lunch at Jordan Pond House

Try their famous popovers with tea and enjoy the pond view; open 11 AM to 3 PM.
USD90, 1h 15m

1:15pm-3:00pm

Drive & Short Walk to Cadillac Mountain

Explore the summit with spectacular panoramic views, easy paths available for all family members.
Included in park pass, 1h 45m

3:00pm-3:30pm

Snack Break

Rest and refresh with packed snacks or grab refreshments from the summit kiosk.
USD30, 30m

3:30pm-5:00pm

Visit Sand Beach and Surrounding Coastal Trails

Relax on the beach and enjoy easy coastal walks and sights near the Atlantic Ocean.
Free, 1h 30m

5:00pm-6:00pm

Return Drive to Bucksport

Drive back to lodging to rest and prepare for dinner.
Fuel, 1h

6:00pm-7:00pm

Rest & Freshen Up

Relax briefly after your outdoor adventures before heading out for dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm-8:30pm

Dinner at The Bucksport House of Pizza

Enjoy hearty and tasty local pizzas, sandwiches, and salads; open 5 PM to 9 PM.
USD70, 1h 30m

8:30pm-10:00pm

Evening Relaxation with Family Games

Evening bonding time playing board or card games indoor at the Airbnb.
Free, 1h 30m

10:00pm-12:00am

Bedtime Routine and Sleep

Prepare and go to bed for a restful night before tomorrow’s adventures.
Free, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Wildlife and Culture

Bar Harbor and vicinity, ME on July 15, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Rest well for a diverse day including cultural activities and wildlife viewing.
Free, 7h

7:00am-7:30am

Morning Prep

Ready yourself with hiking gear and cameras for wildlife and museum visits.
Free, 30m

7:30am-8:15am

Breakfast at Cafe This Way

Enjoy fresh breakfast bowls, pastries, and locally roasted coffee; opens at 7 AM.
USD60, 45m

8:15am-9:15am

Drive to Acadia Wildlife Viewing Spots

Head to quiet park areas like the Jesup Path or Echo Lake for morning wildlife activity.
Fuel, 1h

9:15am-11:30am

Wildlife Watching and Birding

Look for deer, eagles, and other native wildlife with binoculars; ideal for family nature appreciation.
Free, 2h 15m

11:30am-12:15pm

Short Drive & Snack Break

Pause for snacks and hydration before heading to cultural venues.
USD20, 45m

12:15pm-1:45pm

Lunch at the Thirsty Whale Tavern, Bar Harbor

Relax with casual, family-friendly seafood and American dishes; open 11 AM to 9 PM.
USD85, 1h 30m

1:45pm-4:00pm

Visit Abbe Museum and Bar Harbor Historical Society

Immerse in local Native American history and Bar Harbor’s heritage; museum open until 5 PM.
USD60, 2h 15m

4:00pm-5:00pm

Coffee and Relax at Bar Harbor Book Shop

Enjoy a peaceful spot to wind down exploring local literature and art prints; open until 6 PM.
USD20, 1h

5:00pm-6:00pm

Drive back to Bucksport

Return to the Airbnb for evening relaxation.
Fuel, 1h

6:00pm-7:00pm

Rest and Refresh

Get ready for dinner and relaxation after an enriching day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm-8:30pm

Dinner at Brick Hill Tavern, Bucksport

Enjoy casual American fare with locally inspired dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere; open until 9 PM.
USD70, 1h 30m

8:30pm-10:00pm

Evening Walk by Bucksport Harbor

Gentle stroll by the waterfront to enjoy the evening calm and night sky.
Free, 1h 30m

10:00pm-12:00am

Bedtime Routine & Sleep

Prepare for bed and unwind after a fulfilling day.
Free, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Bar Harbor Coastal and Marine Day

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, ME on July 16, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Recharge with deep rest for an active day near water.
Free, 7h

7:00am-7:30am

Morning Preparation

Get ready with sun protection and gear for marine activities.
Free, 30m

7:30am-8:15am

Breakfast at Jeannie's Great Maine Breakfast

Start with a filling and famous breakfast to fuel the day; opens at 7 AM.
USD70, 45m

8:15am-9:15am

Drive to Bar Harbor

One-hour drive to start the marine adventure day.
Fuel, 1h

9:15am-12:00pm

Bar Harbor Boat Tour and Whale Watching

Take a guided whale watch tour to see marine wildlife including whales, seals, and puffins; tours depart around 9:30 AM, lasting about 3 hours.
USD60-80 per person, 2h 45m

12:00pm-1:00pm

Lunch at Stewman's Lobster Pound

Enjoy authentic Maine lobster with waterfront views; open 11 AM to 8 PM.
USD100, 1h

1:00pm-3:00pm

Explore Shore Path and Village Center

Leisurely walk along Bar Harbor's Shore Path and browsing local shops and galleries; perfect for light exercise and scenic views.
Free, 2h

3:00pm-4:00pm

Ice Cream Break at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream

Treat the family to homemade ice cream flavors; open until 8 PM.
USD30, 1h

4:00pm-5:00pm

Drive Back to Bucksport

Return to the comfort of the Airbnb after a fun-filled day.
Fuel, 1h

5:00pm-6:00pm

Rest and Refresh

Take this time to unwind and maybe freshen up after the boat tour.
Free, 1h

6:00pm-7:30pm

Dinner at Home

Family-cooked dinner using local fresh seafood from earlier grocery shopping.
Free (included in groceries), 1h 30m

7:30pm-9:30pm

Family Movie or Game Night

Relax indoors with a cozy family activity to close the day.
Free, 2h

9:30pm-11:59pm

Bedtime Routine and Sleep

Prepare for sleep with calming activities and rest deeply for the next day.
Free, 2h 29m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Scenic Driving & Light Hiking

Acadia National Park and Bucksport, ME on July 17, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Rest after the previous day’s activities to rejuvenate fully.
Free, 7h

7:00am-7:30am

Morning Prep

Prepare for a scenic day with layered clothing and breakfast.
Free, 30m

7:30am-8:15am

Breakfast at Hearth and Hound, Bucksport

Enjoy a cozy breakfast featuring local and classic foods; open from 7 AM.
USD65, 45m

8:15am-9:15am

Drive to Acadia National Park

Begin your scenic exploration with an hour's drive into Bar Harbor.
Fuel, 1h

9:15am-11:00am

Hiking Great Head Trail

A moderately easy 1.5-mile loop with breathtaking ocean views along rocky coastlines, ideal for all ages.
Included in park pass, 1h 45m

11:00am-12:00pm

Drive and Explore Otter Cliffs

Short, accessible walks and stunning seascape views at one of Acadia’s iconic cliffs.
Free, 1h

12:00pm-1:00pm

Lunch at Thurston’s Lobster Pound

Enjoy fresh lobster rolls and ocean-side dining; open 11 AM to 7 PM.
USD90, 1h

1:00pm-3:30pm

Drive Park Loop Road to Cadillac Mountain for Sunset Viewing

Enjoy the scenic drive in the afternoon and prepare for sunset at Cadillac Mountain with spectacular views; sunset time around 8:30 PM.
Included in park pass, 2h 30m

3:30pm-5:00pm

Afternoon Rest at Jordan Pond House

Relax with tea and popovers while soaking in pond views; open until 5 PM.
USD40, 1h 30m

5:00pm-6:00pm

Return Drive to Bucksport

Head back to the Airbnb to relax before dinner.
Fuel, 1h

6:00pm-7:00pm

Rest and Freshen Up

Prepare for dinner and evening relaxation.
Free, 1h

7:00pm-8:30pm

Dinner at Araso Sushi

Enjoy fresh sushi and Japanese cuisine in Bucksport; open until 9 PM.
USD90, 1h 30m

8:30pm-10:30pm

Evening Relaxation

Unwind together with a casual family activity indoors or an easy walk around the neighborhood.
Free, 2h

10:30pm-12:00am

Prepare for Sleep and Sleep

End the day with a bedtime routine and restful sleep.
Free, 1h 30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Last Full Day Highlights

Bar Harbor and Bucksport, ME on July 18, 2025

12:00am-7:00am

Sleep

Early rest to energize for a final exciting day.
Free, 7h

7:00am-7:30am

Morning Routine

Ready yourselves fully for the last day of exploration.
Free, 30m

7:30am-8:15am

Breakfast at Beal’s Restaurant

Popular spot serving breakfast classics with ocean views; opens at 7 AM.
USD70, 45m

8:15am-9:15am

Drive to Bar Harbor

Travel to town for the day’s set of activities.
Fuel, 1h

9:15am-11:00am

Explore Wild Gardens of Acadia

Short, accessible gardens showcasing native plants of Maine; a peaceful experience suitable for everyone.
Included in park pass, 1h 45m

11:00am-12:30pm

Visit Oceanarium or Bar Harbor Historical Museum

Enjoy interactive exhibits about marine life or local history; oceanarium open until 5 PM.
USD50, 1h 30m

12:30pm-1:30pm

Lunch at Café This Way

Casual cafe offering delicious sandwiches and fresh salads; open until 5 PM.
USD70, 1h

1:30pm-3:30pm

Shopping and Souvenir Browsing

Explore local artisan shops and galleries to pick up memories and gifts.
Varies, 2h

3:30pm-4:30pm

Coffee and Pastry Break

Rest and recharge at a local coffee shop like Jeannie's or a bakery.
USD30, 1h

4:30pm-5:30pm

Drive back to Bucksport

Return home for packing and relaxing before the journey back tomorrow.
Fuel, 1h

5:30pm-7:00pm

Pack and Prepare for Departure

Organize bags and prepare for early morning departure the next day.
Free, 1h 30m

7:00pm-8:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Home

Celebrate the trip with a family dinner featuring favorite meals from the week.
Free (included in groceries), 1h 30m

8:30pm-10:00pm

Final Evening Relaxation

Enjoy the last night relaxing with the family indoors.
Free, 1h 30m

10:00pm-12:00am

Bedtime Routine and Sleep

Ensure good rest ahead of travel day tomorrow.
Free, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Travel Home

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

12:00am-8:00am

Sleep

Get a full night's rest to prepare for the long drive home with an 8 AM start.
Free, 8h

8:00am-8:15am

Departure from Bucksport

Leave promptly at 8:00 AM to start the return journey to Abingdon, MD.
Free, 15m

8:15am-10:15am

Drive first leg

Drive the initial 2 hours of the trip, then plan an essential break for comfort and meals.
Fuel, 2h

10:15am-10:30am

Stop #1 - Refreshments and Rest

Brief stop for stretching and grabbing quick refreshments along the highway.
USD20, 15m

10:30am-12:30pm

Drive second leg

Continue driving toward southern New Hampshire and Massachusetts with scenic views.
Fuel, 2h

12:30pm-1:15pm

Lunch Break

Stop at a rest area or local restaurant to eat a quick and nourishing lunch.
USD70, 45m

1:15pm-3:15pm

Drive third leg

Cover additional mileage heading south toward New York area with planned stops.
Fuel, 2h

3:15pm-3:30pm

Stop #2 - Coffee and Rest

Another short break to re-energize and refresh for the final leg.
USD20, 15m

3:30pm-5:30pm

Drive fourth leg

Complete bulk of remaining travel passing through Pennsylvania.
Fuel, 2h

5:30pm-6:15pm

Final Dinner Break

Stop at a family restaurant for dinner to relax and refresh before the last stretch.
USD80, 45m

6:15pm-7:10pm

Final leg home

Drive the last segment arriving at 7:10 PM in Abingdon, MD for trip’s end.
Free, 55m

7:10pm-11:59pm

Arrival and Rest

Unpack, relax, and rest after the journey home, officially concluding your summer adventure.
Free, 4h 49m
View Hotel Availability