Bar Harbor/Acadia with young teen.

Question

Hello. I'm exploring vacation options for this summer and we've never spent time in the Northeast so I thought it could be a cool adventure for our family. But we are also traveling with a 15-year-old who is in the typical, would prefer to hang out with friends and bored by everything we suggest stage 😂.

We are open to most any activities, although would not partake in much shopping. If anyone has any advice on if this area is good for that age (so far I haven't seen many guides/videos geared towards kids), that would be great and if so any recommendations would be helpful.

Answer

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are fantastic destinations, and while they’re not known for shopping, they offer plenty of outdoor activities that should appeal to a young teen, even one in that "bored by everything" stage! The area is incredibly scenic, full of adventure, and has a variety of experiences that go beyond traditional vacation activities. Here are some ideas for making the trip fun and engaging for everyone, especially your 15-year-old:

1. Outdoor Adventures:

Hiking in Acadia: Acadia National Park offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Your teen might enjoy the Jordan Pond Path (easy) or the more challenging Precipice Trail, which involves some rock scrambling and offers amazing views. The Beehive Trail is also a popular one, especially for teens looking for a bit of adventure.
Biking: Acadia has over 40 miles of carriage roads that are perfect for biking. You can rent bikes in Bar Harbor and ride around the park. This is a fun way to cover a lot of ground, and your teen will enjoy the freedom of cycling through such beautiful surroundings.
Kayaking and Canoeing: The waters around Bar Harbor are perfect for kayaking. You can rent kayaks and explore the coastline, or take a guided kayak tour. Paddleboarding is also popular, and it's a great way to get out on the water and do something active.
Rock Climbing: If your teen is into something more challenging, there are opportunities for guided rock climbing in Acadia. It’s a fun, hands-on way to explore the area’s rocky coastline and will definitely get the adrenaline going.

2. Wildlife and Scenic Activities:

Wildlife Watching: Acadia is home to a wide range of wildlife, including seals, whales, eagles, and puffins. You can take a boat tour from Bar Harbor to see some of the wildlife up close. There are also opportunities to spot wildlife from the many scenic drives and hiking trails around the park.
Cadillac Mountain Sunrise: For a memorable experience, drive or hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain to catch the sunrise. It’s the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise during certain times of the year, and it offers breathtaking views. It might be early, but it’s a spectacular way to start the day, and teens might enjoy the chance to snap some cool photos.

3. Fun and Unique Experiences:

Bar Harbor Whale Watch: The boat tours to see whales, puffins, and other marine life are always a hit. It’s a thrilling experience for anyone, but especially for teens who are into nature or just want to be on the water. The tours are fun and educational, making it an exciting way to spend part of the day.
Mini Golf and Go-Karting: For a lighter, more traditional fun experience, you can visit the local mini golf courses or a go-kart track. While they’re not a major attraction in the area, they can be a good option for some light-hearted fun that will keep a teen entertained.
Arcadia National Park's Sand Beach: While it’s not exactly the warmest beach in the area, it’s still a beautiful place to chill out for a bit. Teens can explore the beach, dip their feet in the water, or just relax in the sun.

4. Fun in Bar Harbor:

Bar Harbor’s Shore Path: This easy, scenic path along the water is great for a leisurely stroll, and it’s a good way to get familiar with the town. There are benches to sit and relax, plus the views of the harbor and surrounding islands are incredible.
Ice Cream and Local Treats: Bar Harbor has several great spots for ice cream and local treats that will definitely appeal to your teen. Try some traditional Maine Whoopie Pies, or enjoy a scoop at a local ice cream shop.
Shopping in Bar Harbor: While you mentioned not being into shopping, there are unique, small local stores in Bar Harbor that offer locally made products like jewelry, art, and crafts, as well as some cool souvenirs. Your teen might enjoy browsing these quirky shops, especially the ones with unique, Maine-specific items.

5. Evening Activities:

Sunset Sail: A sunset sail around the harbor or along the coast is a great way to end the day. Some tours also offer dinner options or a relaxing atmosphere with music and snacks, which can be a nice way for the family to unwind together.
Evening Ice Cream or Pizza: Bar Harbor has plenty of casual dining options, and a nice way to end the day is to grab some ice cream, pizza, or burgers at one of the local joints. Some of the spots have outdoor seating with live music or views of the harbor, making it a relaxed and enjoyable way to hang out after a day of adventures.

Tips for Teens: Since your teen might not be super excited about a typical family vacation, consider giving them a bit more independence. Many of the activities, like biking or kayaking, allow for some solo exploration, so they can feel a sense of freedom. Also, check out any local events that might be happening during your stay, like live music at local venues, or outdoor movie nights, which can be a cool way for your teen to relax and enjoy the vibe of the area.

Overall, Acadia and Bar Harbor offer a great mix of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and unique experiences that should appeal to a wide range of ages. With some adventure, outdoor exploration, and fun downtime, I think your 15-year-old will find plenty to enjoy!