Ben & Bills Chocolate Emporium is a delightful stop on Bar Harbor's Main Street where kids can marvel at creative ice cream flavors (including their famous lobster ice cream!), watch chocolatiers at work, and browse colorful displays of homemade fudge, truffles, and candies. The shop's whimsical atmosphere and generous samples make it a sweet treat destination that combines dessert with entertainment, perfect for a mid-day pick-me-up during Acadia National Park adventures.
Visit on weekday afternoons in late spring (May-early June) or early fall (September) to avoid peak summer crowds. If visiting in July or August, come right when they open in the morning or mid-afternoon between lunch and dinner rushes.
Expect to spend around $5-8 per person for ice cream, with additional costs for candies and chocolates. The shop is located right on Main Street with limited street parking nearby; consider parking in municipal lots and walking. The space is small and can get crowded during peak tourist season.
Bar Harbor is highly seasonal with most tourists visiting May through October. The shop operates year-round but with reduced hours in winter months (November-April). Summer months (July-August) bring the largest crowds and longest waits.
For kid-friendly meals nearby, try Rosalie's Pizza just down Main Street for casual slices, or West Street Cafe (a short walk away) which offers breakfast and lunch with kid favorites like pancakes and grilled cheese.
Get ready for treetop adventure at this outdoor ropes course and zipline park that offers age-appropriate challenges for kids of varying abilities. Located in beautiful Bar Harbor, this facility provides a safe, supervised environment where children can build confidence, strength, and problem-solving skills while soaring through the trees and navigating exciting aerial obstacles.
Acadia Sea Kayaking Adventures offers the perfect introduction to sea kayaking for families, with expert guides who specialize in teaching children and nervous beginners. The calm, protected waters around Bar Harbor provide a safe environment for kids to learn paddling basics while exploring the stunning Maine coastline, spotting seals, and discovering hidden coves that are only accessible by kayak.
Beech Mountain Trail offers one of the most rewarding family hikes in Acadia National Park, with a manageable 2-mile round trip that leads to a historic fire tower. Kids will love climbing the tower at the summit to spot islands, mountains, and boats below while enjoying stunning 360-degree views of the coastline and surrounding peaks. The moderate elevation gain makes this an achievable adventure for active families looking to experience Maine's natural beauty without an overly strenuous trek.
This charming historic library in downtown Bar Harbor offers families a peaceful retreat with an impressive children's collection and engaging programs. The beautiful building features regular story times and youth activities that make it a perfect rainy-day destination or quiet break from outdoor adventures along the Maine coast.