MDI Tours
Rating
Family of 4
USD 160-240
Duration
2-3 hours
Best Ages
2 and up
About
MDI Tours specializes in showing families the very best of Mount Desert Island — the spectacular peninsula that is home to both Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. With experienced local guides at the helm, these narrated tours cover the island's most iconic viewpoints, scenic coastal drives, and cultural landmarks in a comfortable, unhurried format.
The tours are a fantastic introduction to the area for first-time visitors, offering context and stories that turn a sightseeing drive into a genuinely educational experience. Kids learn about the geology of Acadia's pink granite cliffs, the wildlife that inhabits the island's forests and shores, and the fascinating history of Bar Harbor as a 19th-century summer retreat for America's elite.
MDI Tours runs its routes through the park road system and village, giving passengers views that are difficult or impractical to access independently, especially for families managing young children. The guides pause at key overlooks for photos and answer questions enthusiastically — a real plus for curious kids.
Whether your family is spending a long weekend or a full week in Bar Harbor, MDI Tours offers a meaningful way to see more of the island than you'd manage on your own. It's one of those activities that families consistently say was one of the highlights of their Maine vacation.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Setting
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning tours to avoid afternoon fog and crowds
Wait Times
Minimal
Nearby Food
Bar Harbor's Main Street restaurants and cafes are close to the tour departure point
Why Kids Love It
Kids get to see Mount Desert Island from new angles with an engaging guide who brings the history and nature to life
Pro Tips from Parents
- Layer clothing — coastal Maine weather shifts quickly even in summer
- Bring binoculars for wildlife and bird watching along the route
- Book the morning departure for the clearest views of Cadillac Mountain
What to Bring
- Layers
- Binoculars
- Sunscreen
- Water
- Camera
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 160-240
Tips to Save
- Check for family or group pricing when booking multiple seats
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Monday
- 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday
- 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday
- 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM