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Sherman's Maine Coast Book Shop Bar Harbor

Rating

4.7(462)

Family of 4

USD 20-60 (book purchases)

Duration

30-60 minutes

Best Ages

All ages

About

Sherman's Maine Coast Book Shop is one of Bar Harbor's most beloved institutions , an independent bookstore that has been a cornerstone of village life for generations. The shop carries an impressive selection of books spanning all genres and ages, with a particularly strong collection of Maine-themed titles, nature guides, and children's literature that reflects the coastal setting beautifully.

For families, Sherman's is a wonderful stop at any point during a Bar Harbor visit. Rainy days, post-hike afternoons, or the morning before ferry departure , there's never a wrong time to browse a good independent bookstore. The children's section is thoughtfully stocked, and the staff are genuinely knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on a child's age and interests.

Beyond books, Sherman's carries puzzles, games, gifts, and cards , making it a natural source of entertainment supplies for rainy Maine evenings in a rental cottage. The store also stocks a range of Acadia and Maine field guides, which can transform a family hike or tidal pool visit from a walk into an educational adventure.

Browsing Sherman's is free, and there's absolutely no obligation to buy. But most families find it difficult to leave without something , a Maine picture book, a field guide, a puzzle, or a game , and that's entirely by design in the best possible way.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Yes

Setting

Rainy Day

Great option!

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Anytime , especially good on rainy days or as a post-hike wind-down

Wait Times

None

Nearby Food

Sherman's is centrally located on Bar Harbor's Main Street with dining options immediately nearby

Why Kids Love It

Kids love having time to browse a real bookstore, and Sherman's has an excellent selection of Maine and nature-themed children's books that make ideal trip keepsakes

Pro Tips from Parents

  • Ask staff for recommendations on Maine-themed children's books , they know their inventory well
  • The toy and game section is great for rainy day activity supplies
  • Let each child pick one book as a special vacation purchase , it creates lasting memories

What to Bring

  • A small book budget

Cost Info

Estimated Cost (Family of 4)

USD 20-60 (book purchases)

Tips to Save

  • Browse the bargain section for discounted titles; Maine-themed children's books make excellent and affordable souvenirs

Hours & Contact

Hours

Friday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Contact

56 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA

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