The Mount Desert Island YMCA
Rating
Family of 4
40
Duration
1.5–3 hours
Best Ages
All ages
About
The Mount Desert Island YMCA is a comprehensive family fitness and recreation facility that serves as one of Bar Harbor's most practical and versatile resources for visiting families. With an indoor pool, gym facilities, and family programming, it provides the perfect complement to Acadia's outdoor adventures — especially on rainy days or when the family needs an active indoor option.
For kids, the pool is the undisputed star of the YMCA experience. After days of hiking, tidal pool exploring, and sightseeing, a swim session delivers pure, uncomplicated joy. The YMCA's family swim sessions are less regimented than lap swim times, making them ideal for families with kids of mixed swimming abilities.
Nursing and changing facilities are available, and the locker rooms are well-maintained.
Visiting families can typically purchase day passes, though calling ahead to confirm current visitor rates and availability is recommended. A family of four should expect to spend around 40 dollars for a day pass, making it one of the more affordable extended activity options in Bar Harbor.
The YMCA also offers fitness classes and other programming that teen and tween visitors might appreciate independently. With stroller access throughout the facility, it's welcoming to families with infants and toddlers as well. For rainy Acadia days that derail outdoor plans, the YMCA is the reliable fallback that keeps everyone active, happy, and out of the rain.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
true
Setting
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning for pool lap availability; afternoons for family swim
Wait Times
None for most activities; pool times may have limits
Nearby Food
Bar Harbor restaurants are easily accessible after your visit
Why Kids Love It
A full-service YMCA with pool access, gym, and family programming — the perfect rainy day or active recovery option
Pro Tips from Parents
- Visitor day passes are typically available — call ahead to confirm rates and availability
- The pool is a huge hit with kids, especially after a long hike day
- Check the class schedule for family swim sessions that are less regimented than lap swim
What to Bring
- Swimsuits and towels
- Lock for locker room
- Water bottle
- Flip flops
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
40
Tips to Save
- Day passes are available for visitors; check for family rate options
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Monday
- 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday
- 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Thursday
- 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM