CJ’s Big Dipper

+2 more

Overview

About This Establishment

CJ's Big Dipper hits you with a retro ice cream counter and a line of hungry families. The Maine wild blueberry soft serve is silky and bright, a blueberry punch that sticks to your tongue. Vegan options—mint chocolate chip (soy), peanut butter chocolate (almond), raspberry chocolate truffle (soy)—are smooth and indulgent. A tiny outdoor patch invites a post-hike treat along Main Street.

At a Glance

Best For

Vibe

What Makes It Special

Blueberry soft serve and vegan options in a retro Bar Harbor shop

Must-Try Items

Signature Dishes: Maine wild blueberry soft serve; blueberry and vanilla twist soft serve; vegan options including mint chocolate chip (soy), peanut butter chocolate (almond), and raspberry chocolate truffle (soy).

Maine wild blueberry soft serve; blueberry and vanilla twist soft serve; vegan flavors.

Best Time to Visit

Open daily 11:00 AM–10:00 PM. To dodge the lines, go earlier in the day or slightly off-peak hours.

Tips & Advice

Hit the Maine wild blueberry soft serve first—it's the cult pick.
Try vegan flavors like mint chocolate chip (soy) and peanut butter chocolate (almond).
Go early or after lunch to shorten lines.

Skip If

Quiet dining or long table-service meals

Family Info

Kid-friendly with a bustling, energetic vibe

Details

Menu & Food

Meals Served: Afternoon, Evening

Local Specialties: Blueberry-based flavors; blueberry soft serve is a local standout.

Insider Tips: Order the Maine wild blueberry soft serve; for vegans, try mint chocolate chip (soy), peanut butter chocolate (almond), or raspberry chocolate truffle (soy).

Dietary Options:

Beverages

Bar: Coffee available.

Tour Info: Not available.

Happy Hour: Not applicable.

Dining Experience

Service: Counter service

Reservations: Walk-in only.

Dress Code: Casual

Noise Level: Not documented by sources.

Outdoor Seating: 1

Family Info: Kid-friendly with a bustling, energetic vibe

Age Policy: All ages.

Hours & Timing

Hours: Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Seasonal Hours: Open daily with no seasonal variations.

Closed: None.

Busiest Times: Peak hours; lines form on busy days

Amenities & Services

Parking Available (Street parking in downtown Bar Harbor; spots can be tight and competitive.)
Takeout Available
Accepts: Cash, Credit cards

Accessibility:

Counter-service, with sidewalk access; indoor seating is limited and a small outdoor area exists. Wheelchair accessibility and restroom specifics are not documented.

FAQs

Is there vegan ice cream?

Yes. Vegan options use almond or soy milk bases, including flavors like mint chocolate chip (soy) and raspberry chocolate truffle (soy).

Are there gluten-free options?

Is there seating available?

Do they offer takeout or delivery?

What time should I go to avoid the crowd?

📖 bigdippericecream.com 📖 happycow.net 📖 heytraveler.com 📖 fab5familytravel.com 📖 caitlinkenneysmith.com 📖 yournpguide.com 📖 glutenfreefollowme.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 reddit.com 📖 wondersofcooking.com 📖 thenomadicfitzpatricks.com 📖 visitbarharbor.com 📖 friendsofacadia.org ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →