Traveling Alone, don't drive, any suggestions?

Question

I plan to be in Maine for 3-4 nights during the first week of June. I will be traveling alone and do not drive. I enjoy easy hikes at Acadia National Park and visiting coastal sites. If I stay at the Bar Harbor Inn or nearby hotels, is there a free shuttle service to Acadia or other destinations? I also love dining at restaurants and browsing through walkable shops. Any suggestions?

Thank you

Answer

Traveling alone to Maine and staying near Acadia National Park sounds like a wonderful adventure! Since you don’t plan to drive, you’ll be happy to know that Bar Harbor and the surrounding areas have many options for transportation, as well as plenty of dining, shopping, and easy outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are some helpful suggestions for your trip:

Transportation: If you're staying at the Bar Harbor Inn or nearby, you're in luck — the town offers a great public transportation system and services to help visitors get around without a car. Here are a few options:

Free Island Explorer Shuttle: The Island Explorer bus service is a free, seasonal shuttle that operates from mid-June through mid-October. It connects Bar Harbor to Acadia National Park and several other popular destinations on Mount Desert Island, including Jordan Pond, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Cadillac Mountain. It's a great option for getting to Acadia's main sites without needing to drive. The buses typically run throughout the day and stop at many locations in Bar Harbor, so you can easily access them from most hotels in the area.
Hotel Shuttles: Some hotels, like the Bar Harbor Inn, may offer shuttle services to Acadia or around town. It’s a good idea to confirm with your hotel if they offer this service, and whether it’s free or for a small fee.
Taxi & Rideshare: For more flexibility, you can also use taxis or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to get around if the shuttle system doesn't reach all of your desired destinations.

Dining & Shopping: Bar Harbor is a lovely, walkable town with plenty of options for dining, shopping, and strolling through the streets. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, there’s something for everyone. Here are some suggestions:

Dining: Bar Harbor offers a great selection of seafood, American, and international cuisine. Some must-try spots include:
- Stewman's Lobster Pound: For fresh lobster and seafood right on the water, Stewman’s offers a great casual dining experience.
- Jordan Pond House: Famous for its popovers and scenic views, Jordan Pond House is a lovely spot for lunch or afternoon tea. It’s located in Acadia National Park, so it’s easy to visit after a hike.
- The Reading Room Restaurant: For a more upscale dining experience with views of Frenchman Bay, The Reading Room at the Bar Harbor Inn is an excellent choice. Their menu offers local seafood and Maine specialties.
Shopping: Bar Harbor has a variety of charming shops for browsing, including local boutiques, art galleries, and gift shops. Some notable spots include:
- Bar Harbor Clothing Co: Great for casual wear and souvenirs.
- Yellowhouse Gallery: A local art gallery featuring works from Maine artists.
- Maine Crafted: A boutique showcasing handmade goods from local artisans.

Outdoor Activities & Easy Hikes: Since you enjoy easy hikes and coastal sites, you’ll find plenty to do in Acadia and the Bar Harbor area. Some suggestions for easy hikes and walks are:

Ocean Path Trail: This is an easy, mostly flat 2-mile walk that offers beautiful views of the coastline, including Thunder Hole and Sand Beach. It’s perfect for a leisurely hike and ideal for solo travelers.
Jordan Pond Path: Another relatively easy trail (about 3.5 miles) that loops around the picturesque Jordan Pond, with fantastic views of the Bubbles (two prominent mountains). It's a serene place for a walk.
Carriage Roads: Acadia’s historic carriage roads are great for walking, cycling, or even horse-drawn carriage rides. The paths are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the park.
Cadillac Mountain Summit Road: If you're interested in a bit of a challenge but don’t want to hike, you can drive or take a shuttle to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding waters.

Overall, your trip to Acadia should be a perfect mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and easy outdoor activities. Bar Harbor is a great base for exploring Acadia without needing a car, and the town’s walkability makes it easy to enjoy the local shops and dining. Just be sure to check the shuttle schedules for the Island Explorer bus, and consider booking some restaurant reservations, as they can get busy during peak season.

Have a wonderful trip, and enjoy your time in Maine!