Bicycle
Maine is ranked among the most bike-friendly states in the country. Cycling is both a popular sport here and a handy means of transportation on city streets and country roads. Disused railroad rights-of-way have also been turned into bike trails that are perfect for bicycle touring.
Bicycle rentals are available in many Maine towns and resorts at reasonable prices (often $20 to $35 per day).
Boat
Maine State Ferry Service (www.maine.gov/mdot/ferry) operates boats to several larger islands, mostly in the Penobscot Bay region, from terminals at Rockland, Bass Harbor and Lincolnville.
An excellent resource for all the state’s ferry routes, state and privately run, is www.exploremaine.org/ferry.
Bus
The national bus company, Greyhound (www.greyhound.com), provides services to and within Maine. Concord Coach Lines (www.concordcoachlines.com) covers routes along the south coast and Midcoast.
Car & Motorcycle
Driving is the best way to see New England. But be prepared: traffic jams are common on summer weekends along the coast, and at rush hour in more built-up locations. The state’s most congested area is Acadia National Park. During high season (June to September), it’s often best to park your vehicle outside the park and use the free bus service to get around.
Car Rental
Rental cars are readily available. The handiest places to rent them are at the airports (Portland and Bangor), and in towns along the coast. Most rental companies require that you have a major credit card, be at least 25 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
Train
For train travel within Maine, Amtrak (www.amtrak.com) operates the Downeaster, which runs from Boston’s North Station to Brunswick, ME. Maine stops along the way include Wells, Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Portland and Freeport.