Looking for that ultimate weekend getaway with a healthy mix of city shopping and natural splendor? Then dust off that bathing suit and grab your pack, a good pair of hiking shoes and a compact digital camera because your fuel-efficient car is taking you up the rocky Maine coast to one of the most visited parks in the U.S.

 

Acadia National Park is a must-see destination for rock-climbers, families and hikers alike.

 

A favorite activity of my own in Acadia is finding the perfect rock outcrop to scale. Bouldering is a great outdoor challenge for anyone with a spotter and climbing shoes. Acadia’s granite coastline provides ample opportunities for climbers of all experience levels.

 

 

Be sure to stop at Bar Harbor at some point during your visit to experience the quaint shopping town by the harbor. My favorite restaurant is Rupununi, right on Main Street. No matter what you order, you will not be disappointed, and the restaurant strives to reduce its footprint. Interestingly, the restaurant’s name was inspired by the owner’s trip to a region in South America. Any of the natural homemade ice cream shops along your walk back from that restaurant toward the bay will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. I recommend Maine Blueberry.

 

Maine is an absolutely beautiful state with unique and fun things to do everywhere, especially for those nature enthusiasts. From Acadia, you could head three hours north to Baxter State Park if you want a real hiking challenge and a chance to see some magnificent moose!