3 Car-Free Cities: A Guide to Places Where Cars Are Banned.

One of the most obvious signs that a city is going green these days is when they ban cars. Cities around the world have begun to recognize the environmental and health benefits of moving away from car-centric lifestyles. The following cities are just some examples of those who have made this change:

In addition, there are many other places in the US, Canada, and Europe where you can go without a car for an extended period as well as other countries such as China, Japan, Australia and South Korea.

Here are 3 car-Free Cities in the United States:

1. Halibut Cove, Alaska

Photo by Deon van Zyl on Unsplash

Only a few hundred people live in this gorgeous and remote community.

Vehicle traffic is banned on the only road into town, so you have to reach Halibut Cove by foot, bike or boat. There are no roads for cars and trucks here – it’s all about being green!

Halibut Cove is located inside Kachemack Bay State Park, almost half a million acres of forests and mountains by the sea.

A truly secluded place where visitors are welcome to enjoy and communicate with nature.

There are no gas stations, a couple of lodges and only a few shops.

This unique place is where you can truly get in touch with nature! View glaciers, wildlife and enjoy nature in peace.

   2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island Photo by Selena Parker on Unsplash

Located in Michigan, this is a unique place where cars are banned and visitors rely on horse-drawn carriages to get around. This ban helps create an environment for residents, as well as tourists who visit the island during the summer months when it turns into a popular resort destination.

The history of Mackinac Island began in 1780 when French settlers started building the island’s first settlement. The ban on motorized vehicles started being enforced in the 1930s to boost tourism, and today, residents and vacationers get around by bike and vintage horse-drawn carriages.

Mackinac Island is best known for its historical landmarks like Fort Mackinac which was built between 1814 -1817. The island’s Lake Huron location is also popular for diving, deep-sea charters and fishing expeditions.

Mackinac Island is a unique place that provides visitors with an opportunity to experience history in a natural setting close to Lake Huron. Whether you want to relax or enjoy some summer fun at one of Michigan’s most popular resorts, this quiet island in Lake Huron is a must-see destination.

3. Fire Island, New York

Fire Island Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash

Connected to Long Island by boat only, the place has no road connection with the rest of New York.

Off the south shore of Long Island. This island offers beaches, bays, parks and quaint communities that are populated mostly during the warmer months. In fact, almost 90 percent of Fire Island’s land belongs to either The National Park Service or The Nature Conservancy.

Fire Island’s main hub of activity, Ocean Beach, has remained virtually unchanged over the years, making it a special place to visit.

In conclusion, these 3 car-free cities, while not unique in the country. They are part of a new trend in green tourism.  We suggest we visit at least one of them on your next vacation.