Shopping Across The Southern Maine Coast: A Quick Guide to Top Destinations
The Southern Maine Coast, known for its picturesque beaches and charming towns, is also a paradise for shoppers looking to explore unique local markets and crafts. With a variety of shopping destinations that cater to different tastes and preferences, you’ll find everything from antiques and boutique stores to delightful gifts and souvenirs.
Dive into towns like Wells, with its array of antique shops, or experience the fabulous collection of stores in Kennebunkport’s Dock Square. Don’t miss Old Orchard Beach, where you’ll find beachwear shops perfect for satisfying your vacation needs. With so much to discover, it’s no wonder visitors to the Southern Maine Coast keep coming back for memorable shopping experiences.
Shopping Destinations
Kittery Outlets
In Kittery, you’ll find an impressive range of outlet stores, perfect for a day of shopping. Visit the Kittery Outlets, where you can find major brands offering great deals on clothing, accessories, and home goods. While you’re there, be sure to stop by the Kittery Trading Post for outdoor recreation gear, fishing supplies, and more.
Shopping in York
York offers a charming shopping experience, particularly in historic Old York Village. Explore the unique boutiques, antique shops, and galleries, where you can find art, jewelry, candles, and crafts from local artisans. As you stroll through the picturesque streets, you’ll also discover a variety of restaurants serving up delicious cuisine.
Portland Boutiques
In Portland, you’ll find an array of trendy boutiques, many of which are located in the city’s vibrant Arts District. From clothing to accessories, these shops offer a curated selection of items designed by local and international artists. Be sure to visit the nearby antique shops and spend time browsing through their one-of-a-kind treasures.
Old Orchard Beach Shops
Old Orchard Beach is not only known for its sandy beaches, but also for its lively shopping scene. You’ll find a mix of souvenir shops, clothing stores, and eateries lining the bustling streets. The lively atmosphere makes it a great place to find unique items and enjoy some entertainment during your visit.
Freeport Outlets
Freeport is home to numerous outlet stores, including the famous L.L.Bean Flagship Store. You’ll find incredible deals on clothing, outerwear, and home goods, making it an ideal destination for savvy shoppers. While in Freeport, don’t forget to check out the local hotels and inns that serve as perfect bases for your shopping adventures.
From quaint boutiques to bustling outlets, you’ll find something to suit every taste and budget, allowing you to shop ’til you drop while enjoying the picturesque scenery that makes this region so special.
Local Markets and Crafts
Antique Shops
While shopping on the Southern Maine Coast, you might want to visit the unique antique shops the area offers. These shops are filled with carefully curated collections of furniture, jewelry, and vintage decor. As you explore the various antique shops, you can discover pieces that reflect the rich history of the region, as well as timeless treasures to bring home with you.
Art Galleries
Art enthusiasts will be delighted to find several art galleries scattered throughout the Southern Maine Coast. These galleries showcase the talents of local artists, featuring everything from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and folk art. Keep an eye out for special exhibitions and events to gain a deeper appreciation of the local arts scene.
A visit to York Village is a must when checking out the art galleries in the area. This charming village is home to a number of galleries, studios, and artisan shops.
Gifts and Souvenirs
No trip to Southern Maine Coast is complete without picking up the perfect gifts and souvenirs to remember your experience.
- Candles: Your shopping experience will be illuminated by the various locally made candles available in Southern Maine Coast shops. These candles come in a variety of scents, sizes, and designs.
- Crafts: Embrace the local craftsmanship by purchasing handmade creations such as woven goods, ceramics, and pottery, which make for thoughtful gifts and memorable additions to your home.
- Ceramics: You’ll also find an abundance of ceramics at local markets, with unique designs and intricate details that reflect the region’s artistic heritage.
Remember to take your time exploring the local markets and crafts during your visit to the Southern Maine Coast, as these special finds can serve as treasured reminders of your memorable experience in this charming region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best shopping towns?
Kennebunk and Kennebunkport are two lovely towns on the Southern Maine Coast that offer many shopping opportunities, ranging from boutiques, art galleries, and gift shops. Another great town for shopping is Old Orchard Beach, where you can find a wide variety of beachwear shops selling t-shirts, beach towels, and more. Don’t forget Ogunquit, Portland, and Freeport which also provide an array of charming boutiques and specialty shops for you to explore.
Popular Freeport shops?
Freeport is known for its fine collection of outlet shops, some of which include L.L. Bean’s flagship store that offers quality outdoor gear, and various designer outlets like Coach and Ralph Lauren. You will also find many unique, locally-owned shops perfect for unique gifts or a memorable souvenir from your trip to Maine.
Kittery shopping spots?
Kittery is home to the famous Kittery Trading Post, where you can purchase outdoor apparel, home goods, and genuine Maine memorabilia. In addition to the Trading Post, Kittery offers a comprehensive outlet mall which includes popular brands such as Old Navy, Nike, and J.Crew, making it a popular destination for bargain hunters.
Grocery options?
When shopping for groceries along the Southern Maine Coast, you will find a variety of options, from large supermarkets such as Hannaford and Shaw’s to smaller local markets and co-ops. You can also visit farm stands and farmers’ markets in many coastal towns, where you will find a wide range of fresh, locally-sourced produce and products perfect for preparing a home-cooked or picnic meal.
Unique stores in Portland?
Portland, Maine’s largest city, houses a plethora of unique shops and boutiques for you to explore. You’ll find stores like The Knotty Elephant, which offers handmade items, or Dock Square Emporium, a charming shop full of gifts and souvenirs. Make sure to check out the Old Port area, where you will be delighted by the variety of artisanal shops, specialty food stores, and independent retailers that line the cobblestone streets.