Maine is the land of L.L. Bean, lobster, and good old plaid flannel. While Maine might not be the shopping destination like New York City or Los Angeles, it is home to some extraordinary shopping malls, towns, and stores. If you’re searching for special holiday gifts that just scream “Maine” then make sure you head to some of these holiday shopping destinations to surprise your loved ones this 2023 holiday season. No one is going to say no to flannel and L.L. Bean boots!
L.L. Bean is a travel destination year-round. From clothing to fishing and hunting gear to homeware, you can buy just about anything from L.L. Bean. Head straight to the flagship store in Freeport for that last-minute gift. Don’t forget to pick up the famous L.L. Bean boots that sell like hotcakes.
While L.L. Bean might be the heart of Freeport Village, Freeport Village is home to world-class shopping. From premium international brands like J. Crew Factory, The North Face, and Cole Haan to local shops like Cuddledown and Sea Bags, you’ll find gifts for the whole family without going over your budget.
Portland is Maine’s largest city and it has much to offer in terms of shopping. Portland’s Old Port is filled with tons of locally owned shops selling iconic Maine gifts, food and drink, and homemade. Enjoy handmade rugs and furniture from Angela Adams, fresh seafood from Brown Trading Market, and beautiful handcrafted bait bags from Alaina Marie.
The Kittery Outlets, just an hour from both Portland and Boston, are a group of over 120 stores that each offer everyday savings of 20 to 60 percent off. Shops range from Barbour to Lululemon Athletica to Crate Barrel. Don’t miss your photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus in December.
The Maine Mall is Maine’s largest mall located in South Portland. With extended holiday hours in December, you’ll have no excuse to not get your holiday shopping down. Stop in the Apple Store to pick up a new laptop or pick up a new down jacket at Eddie Bauer. Or just walk around and enjoy the holiday decorations and music.
Are you searching for the perfect Maine gift? Head to quaint coastal town Kennebunkport to search for the perfect iconic gift. Look for beautiful Maine art at Abacus Gallery or shop for homemade fudge and saltwater taffy at the Candy Man and the perfect coastal gift at Julia’s Gifts.
Bangor Mall is the largest mall north of Augusta. With over 80 shops including Macy’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and American Eagle, you’ll find everything on your family’s wish list. Make sure you check out the holiday events going on all month long.
Camden is a quintessential coastal Maine town. If you’re searching for a Maine gift for your “from away” family members, head to Camden for some holiday shopping. With loads of art galleries, jewelers, and antique shops, you’ll find something special that will have your family members buying plane tickets to Maine.
Bar Harbor is a summer destination for locals and visitors from around the world. While most of Bar Harbor shuts down during the winter months, Bar Harbor is a great place to do a little holiday shopping on your vacation. So, next summer when you head Downeast, make sure you check out the many local boutique shops for some early holiday shopping.
Are you struggling trying to find the perfect give for the eccentric uncle that is almost impossible to shop for? Visit the Portland Flea-For-All, Maine’s year-round flea market. With over three floors packed with vintage clothing, homeware, and art, you’ll find some treasures.
There are over 50 antique stores along Route 1 with the most located in the small town of Wells. Shopping for the book lover? Stop of Harding’s Books with over 14 rooms of books. Looking for period antique furniture? Head to R. Jorgensen for the best picks.
Aroostook Centre Mall is Aroostook County’s only mall located in Presque Isle. The mall offers a wide range of shopping from Trader Joe’s to JC Penny to Lowe’s Home Improvement, you’ll find gifts form the whole family without having to drive down to Bangor or Portland.
The Maine State Prison Showroom located in Thomaston offers wood products that are handcrafted by inmates learning woodworking skills. If you’re searching for a special gift, the Showroom offers everything from cutting boards to various tables to wooden ships.
Home to Bath Iron Works, downtown Bath has numerous locally-owned and run shops offering a variety of things. Shop at one of Maine’s favorite shops, Reny’s Department Store, Springer’s Jewelers, and Lisa-Marie’s Made in Maine.
Nestled in the western mountain of Maine, Farmington is a charming college town. Take a stroll down the tiny downtown and shop at one of the many eclectic shops. Enjoy organic foods and products at the Better Living Center to books at the independently-owned Devaney, Doak and Garrett.