Crystal clear calm waters on Great Pond in Belgrade
Not far from any lakefront property in the Lakes and Mountains Regions of Maine is the shopping mecca of Freeport. This small New England town is home to over 100 upscale outlets, designer shops and eclectic boutiques located in historic Cape Cod, Colonial and Federal-style houses. Stroll the streets and you’ll find everything from antiques and apparel to jewelry, specialty food and wine, plus made in Maine products to purchase.
Freeport is best known for its world famous L.L. Bean flagship store, which opened in 1912 by Leon Leonwood Bean, creator of the Maine Hunting Shoe. The doors are never locked at L.L. Bean as this is the store that never closes. Yes, it’s open 24/7 and 365 days a year!
You’ll also find other brand names like Gap, Abercrombie & Fitch, JL Coombs, Banana Republic, Coach, Timberland and so many more in this family-friendly town.
In 2011 Yankee Magazine readers voted Freeport “the best weekend of shopping in New England” for the second year in a row.
When not shopping, there’s still plenty to do. Take a nature walk at the Desert of Maine, Wolfe’s Neck Farm, Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park or listen for birds at Maine Audubon’s Mast Landing Sanctuary. Join an adventure at LL Bean’s Outdoor Discovery Schools where they offer a variety of courses for a small fee. The courses include kayaking, fly fishing, clay shooting, outdoor photography, archery and more. You might also enjoy touring the Freeport Fire Museum or taking in a show by the Freeport Community Players.
Since you’ll probably want to spend the entire day exploring Freeport, a variety of dining options are available. With choices including hot dog carts, Jacqueline’s Tea Room, Gritty McDuff’s Brew Pub and the Maine Dining Room at Harraseeket Inn, plus many in between, your sure to find something to match your mood and budget.
When you finish shopping, you’ll delight in knowing that your waterfront retreat awaits you just a short drive away. Check out all the current lakefront property listings in the Winthrop and Belgrade Lakes Regions of Maine by clicking in the box below: