Region: Great Portland & Casco Bay
Activities: Shopping, hiking, biking, dining, breweries, farms.
Family-friendly.
Known for being a favorite shopping destination in New England because of its brand-name outlets and local boutiques, Freeport is that and so much more. With a thriving culture that embraces the outdoors (whatever the season), an award-winning craft brew scene and a charmingly historic downtown, Freeport is a destination you can easily enjoy for a couple of days.
Buy gear at the bustling flagship L.L.Bean store and then go hiking on a serene trail. Afterward, treat yourself to a cold one and steaming pizza at Maine Beer Company. All of that is possible in the town of Freeport!
You can’t go to Freeport and miss the delightful scene that is its downtown and shopper’s paradise. Nestled in elegant historic buildings and homes, some dating back as far as the 18th century, are brand-name stores and boutiques. Keep an eye out — some of the stores and restaurants are incognito from the outside as they stay architecturally true to their historic roots! At the heart of it all is Maine’s staple — the L.L.Bean Flagship Store — situated on an expansive campus with Discovery Park in the center. During the holiday season, Discovery Park boasts an outdoor ice skating rink open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for free skating. Skate rentals are available.
Snag a great deal on top designer names, like Coach, Patagonia, Ann Taylor, J.Crew, Ralph Lauren and more.
See the local flair of Maine designers, crafters and entrepreneurs. Discover casually elegant women’s and kid’s apparel at the Rustic Arrow. For a little sparkle and shine, Freeport Jewelers offers stunning takes on the state’s gemstone, the Tourmaline. Bring home a bit of Maine with Coastal Carvings’ handmade wildlife sculptures or a box of happiness at Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections.
Few things are as iconic to Maine as the flagship L.L.Bean store in downtown Freeport. With several buildings that encompass apparel, hunting and fishing, bike, boat and ski, and a home store, you’ll discover love for the outdoors wherever you turn. Don’t forget to take a photo with the famously oversized “bean boot.”
Freeport’s restaurants and lively craft brew scene are perfect for families to gather, unwind and savor.
Start your day at Isabella’s Sticky Buns. If the giant, gooey cinnamon rolls aren’t enough to entice you, Isabella’s also has a variety of breakfast sandwiches, hot plates and local coffee.
Try a lobster roll at Linda Bean’s window-service cafe, or kick back for grilled seafood and salads at the Porter Kitchen + Bar, where your seat in an open-concept kitchen lets you witness the talented chefs in action. In the warmer months, head to Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster, an authentic Maine lobster shack in South Freeport.
Cozy up inside or bask in the sun on the patio at Maine Beer Company, an award-winning brewery with wood-fired pizza. The Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro combines Italian favorites with a Maine flair. They also have a great kids’ menu. At Mast Landing Brewing Company, you can enjoy a variety of brews (from mango sours to peanut butter milk stouts) along with locally sourced comfort food from Nighthawk’s Kitchen.
Whether it’s sweater weather or a balmy summer day, you’ll find something to enjoy outside in Freeport. From state parks to a Maine desert (yes, a desert), there are outdoor activities the whole family will enjoy.
This coastal farm is a special place, offering experiences that will educate, spark curiosity and inspire. From their livestock education barn — which is open to the public and houses sheep, goats, chicken and ducks — to their glorious, preserved lands open for hiking, biking and paddling, adults and children alike will be full of wonder at Wolfe’s Neck. Open year-round, it’s the perfect spot for a hike or snowshoe adventure. Be sure to check out their cafe for a quick snack or lunch.
Working with landowners and the town of Freeport, Freeport Conservation Trust has conserved more than 1,500 acres of open space for the enjoyment of all. From wooded walks with bay views to sparkling open fields for a winter snowshoeing adventure, their vast network of trails will help you plan your ideal Freeport outing.
For something a little bit different, look no further than the Desert of Maine. What may be misinterpreted as a human-made tourist attraction is actually a natural wonder. Kids and adults alike will be mystified, surprised and delighted by the place, featuring an expanse of natural dunes, a wooden labyrinth hiding treasures you can take home, a natural playground, historic sites, nature trails and more.
After a day on the town and or on the trail, rest up at a Freeport inn.
This historic B&B claims a quiet corner of the bustling Freeport shopping district, hidden away with a cozy library and large farmer’s porch.
Enjoy a slice of comfort in the heart of Freeport Village. With two wonderful restaurants, an indoor heated pool and rooms with fireplaces, you’ll be in total comfort.
A perfect spot to combine business and pleasure, you’ll have Freeport’s offerings at your fingertips and all the amenities needed when business calls.
Insider tip: If you’re coming from the Boston area, consider Amtrak’s Downeaster service to Freeport. The downtown station is just a short walk to hotels, inns, shops and restaurants.
Mileage:
Portland: 19 miles
Lewiston/Auburn: 20 miles
Augusta: 39 miles
Bangor: 113 miles
Ellsworth: 139 miles