Exploring Unique Maine Shopping Venues and Antique Stores

Taking in our unique Maine shopping venues isn’t just about picking up souvenirs—they’re an experience. We love guiding guests toward the best local finds. Maine has it all, from charming antique shops to eclectic boutiques. And the best part? Most of these gems are just a short drive from our doorstep. Spending a day hunting for treasures, new or old, always feels like a little adventure.

Insider Tip: Please check their hours before heading out, as seasonal closures vary.

Rainy days often make perfect antiquing days. Guests ask me where to go when the skies are gray, and I always have a list ready. Maine is brimming with antique shops offering vintage furniture, collectibles, quirky oddities that spark conversation, and more. 

Each shop has its own personality, and it’s a joy to see guests light up when they find that perfect piece. There’s something magical about holding an object with a story, imagining all the hands it’s passed through over the years.

• The Barn on 26: You’ll find beautifully restored fine antique furniture here. Pieces vary and can be used in any room. They have wingback chairs, beds, desks, tables, and the list goes on. We’ve purchased some of their pieces for our rooms at the inn.

• Poland House: Need something unique? This is the place for you. It may take you awhile to browse through all their pieces, but it’s a sure thing that you’ll see holiday décor, clocks, lamps, novelty items, and so much more. 

• The Willows Flea Market: Here’s another spot where you’ll find something for everyone and spend a ton of time sorting through it all. Generally, it’s open from Thursdays to Sundays. It’s a day’s adventure with lunch available onsite. 

• Route 26 Antiques: This quaint shop, also known as Pa’s Trainin’ Company, may not look as big as some of the others, but it’s chock full of treasures. It offers jars (glass and ceramic), rifles, and coins, to name just a few of its collections.

Just click on the menu box in the upper left-hand corner of the map to add driving directions for the antiquing journey described above.

Freeport is the home to Maine’s own L.L. Bean and the Bean presence in town is huge. Anchored by the iconic boot, the flagship store originally opened in 1917 and since 1951,  has been open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except for 4 days. 

• Two days were in 1961 when Maine changed its blue laws

• One day to honor the death of President Kennedy 

• The other is for Leon Leonwood Bean’s death. 

The complex has four other stores — a hunting & fishing store, a bike, boat & ski store, a home store and the L.L. Bean Outlet store. All except the Outlet are also open 24×7.

There are many other outlet stores in Freeport, including North Face, Patagonia, American Outfitters, Lindt Chocolate and many more. There are also many quaint shops of local artisans and companies. Be sure to grab lunch at Linda Bean’s restaurant, Maine Kitchen & Topside Tavern and finish with dessert at Wicked Whoopies.

Freeport is an easy, scenic, backroad 45-minute drive to the coast from the Wolf Cove Inn.

With Long Lake to the east and Moose Pond to the west, Bridgton is a quaint village with lots of shopping to explore. 

• Visit Unc’l Lunkers for your fishing needs. 

• Drop into J. Decor for finely handcrafted furnishings, home decor and exceptional wines (bet you didn’t expect that!) 

• If it's cigars that interest you, drop in the William Perry Cigar Lounge. There are also a myriad of galleries, crafts and art shops to explore. 

There are also plenty of great places to eat, including the Black Horse Tavern, Vivo Country Italian Kitchen and Beth’s Kitchen Cafe.

Bridgton is a 30-minute drive through rolling, scenic back roads and towns.

The American Planning Association named Commercial Street “one of the top ten streets in America” in 2008. Waterfront cobblestone streets combined with new architecture make this a lively destination. Serene and bustling at the same time, you’ll enjoy the sounds of seagulls and the smell of the ocean breeze as you walk and shop.

Lined with many shops, bars and restaurants, you can spend an entire day exploring this must-see seaport town. Make sure to get off the beaten path and explore some of the adjacent wharves of the working fishing port. 

Here are some options for shopping:

• The Merchant Company: A collective of local artisans offering everything from handmade jewelry to art prints. It’s a creative hub where you can feel the artist’s passion behind every piece. Many times, you’ll be able to meet the artists themselves, which makes the experience even more memorable.

• Lisa-Marie’s Made in Maine: A go-to spot for handcrafted items made by Maine artists. This place truly celebrates the local culture and craftsmanship. You’ll find oieces of pottery, gourmet foods, unique jewelry pieces, and more.

• Reny’s: A Maine staple for an eclectic mix of goods. You’ll find a bit of everything under one roof, including clothing, home goods, snacks, and unexpected finds. Reny’s feels like a blend of modern shopping and old-fashioned charm.

Stepping out to unique Maine shopping venues feels like a mini-adventure. And it’s not just about the items you find. It’s about the stories behind them, the artisans you meet, and the charming small-town atmosphere you soak in along the way. It’s an experience! Guests share their shopping excursions and excitedly showing off their discoveries. Sometimes it’s a rare book or a handcrafted trinket, other times, it’s a vintage piece of furniture they can’t wait to restore.

One of the best things about venturing out shopping is that you'll see some of the most scenic areas of Maine. As you drive from place to place, you’re treated to beautiful views of forests, lakes, and charming towns. Many of these shops are near quaint cafés and restaurants, making it easy to turn a shopping excursion into a full-day experience. Stop for a fresh lobster roll, grab a cup of coffee, or stroll through a nearby park.

When guests return to Wolf Cove Inn with their finds, there’s always a story to tell about the delicate glassware, vintage signs, or hand-carved sculptures. They’ll share where they found it, who they spoke to, and why that particular piece spoke to them. And that’s what I love most—seeing how the simple act of shopping or antiquing can create meaningful experiences and memories.

So, on your next visit, save a little room in your suitcase. Our unique Maine shopping venues are waiting to be explored, and who knows what treasures you’ll uncover? We’re always here to point you in the right direction, whether it’s your first trip or you’re a seasoned pro hunting for something truly special.

Book your stay now and plan for some treasure hunting.

 

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