SPEND THE DAY
SHOPPING
The Maine Beaches has it all : whether you ’ re looking for the newest in designer fashion or treasures from the past .
The best thing about The Maine Beaches is that we have a place for you to shop no matter where you are . Here are some details of where and when to shop when you take a break from the beach .
You ’ ll find the heart of the outlet phenomenon just a couple of miles north of the state line in Kittery ( or hop off the first exit in Maine and head north ). These world-class outlets are paradise . Mecca . Nirvana . Whatever you call it , this is the place to find deals on the best brands direct from the makers ’ factories . Clothes . Home goods . Books . Gifts . Jewelry . Anything and everything . Make sure your traveling companions know where you ’ re going as it might be a while before they see you again .
Wells is the place for antiques if you ’ re looking for early American ironwork , nautical brass , primitive , and farm pieces . Dealers with an eye for vintage style prowl the coastal byways and back roads of New England , collecting it in their shops along US Route 1 in Wells and Arundel . Shop at over 50 malls , galleries , and stores representing hundreds of Maine dealers . And make sure to be around for the Kennebunk Antique Show and Sale in August .
No visit to The Maine Beaches would be complete without spending a little time downtown along our countless and quaint shop-lined streets . In Ogunquit , Main Street is a great start , then follow Shore Road down to iconic Perkins Cove for more shopping . York Village is home to stores featuring hand-made and artisanal goods on York Street . In Kennebunk , Downtown and Lower Village deliver the goods for shoppers . If you still need a little more , Kennebunkport ’ s Dock Square is another splendid shopping destination .
In Biddeford and Saco , Main Street is lined with stores leading visitors down to the Saco River . Just off the turnpike , The Shops at Biddeford Crossing offer an array of options . Old Orchard Beach and Ocean Park are home to various locally-owned shops featuring unique collections of Maine-made gifts , and beach-inspired wares .
Art collectors , ranging from those with a skilled eye to those looking for something special for the home , should plan on visiting The Kennebunks for its broad collection of fine art galleries . Casual art lovers will enjoy one of the monthly Art Walks held in either the Kennebunks or Biddeford and Saco . •