Your Guide to the Best Things to Do in Freeport Maine

Nestled on Maine’s southern coast on the shores of Casco Bay, just north of Portland, is the cozy little town of Freeport Maine, once known as the “Birthplace of Maine.”

Once a prominent part of Maine’s shipbuilding and timber operations, Freeport is now known as a shopper’s paradise. It’s home to numerous outlet stores, including L.L. Bean.

But, Freeport is more than just a shopper’s paradise. It’s a town full of rich history, beautiful scenery, and a dedication to the arts. You can marvel at Freeport’s historic buildings, visit the Desert of Maine, explore Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, attend a fun local event, and so much more!

If you’re looking for a fun Maine day trip or hoping to stay and explore for a few days, Freeport Maine offers so much to see and do.

Getting to Know Freeport Maine

Though it was first settled around 1700 and known as Harraseeket, Freeport wasn’t officially incorporated or known as Freeport until 1789.

Freeport was so named because of the openness of its harbor and was comprised of four villages — Freeport Corner, South Freeport, Mast Landing, and Porter’s Landing. Today, those villages make up the Harraseeket Historic District and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Birthplace Myth

It was once nicknamed the “Birthplace of Maine,” but in recent years, that has turned out to be no more than a myth. For years, it was accepted as fact because of an old plaque at the now-closed Jameson Tavern, which commemorated the signing of papers in 1820 that separated Maine from Massachusetts.

The Home of L.L. Bean

Town historians have found that Freeport never officially adopted or endorsed that motto. However, the town is the birthplace of L.L. Bean, which grew from humble origins when Leon Leonwood Bean opened a store at Freeport Corner in 1912, selling hunting shoes known as Bean Boots.

The store became so popular that, by 1951, it was open 24 hours a day and eventually grew into a billion-dollar business. Today, L.L. Bean’s Freeport store serves as an anchor for the town’s numerous outlet stores.

The Best Things to Do in Freeport Maine

Shop ’til You Drop at Freeport Outlets

Among the many things to do in Freeport Maine, outlet shopping is very popular with over 170 name-brand retailers offering discounted options. Some of the brand names include Banana Republic, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, and Coach.

The world-famous L.L. Bean flagship store is also located right in the heart of Freeport and takes hours to explore from the ground to the top floor. It’s open all day, every day, and there are also L.L. Bean outlet stores throughout town.

L.L. Bean is the premier outdoor apparel and equipment store in the country, celebrating over 100 years of business. It has everything for all of your adventure needs, including tents, sleeping bags, kayaks, and travel gear, as well as ski equipment, clothing, and world-famous Bean boots.

Also, Freeport is home to some local shops that feature handcrafted jewelry, home decor, and specialty foods and treats:

• Georgetown Pottery has been offering handcrafted goods since 1972 and offers lots of unique, handcrafted decor that’s perfect for your home.
• Abacus Gallery has several locations in Maine, including Freeport, and offers quality handcrafted prints, jewelry, and more.
• Kids will love a trip to Island Treasure Toys, which offers plenty of games, puzzles, books, and toys to let their imaginations run wild.
• Cotton Weeds Quilt Shop is one of many craft stores in Freeport Maine and offers fabrics, patterns, and more for those interested in quilting.

Visit Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park offers over 230 acres of land to explore, and it’s just a five-minute drive from downtown Freeport. Surrounded by the rocky shores of Casco Bay and the Harraseeket River, common visitor attractions include kayaking, boating, and even clamming!

Wolfe’s Neck Woods has approximately 5 miles of paths that wind through its pine tree forests and along the seacoast. Since the park grounds are relatively flat, this is an ideal destination for small children or physically challenged visitors who have a hard time navigating large state parks.

Bird-watchers should pack binoculars in the spring to view the babies and in the fall as the birds get ready to migrate south. In the winter, you can go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing throughout the park. Off one of the trails, you can view Googins Island, an osprey sanctuary.

Park Rangers at Wolfe’s Neck Woods also offer one-hour guided nature programs and tours, focusing on the beauty of Maine state parks.

Explore the Unique Desert of Maine

Freeport is home to one of the most unique tourist attractions in the state — the Desert of Maine. Just 4 miles from the shops of Freeport, you’ll step into history as you stroll across 20 acres of sand dunes formed from a glacial outwash during the Ice Age and tour the barn that dates back to the 1700s.

There is a guided or downloadable walking tour that explains the rich history and the evolution of this geological phenomenon. Additionally, you can walk well-marked nature trails, visit the unique gift shop, and grab refreshments at the Oasis Cafe.

Plus, kids have a blast digging in the sand for gemstones and climbing the natural playground. There’s even a campground right on the edge of the sand if you want to extend your stay.

Head to South Freeport for a Boat Tour

South Freeport is home to a large working fishermen’s harbor, where you can dine on freshly steamed lobster and seafood while watching boats travel in and out of the Harraseeket River.

If you are looking for some adventure on the water, hop aboard a scenic ocean cruise or sailboat charter. You can even rent kayaks or enjoy an L.L. Bean Discovery School tour with a Maine guide to explore tidal rivers full of wildlife.

See History Up Close in the Harraseeket Historic District

Many historical buildings are still standing in Freeport Maine thanks to the local historical society, including many original homes, schools, and churches.

In fact, the town is so dedicated to preserving history that when a McDonald’s wanted to open up on one of the properties, it was only allowed to do so if it kept the original building, preserving the unique New England feel.

The Harraseeket Historic District makes up some of Freeport’s oldest maritime villages and stretches along the banks of the Harraseeket River:

• Mast Landing includes several houses from the early 19th century, such as Pettengill House and Farm, an example of a New England saltbox.
• Wolfe’s Neck Woods is on a peninsula that separates the Harraseeket River from Casco Bay. This area is still rich in rural character and has a number of 18th and 19th-century houses, including the Capt. Greenfield Pote House.
• Porter’s Landing is south of Mast Landing and has elaborately detailed Federal and Greek Revival housing. The Lane-Porter House is one of the standout structures, a duplex with both Greek Revival and Federal alterations.
• South Freeport is south of Porter’s Landing and has the greatest number of historic structures in the whole district. Notable buildings include the South Freeport Congregational Church and the Ambrose Curtis House.

Attend Fun Events in Freeport

There are so many great events all over Maine during the year, and several of them are held in Freeport.

• On the Fourth of July, Freeport is one of many Maine towns where you can enjoy a spectacular waterfront fireworks display.
• Traditionally, the Lobsterman Triathlon in South Freeport is one of the most well-known triathlons in the United States. It’s known for stunning views and a great afterparty that includes a lobster bake.
• Freeport’s annual Fall Festival happens during the first weekend in October and brings together more than 150 artists, local food producers, craftspeople, and others for a three-day celebration on L.L. Bean’s campus. It’s all free, and there are plenty of events for kids too.
• Freeport’s annual Sparkle Celebration happens during the first weekend of December and features a parade of lights, decorating contests, visits with Santa, a famous talking Christmas tree, and more.

Travel to Yarmouth to See Eartha

The town of Yarmouth Maine, south of Freeport, is home to Eartha, the largest full-scale rotating and revolving globe in the world. The kids will marvel at the big planet Earth on display.

Where to Eat in Freeport

Chowder cafes and seafood restaurants line Main Street in downtown Freeport Maine. On the waterfront, you will find classic clam shacks and lobster pounds serving fresh Maine lobster rolls with a water view. Here are some of our favorite Freeport spots to grab a bite.

Tuscan Oven Bistro

Tuscan Oven Bistro is a great spot to grab lunch with a menu that features house-made pasta, Italian-inspired sandwiches, brick oven pizza, and more.

Wicked Whoopies

Wicked Whoopies is the best spot to grab a New England favorite — the whoopie pie. Try a classic whoopie or choose from several different flavors, like lemon, gingerbread, and chocolate chip.

Petrillo’s

Petrillo’s Food & Drink offers classic Italian favorites, like meatballs and antipasto. It also has an extensive menu that features American favorites and plenty of kid-friendly options.

Lobster Cooker

Lobster Cooker prides itself as the home of the only live lobster tank in town. It’s a great spot to get steamed Maine lobster, specialty burgers, tasty apps, and more.

Buck’s Naked BBQ

Buck’s Naked BBQ offers authentic barbeque right in Freeport Maine. Choose from favorites like brisket, baby back ribs, sirloin steaks, and more.

Wilbur’s of Maine

Wilbur’s of Maine has a location in Freeport and sells hand-dipped, handcrafted chocolates and other tasty treats. Choose from candy, fudge, crunchy treats, seasonal favorites, and more.

Where to Stay in Freeport

A Freeport stay is centered around outlet shopping and waterfront settings. Most hotels, resorts, and motels are located off of Route 1, leading directly into the Freeport village only a short distance from the highway, which is not the case in many Coastal Maine towns.

You’ll find bed and breakfasts with gourmet meals, great hotels with affordable stays, Maine resorts with extra amenities, and inns in Freeport Maine. You can even camp by the waterfront on state park grounds.

FAQs About Freeport Maine

Plan Your Trip to Freeport Maine Today

Whether you come for the fabulous outlet mall shopping, the natural beauty of Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, or to visit a charming Maine town, Freeport Maine will not disappoint. It’s teeming with rich history, plenty of culture, fun events, and, of course, delicious seafood.

There’s something for visitors of all ages to see and do, so start planning your trip to Freeport Maine today. Come see for yourself why it’s one of the state’s best and favorite vacation destinations.