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Downtown Shopping in Maine — Discover 11 Historic Main Streets & Local Gems

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • 4 days ago
  • 6 min read


Downtown Shopping in Maine — Discover 11 Historic Main Streets & Local Gems

🛍️ Downtown Shopping in Maine — Where Maine’s Story Meets Style

The heart of Maine’s towns and cities is often its Main Street — picturesque corridors of 19th-century brick storefronts, tree-lined sidewalks, and community energy. These downtowns are more than shopping districts: they’re living stories, where local makers, artisans, boutiques, galleries, cafés, and history all come together when downtown shopping in Maine.

While Portland’s Old Port remains a headline destination with its cobblestones, working waterfront, and a thriving gallery and boutique scene (think Portland Dry Goods, Fore & Wharf, and more) Maine is home to 11 historic downtowns officially designated through Main Street Maine. Each downtown offers its own flavor — both timeless and ever-evolving. Visit Maine+Main Street Maine - Maine’s Main Streets


Discover 11 Historic Main Streets & Local Gems

Below, dive into some of the standout downtowns you can explore, shops to visit, and tips to make your outing unforgettable.


Augusta, ME — Capital Charm on the Kennebec

Downtown Augusta blends small-town appeal with intriguing shops and cozy eateries. Begin at Merkaba Sol, where metaphysical goods and crystals mingle with sweets from The Chocolate Shoppe (over 300 varieties!). For a shift, head to Game On — think board games, role-playing collectibles, graphic art supplies, and creative fun. Cap things off at The Gin Mill, where over 100 beers, warm exposed brick interiors, and hearty fare make it a perfect local wind-down spot.


Bath, ME — Nautical Style & Creative Finds

Bath’s downtown feels like vinegar and salt air: historic, charming, and full of discovery. Along Front Street, you’ll find:

  • Now You’re Cooking (kitchen tools & culinary gear)

  • Island Treasure Toys (whimsical gifts & children’s finds)

  • Main Street Design Company (home accents & unique décor)

  • Lisa-Marie’s Made in Maine (local crafts and souvenirs)

  • Halcyon Yarn (yarns, fabrics, and creative inspiration)Contact for Bath’s Main Street district: (207) 442-7291

  • Maine Tourism


Belfast, ME — Waterfront Eclectic

Take a relaxing stroll down Main Street, Belfast, and you’ll encounter a variety of local treasures:

  • Coyote Moon — chic women’s fashion

  • Blue Alpaca Ranch & Store — cozy alpaca knits

  • Brambles — home décor & garden accents

  • The Green Store / The Grasshopper Shop — eco-friendly goods and some whimsical finds

  • Man on Main — men’s apparel and grooming

  • Chocolate Drop Candy Shop — confectioner delightsThis blend of artisans, everyday essentials, and sweet shops makes Belfast a must-stop.

  • Visit Maine


Biddeford, ME — Reimagined & Reviving

Downtown Biddeford is reinventing itself. Stroll through Suger for sustainable fashion, Briar & Bone for crystals and earthy goods, and Trillium on Main for hand-crafted jewelry, candles, and more. This downtown pairs heritage brick buildings with vital new energy.


Brunswick, ME — The Classic Maine Street

Brunswick is a gem for those who love a curated blend of charm and depth. Stop by:

  • Nest & Hatch on Maine for home décor and gifts

  • Woods + Waters Gear Exchange for outdoor goods

  • Gulf of Maine Books for locally rooted literary finds

Boasting over 200 businesses on Maine Street and designated as a Great American Main Street, Brunswick strikes a superb balance between local flavor and vibrant commerce.


Ellsworth, ME — The Gateway to Downeast

Ellsworth is the entry point to Acadia and beyond. Downtown offers:

  • A1 Relics & Old Creamery Antique Mall — vintage finds

  • The Rock and Art Shop — gemstones, jewelry, art

  • Toko Maine — eclectic accessories

  • The Sweet Spot and Precipice Coffee + Pie — café culture meets creative treatsThis downtown blends coastal proximity with artistic energy.

  • Visit Maine


Gardiner, ME — Hidden Treasure Core

Gardiner is part of the Main Street Maine program, showcasing vibrant shops, rotating local events, and creative revitalization efforts. Gardiner Main Street

Downtown offerings include:

  • Stone Broke Bread & Books — bakery + bookstore combo

  • Barn Boards & More — rustic décor

  • The Center for Maine Craft / Monkitree — local artisan galleries

  • Pistil & Page — plants, candles, mood + home accentThis downtown gives you both soul and style.


Rockland, ME — Art, Sea & Shopping

Rockland is a standout among Maine downtowns — a coastal center of creativity. You can:

  • Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum (with art shop)

  • Browse Sea Bags for recycled-sail totes

  • Enjoy Bixby Chocolate’s Maine-inspired sweets

  • Shop hello hello books and The Wine Seller

The curve of the harbor makes Rockland’s downtown feel like an open welcome to visitors.


Saco, ME — Coastal & Community Blend

Saco’s downtown brings waterfront energy into the shopping mix. Sample Scandinavian flavors at FIKA Bakery & Café, browse coastal décor at Whimsical ME, or check out antiques at Bay View Company. For fun, try Maine Silverball Tavern with vintage arcade games.


Skowhegan, ME — Beyond the Fairgrounds

Skowhegan’s downtown, perched along the Kennebec River, is a quiet gem. Must-visits:

  • Maine Grains (tour and artisan goods)

  • River Roads Artisan Gallery (local crafts)

  • 1890 Primitives Gift Shop & Home Décor — farmhouse styles and nostalgic finds

The downtown architecture and walkable layout make it a relaxing shopping destination.


Westbrook, ME — Riverside & Rising

Just minutes from Portland, Westbrook offers:

  • Ragged Coast Chocolates — handcrafted sweets

  • Casa Novello — Italian diningThis dynamically emerging downtown is anchored by the Presumpscot River, merging creative revival with local flavor.

  • Visit Maine


🌟 Why Shop Downtown in Maine?

  • Authentic Local Flavor: Every downtown has its own narrative — from maritime roots to milltown legacies.

  • Walkability & Discovery: Sidewalks, historic facades, and surprises around every corner.

  • Support Local Makers: Your purchases often fund artisans, galleries, cafés, and community life.

  • Pair Shopping with Dining & Culture: Galleries, theaters, and restaurants are just steps away.


Tip: Before you visit, check each town’s calendar or the Main Street Maine site for pop-up events, art walks, and shopping nights. Main Street Maine - Maine’s Main Streets+Visit Maine


What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions

Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.

Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:

  • 🛶 Boating & paddling routes

  • 🎣 Fishing hotspots

  • 🏕️ Wilderness camping sites

  • 🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks

  • 🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure

Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:

  • Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake

  • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7

  • Free WiFi & TV

  • Backup Generator

  • Easy driveway access for trailers & ATVs

  • Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails

  • Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports

Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in the river, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River









Dive into some of the standout downtowns you can explore, shops to visit, and tips to make your outing unforgettable.


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