worth stopping at Freeport for LL Bean during renovations

Question

Hi-

Trying to firm up our summer maine trip. Was planning to stop at Freeport on way back to Portland for the flight home, but see it is under heavy renovation. Is it still worth it to stop? We have other possible things to hit and thought I would ask here!

Thanks!

Answer

Hi there!

It’s great that you’re planning your summer trip to Maine! Freeport, with its famous L.L. Bean flagship store, is definitely a popular stop for many travelers, but it’s understandable that you’re wondering if it’s still worth a visit during the ongoing renovations. Here’s what you should know:

Is it still worth stopping at Freeport during renovations?

While the L.L. Bean flagship store is under renovation, it’s still open, and the renovations mainly affect certain areas of the store and the surrounding grounds. The L.L. Bean store is iconic, and many people stop just to see it, but there are still a few factors to consider:

Renovations are mostly cosmetic: The store is undergoing updates to improve the shopping experience, but it is still fully operational. You can still shop for outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories as usual. The famous "giant boot" outside is still there, although the area around it may look a little different with construction.
Other L.L. Bean facilities are open: The L.L. Bean campus in Freeport has several other facilities, including an outdoor discovery school, a café, and more. If you’re a fan of L.L. Bean products and the outdoor lifestyle, you may still find it worthwhile to stop and explore these areas even if the main store is temporarily affected.
Freeport still offers other attractions: Even though the store is under renovation, Freeport is still a charming town with plenty of unique shopping and dining options. There are other outlet stores nearby, and if you enjoy walking around, the town has a lovely, small-town feel with local boutiques and art galleries.

Alternative Stops in the Area:

If you’re unsure about stopping at Freeport, there are other nearby attractions worth considering as well. Here are a few alternative stops in the region:

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park: Just a short drive from Freeport, this park offers stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and opportunities for birdwatching. It’s a peaceful spot if you want to relax before your flight or explore nature.
Portland Head Light (Cape Elizabeth): If you haven’t visited yet, this iconic lighthouse is a must-see. It’s one of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S., and the nearby Fort Williams Park has trails, picnic areas, and great views of the coastline.
Bowdoin College Museum of Art: Located in Brunswick (a short drive from Freeport), the Bowdoin College Museum of Art features interesting exhibits, including American art and early European paintings. If you’re in the mood for some culture, this is a great stop.
Casco Bay Islands: If you have more time and want a scenic break before heading back to Portland, consider taking a short ferry ride to one of the Casco Bay Islands. Peaks Island and Long Island are accessible by ferry and offer peaceful settings with walking paths, beaches, and local eateries.

Should You Still Stop at Freeport?

In summary, if you love shopping at L.L. Bean and enjoy seeing the flagship store, it’s still worth a stop, even with the renovations. If you’re more interested in the shopping experience and seeing the store itself, the ongoing work might affect the vibe a bit, but the store is still open. On the other hand, if you have other attractions in mind or are looking for a quieter, more nature-focused experience, there are plenty of other great places to explore nearby.

Ultimately, if you’ve never been to Freeport before, it might still be worth the visit, especially if you love L.L. Bean products. But if you’re pressed for time or looking for other experiences, there are plenty of alternatives around Portland and Freeport to make your day enjoyable.

Hope this helps, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time exploring Maine!