The entrance to L.L. Bean in Freeport, Maine

A visit to L.L. Bean is practically mandatory when visiting Maine. The famed outdoor gear and clothing company was established in 1912 and has been a fixture in the coastal town of Freeport since its inception. The very first product – leather uppers for workmens’ boots – evolved into the Maine Hunting Shoe, and launched the beginning of a product enterprise that has grown to include the vast catalog of clothing and gear that L.L. Bean offers today. The company’s attention to product detail and truly exceptional customer service are a consistent example of “the way life should be”.

The interior of L.L. Bean in Freeport, Maine.

It’s a joy to explore the vast, sprawling, rambling flagship store. The multiple levels just seem to go on and on, with every turned corner revealing yet another length of hardwood floors filled with racks of clothes, canoes suspended from the beams, stacks of the famed L.L. Bean Boat and Tote bags, locally-made maple syrup and maple sugar candy, a dizzying array of camping gear, Maine-themed gifts and books, and SO much more. Everywhere you look, the products, gifts, and informational displays (so many the place can double as a museum) demonstrate the rich culture and history that makes Maine one of the best places to visit – and live – in the United States.

One of the many informational displays in L.L. Bean.

L.L. Bean is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Yes, ALL day, EVERY day. Including Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve, and every other holiday. I’ve run to L.L. Bean more than once at 1:00 in the morning Christmas Eve to grab a last moment gift. Some folks I know have actually made a tradition out of going to L.L. Bean at midnight on Christmas Eve – you’d be surprised at how crowded it often is!

An entire town of outlet stores grew up around L.L. Bean and has turned Freeport into one of the premier shopping districts in the northeastern United States. Travelers visit from all over the world to take advantage of the over 200 upscale outlet and boutique stores, while staying in luxurious hotels and comfortable bed & breakfasts. Plus, of course, the myriad of restaurants that serve lobsters, clams, crab, and seafood practically straight off the boat!

You should go. Seriously. You’ll have a great time.

Photo Credits (in order of appearance):
- “Freeport: L.L. Bean” by Stephen O. on Flickr Creative Commons.
- “L.L. Bean” by prettywarstl on Flickr Creative Commons.
- “”L.L. Bean” by prettywarstl on Flickr Creative Commons.