8 Best Shopping in The Mid-Coast Region, Maine

Don't miss this charming little store in a sweet old mansard-roofed structure. The upstairs once served as a community dance hall, and the original piano is still on the stage. Kids will delight in the array of "penny candy" as well as fun small toys. There are also kitchen utensils, candles, gifts, pretty cards, and books. At an outdoor window on the side of the building, you can order an ice-cream cone to enjoy on a walk down to the harbor.

Renys is a beloved Maine institution—or, as their slogan says, "a Maine adventure." It has 17 locations throughout the state, and a visit to Maine truly isn't complete without browsing the endless bargains at at least one of them. Damariscotta is where it all started seven decades ago, and the original store—a quaintly crowded clothing store at 116 Main Street—is still going strong. Stop in there for bargains on Columbia, Carhartt, and other brands. Then cross the street and browse the larger outlet at 163 Main Street for great deals on housewares, nonperishable food items, seasonal goods, toys, and much more. You'll be amazed at what you find. And don't miss Waltz Soda Fountain, open during the summer at the left side of the building. It's been there since 1948. Order a malted, egg cream, lime rickey, or Moxie ice cream float at the counter, and slide into a booth to enjoy your sweet trip down memory lane.

This candy store for those who love stringing their own necklaces is filled with a dazzling array of beads in a range of prices. Staffers are always happy to lend assistance, and you can sit down and create jewelry on the spot if you'd like. ABOCA also offers classes in its workshop behind the store.

With an emphasis on interior design, this boutique stocks lovely bed linens, home-decor accents, and specialty soaps and toiletries. There's also a selection of kids' clothing no grandmother could resist.

Before crossing the cribstone bridge to Bailey Island, stop at this sweet little cottage—complete with a picket-fenced flower garden—for some old-fashioned confections. The brittle, bark, buttercreams, truffles, dipped candied fruit, and fudge that fill the glass cases are all made in the candy kitchen just behind the counter. There's ice cream, too!

Grandmothers take note! This sweet shop sells lovely babies' and children's clothing, accessories, and toys. The quality is high, so don't expect bargain-store prices. 

Look for the green clapboard building with red trim a few steps to the right of the ferry landing. This is an old-time, honest-to-goodness general store, with wide-plank floors and an inventory that offers a little bit of everything: groceries, fresh pastries, candy, wines, liquor—even live lobsters. A great contraption makes fresh-squeezed OJ before your eyes. Outside, a sign touts the "Native Ice" for sale. The breakfast and lunch bar serves egg dishes, pancakes, sandwiches, pizzas, and smoothies. Hop on a stool, eat at a picnic table on the dock, or take your food with you. Above the store is a gallery dedicated to the art of three generations of the Wyeth family, which has long, deep connections to this area. Although you won't find any original paintings by N.C., Andrew, or Jamie here, there is a fine selection of prints, including some limited editions, and books for sale.

Calling all chocoholics! In a big, pumpkin-color house and barn at the lower end of Main Street, you'll find a wonderland of tempting treats, including chocolate-covered blueberries, turtles, almond butter crunch, truffles, fudge, and many more old-fashioned confections. They're all made by a dozen chocolatiers working in the adjacent barn; ask about taking a factory tour. Wilbur's has a second shop downtown on Bow Street.