Dog-Friendly: Downtown Freeport, Maine

Downtown Freeport is known for its outlet shopping, and of course, the flagship store of L.L. Bean. But what’s less known is that the area is incredibly dog-friendly!

Summer isn’t the only time you can meander downtown with your dog, stopping for a beer or a burger on a restaurant patio. As it turns out, most of the retail stores are dog-friendly, too!

This is something that I recently learned, and it’s not necessarily public knowledge. That’s because many of the stores chains aren’t usually dog-friendly, but the Freeport locations make exceptions. Obviously, it’s always wise to call ahead, just in case.

Establishments that sell food generally don’t allow pets (unless they’re service animals, of course). Unfortunately, this includes L.L. Bean, presumably because of its cafe. But the flagship store’s sprawling campus is a great place to walk your pup around, and you’ll get to view some of Freeport’s best light-decorated trees in the winter. Plus, you and your pooch can pose by “the big boot.”

Since lots of places welcome canines indoors, you can do your Christmas shopping with your companion by your side. Or better yet, bring him along for moral support when you have to do your obligatory “jean shopping”…

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKO4eiiAlQ2/?tagged=freeportmaine

Personally, I’ve visited The North Face, American Eagle, J. Crew, Old Navy, Gap, and Nike with Luna in tow. Other stores that allow dogs – according to Instagram – include Ralph Lauren and Mexicali Blues.

I know there are others, I just haven’t asked specifically. So next time you’re in Freeport, call your favorite stores and ask if you can bring your dog along – there’s a good chance they’ll say “yes”!

Feature Photo: @freeportmaine via Instagram and @krisncoop via Instagram

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