Maine is known for its highly-skilled craftspeople, from jewelers and woodworkers to artists and potters. Best of all, Wells is surrounded by picturesque seaside towns brimming with quaint boutiques, one-of-a-kind shops and galleries. You’ll find no shortage of retail therapy options when you vacation with us.
Shopping Near Wells, ME
For groceries, there are two supermarkets in Wells. To stock up for the week, we recommend Hannaford Supermarket which is located 1 mile South of our vacation rental at 107 Wells Plaza, Wells, ME 04090. When you need just a few quick items and want to avoid summertime crowds, we suggest the Wells Food Mart IGA. It is located less than a half mile North of the cottage at 1517 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090.
Antiques – The 42 miles along Route 1 from Kittery to Scarborough, have been described as some of the best antique hunting grounds in New England. In fact, Wells is often referred to as the unofficial antique and used/rare bookstore capital of the world. There are 25 different antique stores on a 5.6 mile stretch of Route 1 in Wells alone. For maps and a list of stores, visit the Wells Antique Dealer Association and Southern Maine Antiquing.
Reny’s – No Wells vacation would be complete without a trip to Reny’s, Maine’s favorite department store. The upscale five and dime has something for everyone, and it’s the best place to shop nearby for the items you forgot to pack. “It’s a Maine adventure!” There are numerous locations throughout the state. The closest one is located on Route 1 / Post Rd next to the Dollar Tree and Hannafords at 107 Wells Plaza, Wells, Maine, 04090.
The Shops at Biddeford Crossing is an open-air retail center located 14 miles North. You’ll find a wide range of choices including Target, T.J. Maxx, Olympia Sports, Staples, Dress Barn, Michaels, Longhorn Steakhouse, Olive Garden, Panera Bread, and more. Take the Maine Turnpike to Exit 32.
Kennebunkport – Strolling through shops and galleries in this quintessential seaside village is a wonderful way to spend a leisurely afternoon. Only 6.5 miles North of Wells. Head North on Post Rd./Route 1, and then turn right onto ME-9 E/ Port Rd.
Ogunquit & Perkins Cove – This quaint town and its fisherman’s cove are two more wonderful places to wander and shop. Follow Post Rd/Route 1 South for 5 miles.
The Old Port – The cobblestone streets of Portland’s historic waterfront district are lined with one-of-kind shops, boutiques, galleries, brew pubs and award-winning restaurants. Just 35 minutes away. Take I-95 N to I-295 N and then exit 7 for U.S. 1 Alternate/ Franklin St.
Downtown Portsmouth, NH is yet another charming waterfront community where you can stroll cobblestone streets, browse unique shops and dine on the water’s edge. Only 25 minutes South on I-95.
The Freeport Outlets & L.L. Bean’s Flagship Store – Located 49 miles North of Wells, the charming town of Freeport is home to L.L. Bean’s flagship store and 170+ outlets. Take I-95 North to I-295 N, and then exit 20. Head north on Route 1, which becomes Main Street. With a GPS, use L.L. Bean’s address which is 95 Main St, Freeport, ME.
The Kittery Outlets – Located just 20 miles South of Wells, Kittery boasts more than 120 designer outlet stores. From I-95, take exit 3 marked Kittery/Coastal Route 1. If you need a physical address for a GPS, use 306 State Road, Kittery, ME.
The Fox Run Mall with 80+ retail favorites (LOFT, American Eagle, Macy’s, Victoria’s Secret, etc) is located 25 minutes South of Wells in TAX-FREE New Hampshire. 50 Fox Run Rd, Newington, NH 03801
The Maine Mall – Anchored by Best Buy, JCPenney, Macy’s, and Sears, the Maine Mall offers 140 stores and is located 30 minutes North of Wells. 364 Maine Mall Rd, Portland, ME 04106
Wells Vacation Rental 