Five Things to Love About Maine

A great place to stop for lunch: Maine-ly Delights (Bass Harbor, 207-244-3656), a seafood shack right where the ferry to nearby Swans Island departs.

Shop at L.L. Bean

OK, I know what you're thinking: What could possibly be off the beaten track about L.L. Bean's big store (actually, a mall-like complex of stores) in Freeport (95 Main St., 800-559-0747, ext. 37222), which many consider the state's top attraction?

But that's just it: I'm not talking about that L.L. Bean. I'm talking about the three smaller outlet stores spread throughout the state -- in Ellsworth (near Bar Harbor), Bangor and Portland. In visiting any of them, you'll still get a taste of what the legendary outdoor gear catalog is all about, but you'll also be able to avoid the crowds at the flagship Freeport complex.

Better yet, you'll enjoy decent savings. I found most items to be marked at least 20% off, on everything from clothing to furniture.

If you insist on visiting the Freeport complex (which includes an outlet store), consider coming in the middle of the night. The main store is open 24 hours a day.