6 Best Shopping in Penobscot Bay, Maine

Run by the Island Institute, this inviting shop showcases an array of fine creations by Maine artists and artisans. On display are wooden goods, jewelry, soaps, books, housewares, clothing, fine art, and more.

This beautiful, multifloor gallery is nestled inside a jewel box of a building that was once a bank. Step inside, feast your eyes on fine contemporary paintings, beautifully wrought gold jewelry, sculpture, and perhaps purchase a new treasure. Be sure to go up to the rooftop sculpture garden. It's a delightful spot with views over the town to the harbor.

It can be hard to choose your favorites from the fine olive oils, flavored olive oils, and balsamic vinegars displayed in large, spigoted containers all around the room here. Tasting a drop of a few of them is half the fun, and you'll soon know which ones you just have to add to your culinary repertoire.

Tucked toward the back of the first floor of the Thorndike Building, this little shop brims over with delightful, one-of-a-kind home and garden decor. Many of the items are assemblages of upcycled vintage elements, put together by creative shop owner David Robichaud. His partner is Ollie, his English springer spaniel, who's usually in the shop on Saturday.

This emporium is a longtime local favorite. Jewelry, candles, stylish clothing, shoes, toiletries, gifts, toys—you'll find all that and lots more here. 

Located at the very southern end of Main Street, this small shop-factory in a sweet house is a great place to pick up well-priced, lightly scented, 100% vegan soaps made from pure olive, palm, and coconut oils with such additional ingredients as aloe, lemongrass, rosemary, citrus, and rose petal; there are more than a dozen varieties. Place unwrapped squares of soap in provided small, waxy bags and save $2 off the price of gift-wrapped bars. The shop also sells gift-boxed soaps plus a small selection of white pottery goods and skincare accessories.