Beyond the Beach: Unearthing Treasures on an Ogunquit Antiquing Adventure

Ogunquit, Maine, is renowned for its stunning coastline, vibrant arts scene, and charming village atmosphere. While the Marginal Way, Perkins Cove, and the Ogunquit Playhouse rightly steal the spotlight, there's another delightful way to spend a day (or several!) that often gets overlooked: diving into the world of antiques and unique local finds.

If you have a passion for vintage treasures, quirky collectibles, or simply love the thrill of the hunt, Ogunquit and its immediate surroundings offer a surprising array of shops that promise unique discoveries. Forget generic souvenirs – here, you'll find pieces with stories, perfect for adding character to your home or finding that one-of-a-kind gift.

Your Treasure Map: Top Spots for Antiquing in and Around Ogunquit

While Ogunquit itself boasts a few charming nooks, the real antiquing gems often lie just a short, scenic drive from the heart of town.

1. Ogunquit Village & Perkins Cove: Start your exploration right in the village. While not strictly antique shops, you'll find a delightful assortment of independent boutiques offering vintage-inspired decor, unique handmade crafts, and coastal-themed collectibles. These often blend seamlessly with modern items, offering a curated feel. Don't miss the small shops tucked away in Perkins Cove, where you might unearth nautical artifacts or charming old postcards.

2. Wells: The "Antique Capital of Maine" (Just Minutes Away!) Just a stone's throw north of Ogunquit, Wells, Maine, proudly wears the title of "Antique Capital of Maine," and for good reason! Route 1 in Wells is practically a continuous stretch of antique shops, barns, and multi-dealer malls. You could easily spend an entire day here Browse through diverse collections. Look for large buildings housing multiple vendors, as these offer the widest variety under one roof, from furniture and glassware to books and unique curiosities. Keep an eye out for smaller, independent shops as you drive along Route 1 – some of the best finds are often in the least assuming places!

3. York & Kittery: Historic Charm and Flea Market Fun Head south from Ogunquit, and within a 15-20 minute drive, you'll reach the historic towns of York and Kittery.

Historic Village Areas: Explore the charming village centers in towns like York, where you might discover quaint shops that often carry a mix of antiques, local art, and artisan goods. It's a lovely area for a leisurely browse and a taste of classic New England architecture.

Seasonal Flea Markets: Keep an ear to the ground for local announcements of seasonal flea markets or community yard sales in these towns. These pop-up events can be goldmines for truly unique finds at bargain prices. Check local community boards, town websites, or ask at your accommodation for schedules, especially during summer and fall months.

Tips for a Successful Antiquing Day Trip:

Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking and browsing!

Bring Cash: Some smaller shops or individual dealers at antique malls might prefer cash, or offer a slight discount for cash purchases.

Measure First: If you're looking for furniture or larger decorative items, have measurements handy.

Inspect Carefully: Before purchasing, thoroughly check items for cracks, chips, and repairs.

Haggle (Gently): In some antique shops, a polite offer slightly below the asking price is acceptable, especially if paying cash. Be respectful and friendly.

Patience is Key: The best treasures often require a bit of digging and a keen eye!

Check Hours: Shop hours can vary, especially off-season or for smaller establishments. It's a good idea to call ahead or check websites if there's a specific type of place you're eager to visit.

So, on your next visit to Juniper Hill Inn, set aside some time to explore the captivating world of antiques and unique finds in and around Ogunquit. You might just go home with a piece of Maine's past and a wonderful story to tell!