6 Best Shopping in Belfast, Penobscot Bay

An anchor in downtown Belfast, this two-decade-old gallery showcases the work of a super-talented family: luminescent paintings by Joanne Parent; dreamlike, mixed-media creations by Lee Parent; and masterful, mostly black-and-white or sepia photographs of the Maine coast and its fishing vessels and traditional windjammers by Neal Parent. These are complemented by the work of a handful of other talented artists.

The irresistible assortment of adornments for garden and home spills out onto the sidewalk at this charming shop in a sweet building just off Main Street. You'll find everything from wrought-iron planters to beautiful cloth napkins.

It's a surprise to find such an upscale lingerie shop in a small town. The experienced saleswomen specialize in personalized, professional, and respectful bra fittings. The inventory includes dozens of fine brands in a wide range of sizes.

You'll find multiple appealing women's clothing shops along Main Street, but this is one of the best and the oldest. The clothing is stylish yet comfortable, with some boho pieces. The shop also carries a nice selection of jewelry.

Belfast is blessed with multiple small bookshops, including Left Bank Books, located in the historic opera house building just off Main Street in the heart of downtown. It's the sort of place where you begin seeing books you want as soon as you step in the door. And if you don't, the knowledgeable staff will find it for you or happily order it. Books by Maine authors—many of them autographed—are a specialty.

Calling itself "a general store for the 21st century," the Green Store stocks a wide variety of household items, clothing, cards, and many other products. Most of the goods in this inviting emporium come from organic sources and all emphasize sustainability and preservation of the environment. It's a great place to browse, and chances are you'll discover something you need, or didn't need but have to have.