“If it’s outdoors, we’re all in!” is one of L.L.Bean’s favorite taglines. And for good reason. This retailer is all about enjoying the outdoors, no matter the season or weather.
A Family Favorite for Outdoor Gear
L.L.Bean is a Maine-born-and-bred retailer. As a Maine resident with access to its flagship store in Freeport, I can say that L.L.Bean is one of my favorite places to visit with kids. It is a great place to find outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories for the whole family.
Founded in 1911 by Leon Leonwood Bean, L.L.Bean has a long history of encouraging people to spend time outdoors. Bean was known for believing that being outside brings out the best in us.
Fortunately, you do not need to live in Maine to enjoy L.L.Bean. The company has retail stores across the country, including several locations in Chicago, Illinois. You can also shop from the comfort of your home through the L.L.Bean website.
Getting Ready for Fall
As fall approaches, families across the country begin preparing for cooler and crisper weather. I recently made a shopping list for my 15-month-old son. I wanted to make sure he had everything he needed for the new season.
As a working mother, time management is important to me. L.L.Bean quickly made it to the top of my shopping list. It is a great choice for families who love outdoor activities.
The prices may be higher than those at some other retailers. However, I can personally vouch for the quality. I grew up wearing L.L.Bean clothing. Later, I passed many of those items down to my sisters and extended family.
Seriously, this stuff lasts!
So, do not let the price tag scare you away. Many L.L.Bean products can last for years. For me, that makes them an investment rather than just another purchase. That is one of my favorite tips for working moms: choose quality items that last.
Shopping with a Purpose
Parenting is not only about what we buy for our children. It is also about the kind of future we help create.
I try to spend my hard-earned money with companies that care about sustainability, accessibility, and their communities. This is especially important when shopping for outdoor products.
That is another reason I enjoy shopping at L.L.Bean. I appreciate its focus on community, sustainable materials, and caring for the environment.
A Nostalgic Shopping Experience
Making my son’s fall shopping list also brings back wonderful memories.
I still remember carrying my L.L.Bean monogrammed backpack on my first day of school. Their famous boots, flannels, and slippers also kept me warm through many New England fall and winter seasons.
Now, I get to shop for my son. Of course, I often find a few things for myself along the way!
Free Outdoor Activities for Families
L.L.Bean offers more than outdoor clothing and gear. The company also provides free outdoor discovery programs in different locations.
These programs give families opportunities to enjoy nature and learn new outdoor skills. Activities can include hiking, fishing, kayaking, biking, and birdwatching.
There is something for almost everyone.
In Maine, I look forward to the outdoor activities planned for the fall season. Families in the Chicago area can also enjoy hiking opportunities, including outings at Busse Woods Forest Preserve.
These programs are a wonderful way to create L.L.Bean family adventures without spending a lot of money.
Visit the L.L.Bean Flagship Store
If you want the full L.L.Bean experience, a visit to the flagship store in Freeport, Maine, is worth considering.
The store attracts millions of visitors each year and is one of the town’s biggest attractions. It has also been known for its extended hours, making it convenient for busy families. However, store hours can change, so always check before visiting.
I often think of the flagship store as an outdoor adventurer’s version of Disneyland. There always seems to be something interesting to see or do.
Family Fun Inside the Store
The flagship store is much more than a place to shop.
My son loves visiting the trout pond and watching the fish swim around. We also enjoy seeing the famous “Locked Moose,” which features two bull moose with their antlers locked together.
The fishing department is another highlight. It includes a large riverbed aquarium filled with Maine fish, including rainbow, brown, and brook trout and landlocked salmon.
And if you have a dog, you can bring your furry friend along. L.L.Bean is known for being dog-friendly.
Family Fun in Skokie, Illinois
A trip to Maine may not be possible for every family. Fortunately, there are other L.L.Bean locations worth visiting.
The L.L.Bean store at Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie, Illinois, offers plenty of family-friendly features. It has an outdoor grassy maze and a garden-themed play area where children can have fun.
Inside the store, families can enjoy friendly service and spacious dressing rooms. The store also has room for strollers and comfortable areas where shoppers can sit while trying on new boots.
These little details can make shopping with young children much easier.
Start Your Own Family Adventure
Whether you are shopping for fall clothing, planning a weekend hike, or simply looking for something fun to do with your children, L.L.Bean has plenty to offer.
From outdoor gear to family events and nature programs, the brand encourages families to spend more time outside together.
So, wherever you find yourself this fall, remember this mom-to-mom recommendation: L.L.Bean is a wonderful place to start your next family adventure.
After all, the best L.L.Bean family adventures are the ones that bring us outside, together.
