A historic coastal town, Freeport offers plentiful opportunities for peaceful, wooded walks and ocean excursions. Quiet residential neighborhoods are set back from the hubbub of the famed shopping area at the center of town, which is anchored by outdoor retail giant LL Bean. There’s always something to do, as the retail center brings vibrancy with concerts and celebrations throughout the year. Freeport’s restaurant selection is extensive, and the arts are alive and well here.

Incorporated in 1762, the pleasantly small town of Bowdoinham (pop. 2,889 in the 2010 U.S. census) offers a relaxed quality of life, and much more: the great physical beauty of its setting on the west side of Merrymeeting Bay; a village center of architecturally distinctive, 19th-century homes; a rich shipbuilding heritage; small, organic farms; and an active community life, from the weekly farmer’s market to the annual Celebrate Bowdoinham event.