“If it’s outdoors, we’re all in!” is one of L.L.Bean’s favorite taglines, and for a good reason. This retailer prides itself on anything and everything outdoors, no matter the season or the weather!
L.L.Bean is a Maine born and bred retailer, so as a Maine resident myself with access to their flagship store in Freeport, I can attest to the brand as one of the best places to visit with kids when looking for outdoor gear and accessories. Founded in 1911 by Leon Leonwood Bean, he is known for his famous quote, “being outside brings out the best in us.” Fortunately, you don’t need to reside in Maine to enjoy the products and services offered by L.L.Bean. They currently have 55 retail outlets nationwide, including three in Chicago, Illinois. Find their details on this website's free KidFriendlyVenue app. And, of course, you can always shop with them online at llbean.com.
As fall quickly approaches our doorsteps across much of the country, I am readying myself for the transition to cooler, crisper weather. This morning I made a shopping list for my 15-month-old son related to what he needs for this upcoming change of season. As a working mother time management is crucial. First retailer on the time planning list is none other than L.L.Bean because it is the best kid friendly venue. Though their prices are higher than your average retailers, I can attest to the quality of these products. I grew up wearing L.L.Bean, and then I passed down my items to my sisters and extended family. Seriously, this stuff lasts! So don’t let the price tags intimidate you because these items are investments for years to come. That, my friends, is my no.1 in tips for working moms.
Also, any blog about parenting should include our future social impact. It is critical to me as I try to put my hard-earned dollars into companies committed to sustainability and accessibility, especially companies selling products related to the outdoors! I feel good when I shop at L.L.Bean because I have witnessed firsthand their commitment to community, sustainable materials, and environmental stewardship.
So, as I make my son’s list for fall shopping, I browse through the L.L.Bean website, and the experience is quite nostalgic. I remember strutting the iconic L.L.Bean monogrammed backpack to my first day of school! And their branded boots, flannels, and slippers have kept me warm and cozy throughout many New England fall and winter seasons. I can’t help but do a little shopping for myself after I purchase some items for my son, of course!
What’s more, if you’re looking to get outdoors, L.L.Bean offers free, expert-led outdoor discovery programs in each of their geographic locations to help their community get more from being outside. I cannot wait for all they have coming up this season in Maine, which includes hiking our local mountains, fishing, kayaking, biking, and birdwatching. There is something for everyone! In Chicago, you can look forward to free hiking outings at Busse Woods Forest Preserve starting this November.
Now, if you are looking for a true L.L.Bean experience, a trip to their flagship store in Freeport, Maine, is worth the visit. With 3 million visitors a year, the flagship store is the town's largest attraction and is usually open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. That's their best feature for busy mom time management! (However, the pandemic has caused some changes to their hours, so be sure to check online before visiting.) I often think of the store as the outdoor adventurer’s version of Disneyland. There is always something going on!
We cannot wait for L.L.Bean’s outdoor fitness classes, family movie nights, and fall festivals. Beyond the organized events, the store itself is a wonderland. I like to take my son inside to see the trout pond, where he loves to watch the real trout fish dart around! We also frequently visit the famous ‘Locked Moose,’ which is one of only two like it in North America as the display depicts two Bull Moose in battle with their antlers locked. And I can’t forget to mention the enormous fishing department, which includes a 3,500 gallon, 24-foot-long riverbed aquarium with Maine state rainbow, brown and brook trout, and landlocked salmon. Oh, and at this particular store, they love dogs, so don’t forget to bring your furry friend along for the trip!
But if a trip to the flagship store is not in the cards for you and your family, do not worry, as the L.L.Bean store at Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie, Illinois, has plenty of great amenities.
Equipped with an outdoor grassy maze and garden-themed playspace, families frequent this store as a place to play with their little ones. Inside the store, this top blog for moms raves about the friendly staff, the cleanliness of the store, and the large dressing rooms. There’s also plenty of space for stroller accessibility and areas to sit to try on those new L.L.Bean boots.
So, no matter where you find yourself this coming fall, remember this mom-to-mom blog and recommendation: L.L.Bean is there to help support and encourage outdoor activities for your family of adventurers.

Katie D