5 fun things to do in Freeport
Freeport’s Downtown Pulse: Executive Director Tawni Whitney Shares Her Favorite Spots
Freeport, Maine – The town’s beloved downtown, known for its mix of high‑end retail and local charm, is a place that has captured the heart of many, but few have walked its streets as intimately as Tawni Whitney. A native of the Midcoast and a longtime resident for the past fourteen years, Whitney moved to Freeport with a simple desire to enjoy the ocean and quickly fell in love with its vibrant community. She later joined the town council, and today she serves as the executive director of the Greater Freeport Chamber of Commerce, where she works with business leaders to shape the future of the waterfront district.
“We just loved the vibe of the residents and the businesses, and, on top of that, we’re right on the ocean,” she told reporters, a sentiment that underscores why Freeport feels like a tight‑knit family of neighbors and entrepreneurs.
A Food Lover’s Guide
When asked about her favorite places to eat, Whitney highlighted a range of local gems. “I like to eat at Tuscan Bistro and the Lobster Cooker, the Bakeshop, and Lily’s Food Cart, which is right behind Starbucks. Lily’s is a charming little hidden gem in Freeport,” she explained. “Right in front of you, she makes fried rice and these incredible dumplings.”
The Lobster Cooker, a recent addition to downtown, draws diners with its fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere, while the Bakeshop satisfies sweet cravings with its pastries and bread. Lily’s Food Cart, a small, unassuming stall, offers an unexpected culinary delight that many locals have come to rely on.
Where to Relax and Savor
Whitney’s favorite drinking spot, according to her, is the Freeport Oyster Bar. “M.A.D.E. has a coffee shop in it that’s just darling,” she noted. “On warmer days, you can sit outside on their gorgeous, sunny porch. It’s in a historic old building that just feels so nice to be inside. I feel like I’m on the set of “Gilmore Girls.” It’s so precious, and centrally located to where I work downtown. We often host meetings over there, or I can meet my kids there after school.”
The cozy setting, combined with the proximity to downtown, makes the Oyster Bar a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors.
Natural Escapes
For a touch of nature, Whitney recommends Wolfe’s Neck State Park and Wolfe’s Neck Farm. “The first time I went there, I couldn’t even believe that we had this asset in Freeport. It is stunning to walk these trails and see an osprey next to you while you’re looking at this gorgeous water with these beautiful colors,” she said. “The other one is Wolfe’s Neck Farm itself. I remember taking my kids there once, and they were like, ‘Mom, you gotta come over here, this cow is giving birth.’ Lo and behold, the cow gave birth in front of me and my kids. Of course, there was a farmer there to assist. All the cows were out to pasture, and they were just peacefully doing what cows do, eating grass, and then as soon as she gave birth, they all came to her.”
Whitney added that such moments are a stark contrast to the hectic pace of modern life, offering a chance to observe wildlife and farm life “in front of your eyes.”
Shopping: Big Brands and Local Finds
While she acknowledges the convenience of national retailers, Whitney emphasizes the uniqueness of Freeport’s local shops. “I still love national stores. I think the psychology of someone in Freeport is that we have great deals here, and that’s so true. Like, if you ever need to get something simple, we have places you can get a pair of sweatpants, or socks, or what have you—Under Armour, Old Navy, Gap, American Eagle— and they’re going to have the trendy things that you’re seeing.”
Yet, she points out, there are also distinctive local spots: “We also have some things that make Freeport special, like Loom and Gingham, and even the Freeport Community Thrift Shop. These are great places to get unique items that you can’t find on Amazon.”
Celebrating the Desert of Maine
Whitney also highlighted the Desert of Maine, a sandy dune system that borders the town and has become a regional icon. The area is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and new ownership has revitalized the visitor experience. “Experiencing the Desert of Maine is something that is a must‑do,” she said. “It has changed so much over the years. I can remember going there as a child, and being in awe of it. Now they have new ownership, and they have really cranked up the natural beauty. They have really helped us understand the history, but made it really fun. It’s something kids can take in, or adults. They have a really fun mini‑golf and snack shack; it is a treasure.”
The Desert’s “Wander in Wonder” sign marks the entrance to the dunes, and visitors can enjoy the panoramic views and educational exhibits that highlight the region’s unique ecology.
A Commitment to Community
Beyond her role in the Chamber of Commerce, Whitney remains an active voice in the town’s civic life. Her experience on the town council and her current leadership position allow her to collaborate with business owners, city officials, and residents to enhance Freeport’s downtown. “We’re always looking for ways to make downtown more vibrant and welcoming,” she said. “From supporting local events to improving public spaces, we want to ensure that both residents and visitors feel the warmth of our community.”
Her enthusiasm is contagious: “I just love the vibe of the residents and the businesses, and on top of that, we’re right on the ocean. It’s a rare combination that keeps me coming back.”
Freeport continues to balance its status as a tourist destination with a strong, locally‑oriented culture. Through leaders like Tawni Whitney, the town’s downtown remains a place where big‑brand shops coexist with hidden culinary treasures, historic coffee shops feel like scenes from a beloved television show, and natural wonders such as the Desert of Maine provide both educational and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re stopping by Tuscan Bistro for a bite, strolling the dunes, or watching a cow give birth at Wolfe’s Neck Farm, Freeport offers a slice of Maine that is as welcoming as it is memorable.
