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rown ash baskets are a handmade wonder of the shops in Maine's Arostook County - an art skillfully mastered by patient hands. Keep your eyes pealed in the shops, you may find one to bring home!
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If you’re searching for a Maine-Made treasure, a charming boutique, or the perfect gift; the mom and pop shops here offer a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that’s as authentic as it is unforgettable. We guarantee you'll be greeted every time you walk in!
From hand-poured candles and Nordic imports to cozy flannels and whimsical dragonflies, these locally loved spots were voted as the "Best of Aroostook" by 778 folks from across Maine and beyond. This isn’t retail therapy—it’s a way to explore the personality of each town, meet passionate shopkeepers, and find something truly special. These are the stores where shelves are full of stories, and no two visits are the same.
Pull off the byway or pause your Aroostook adventure—these shops welcome you. Here are the 2025 winners of Aroostook’s Best Shops & Boutiques, as voted on by you!
With 190 votes, the award of 'Best Shop' in Aroostook goes to...
Monica's Scandinavian Imports, located in the heart of Caribou, Maine, is a delightful treasure shop of true Scandinavian imports of textiles, foods, and home decor. Since 1964, this quaint red house with white trim has been enchanting visitors with its eclectic mix of jewelry, Norway wool sweaters, and unique gift items from Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland. Stepping inside feels like embarking on a mini adventure through the Nordic countries, where every corner reveals something new and exciting. Whether you're hunting for the perfect gift or simply soaking in the cozy atmosphere, Monica's Scandinavian Imports promises a fun and memorable shopping experience that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Scandinavian families who settled in the region.
2025 Winners
Monica's Scandinavian Imports
They know exactly what you need for a gift idea and offer free gift wrapping with a smile. The perfectly curated store is never the same twice.
Caribou, Maine | Directions or learn more
The County Co-Op & Farm Store
A great place for lunch, grocery items, and a second floor of the best wall art imaginable by local artist. This is wear locals shops and locals sell - but really it is the heartbeat of Historic Market Square
Houlton, Maine | Directions or learn more
The Stone Flower Boutique
An eclectic mix of textiles, gift items, and yard art located in the city limits of Presque Isle. Shop hand made art or selections for every season.
Presque Isle, Maine | Directions or learn more
2025 Honorable Mentions
Listed in order of popularity among voters
- Marden's of Madawaska, Maine
- Country Collectibles of Presque Isle, Maine
- Ever Rhode of Presque Isle, Maine
- Home Ec. Market of Presque Isle, Maine
- Serendipitous Dragonfly of Houlton, Maine
- Flannel & Barrel of Presque Isle, Maine
- MAC's Trading Post of Houlton, Maine
- Sleeper's of Caribou, Maine
- Brambleberry Market of Caribou, Maine
- Ride North Harley-Davidson of Caribou, Maine
- Bike, Board, & Ski of Presque Isle, Maine
- Creative Carpentry of Maine of Caribou, Maine
- Fifty8 & Maine of Caribou, Maine
- Up North Outdoors of Fort Kent, Maine
"Best Shops" is just one of nine categories awarded by Aroostook County Tourism, click here to see the full results of the 2025 Best of Aroostook Awards.
Aroostook County Tourism (ACT) is the Destination Marketing Organization of Maine's Aroostook County. ACT is compromised of a 12 member volunteer board who work to promote all of The County and invite visitors to find their own Aroostook adventure through marketing. "Best of Aroostook'" is a fun way to highlight Aroostook County and no prizes are given. Method: winners are announced for the top three organizations per category and the other organizations in that category are recognized as honorable mentions. As is tradition, the honor system guides the rules for voting as "Aroostook's Best" is meant to be a fun way to recognize the gems in the Crown of Maine - vote and act respectfully. Votes were accepted between January 1, 2025 and March 24, 2025, lists published in April of 2025.