Let's face it: When Maine is cold, there can be a lack of things to do. Sure, the outdoors are great and being active in Vacationland is fun, but at this point in the winter things are looking less like a winter wonderland and more like a winter "when's it going to be over" land. But, we have the perfect remedy. Shopping! If you're not a fan of hitting the mall and giving your money to large corporations, check out these mostly family-run shops that will provide the perfect opportunity to do some fun browsing and, perhaps, even re-live some of your past!

1. Bell Farm Antiques, York

The displays here are well-known for inspiring new ways of decorating. This shop is always changing and includes lots of lovely housewares and furniture. Plus, if you like birds, you'll enjoy a stroll around the grounds. Visit them at: 244 US Route 1, York / (207) 363-8181

2. Hobby Horse Flea Market, Searsport

If it's moose antlers you want, it's moose antlers you'll get! Hobby is a good mix of old relics and some newer reproductions, but it's worth a stop if you're on Route 1. There's a fair bit of Maine-related stuff, but as with any flea market, some good hunting could turn up something completely unexpected! Visit them on Route 1 in Searsport / 207-548-2981

3. The Old Bean Antiques, Bath

They're back! Last year, this wonderful store closed its store and promised to be back. And, they've made good on that promise. They still provide a place for smaller antique shops to consolidate, creating a one-stop-shop of sorts for Bath locals. And, their inventory remains unique and of the highest quality. Visit them at: 11 Park street, Washington at Park Complex, Bath / (207) 504-3992

4. The Portland Flea-For-All, Portland

We love their new home! Here you'll find lovely, vintage clothing to be worn as they are, as well as some that have been made to look more modern. It's the perfect way to enjoy a bit of history in a more contemporary way. We also love their reupholstered furniture and toys. This is definitely a great stop as you stroll through the city. Visit them at: 585 Congress Street in Portland / 207-370-7570.

5. Sabattus Antique Mall, Sabattus

This wonderful store, outside of Lewiston, is the only multi-dealer antique store in the area. It's all housed in a 70-year-old building originally used as a skating rink. Today, you'll find 5,000 square feet of a barn filled with vintage treasures, antiques, collectibles, and renewables. Visit them at: 519 Sabattus Rd., Sabattus / (207) 375-8500

6. Antiques USA, Arundel

With a name like "Antiques USA," how could you NOT find everything you need? This store is known for being a place to check into often, just in case you missed something the day before. Their inventory is always changing. Visit them at: 1669 Portland Rd., Arundel / (207) 985-7766

7. Cabot Mill Antiques / Waterfront Flea Market, Brunswick

This is a huge building in Brunswick that's hard to miss! Cabot Mill Antiques has been around since 2010 inside the restored Fort Andross on the Androscoggin River. There are over 160 vendors selling high-quality vintage merchandise at good prices. And, if you're good at bargaining, you just might walk away with a 10% discount! Visit them at 14 Maine Street in Brunswick / 207-725-2855.

8. Big Chicken Barn Books & Antiques, Ellsworth

Is it a bookstore? A record shop? A furniture store? Or, just a big ol' antique shop? It's really up to you. Named one of the best flea markets in New England by Yankee Magazine, Big Chicken Barn is exactly what it sounds like - a big barn full of fascinating antiques on the first floor. The second floor is packed with books, comics and records. But, no chickens that we can see. Visit them at: 1768 Bucksport Road in Ellsworth / (207) 667-7308.

9. Southern Maine Indoor Flea Market, Scarborough

This is Southern Maine's largest indoor flea market, which means it just might be your one-stop-shop for anything you didn't know you needed. From beer steins of all sizes to snow globes and sweaters, if it exists there's an example of it waiting for you in Scarborough. Visit them at 578 Route 1 in Scarborough / 207-229-4263.

10. Central Maine Antique Mall, Bangor

Even if you're not in the market for an antique carriage, you'll love this place. The mall offers fine art & collectibles from lots of local dealers. Their showroom encompasses about 9,000 square feet AND there's lots of parking. Visit them at: 1372 Union St., Bangor / (207) 262-4010

If your out-of-state friends think you're crazy with all this antique shopping, you can give them this article. Just a few more things we do that they might find "insane!"