L.L.Bean announced the opening of the company’s newest retail store at Oakbrook Center on November 9 in Oak Brook, IL. The 17,500-square-foot store will employ approximately 45 people.

The store will serve as a resource for outdoor enthusiasts to gain technical expertise and local knowledge. L.L.Bean’s Outdoor Discovery Programs will offer year-round demonstrations, clinics and introductory, hands-on courses for a variety of outdoor activities, all designed to make it easy for individuals and families to enjoy the outdoors for health, fitness and recreation.

The grand opening celebration will begin on Friday, November 9 and go through Sunday, November 11. The three-day event will feature giveaways, games, a weekend block party, L.L.Bean’s Bootmobile and more.

Join L.L.Bean for a weekend of grand opening events:

Friday, November 9:

  • Doors open at 9 a.m and the first 200 customers in line will receive a free L.L.Bean Gift Card worth up to $500. Line begins at 6 a.m.

Saturday, November 10 and Sunday, November 11:

  • Free outdoor yoga beginning at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.
  • Outdoor block party with games and giveaways for the whole family, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Live local music and free food 12-2 p.m.
  • Enter to win prizes, including an adventure trip for two to Maine.

L.L.Bean has been in the greater Chicago area for ten years with stores at The Arboretum of South Barrington and Old Orchard in Skokie. L.L.Bean made the decision to open its latest store in Oak Brook due to the area’s proximity to abundant natural resources and opportunities for outdoor activities as well as a population with diverse needs for being outdoors in all four seasons.

“The Midwest is a great place to be outside, and we’re looking forward to helping more people enjoy the outdoors year-round,” said Greg Elder, vice president of retail at L.L.Bean. “Whether that’s on the trail, at the stadium or in your own backyard, we’ve got you covered.”

The new store allows the people of DuPage County and beyond to experience first-hand everything that the legendary outdoor retailer offers, such as quality merchandise, a welcoming shopping experience and a commitment to always do what’s right by its customers, employees, the environment and the community.

Additionally, as part of L.L.Bean’s $3 million commitment to the National Park Foundation’s efforts to encourage people to get outside and explore America’s more than 400 national parks, L.L.Bean will donate $5,000 to the I&M Canal National Heritage Area in celebration of the new store. The Canal Corridor Association will use the funds to update signage to improve access and information along to its 75 miles of trails.

L.L.Bean currently operates 42 stores in 17 states across the United States along with 27 stores in Japan.