Looking for a coastal town with industrial charm and creative energy? Visit Biddeford! Once a historic mill city, Biddeford has transformed into one of Maine’s coolest up-and-coming destinations. Enjoy beaches, breweries, artsy vibes, and a lively food scene—all just minutes from Portland.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Biddeford is from late spring through early fall (May through October). Warm weather brings beach days, food truck festivals, and scenic walks along the Saco River or Atlantic coast.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Biddeford is located off I-95, about 25 minutes south of Portland and 1.5 hours north of Boston.
  • By Air: The closest airport is Portland International Jetport (PWM), about 20 minutes away.
  • By Train: Amtrak’s Downeaster stops at nearby Saco Station (5 minutes from downtown Biddeford).

Where to Stay

  • The Lincoln Hotel – Stylish boutique hotel inside a restored textile mill with modern amenities and downtown location.
  • Inn at English Meadows – Elegant B&B in nearby Kennebunk for those seeking a quiet, upscale retreat.
  • Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals – Great options in both downtown and beachside areas like Biddeford Pool.

Top Attractions

⮕ Catch a Live Performance in Historic Charm at Biddeford City Theater

Catch a Live Performance in Historic Charm at Biddeford City Theater

© Biddeford City Theater

Located along Main Street in the historic district of the city, The Biddeford City Theater was designed by John Calvin Stevens, a native Maine architect, and built back in the year 1896. Now a vital part of the Biddeford-Saco area’s growing cultural and arts community and a historic landmark, the City Theater puts on five different community theater productions every year. The annual performance season typically runs from the month of October through the month of August, featuring shows ranging from straight plays to musicals. The Box Office is open from 11:00am until 2:00pm, Thursday to Saturday.

205 Main St, Biddeford, ME 04005, Phone: 207-282-0849

⮕ Sip Small-Batch Spirits at the Stylish Round Turn Distilling

Sip Small-Batch Spirits at the Stylish Round Turn Distilling

© Round Turn Distilling

Round Turn Distilling is a small distillery in Biddeford, Maine housed within a building that was once a textile mill dating back around 150 years. The distillery uses the steam that’s created from the water to power the still, very similar to how the water was once used to power the looms of the original mill. Located along the Saco River, the distillery used the maritime knot used by sailors as the inspiration for its name of “Round Turn” Distilling. Award-winning Bimini Gin is produced by the distillery and can be sampled at the Tasting Room Tuesday to Sunday.

32 Main St, Biddeford, ME 04005, Phone: 207-370-9446

Romantic Activities and Attractions:

⮕ Enjoy Bold, Local Productions at Maine Repertory Theater

Enjoy Bold, Local Productions at Maine Repertory Theater

© aerogondo/stock.adobe.com

The Maine Repertory Theater produces a wide variety of performances every year, ranging from mystery theater to an array of both well known and original productions to skits and live improv comedy shows and more. Several zany events take place at the theater throughout the year as well. Founded by David Hanright and Steve Burnette, the Maine Repertory Theater is one of the new performance venues and production companies in the region, situated in the heart of downtown Biddeford in the Pepperell Mill. The theater has sixty seats and is dedicated to presenting often light-hearted, thought provoking, and entertaining productions.

40 Main St, Suite 131, Biddeford, ME 04005, Phone: 207-205-6201

⮕ Admire Public Art and Positivity at the One Blue Sky Mural

Admire Public Art and Positivity at the One Blue Sky Mural

© hanohiki/stock.adobe.com

The One Blue Sky Mural stands at the heart of Biddeford in southern Maine as an important mural featuring a young boy with a phone held up to his ear, sitting cross-legged and slouching. The mural was created as a symbol of “cross-cultural bridge-building among youths” to foster friendship and empathy. A counterpart mural exists in Slemani, Iraq of a young girl also holding a phone to her ear, as if having a phone conversation with the boy in Biddeford, Maine. Messages and symbols of peace hand painted by elementary students encircle the boy on the One Blue Sky Mural.

15 York St, Biddeford, ME, 04005

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Biddeford Mills Museum – Learn the city's industrial history in a sprawling 19th-century textile complex.
  • Biddeford Pool – Swim, sunbathe, or walk coastal trails in this quiet beach community.
  • Clifford Park – Hike or mountain bike through forested trails right near downtown.
  • Downtown Biddeford – Explore shops, cafés, art spaces, and breweries in this revitalized mill town hub.

Where to Eat

  • Palace Diner – A tiny, beloved railcar diner serving killer breakfasts and sandwiches.
  • Elda – Modern coastal cuisine with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an intimate setting.
  • Magnus on Water – Elevated cocktails and global small plates in a relaxed, community-centered space.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Biddeford+Saco ArtWalk (Monthly, May–October) – Explore galleries, studios, and pop-up events downtown.
  • River Jam Festival (August) – Celebrate local music, food, and culture on the Saco River waterfront.
  • WinterFest Biddeford (February) – Embrace the season with sledding, skating, chili contests, and family fun.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Biddeford, Maine:

  • Portland (25–30 min) – Discover award-winning food, breweries, galleries, and the working waterfront.
  • Kennebunkport (15–20 min) – Stroll Dock Square, enjoy lobster rolls, or relax on Goose Rocks Beach.
  • Old Orchard Beach (15 min) – Classic boardwalk fun with arcades, rides, and sandy beach vibes.
  • Saco (5 min) – Visit Ferry Beach State Park, explore the Eastern Trail, or grab a cone at a local creamery.
  • Scarborough Marsh (25 min) – Kayak through peaceful marshland and spot herons, egrets, and osprey.
  • Higgins Beach (30 min) – Great for a quiet beach day or watching surfers catch waves near Portland.

FAQ:

  • Where is Biddeford, Maine located?
    • The city of Biddeford, Maine is located along the Northeast Seaboard and is a place rich in history.
  • What is the history of Biddeford?
    • The area’s first settlement was built in the middle of the seventeenth century on both sides of the Saco River. The city was named after Bideford in England, where many of its original inhabitants came from.
  • What was Biddeford historically known for?
    • Formerly, Biddeford was a significant textile region, with old mills that have now been repurposed for new uses.
  • Why has Biddeford become a popular tourist destination?
    • Biddeford has become a popular spot for tourists who want to experience Maine’s pristine natural environment and rugged coastline, with several resort districts nearby.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The Lincoln Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel in downtown Biddeford. Explore the Saco Riverwalk – Enjoy scenic views and historic mill buildings.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for beach trips. Biddeford Motel – A budget-friendly option close to local attractions. Visit Fortunes Rocks Beach – Relax on sandy shores and enjoy surfing.
Fall (September-November) – Cool temperatures and vibrant foliage. The Inn at English Meadows – A charming bed-and-breakfast with cozy accommodations. Explore the Biddeford Mills Museum – Learn about the town’s rich industrial history.

Plan Your Trip


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