Biddeford & Saco

Sometimes overshadowed by the larger Portland just 20 minutes north, the twin cities of Biddeford and Saco are a vibrant hub of art and culture in their own right. Once ranking amongst the largest buildings on the planet, the impressive mill complex that spans both sides of the Saco River is a relic of Maine’s textile industry but has recently seen revitalization into a mixture of residential, commercial and industrial spaces. There are Maine-based makers continuing to create products in these spaces; breweries, distilleries and eateries galore; and even a hotel amongst the many acres of brick buildings that dot the riverbank. While this region is great to visit year-round—the beaches are only ten minutes away—the shoulder seasons offer plenty to do when outdoor activities elsewhere in Maine slow down. The walkable downtowns create the perfect environment for a getaway without your car. It’s even possible to arrive by Amtrak from Boston and Portland and forego the car altogether.

Where to Stay

Book a place to stay in the walkable downtown area.

The Lincoln Hotel, Biddeford

The Lincoln Hotel utilizes half of one of the old mill buildings on the Biddeford side of the river. The massive lobby bar showcases the mill’s high ceilings and large spaces and has been decorated to create cozy nooks and comfy hangouts that pair nicely with the regular live music. Upstairs the hotel rooms also benefit from the high ceilings, brick walls and large windows to create a space unlike any other hotel. 

Where to Eat

Biddeford has become a destination for foodies and craft-drink lovers over the past decade and now has more options than one could hope to enjoy in a weekend. Here are some places to start.

Palace Diner, Biddeford

A Biddeford staple, the Palace Diner is a classic boxcar style diner with only one row of bar stool seating. Open for breakfast and lunch, they serve elevated diner staples; the stack of pancakes feels a little bit special with citrus butter and real maple syrup, and the corned beef hash is made in-house. Even the coffee is roasted just up the road in Portland and beats your average diner coffee. The entire experience is both a step back in time, but also a culinary treat for those more discerning palates. Tip: Remember to bring cash—they don’t accept cards.

Fika, Saco

Named for the Swedish “coffee break,” Fika is a Scandinavian-inspired bakery and coffee shop that operates out of a walk-up window in Saco. The coffee is top-notch, and the baked goods are too—if you arrive early enough to snag some before they sell out.

FinestKind, Saco

Another brunch spot, FinestKind has comfort food made in-house with fresh and local ingredients. From classics like fried chicken and waffles to hearty lunch dishes like a meatloaf sandwich, they work to support local farmers and food systems.

Rover Bagel, Biddeford

The wood-fired bagels from Rover Bagel stand out from the crowd. The crispy exterior and soft center make for bagel perfection. While you really can’t go wrong, be sure to add a roasted tomato to your bagel—their slow-cooked tomatoes are a sweet package of umami goodness.

Pacifico, Saco

Self-described as a pan-Latin restaurant, Pacifico draws together influences from across Central and South America in a trendy space in one of Saco’s mills. Their ceviche and pollo con mole are stand outs, as are the numerous Latin-inspired cocktails.

Ore Nell’s Barbecue, Biddeford

A central-Texas-style barbecue joint, Ore Nell’s Barbecue became famous at their first location in Kittery before opening a second shop in Biddeford. If you’re eating with friends or family, the trays to share are a great way to try a few types of meat and some sides. Their meats are all fantastic, and the coleslaw is uniquely good. 

Where to Drink

Whether seeking out a beverage producer or just looking for a good nightcap, here are a few must-try stops.

Elements Books, Coffee & Beer, Biddeford

Their name really says it all at Elements Books, Coffee & Beer. This beloved spot has figured out the perfect balance between being a bookstore and a cozy book-reading nook. For a relatively small store, they have a surprising number of titles between their new releases and pre-loved book selection. Pair that with some cozy seating and a bar that serves house-roasted coffee (plus adult beverages), and it makes the perfect hangout spot any hour of the day.

Time & Tide Coffee, Biddeford

On Main Street, Time & Tide Coffee roasts their own beans and caters to both the specialist coffee drinker and the casual cafe-goer. Known for their espresso drinks, the iced coffee is also worth trying, and there are usually a few pastries offered.

Sacred Profane Brewery and Tankpub, Biddeford

The only brewery in Maine that produces just two beers, Sacred Profane Brewery and Tankpub has fully specialized on their Czech-style lagers: a pale lager and a dark lager. Their appreciation of these styles runs deep. They’ve worked with Czech brewers to build their brew and tank system, and the love for their craft shows in the beers. A fantastic afternoon gathering spot, the brewhouse also serves a great selection of light or heartier bites.

Round Turn Distilling, Biddeford

Drawn to the Biddeford mills by the artsy and entrepreneurial culture they found there, the owners of Round Turn Distilling create small, hand-crafted gins. Their classic, Bimini Gin, is citrusy and floral—great on a hot summer day or in a Gin & Tonic. On cooler days though, the Bimini Barrel Reserve really shines; the oak brings out vanilla and caramel flavors that suit a darker cocktail. Swing by their distillery in the mill to try a cocktail or to buy a bottle.

Lucky Pigeon Brewing Co., Biddeford

Lucky Pigeon Brewing Co. is one of a new slate of breweries showing that gluten-free beers can compete toe-to-toe with traditional beers. They have a full draft list of English-style beers from session ales to stouts, as well as some hoppy American IPAs.

Banded Brewing Co., Biddeford

Biddeford’s first brewery, Banded Brewing Co. has been holding down the fort in the Pepperell Mill since 2013. While there are a lot of beers worth trying, the Greenwarden is truly special.  Brewed with the new budding tips of Spruce branches harvested from Maine, this IPA’s naturally piney hop profile is accentuated with the real flavor of the Maine woods.

Where to Shop

There are some fantastic stores in Saco and Biddeford that are worth popping inside, no matter what time of year.

Biddeford Vintage Market

This small storefront at Biddeford Vintage Market opens to a large space with multiple stalls by individual vendors selling vintage wares. Each stall has a different focus, but you’ll certainly be able to find a collection of amazing retro tees, classic Maine paraphernalia or old LP records.

The Maine Souvenir Shop, Biddeford

You know what to expect at The Maine Souvenir Shop just based off the name, but this store and its sibling store in Portland exceed the standard souvenir shop. For starters, they sell the work of over 100 Maine artists. This is certainly the spot to visit if you’re looking to sport gear with the 1901 Maine Flag—a flag seeing quite a resurgence these days.

Suger, Biddeford

Selling Maine-made clothing for women for over 25 years, the clothing production for Suger is headquartered around the corner in the Pepperell Mill. This flagship storefront is the place to find recent clothing lines, along with other carefully curated items. Who knows, you might even run into designer and owner Roxi Suger.