Biddeford, Maine: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun & Easy Things To Do Near Biddeford, Maine (York County Guide)

If you’re planning a trip to Biddeford, Maine in York County, you’re in for a nice surprise. This once “mill town” has turned into a cool coastal getaway with beaches, breweries, old brick mills, and easy day trips to some of Maine’s most-loved spots. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, here are 10 things to do in and around Biddeford, Maine that are perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers.

1. Relax at Biddeford Pool & Fortunes Rocks Beach

When people think about things to do in Biddeford, the ocean comes first. Just a short drive from downtown, you’ll find:
  • Biddeford Pool – a quiet, classic Maine seaside village with a long sandy beach.
  • Fortunes Rocks Beach – about 2 miles of soft sand and rolling waves.
These beaches are great for:
  • Walking the shoreline at low tide
  • Watching surfers ride the waves
  • Collecting shells and sea glass
  • Reading a book with the sound of the surf in the background
If you like a more peaceful beach day rather than packed boardwalks and loud crowds, Biddeford’s coastal area will feel like a dream.

2. Explore the Historic Biddeford Mills District

Downtown Biddeford is built around huge brick mill buildings along the Saco River. These mills once powered the local textile industry; today, they’re full of:
  • Cafés and coffee shops
  • Breweries and distilleries
  • Art studios and galleries
  • Small shops and creative spaces
Walk through the historic Biddeford mills and:
  • Grab a coffee and wander the riverfront.
  • Check out local art and handmade goods.
  • Take photos of the red brick buildings and old smokestacks.
If you like old industrial spaces turned into something new, you’ll love this area. It’s a good place to just stroll with no schedule and see what you find.

3. Sample Local Beer, Coffee, and Great Food

For a small city, Biddeford has a surprisingly strong food and drink scene. You’ll find:
  • Craft breweries with rotating taps and seasonal releases
  • Local roasters serving fresh coffee and baked goods
  • Cozy restaurants featuring Maine seafood, burgers, and wood-fired pizza
A fun idea is to:
  • Start your day with coffee and a pastry downtown.
  • Explore the mills or the riverfront.
  • End the day with a brewery flight or a cocktail made with local spirits.
If you enjoy trying local flavors when you travel, Biddeford is a great base in southern Maine.

4. Walk Along the Saco River & Downtown Streets

Not every activity has to be a big adventure. Sometimes a simple walk can tell you a lot about a place. In downtown Biddeford you can:
  • Stroll across bridges with views of the Saco River.
  • Watch the water rush past the old mill buildings.
  • Pop into bookstores, vintage shops, and local boutiques.
If you like photography, the mix of river views, old brick, and street art gives you plenty of interesting shots. It’s also a great way to get your steps in without feeling like you’re “working out.”

5. Take a Short Trip to Old Orchard Beach

About 15–20 minutes from Biddeford, you’ll find Old Orchard Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Maine. Here you can:
  • Walk the Old Orchard Beach Pier
  • Ride rides and play games at the seaside amusement area
  • Grab fried dough, cotton candy, or classic beach fries
If Biddeford’s beaches feel calm and quiet, Old Orchard Beach is the opposite: busy, colorful, and full of energy. It makes a fun contrast and is an easy half-day or evening trip from Biddeford.

6. Visit Kennebunkport for a Classic Coastal Town Vibe

Another easy day trip from Biddeford is Kennebunkport, about a 20–25 minute drive south in York County. Kennebunkport is known for:
  • Beautiful harbor views
  • Charming shops and galleries
  • Waterfront restaurants serving lobster rolls and chowder
Popular things to do near Kennebunkport:
  • Drive out to Walker’s Point for ocean views (and a look at the famous Bush family compound).
  • Walk around Dock Square for shopping and ice cream.
  • Take a scenic boat tour in season.
If you want that “postcard-perfect” Maine coastal town, this is it—and it’s very easy to reach from Biddeford.

7. Hit the Beaches in Nearby Saco and Ferry Beach State Park

Just across the river from Biddeford is the town of Saco, Maine, with more beaches and a state park to explore. Check out:
  • Ferry Beach State Park – walking trails through coastal forest and a sandy beach on Saco Bay.
  • Bay View and Camp Ellis – small beach areas with a classic “beach town” feel.
At Ferry Beach State Park, you can:
  • Walk shaded trails (nice on hot summer days).
  • Have a picnic at one of the tables.
  • Spend time on a less crowded stretch of coastline.
It’s a good spot if you want a mix of light hiking and beach time without a long drive.

8. Shop the Kittery Outlets & Explore Southern York County

If you’re in the mood to shop, take a drive south (about 45–60 minutes) toward the Kittery Outlets in York County. You’ll find:
  • Big-name outlet stores with discounts
  • Outdoor gear shops (great if you’re into hiking or camping)
  • Plenty of casual places to grab lunch
You can easily combine the Kittery Outlets with stops in:
  • York, Maine – walk around York Beach or visit Nubble Light.
  • Ogunquit – stroll the Marginal Way coastal path.
It makes a full day of exploring York County, Maine beyond Biddeford, mixing shopping, scenery, and seaside villages.

9. Go for a Scenic Drive on Coastal Back Roads

One of the most underrated things to do near Biddeford is simply to drive. Pick a direction along the coast—toward Kennebunkport, Saco, or Cape Porpoise—and follow the smaller roads when you can. You’ll pass:
  • Salt marshes and tidal rivers
  • Hidden coves and rocky shoreline views
  • Old farmhouses and classic New England churches
This is especially beautiful:
  • In late spring, when everything turns green.
  • In fall, when the leaves change color.
  • At sunset, when the sky lights up over the water.
If you like slow travel—windows down, no rush, stopping when something catches your eye—this is a great way to enjoy southern Maine from Biddeford.

10. Catch Local Events, Markets, and Live Music

Biddeford and the surrounding York County towns often host:
  • Farmers markets with local produce and baked goods
  • Street fairs and seasonal festivals
  • Live music at breweries, bars, and outdoor spaces
Before your trip, check local event calendars for:
  • Downtown Biddeford
  • Biddeford Mills District
  • Nearby towns like Saco, Kennebunk, and Kennebunkport
These events are a great way to meet locals, taste regional food, and get a feel for what life in southern Maine is really like beyond the usual tourist spots.

Final Tips for Visiting Biddeford, Maine

Here are a few quick pointers to make your trip smoother:
  • Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for beach days and outdoor activities.
  • Getting around: You’ll want a car to easily explore Biddeford, the beaches, and the rest of York County.
  • Weather: Summer is warm but not usually too hot; evenings can still feel cool by the water, so bring a light jacket.
Biddeford is a great base if you want to experience southern Maine without staying in the busiest tourist towns. You get a real, lived-in city feel, plus easy access to beaches, cute coastal villages, and classic Maine scenery.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Biddeford Spots

Have you spent time in Biddeford, Maine or elsewhere in York County?
  • What are your favorite things to do near Biddeford?
  • Do you have a go-to beach, restaurant, or hidden spot?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are thinking about visiting Maine. The more people discover Biddeford and its neighbors, the more this special corner of the coast can thrive.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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