Saco, Maine: 10 Fun Things To Do Near This Coastal Gem

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Near Saco, Maine (York County)

If you’re looking for a laid-back coastal escape in New England, Saco, Maine is a great place to start. This small city in York County blends sandy beaches, classic Maine charm, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Boston or a longer Maine coast road trip, Saco is an easy stop right off I‑95. Below are 10 fun things to do in and around Saco, Maine that will help you plan your visit.

1. Relax at Ferry Beach and Bay View Beach

When you picture coastal Maine, you might think of rocky cliffs. But in Saco, you also get long stretches of sandy shore. Just a short drive from downtown Saco, you’ll find:
  • Ferry Beach – A wide, sandy beach with gentle waves, perfect for swimming and beach walks.
  • Bay View Beach – A quiet, neighborhood beach with pretty views of Saco Bay.
On a warm July afternoon, it’s hard to beat walking barefoot along the water, listening to the waves, and watching the boats pass by offshore. If you arrive early, you’ll often see locals out for their morning walk with coffee in hand. Tips:
  • Bring a beach chair, sunscreen, and a light sweatshirt – Maine evenings by the water can be cool even in summer.
  • Check local parking rules and fees, especially in peak season.

2. Explore Ferry Beach State Park

Right behind the shoreline, Ferry Beach State Park offers shady trails and a peaceful break from the sun. Here you can:
  • Walk easy, flat trails through the woods and dunes.
  • See a rare stand of tupelo trees, unusual this far north.
  • Have a picnic at a table under the trees.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great spot to let them run around and explore nature. The trails are short, so it’s an easy outing even if you’re not a big hiker. Why go: It’s the perfect place to pair with a beach day—sand in the morning, shady trails in the afternoon.

3. Ride the Coasters at Funtown Splashtown USA

If you’re traveling with family, you’ll want to check out Funtown Splashtown USA, just off Route 1 in Saco. This classic Maine amusement and water park offers:
  • Thrill rides like the wooden coaster Excalibur.
  • Family rides, kiddie rides, and go‑karts.
  • Water slides, a lazy river, and splash areas in the Splashtown section.
On hot summer days, locals and visitors flock here. It has that old‑school, slightly nostalgic feel—funnel cakes, arcade games, and the smell of sunscreen and fried dough in the air. Tip: Plan to spend most of a day here. Arrive early, hit the big rides first, then cool off in the water park in the afternoon.

4. Step Back in Time at the Saco Museum

If you enjoy history but don’t want to spend hours in a huge museum, the Saco Museum is a nice, manageable stop. You’ll find:
  • Exhibits on local history from the 1600s to today.
  • Artwork and decorative arts tied to Saco and York County.
  • Rotating shows that highlight regional culture and artists.
It’s a great way to understand how Saco grew from a small mill town on the Saco River into the seaside community you see today. Why it’s worth it: On a rainy or cold day, this is a cozy, interesting place to dive into the story of coastal Maine without feeling overwhelmed.

5. Walk the Saco River & Downtown Saco

Sometimes the best way to get to know a place is just to walk around. Saco’s downtown is small but charming, with historic brick buildings, local shops, and cafés. Things to do:
  • Stroll Main Street and pop into local stores and coffee shops.
  • Walk near the Saco River and check out views of the old mills.
  • Look for public art, murals, and historic markers.
If you like photography, late afternoon is a nice time—soft light on the river, old brick facades, and church steeples make for simple but beautiful shots. Tip: Grab a coffee or an ice cream and just wander. It’s an easy, low‑key way to enjoy Saco at your own pace.

6. Cross the River to Biddeford’s Mill District

Right across the river from Saco is Biddeford, another York County city that has really come back to life in recent years. The two communities are so close that you can easily visit both in one afternoon. In Biddeford’s historic mill district, you’ll find:
  • Renovated brick mills filled with restaurants, breweries, and small shops.
  • Cafés and bakeries that are popular with locals and students from nearby UNE.
  • Events, markets, and art shows depending on the season.
It’s interesting to see how these old textile mills have turned into a creative hub while still holding on to their industrial character. Idea: Spend your morning at the beach in Saco, then head to Biddeford Mills for a late lunch or early dinner.

7. Enjoy Classic Fun at Old Orchard Beach

Just a few miles up the coast from Saco is Old Orchard Beach, one of southern Maine’s most famous beach towns. Here you can:
  • Walk the Old Orchard Beach Pier, lined with bars, shops, and food stands.
  • Ride the rides at the small beachfront amusement park.
  • Relax on a wide sandy beach that stretches for miles.
On summer nights, the area feels like a mix of small‑town fair and boardwalk, with bright lights, music, and the sound of the ocean in the background. If you like people‑watching, this is your spot. Tip: Parking can fill up fast on hot weekends, so go earlier in the day or later in the afternoon if you want to avoid the tightest crowds.

8. Discover Nature at Scarborough Marsh (Short Drive From Saco)

If you’re up for a short drive north from Saco (about 15–20 minutes), Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center is a peaceful change of scenery. This is Maine’s largest salt marsh, and it’s great for:
  • Kayaking or canoeing along calm channels.
  • Bird‑watching—look for herons, egrets, and other coastal birds.
  • Easy walking along the marsh edges and viewing platforms.
Paddling through the marsh at high tide is a beautiful experience. The grasses sway in the breeze, and the whole area feels calm and quiet, even in mid‑summer. Good to know: You can often rent kayaks or take guided tours right from the Audubon Center in season.

9. Visit Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Heading a bit south from Saco, you’ll find one of the most scenic protected areas in York County: the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. Parts of the refuge are near Wells and Kennebunk, an easy drive from Saco. Here you can:
  • Walk short, well‑marked trails through coastal forest and along salt marshes.
  • Enjoy bird‑watching and peaceful views.
  • Learn about Rachel Carson and the importance of protecting coastal ecosystems.
If you enjoy simple nature walks and quiet viewpoints, this refuge is a nice half‑day trip from Saco. The trails are usually not difficult, which makes it a good option for most ages. Tip: Bring bug spray in warmer months; marsh areas can attract mosquitoes at dusk.

10. Take a Day Trip to Kennebunkport or Portland

One of the perks of staying in Saco is how central it is on Maine’s southern coast. You can easily visit a couple of the state’s most popular destinations as day trips:
  • Kennebunkport (about 20–30 minutes south): A classic Maine coastal town with shops, galleries, and scenic views. Walk Dock Square, grab a lobster roll, and drive Ocean Avenue for coastal scenery.
  • Portland (about 25–30 minutes north): A lively small city with great food, breweries, and the historic Old Port district. Cobblestone streets, harbor views, and plenty of restaurants to choose from.
This way, you can enjoy Saco’s quieter vibe—more space, easier parking, calmer beaches—and still see some of the bigger-name Maine coastal towns while you’re in York County.

Planning Your Visit to Saco, Maine

To make the most of your time in Saco, Maine and around York County, keep these quick tips in mind:
  • Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for beach days and outdoor activities.
  • Getting there: Saco is right off I‑95 and also served by Amtrak’s Downeaster in nearby towns, making it an easy stop on a Maine road trip.
  • Where to stay: Look for hotels in Saco and Biddeford, or beach rentals closer to Ferry Beach and Old Orchard Beach.
If you’re looking for a base that gives you both relaxing coastal time and easy day trips, Saco is a smart choice.

What Would You Do First in Saco?

Would you head straight for Ferry Beach, ride the coasters at Funtown Splashtown, or explore the coastal marshes and wildlife refuges? I’d love to hear how you’d spend a day—or a whole weekend—in Saco, Maine.
  • Drop a comment below and share your favorite thing to do in Saco or anywhere in York County.
  • If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend who’s planning a Maine coast trip.
The more we share our experiences, the easier it becomes for other travelers to discover underrated spots like Saco, Maine.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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