Saco, Maine Weekend Getaways: 10 Scenic Short Road Trips

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10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips from Saco, Maine (That Are Totally Worth the Drive)

If you’re based in Saco, Maine and feel like you’ve already explored every corner of York County, don’t worry—you’ve got a whole world of fun just a short drive away. Today we’re heading beyond York County lines into nearby counties in Maine and New Hampshire:
  • Cumberland County, ME
  • Oxford County, ME
  • Carroll County, NH
  • Rockingham County, NH
  • Strafford County, NH
All of these road trips are out-of-county day trips from Saco—most between about 30 minutes and 2.5 hours. Think scenic drives, great food, small towns, beaches, and mountains… all without hopping on a plane.

1. Portland, Maine – Food, Lighthouses & Working Waterfront (Cumberland County)

Portland is one of those places you can visit a dozen times and still find something new. From Saco, it’s usually about a 25–35 minute drive north on I‑95 or Route 1, depending on traffic. Here are a few classic Portland experiences:
  • Old Port – Cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and tons of shops and restaurants. Perfect for wandering, people-watching, and grabbing coffee or ice cream.
  • Portland Head Light (Cape Elizabeth) – Just a bit south of downtown but still in Cumberland County. One of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. Walk the paths along the rocky coast and bring a light jacket—it can be windy even in summer.
  • Harbor cruises – Take a short boat tour of Casco Bay or hop on a simple ferry ride to see the islands from the water.
  • Breweries & bakeries – Portland is famous for craft beer and great food. Even if you’re just into pastries and coffee, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
If you’ve only ever passed through Portland on your way somewhere else, try slowing down and spending a full day. You might end up planning your next trip before you even leave the parking lot.

2. Freeport, Maine – L.L.Bean, Shopping & Coastal Walks (Cumberland County)

About 45 minutes to an hour from Saco, Freeport is a great mix of classic New England charm and outlet shopping. Top things to do:
  • L.L.Bean Flagship Store – Open 24/7 most of the year, with the famous big boot out front. Even if you’re not buying gear, it’s fun to wander and check out the displays.
  • Outlet shopping – Big national brands plus local shops, all within walking distance downtown.
  • Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park – Easy walking trails along the coast, picnic spots, and great views of Casco Bay. It’s a peaceful break from the shopping crowds.
If you like the idea of a day that’s part retail therapy and part nature walk, Freeport is an easy win.

3. Brunswick & Bath – Coastal History and River Views (Cumberland County)

Drive about 1–1.5 hours from Saco and you’ll reach Brunswick, with Bath just a short hop beyond. In Brunswick:
  • Walk around Bowdoin College for leafy campus vibes and public art.
  • Check out the downtown strip for local cafés, bookstores, and galleries.
In Bath:
  • Stroll along the Kennebec River waterfront and watch boats and shipyard activity.
  • Explore the town’s old buildings and grab lunch at a local spot.
Brunswick and Bath make a relaxed day trip, especially if you like small towns with character and waterfront views but don’t need a long list of “must-see” attractions.

4. Sebago Lake – Beaches, Boating & Lazy Summer Days (Cumberland County)

If you’re looking for a lake day instead of the ocean, Sebago Lake is about 45 minutes to an hour from Saco, depending on where you go. Why it’s worth the drive:
  • Sandy beaches – Family-friendly spots with room to spread out your towel, swim, and enjoy a picnic.
  • Boating & paddling – Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard if you don’t have your own.
  • Sunset views – On a clear evening, the sky over the lake can be stunning.
If you usually head straight for the ocean, Sebago is a nice change of pace—warmer water, calmer waves, and a more laid-back vibe.

5. North Conway, New Hampshire – Mountains, Outlets & Scenic Drives (Carroll County, NH)

About 1.5 to 2 hours from Saco, North Conway in Carroll County, NH, is a classic White Mountains getaway. What to do:
  • Scenic drives – Use North Conway as a base to explore the White Mountain area, especially in fall when the foliage is at its peak.
  • Outlet shopping – Plenty of name-brand outlets for a rainy-day backup plan.
  • Hiking – Everything from easy family walks to more serious trails nearby.
  • Train rides – The Conway Scenic Railroad offers short rides through pretty mountain scenery.
If you’re craving mountains instead of ocean, North Conway is close enough for a long day trip but fun enough that you might want to stay overnight.

6. Mount Washington & the Kancamagus Highway (Carroll County, NH)

From Saco, you can reach the Mount Washington area in roughly 2–2.5 hours, depending on your route. A few iconic experiences:
  • Mount Washington Auto Road – Drive your car up (seasonal, weather-dependent) and experience one of the most famous mountain roads in the Northeast. The views at the top, on a clear day, stretch for miles in every direction.
  • Kancamagus Highway – A scenic byway connecting Conway to Lincoln, NH. Known for jaw-dropping fall foliage, pull-offs, and river views.
Even if you only have time to drive part of the route, the change in scenery from coastal Maine to serious mountain country makes this road trip memorable.

7. Portsmouth, New Hampshire – Harbor, History & Great Food (Rockingham County, NH)

Just under an hour from Saco, Portsmouth feels like a mini Portland with its own twist—historic, walkable, and packed with personality. Things to check out:
  • Downtown waterfront – Walk along the water, watch boats, and enjoy views of the bridges and harbor.
  • Market Square – Brick buildings, shops, cafés, and restaurants. It’s easy to spend hours just wandering and snacking.
  • Prescott Park – A riverfront park with gardens and open space to relax.
Portsmouth makes a great afternoon-into-evening trip from Saco: drive down, stroll the town, grab dinner, and head back the same night.

8. Hampton Beach – Classic New England Beach Boardwalk (Rockingham County, NH)

If you want that old-school boardwalk feel, Hampton Beach is around 1 to 1.25 hours from Saco, depending on traffic along the coast. What you’ll find:
  • Wide sandy beach – Plenty of space to set up for the day.
  • Boardwalk – Arcades, fried dough, pizza, taffy, and all the beach-town favorites.
  • Live events – In summer, look for concerts, fireworks, and festivals along the beach.
If you grew up near the East Coast, Hampton Beach might feel a little nostalgic—like stepping back into a classic summer vacation.

9. Dover, New Hampshire – Small-City Vibes & A Relaxed Riverfront (Strafford County, NH)

About 45–60 minutes from Saco, Dover is an easy trip for when you want something different but not overwhelming. Ideas for your visit:
  • Downtown Dover – Local shops, breweries, and restaurants in a walkable area.
  • Cocheco Riverfront – Take a stroll along the river and check out the old mill buildings.
  • Pair it with nearby towns like Rochester or Somersworth if you enjoy exploring small places one after another.
Dover feels like a good “low-stress” day trip—no big crowds, just a nice change of scenery.

10. Durham, New Hampshire – College Town Energy & Quiet Trails (Strafford County, NH)

Home to the University of New Hampshire, Durham is roughly an hour from Saco and has a relaxed, youthful feel. What to do:
  • Walk around the UNH campus – Open green spaces, paths, and a classic college-town look.
  • Explore local trails and conservation areas – Simple walks that give you a taste of New Hampshire woods and fields.
  • Grab coffee or a casual meal in town and enjoy people-watching when school is in session.
If you like mellow, nature-friendly spots without big tourist crowds, Durham is a nice, easy-going destination.

Tips for Planning Your Out-of-County Road Trips from Saco

A few quick tips to make these Saco day trips more enjoyable:
  • Check drive times – Most of these are between 30 minutes and 2.5 hours. Plan fuel, food, and breaks accordingly.
  • Watch the seasons – Fall foliage, summer beach days, and winter mountain trips all have different crowds and weather.
  • Start early – Especially if you’re heading to Mount Washington, North Conway, or busy beach towns on summer weekends.
  • Layer up – Coastal breezes, mountain winds, and cool evenings can surprise you, even in July.
If you’re anything like me, once you start doing these short drives, you’ll realize how many easy escapes you’ve had sitting just beyond York County the whole time.

Where Will You Go Next?

Living in or visiting Saco means you’re in a sweet spot: close to beaches, lakes, cities, small towns, and mountains—all within a reasonable drive. Whether you’re craving:
  • a food-filled afternoon in Portland or Portsmouth,
  • a shopping run to Freeport or North Conway,
  • or a full-on scenic adventure to Mount Washington or Sebago Lake,
you’ve got options. Which out-of-county road trip from Saco are you planning first? Have you done any of these drives already, or do you have a favorite hidden spot in Cumberland, Oxford, Carroll, Rockingham, or Strafford County? Share your thoughts in the comments and tell us your go-to Saco area day trip. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family who are looking for new things to do near Saco, Maine—your next adventure might be just one short drive away.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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