Biddeford, Maine
Mill City Renaissance
Overview
Biddeford is the youngest city in Maine (by median age) and the site of a dramatic revitalization. The massive brick textile mills that line the Saco River, once vacant, are now bustling with makers, breweries, tech companies, and apartments. The city combines this urban energy with a stunning coastline at Biddeford Pool and Fortune's Rocks.
Key Facts
Population 22,552
Region Southern Maine
County York
Founded 1616
Nearest City Portland (25 mins)
Town Office
Visit official website
What Biddeford Is Known For
Biddeford Local Highlights
Mill District Revitalization
A textbook example of how to repurpose industrial history into a modern cultural and economic engine.
Palace Diner
A tiny 15-seat railcar diner that has received national acclaim (including from Bon Appétit) for its elevated comfort food.
Biddeford Pool
A large tidal pool and historic summer colony offering quiet beaches and a bird sanctuary.
University of New England (UNE)
Home to the seaside campus of this growing private university known for its health sciences.
Things to Do
1
Take a Mill Tour
Explore the underground canals and vast floors of the Pepperell Mill Campus.
2
Eat at Palace Diner
Wait in line for the best tuna melt or flapjacks you will ever have.
3
Walk the East Point Sanctuary
Enjoy a short, flat hike along the ocean edge at the Audubon sanctuary in Biddeford Pool.
4
Sample local craft beer
Visit Banded Brewing or Run of the Mill for fresh pints in historic spaces.
5
Relax at Fortune's Rocks Beach
Surf or sunbathe at this massive two-mile stretch of sandy beach.
Living in Biddeford
Biddeford is increasingly popular with young professionals and artists priced out of Portland. It offers a walkable downtown, a growing food scene, and access to beautiful beaches.
Weather & Seasons
summer
Warm, 70-80°F
winter
Cold and snowy, 20-35°F
spring
Cool, 45-55°F
fall
Crisp, 50-65°F
Local Wildlife & Nature
Piping Plovers Snowy Owls (in winter at the Pool) Striped Bass
How to Get There
Biddeford is located off I-95 at Exit 32. The Amtrak Downeaster makes daily stops at the Saco-Biddeford station.
Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.
Satellite preview
Biddeford outline
Key Facts
Population
22,552
Region
Southern Maine
County
York
Founded
1616
Nearest City
Portland (25 mins)
Town Office
Visit official website