Saco is a historic mill city on the Saco River in southern Maine, situated between Portland and Old Orchard Beach. With a beautifully preserved downtown, the largest municipal park in New England at Thornton Academy, and easy access to the beaches of Old Orchard Beach and the outlet shopping of Freeport, Saco offers a practical and affordable base for exploring southern Maine. The Saco River itself is one of the most popular flatwater paddling destinations in the state.
Things to Do in Saco
Funtown Splashtown USA on Route 1 is one of New England’s largest amusement and water parks — a major draw for families visiting southern Maine in summer. The Saco River offers exceptional flatwater canoeing and kayaking, with put-ins accessible from multiple points along its course through the Saco Valley. Downtown Saco has a growing collection of independent restaurants and shops in its historic brick commercial district. Saco Bay and the beaches of Old Orchard Beach are just minutes away.
Best Restaurants in Saco, Maine
Saco’s dining scene is centered on its downtown district and the Route 1 commercial corridor. The city has a good selection of casual restaurants, pizza spots, and family dining options convenient to the beaches and amusements of the Old Orchard Beach area.
Where to Stay in Saco, Maine
Saco has several hotels and motels along the Route 1 corridor offering affordable accommodations convenient to Old Orchard Beach, Portland, and Freeport. Properties in Saco typically offer lower rates than comparable lodging directly in Old Orchard Beach or Portland, making it a practical budget option for exploring southern Maine.
Getting to Saco
Saco is located on I-195 and US Route 1 in southern Maine, approximately 15 miles south of Portland and 3 miles from Old Orchard Beach. From Portland, take I-295 south to Exit 5 for Route 1 south — about 20 minutes. The Amtrak Downeaster stops in Saco/Biddeford, making it one of the few Maine destinations accessible by train from Boston.
Maine Vacation Rentals
Looking for a vacation rental near Saco? Browse cabins, cottages, and waterfront homes at MaineVacationRentals.com.
Looking for work in Saco? Browse Jobs in Saco on JobsInMaine.com.