Things To Do
in Biddeford

A must-try in coastal Maine — served hot with butter or cold in mayo on a split-top roll; available at waterfront shacks and many restaurants.

Must-Try!

Creamy New England clam chowder with tender clams and potatoes—comfort food found at local diners and seafood restaurants.

Fresh steamers served with drawn butter and lemon; often available at seasonal seafood shacks and festivals.

A classic Maine dessert—two soft cake rounds sandwiching a sweet marshmallowy filling—sold at bakeries and markets.

Seasonal market with local produce, baked goods, cheeses, and prepared foods—excellent for sampling local berries, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Nearby Saco and coastal-town markets offer seafood vendors, local honey, maple products and seasonal street-food stalls in summer.

Maine people are friendly but value politeness and a relaxed, low-key demeanor. Greet shopkeepers and servers and be patient in busy periods.

Observe posted signs at beaches and reserves—respect nesting birds, walking paths, and private-rights-of-way commonly found in coastal communities.

Dress is casual; layers are recommended year-round due to coastal breezes and temperature swings.

People enjoy talking about local fishing, lobster seasons, and outdoor activities—showing genuine interest in local culture is appreciated.

Standard US norms apply: tip 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, 10–15% for taxis/rideshares if service is good, and $2–5 for hotel housekeeping per night. Tips are an important part of service workers’ income.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in cafes and restaurants. Small vendors and some seasonal stands may prefer cash—carry some bills for markets and small purchases.

Warm, often pleasant temperatures; busiest season with beachgoers and tourists. Expect higher lodging prices and more crowded beaches, restaurants, and traffic on weekends.

Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage make this a beautiful time to visit — cooler nights and quieter streets; many seasonal businesses wind down after early fall.

Cold, snowy winters with ice and occasional coastal storms; some attractions and smaller restaurants may have limited hours. Dress warmly and watch for icy sidewalks and roads.

Variable weather with a mix of cool, rainy days and warming sunshine; shoulder season means fewer crowds and emerging farm markets and seasonal openings.

About a 25–30 minute drive from Biddeford, this modest peak offers a network of trails, summit views of the coast, and panoramic overlooks—good for short hikes and sunrise/sunset photography.

A coastal peat bog and preserve with boardwalk trails and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and experiencing a unique coastal ecosystem a short drive away.

Coastal salt marsh trails and observation areas are ideal for wildlife photography and quiet walks; access points and trails are distributed along the southern Maine coast.

A preserved coastal reserve with nature trails, salt marsh boardwalks, and interpretive programs; about 25–35 minutes to the southwest and great for family-friendly hikes and ecology-focused visits.

Established communities with many multigenerational households contributing to a stable small-city character.

The University of New England campus and nearby colleges bring students and young professionals who add energy, arts, and dining demand.

Many retirees are drawn to the coastal lifestyle and quieter pace, adding to the year-round population that supports local services.

Summer tourists and weekenders swell the population seasonally, especially at nearby beaches and coastal attractions.

Many restaurants offer vegetarian mains and sides; farmers’ markets provide fresh produce for self-catering. Call ahead if you need more specialized vegetarian options outside peak restaurant areas.

Vegan choices are growing—look for dedicated vegan/vegetarian items at cafés and some farm-to-table menus, but options may be limited in traditional seafood shacks.

Most mid-range and higher-end restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests; cross-contamination at fried-seafood stands is possible, so ask staff and check menus.

Seafood is central to the cuisine—inform servers of shellfish or fish allergies. Local markets and restaurants are generally helpful with substitutions when notified.