Attractions and Places To See around Saco - Top 20

Saco offers a diverse range of natural attractions. You can explore the pristine sandy beach and trails at Ferry Beach State Park, or discover the unique ecosystem of a raised bog at the Saco Heath Preserve. Other popular spots include Bayview Beach, known for its quiet sands and tide pools, and the Saco River itself, ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Absolutely! Saco is home to Maine's largest amusement and water park, Funtown Splashtown USA, offering thrilling rides and water slides. Another option is Aquaboggan Water Park, with its own array of water attractions and mini-golf. For a more relaxed family outing, the Eastern Trail provides over 8 miles of flat, traffic-free paths perfect for family bike rides.

Saco boasts a rich history. The Saco Museum, one of Maine's oldest, showcases local history, fine, and decorative arts. You can also explore Historic Downtown Saco with its beautiful buildings, shops, and restaurants, or visit the picturesque Saco River Covered Bridge. Laurel Hill Cemetery, Maine's first garden cemetery, offers a serene and historic walking experience.

Saco offers a variety of trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The Eastern Trail is a popular choice for both cycling and walking, connecting Saco with Old Orchard Beach and Scarborough. Another segment, the Eastern Trail (Kennebunk to Biddeford), winds through forests and wetlands. For a unique nature walk, the Saco Heath Preserve features a self-guided trail and boardwalk. You can find more running routes around Saco, including trails in Ferry Beach State Park and Saco Heath, on the Running Trails around Saco guide.

Saco is known for its beautiful coastline. Bayview Beach is a quiet escape with soft sands, lifeguards, and is dog-friendly. Camp Ellis Beach is favored for its fishing pier and marine life spotting. Pine Point Beach offers a picturesque four-mile stretch of shoreline. For a more secluded experience, Fortune's Rocks Beach provides a peaceful environment away from the crowds.

Yes, the Saco Heath Preserve is considered Maine's 'Best Overlooked Gem.' This 1,218-acre preserve features a rare raised coalesced bog with a unique ecosystem, offering a self-guided hike along a woodland trail and boardwalk. It's the only place where Atlantic white cedar grows on a northern raised bog.

Saco offers a variety of local flavors. Rapid Ray's is a historic and famous burger shop, serving classic burgers and fries since 1953. For Latin American cuisine, Quiero Cafe provides a vibrant setting. The Saco River Market is a great place to find local produce, baked goods, and handmade products.

Even in winter, Saco offers outdoor activities. Ferry Beach State Park is popular for year-round activities, including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on its trails. The Saco Drive-In Theater provides a nostalgic experience for watching movies under the stars, which can be a unique winter evening activity depending on their seasonal schedule.

Yes, Bayview Beach is one of the few dog-friendly beaches in Maine, allowing you to enjoy the quiet sands with your canine companion. Many of the trails, such as sections of the Eastern Trail, are also suitable for walks with dogs, though it's always recommended to check specific park or trail regulations for leash requirements.

Saco is excellent for cycling. The Eastern Trail offers over 8 miles of flat, traffic-free paths connecting Saco, Old Orchard Beach, and Scarborough, ideal for family rides. The Eastern Trail (Kennebunk to Biddeford) is another popular segment for cyclists. For more extensive road cycling routes, you can explore options like the Fortunes Rocks Cove loop or the Old Orchard Beach loop, detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Saco guide.

Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of Saco's beaches, such as Fortune's Rocks Beach, which offers solitude away from crowds. The traffic-free nature of the Eastern Trail is highly valued for family bike rides, and the scenic beauty of the trails through forests and wetlands also receives positive feedback.