BIDDEFORD

Biddeford is a former mill city on the Saco River that has become one of southern Maine's most active arts communities. City Theater, an 1896 Victorian opera house designed by architect John Calvin Stevens, anchors the cultural life of the downtown mill district with year-round theater productions and events.

City Theater on Main Street produces five community theater shows per season in its 500-seat hall, recognized as one of the finest Victorian opera houses in the country. The surrounding mill district along the Saco River supports artist studios, galleries, and a monthly ArtWalk (third Fridays, May through October). Apple Cinemas Saco IMAX is a short drive away for mainstream film.

Biddeford's revival is visible in the repurposed mill buildings and the growing restaurant scene along Main Street. The ArtWalks bring out working artists, and the theater's horseshoe balcony and acoustics give shows a distinctive period character.

Tip: Park downtown and walk the urban trail system along the Saco River for views of the falls and historic mill buildings. City Theater is on Main Street in the heart of the historic district.

Neighborhoods: Downtown • Main Street • Mill District • Saco River