The Hills Beach neighborhood houses the University of New England’s Biddeford campus, a 540-acre expanse with ¾ mile ocean frontage. The grassy, shaded campus grounds offer trails into wooded areas on both sides of Pool Road, beaches on both the Saco River and Atlantic Ocean, a boat launch, picnic areas and long expanses of lawn. Dogs are welcome here on leash to enjoy the shorelines and walking paths. If all this walking whets your appetite, Bufflehead’s Restaurant features outdoor tables where pups are welcome to join their owners for lunch or dinner. Known in the area for its imaginative and delicious cuisine, it is a popular spot for residents of Hills Beach and University staff. The Lobster Stew is not to be missed! Across the street from Buffleheads is the actual Hills Beach that looks out onto the beautiful Saco Bay. This beach is the perfect getaway for walks, or just sitting in the sand enjoying the view of Old Orchard Beach and Scarborough across the bay.

Biddeford is a vibrant city of closely-placed buildings, outdoor areas and restaurants where humans and dogs can gather, and is conveniently adjacent to Biddeford Pool. Housed in a bookstore, Elements Books Coffee Beer is aptly named. The coffee bar features a variety of hot and cold coffees and teas. The back section offers mostly local Maine and New England brews on tap, in addition to some bottled beer, wine and kombucha. Your fur-buddy can join you at their dog-friendly outdoor tables. And yes, you can buy books here, too.  Shevenell Park, a small urban pocket park carved out of unused space between two Main Street buildings, features a tree-shaded brick walk, and small groups of tables, chairs and benches for eating lunch or just taking a break. Dogs are welcome. Another small but well-used park is Mechanic’s Park, by the shore of the Saco River. With its lighted walking paths, gazebo and 7-minute workout station, it is worth a visit with your furry bestie just to enjoy the great views of the Saco River.