Explore the Rich Heritage of South Portland at the Historical Society
Discover the captivating history of South Portland at the Historical Society, where the past comes to life amidst scenic beauty.
The South Portland Historical Society offers a captivating journey through the city's past, showcasing a variety of exhibits that reflect the area's rich heritage. Perfect for history enthusiasts and tourists alike, this gem is located in Bug Light Park, providing both engaging history and scenic views.
A brief summary to South Portland Historical Society
- 55 Bug Light Park, South Portland, ME, 04106, US
- +1207-767-7299
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week for a quieter experience with more personalized attention from staff.
- Check the society's website for any special events or exhibitions that may be happening during your visit.
- Take advantage of the park's amenities, such as picnic areas and walking paths, before or after your museum visit.
- Bring a notebook to jot down interesting historical facts and stories you learn during your tour.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are near the South Portland Public Library, head south on Broadway towards the intersection with Ocean Street. Once you reach Ocean Street, turn left and continue walking until you reach the intersection with Bug Light Park Road. Turn right onto Bug Light Park Road and continue straight. The South Portland Historical Society is located at 55 Bug Light Park, right at the end of the road.
-
Public Transit
From the South Portland Bus Terminal, take the Metro Bus Route 21 towards the Maine Mall. Get off at the stop at the intersection of Ocean Street and Bug Light Park Road. From there, walk south on Bug Light Park Road for about 0.2 miles until you reach the South Portland Historical Society at 55 Bug Light Park.
-
Biking
If you are near Mill Creek Park, bike east towards the Greenbelt Walkway. Follow the Greenbelt Trail until you reach the intersection with Bug Light Park Road. Turn right onto Bug Light Park Road and continue straight for about 0.5 miles. The South Portland Historical Society will be on your left at 55 Bug Light Park.
Discover more about South Portland Historical Society
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Portland Schooner Co.
1.2 km
Experience Portland's stunning coastline with Portland Schooner Co. – unforgettable boat tours and breathtaking views await you.
Maine Day Ventures/formerly Maine Foodie Tours
1.4 km
Explore Portland, Maine's culinary scene with Maine Day Ventures, offering immersive food tours that celebrate local flavors and vibrant culture.
The Real Portland Tour
1.4 km
Experience Portland's rich history, stunning landmarks, and vibrant culture with The Real Portland Tour, your ultimate sightseeing adventure in Maine.
United States Custom House
1.4 km
Discover the historic United States Custom House in Portland, Maine, a stunning architectural gem steeped in maritime history.
SeaPortland
1.5 km
Explore Maine's stunning coastline and vibrant maritime culture with SeaPortland, your premier tour operator in Portland, Maine.
A piece of the Berlin Wall
1.5 km
Explore the Berlin Wall memorial in Portland, ME: a powerful historical landmark reflecting on division and reunion amidst stunning waterfront views.
Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours
1.5 km
Discover the stunning beauty and rich history of Portland, Maine, with unforgettable land and sea tours from Portland Discovery.
Boothby Square
1.5 km
Explore Boothby Square in Portland, ME - A historic landmark in the vibrant Old Port district, perfect for experiencing local culture and scenic beauty.
Eastern Promenade Gazebo
1.5 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of the Eastern Promenade Gazebo in Portland, Maine, overlooking the stunning Casco Bay.
Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port
1.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern comfort and local charm at Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port, your ideal base for exploring the vibrant city.
Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours
1.5 km
Explore Portland's vibrant history on a vintage fire truck with Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours, an unforgettable adventure for all ages!
Fort Allen Park
1.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Fort Allen Park, a top destination in Portland, Maine, perfect for relaxation and stunning views.
Maine Duck Tours
1.5 km
Discover Portland's stunning waterways and rich maritime heritage with Maine Duck Tours, an unforgettable family-friendly adventure for all ages.
Fort Gorges
1.6 km
Explore Fort Gorges, a stunning historical fortress in Portland, Maine, offering rich history, breathtaking views, and a tranquil escape on the harbor.
The Abyssinian Meetinghouse
1.6 km
Explore The Abyssinian Meetinghouse in Portland, ME - a historical landmark celebrating African American culture and community heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cushing's Point Museum
0.0 km
Explore the captivating history of South Portland at Cushing's Point Museum, a charming destination filled with local artifacts and stories.
Bug Light Park
0.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Bug Light Park in South Portland, Maine, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Liberty Ship Memorial
0.1 km
Explore the Liberty Ship Memorial in South Portland, Maine, a tribute to World War II heroes with stunning views and historical insights.
Bug Light
0.4 km
Explore Bug Light, a picturesque park in South Portland, Maine, featuring a historic lighthouse and stunning waterfront views, perfect for every traveler.
Fort Preble
0.8 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Fort Preble in South Portland, Maine, where history meets stunning coastal views.
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
0.8 km
Discover the historic Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse in South Portland, Maine - a stunning landmark offering breathtaking ocean views and rich maritime history.
Willard Beach
1.0 km
Experience the tranquil shores of Willard Beach in South Portland, Maine, where stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere await every visitor.
Spring Point Shoreway
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Spring Point Shoreway in South Portland, Maine, a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Casco Bay Lines
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Casco Bay Islands with Casco Bay Lines - an essential Portland experience for nature lovers and adventurers.
Whales Mural Wall
1.3 km
Explore the Whales Mural Wall at Maine State Pier, Portland – a stunning artistic tribute to marine life that captures the spirit of the ocean.
Visit Portland, Maine Information Center
1.3 km
Explore Portland, Maine through its Visitor Center – your essential guide to local attractions, dining, and adventures along the stunning coast.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad
1.3 km
Experience the magic of train travel at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, where history and scenic beauty meet along Portland's coast.
Eastern Promenade Trail
1.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of the Eastern Promenade Trail, the perfect outdoor escape in Portland, Maine.
Custom House Wharf
1.3 km
Discover Custom House Wharf in Portland, Maine - a picturesque waterfront destination for dining, shopping, and unforgettable maritime experiences.
DiMillo's Old Port Marina & Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Portland at DiMillo's Old Port Marina & Gift Shop, where maritime beauty meets unique shopping experiences.
Essential places to dine
North 43 Bistro
0.4 km
Discover culinary excellence at North 43 Bistro in South Portland – where New American cuisine meets stunning waterfront views.
El Corazón Casita
0.6 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at El Corazón Casita in South Portland, ME – where every dish tells a story of tradition.
Saltwater Grille
0.7 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Saltwater Grille in South Portland, where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
SeaWolves Cafe
0.8 km
Discover local flavors at SeaWolves Cafe in South Portland - where great food meets warm hospitality.
Luke's Lobster Portland Pier
1.3 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Luke's Lobster Portland Pier with stunning harbor views and sustainable catches.
Scales
1.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Scales in Portland’s Waterfront District, where fresh flavors meet stunning harbor views.
DiMillo's On the Water
1.3 km
Experience fresh seafood dining aboard a converted ferry in Portland's scenic waterfront district.
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub
1.3 km
Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking waterfront views at The Porthole Restaurant & Pub in Portland, Maine.
Twelve
1.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Twelve in Portland, where innovative dishes meet seasonal flavors for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Boone's Fish House & Oyster Room
1.4 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Boone's Fish House & Oyster Room in Portland, Maine—where ocean flavors meet waterfront views.
Flatbread Company
1.4 km
Discover the charm of Flatbread Company - where delicious wood-fired pizza meets local Maine flavors in a family-friendly setting.
Rí Rá Irish Pub & Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Rí Rá Irish Pub & Restaurant in Portland's Waterfront District.
Gilberts Chowder House
1.4 km
Savor the best seafood at Gilberts Chowder House in Portland's Waterfront District; famous for chowders and fresh lobster rolls.
Solo Italiano
1.4 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Solo Italiano in Portland's Waterfront District—where every dish tells a story.
Old Port Sea Grill & Raw Bar
1.4 km
Experience Maine's finest seafood at Old Port Sea Grill & Raw Bar – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lulu Ceramics
0.8 km
Explore Lulu Ceramics in South Portland for unique handcrafted pottery and special gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
Ports of Call
1.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Ports of Call in Portland, Maine's charming Old Port district, where memories come alive.
Danforth Pewter Portland
1.5 km
Explore the charm of handmade pewter gifts at Danforth Pewter in Portland, Maine - a must-visit gift shop for unique treasures.
Stella's Seller Consignment Boutique
1.5 km
Explore Stella's Seller Consignment Boutique in South Portland for unique fashion finds and vintage treasures that elevate your shopping experience.
The Blue Lobster
1.5 km
Experience the charm of Maine at The Blue Lobster, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs in Portland's picturesque Old Port.
Blanche & Mimi
1.6 km
Explore Blanche & Mimi in Portland, ME for unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a charming shopping atmosphere.
Heritage Seaweed
1.6 km
Explore Heritage Seaweed in Portland, Maine - your destination for unique gifts, health foods, and eco-friendly home goods inspired by the sea.
Siempre Mas
1.6 km
Discover unique clothing and handcrafted jewelry at Siempre Mas, Portland's charming boutique in the heart of Old Port, Maine.
CrateFull of Maine
1.6 km
Explore CrateFull of Maine, where local craftsmanship meets the charm of Portland in beautifully curated gift baskets and artisanal treats.
Cool As A Moose
1.6 km
Explore Cool As A Moose, the perfect gift shop in Portland for unique Maine souvenirs, clothing, and fun accessories.
Shipwreck & Cargo
1.6 km
Explore Shipwreck & Cargo in Portland, ME for unique gifts, local crafts, and charming souvenirs that capture the essence of Maine.
The Maine Souvenir Shop - Portland
1.6 km
Explore the vibrant selection of unique gifts and authentic Maine souvenirs at The Maine Souvenir Shop in Portland, a treasure for every traveler.
Fitz & Bennett Home
1.6 km
Explore Fitz & Bennett Home in Portland, ME - a charming gift shop brimming with unique treasures and local artistry.
Waterlily
1.6 km
Discover unique artisan gifts at Waterlily, Portland's charming boutique filled with handcrafted treasures that showcase local artistry.
Freak Street Imports
1.6 km
Explore Freak Street Imports - your go-to gift shop in Portland, Maine for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Spring Point Tavern
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Spring Point Tavern in South Portland, a cozy bar known for its local brews and hearty comfort food, perfect for tourists.
Evie’s Ferry Village Watering Hole
0.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and welcoming charm at Evie's Ferry Village Watering Hole, a must-visit bar in South Portland, Maine.
Andy's Old Port Pub
1.4 km
Discover the quintessential Portland experience at Andy's Old Port Pub, where delicious seafood meets live music and a lively atmosphere.
The North Point
1.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and craft cocktails at The North Point, a must-visit lounge in Portland's Old Port district.
Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub
1.6 km
Discover the essence of Portland's craft beer scene at Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub, where great food and brews come together in a lively atmosphere.
The Armory Lounge
1.6 km
Discover The Armory Lounge: Portland's premier destination for handcrafted cocktails and local cuisine in a stylish setting.
Lincolns
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lincolns in Portland, where craft cocktails and local brews meet a lively atmosphere and welcoming locals.
The King's Head
1.6 km
Discover the essence of British pub culture at The King's Head, Portland's vibrant spot for craft beers and hearty meals in a cozy setting.
Portland Mash TUN
1.6 km
Discover the heart of Portland at Mash TUN - a lively beer hall offering craft brews and delicious bites in the vibrant Old Port district.
Bonfire Country Bar Portland
1.7 km
Experience the heart of Americana at Bonfire Country Bar in Portland, Maine, where delicious Southern cuisine meets vibrant nightlife.
Room for Improvement
1.7 km
Discover Room for Improvement, Portland's premier cocktail bar, offering a unique blend of artisanal drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Old Port.
The Independent Ice Co.
1.7 km
Discover the unique flavors of Portland at The Independent Ice Co., where craft cocktails meet delectable dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Maps
1.7 km
Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Maps Bar in Portland, where every sip is a journey through captivating maps.
Luna Rooftop Bar
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Luna Rooftop Bar in Portland, Maine, where crafted cocktails meet stunning waterfront vistas.
The Portland Hunt & Alpine Club
1.7 km
Experience the flavors of Scandinavia at The Portland Hunt & Alpine Club, where craft cocktails and unique dishes await in a cozy setting.
