Portland, Maine: Hidden Histories Guided Walking Tour

Portland, US
99% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (399 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    10% off water tours with portland paddle (instructions at confirmation)
  • inclusion
    Two hour fully narrated guided tour.
  • inclusion
    Donation toward restoring the abyssinian meeting house, america's third-oldest standing black church

Excluded

  • exclusion
    A tip for your guide!

Meeting Point

Meet at the corner of Middle and Exchange Streets by the small boulders in the park. Your guide will be holding a sign that says "Portland by the Foot." Check-in time is 10 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time. The park is one half mile from the cruise ship terminal.

Meeting point

167 Middle St, Portland, ME 04101 , United States

End point

End Point

Bell Buoy Park is on Commercial Street at the Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal. If you need to head back to where we started, it's only 0.3 miles (6-minute walk) away. It's also next door to the cruise ship terminal. Or sit a while to enjoy the ocean views!

Meeting point

54 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Downtown

We'll walk the Downtown District, visiting major landmarks and a few hidden gems. Your guide Dugan will highlight unsung heroes and folks too often left out of the history books. Stops include: Wadsworth-Longfellow House, Monument Square, First Parish Church, Portland City Hall, and gobs more!

Duration 45 minutes
2

Old Port

We'll stroll through Portland's Old Port, uncovering hidden histories of the city and her people. You'll learn about people from all backgrounds and identities whose grit and ingenuity made the city what it is today. Stops include: Boothby Square, Foundry Lane, John Ford Statue, Post Office Park, Exchange Street, and plenty of boutiques, award-winning restaurants, bookshops, and more!

Duration 45 minutes
3

Commercial Street

We'll stroll through the waterfront district along Commercial Street, discovering the people and economic forces that forged it. Get ready for an inclusive, empowering, and surprising constellation of tales that offers a welcome contrast to the more obvious themes you’re likely to experience on other tours. Stops include: United States Custom House, Custom House Wharf, Portland Pier, Wharf Street, and lots of places you'll want to visit later!

Duration 30 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Pets are not allowed on tours unless medically required.
  • Additional information
    Portland is a hilly city. Participants will walk uphill sometimes, along some cobblestones, up a staircase of 6 steps, and down two staircases (24 steps total).
Provided by Portland by the Foot

What our experts say

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    Arrive 10 minutes early to check-in.
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    Explore boutiques on Exchange Street.
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    Visit nearby restaurants like Eventide.
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    Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Enjoy ocean views at Bell Buoy Park.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the hidden histories of Portland, Maine, on the captivating 2 Hours | Portland, Maine Hidden Histories Walking Tour. Led by the city's top-rated guide, Dugan Murphy, this tour takes you on a journey through the vibrant and historic Old Port district. Immerse yourself in the rich stories of the people who have shaped this city, from Indigenous Wabanaki leaders to European colonizers and beyond. As you stroll along the brick sidewalks and admire the Victorian-era buildings, you'll gain a new perspective on Portland's past and its potential for the future.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to delve deep into the lesser-known tales of Portland's history. As your guide, Dugan Murphy, shares extraordinary, exciting, and surprising stories, you'll find yourself captivated by the hidden narratives that have often been left out of the history books. Over the course of 2 hours and a 1.5-mile route, you'll uncover the intriguing connections between Portland's past and present, providing you with a unique understanding of this fascinating city.

Who is this for?

This tour is for anyone with a curious spirit and a desire to explore the untold stories of Portland. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, the Hidden Histories Walking Tour welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and identities. By embracing inclusivity and empowerment, this tour ensures that everyone can find meaning and connection in the stories shared.

Why book this?

The Hidden Histories Walking Tour offers a refreshing alternative to traditional city tours. With its focus on lesser-known stories and hidden gems, this experience provides a unique perspective on Portland that sets it apart from other tours in the area. Led by Dugan Murphy, an engaging and knowledgeable guide, you can expect to be thoroughly entertained and informed throughout the journey. Soak in the charm of Portland's Old Port, admire the stunning architecture, and discover the captivating narratives that make this city truly special.

Good to know

When joining the Hidden Histories Walking Tour, remember to meet at the corner of Middle and Exchange Streets, where your guide will be waiting with a sign that says "Portland by the Foot." It's recommended to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a prompt departure. The tour covers a 1.5-mile route and lasts for 2 hours, so comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are advised. Not only will you explore the Old Port and Waterfront district, but you'll also have the opportunity to visit major landmarks and hidden gems in the Downtown District. The tour concludes at Bell Buoy Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views or easily make your way back to the starting point.

Reviews

Visitors who have experienced the Hidden Histories Walking Tour rave about the engaging narration and the wealth of knowledge shared by Dugan Murphy. Many highlight how this tour provided a fresh and unique perspective on Portland's history, offering a deeper understanding of the city's past. Travelers appreciate the inclusivity and welcoming atmosphere of the tour, allowing them to connect with Portland's diverse heritage. Overall, the reviews convey high levels of satisfaction and enjoyment, making this tour a must-do for those seeking an immersive and insightful experience in Portland.

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