The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local

Portland, US
99% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1219 reviews)

Highlights

  • Authentic 90-minute sightseeing tour of Portland
  • Visit 3 historical lighthouses with a real local guide
  • Learn little known facts about Portland and Maine
  • Explore hidden gems and unique attractions
  • Get insider's look at current happenings and rich history

Meeting Point

Please arrive at 96 Commercial Street (in front of the Casco Variety Store) at least 10-15 min before your tour time. The tour departs from the tour bus parking spot next to the US Customs House, which is located directly across the street from the Casco Variety Store.

Meeting point

96 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101 , United States

End point

End Point

Please arrive at 96 Commercial Street (in front of the Casco Variety Store) at least 10-15 min before your tour time. The tour departs from the tour bus parking spot next to the US Customs House, which is located directly across the street from the Casco Variety Store.

Meeting point

96 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Commercial Street

We start at historic Commercial Street, the heart of Portland's working waterfront. See original cobblestone and brick that was laid in the 1850s.

2

United States Custom House

See one of the most beautiful granite buildings in all of Portland.

3

Fort Allen Park

We'll drive through Fort Allen Park and get a majestic view of Casco Bay and its Calendar Islands. Also get up close views of memorials from the Civil War, Spanish American War, and WWII located in the park.

4

Eastern Promenade Trail

You'll see the Victorian era homes once owned by sea captains and merchants that line the Eastern Promenade, as well as Eastern Promenade Park which offers endless views of Casco Bay, islands, and forts.

5

Portland Observatory

We'll get a great view of the only remaining maritime signal tower in the U.S.

6

Eastern Cemetery

Hear about the legends and lore regarding the oldest cemetery in Portland, first established in 1668.

7

Congress Street

One of the busiest streets in all of Maine, we'll see Portland's eclectic downtown, Monument Square, and arts district.

8

The Cathedral Of The Immaculate Conception

The neo-Gothic architecture of this cathedral built in 1869 dominates the skyline of Portland.

9

The First Parish Portland Unitarian Universalist

This church is the oldest in Portland, and you'll learn about its rich history.

10

The Wadsworth-Longfellow House

See the home where Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow grew up and wrote his early poetry.

11

Arts District

We'll tour the center of downtown Portland, and its highly acclaimed Arts District.

12

Portland Museum of Art

See one of the finest art museums in New England, and learn about its exhibits.

13

One Longfellow Square

See the statue of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, born in Portland in 1807.

14

Victoria Mansion

Get an up close view of the Victoria Mansion, the finest example in the country of a 19th century Italianate brownstone.

15

Fort Williams Park

We enter one of the most beautiful parks in the state, Fort Williams Park, and drive to Portland Head Light (located in the park) where you will be let off to explore.

16

Portland Head Light

This iconic lighthouse located within Fort Williams Park is the most photographed lighthouse in the country. Walk right up to the lighthouse, explore Fort Williams Park, and take in the views of Maine's rugged, rocky coastline.

Duration 20 minutes
17

Fort Preble

Get an up close view of Fort Preble (one of the oldest forts in Casco Bay) and learn about its storied history.

Duration 5 minutes
18

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

Get out for a photo of Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, and its 900 foot long breakwater connecting it to the shore.

Duration 5 minutes
19

Bug Light Park

Enjoy panoramic views of the Portland skyline from this beautiful park that sits directly across the bay from Portland.

20

Liberty Ship Memorial

Get an up close view of the Liberty Ship Memorial, and learn about the thousands of shipbuilders who worked here during WWII.

21

Portland Breakwater Lighthouse

Get a photo of Portland Breakwater Light (affectionately called "Bug Light" because of its small size).

Duration 5 minutes
22

John Ford Statue

Get an up close view of this statue dedicated to one of the most distinguished movie directors in history, and learn about his connections to his hometown of Portland.

23

Old Port

See the center of the bustling downtown/waterfront district known as the Old Port. Learn the history of this vibrant area of Portland that is home to countless eclectic shops, businesses, and world class restaurants and bars.

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
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    The tour is in Portland, MAINE. Unfortunately no pets/animals of any kind can be accommodated on board.
  • Additional information
    The tour does not pickup/drop off at hotels, and it does not pickup/drop off at the cruise ship terminal. Everyone has to be at the tour starting point ready to board at least 10-15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time.
  • Additional information
    Wheelchairs, walkers, and luggage do not fit in the van.
  • Additional information
    This is not a private tour. The tour vehicle is a 13 passenger, high roof Ford Transit van. The tour often sells out, so you will be riding with a total of 13 people in the van.
  • Additional information
    Please double check the month, day, and time of your booking to make sure it is accurate, as some folks make mistakes when booking online and choose the wrong date.
Provided by The Real Portland Tour

What our experts say

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    Arrive early at 96 Commercial St.
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    Check out nearby Fort Williams Park.
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    Bring a camera for stunning views.
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    Explore local shops after the tour.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

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