The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local
5.0 / 5 · 1,697 traveler reviews
Welcome to my hometown! Hop aboard for an authentic 1 hour and 45 minute historical sightseeing tour of Portland, Maine and 3 lighthouses with an experienced guide who is a real local, born and raised in Portland, Maine. Get an insider’s look at the current happenings and rich history of my hometown. We’ll go where other tours go, and then I'll take you places other tours don't - you'll see hidden gems and learn little known facts about Portland and the great state of Maine that only a real local knows! As a college librarian I'm always researching the hidden history of Portland, while at the same time keeping on top of what's new in town and visiting as many local establishments that I can. I take pride in representing this city, and providing an informative and entertaining tour, delivered with a true Mainer's sense of humor. This is The Real Portland Tour! Check my website for a complete listing of tour days, times, and availability.
Your experience
Stop 1
We start at historic Commercial Street, the heart of Portland's working waterfront. See original cobblestone and brick that was laid in the 1850s.
Stop 2
See one of the most beautiful granite buildings in all of Portland.
Stop 3
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.
Stop 4
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.
Stop 5
We'll get a great view of the only remaining maritime signal tower in the U.S.
Stop 6
Hear about the legends and lore regarding the oldest cemetery in Portland, first established in 1668.
Stop 7
One of the busiest streets in all of Maine, we'll see Portland's eclectic downtown, Monument Square, and arts district.
Stop 8
The neo-Gothic architecture of this cathedral built in 1869 dominates the skyline of Portland.
Stop 9
This church is the oldest in Portland, and you'll learn about its rich history.
Stop 10
See the home where Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow grew up and wrote his early poetry.
Stop 11
We'll tour the center of downtown Portland, and its highly acclaimed Arts District.
Stop 12
See one of the finest art museums in New England, and learn about its exhibits.
What’s included
- Knowledgeable, entertaining guide with 20 years experience giving tours of his hometown of Portland.
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Meeting and pickup
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.
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The tour is in Portland, MAINE. Unfortunately no pets/animals of any kind can be accommodated on board.
- 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.
- Wheelchairs, walkers, and luggage do not fit in the van.
- 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.
- 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.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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