easy
2 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels as it involves a moderate, mostly flat walk around city streets.
Discover Portland, Maine’s rich maritime and immigrant history on a 2-hour walking tour through its historic downtown. Join local experts for a vivid journey that reveals the city’s unique past and vibrant present.
2 hour history Tour
Experience the beauty and complex history of Portland, Maine on our Walk Through Time tour. One of our knowledgeable guides will bring over 300 years of Maine’s maritime, industrial, and cultural history alive for you. You’ll walk wharves with the salt air in your face as you explore our famous working waterfront in action. You’ll see lobstermen, historic fish markets, and, hopefully, a seal or two. In Portland’s Old Port, we’ll talk architecture, and discover every angle you can lay a red brick on our beautiful, unique, and varied stock of gorgeous Victorian era buildings. We’ll see City Hall and its golden Phoenix and talk about how Portland rose from the ashes of one of the greatest fires in American history to become the 4th biggest port city in North America at the turn of the 20th century.
Famous poets have lived here. Major railroads began operation here. There is Civil War history to be discovered, and Portland’s unique role in the American Revolutionary War. The temperance movement, women’s suffrage, and the abolition of slavery all have deep roots in our city. Expect historic buildings, iconic statues, cannonballs, and an exploration of the Portland Freedom Trail. We’ll also cover the subjects of lobsters, restaurants, donuts, potatoes, famous Hollywood directors, and bubble gum. In our beautiful city, hidden histories abound, something to pique your interest around every corner.
And to keep up with Portland’s reputation status as a foodie destination (Bon Appetite’s Restaurant city of the year 2017), our guide will treat you to a sweet treat at the end of tour from one of our James Beard nominated bakeries.
When you have a great time remember to tip your hard-working guide.
Your guide will be taking photos throughout the tour that we use for our social media and marketing. If you'd like copies of these pics, please let your guide know and they can provide them to you by email or air drop at the end of the tour.
A: Due to Portland's dedication to historic preservation this tour is not fully handicap accessible for wheelchairs or walkers.
A: We recommend a parking garage or lot. The least expensive parking is approx. a 10-15 minute walk from the meeting point for this tour. The closest garage is the Custom House Square parking garage at 25 Pearl Street for $5.00/hour.
A: Well behaved pups are welcome to join the tour if we are given notice, Please note in your booking if you're bringing your fur baby with you
A: Tours run rain, snow and shine.
The tour involves walking on cobblestones and uneven sidewalks—sturdy footwear will keep you steady.
Portland’s summer days can be warm; stay hydrated throughout the tour.
Tours proceed rain or shine; dress appropriately with a rain jacket if needed.
Allow time to find meeting spot downtown and settle in before the tour begins.
Portland served as a key shipping and naval hub since the 18th century and has reconstructed much of its downtown following major fires in the 19th century.
Local initiatives promote sustainable tourism to preserve Portland’s historic buildings and coastal environment.
Essential for navigating the historic streets and uneven surfaces.
To stay hydrated on warm days.
summer specific
Useful in variable spring weather with occasional wind or rain.
spring specific
Protect yourself from sun exposure during daytime tours.
summer specific