Meet Portland and the people—of all backgrounds and identities—whose wit and grit have made Maine's largest city what it is today. Your locally-raised guide will captivate you with extraordinary, exciting, and surprising stories largely left out of the history books. Get ready to broaden your sense of what Portland and Maine have been and could be.
Brick sidewalks beneath your feet and beautiful Victorian-era buildings nestled around you, we'll casually stroll Portland’s lush, historic Old Port toward the sparkling waters of Casco Bay. We’ll see where Indigenous Wabanaki leaders made their earliest relationships with European colonizers and walk together through the centuries.
Enjoy 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. You'll enjoy 2 hours of narration over a 1.5-mile route with owner and guide, Dugan Murphy. He is Portland's top-rated guide on TripAdvisor!
Duration: 2 hours
You and your guide Dugan will 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.
Meet the woman who, a century ago, lived as her true self and improved the lives of Mainers around her, against all odds.
Appreciate the architecture and hear the stories not captured in plaques and statues.
Marvel at the resilience of Indigenous nations who survived colonialism and are skillfully navigating diplomatic relationships in the modern day.
Hidden stories are revealed about the folks not recognized by Portland's largest monument.
See the oldest building in downtown Portland and hear a surprising story about its world-famous inhabitant.
Follow Dugan 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.
Learn the complicated history of one of Portland's most famous sons.
See beautiful Victorian buildings and learn about the largely forgotten history-makers who once inhabited them.
Discover the often complicated relationship between stevedores, captains, shipowners, and common sailors in 19th-century Portland.
You and Dugan will 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.
Learn what the other tours aren't telling you about the global implications of Portland's industrial and maritime histories.
See the picturesque working waterfront and discover the female figures who got left out of the history books.
Hear how changing federal policies have impacted life in this port city over the centuries.
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.
No need to print anything! Just tell Dugan your name when you arrive.
Portland, Maine, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning waterfront, rich maritime history, and thriving arts and food scenes. With its picturesque lighthouses, charming cobblestone streets, and bustling Old Port district, Portland offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
The Old Port is the historic heart of Portland, featuring cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings, and a vibrant waterfront with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
One of the most iconic lighthouses in the US, Portland Head Light offers stunning views of the rocky coastline and Casco Bay.
The largest and oldest art museum in Maine, featuring a diverse collection of American, European, and contemporary art.
A classic New England dish featuring fresh lobster meat served in a buttered, toasted roll.
A creamy, comforting soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, and cream.
A sweet and tangy pie made with wild Maine blueberries.
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions fully operational.
US Dollar (USD)
GMT-5 (EST) / GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)
120VV, 60HzHz
Portland is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.
Portland Transportation Center
Portland Transportation Center
Affordable and efficient, with frequent schedules.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
Explore the scenic Casco Bay Islands, each offering unique landscapes, hiking trails, and charming villages. Perfect for a day trip from Portland.
Home to the famous L.L.Bean flagship store and outlet shopping, Freeport offers a mix of retail therapy and historic sites.
A picturesque coastal town known for its scenic beauty, lighthouses, and marine life. Boothbay Harbor is a great destination for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing day trip.
Price varies by option