Self-Guided Audio Tour of Portland’s Historic Old Port District

2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Discover the vibrant history of Portland’s Old Port on this engaging walking tour.

Wander through cobblestone alleys and merchant blocks rich with stories of sailors, reformers, and immigrants. Learn about the Portland Freedom Trail, which honors the city’s fight for freedom and civil rights.

The tour showcases the Old Port’s architectural charm and its transformation from a bustling shipping hub to a cultural center. Experience the tales of resilience embedded in its streets, from the Great Fire of 1866 to the revitalization efforts of the 1970s.

Join fellow history enthusiasts for a memorable journey through Portland’s past and present.

— Explore the historic Old Port district, a cultural and commercial hub
— Walk along the Portland Freedom Trail, learning about civil rights
— Discover stories of resilience, fire, and maritime life
— Ideal for history lovers and those curious about Portland's heritage

What's Included

Flexible Usage (unlimited access)
Audio Guide
App and Tour Download
Smartphone (bring your own)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Casco Bay Lines

Casco Bay Lines is found on Maine State Pier, near the junction of Fraklin Street and Commercial Street.

End point
Boothby Square

Boothby Square is not far from the starting point of the tour. It is found on Fore Street, between Pearl Street and Silver Street.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Moulton Street

    A narrow, cobblestoned lane in Old Port lined with merchants and history, Moulton Street leads you past buildings once central to Portland’s trade. It’s also one of the stops on the Portland Freedom Trail.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Post Office Park

    Located on the former site of Portland’s 19th-century marble post office building, this small urban green is now a shady, community gathering spot with a link to local history.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Tommy's Park

    Across Exchange Street from Post Office Park, Tommy’s Park is a quaint plaza that offers benches under trees and views of mural-covered walls. It’s a calm pause amid the waterfront activity.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Casco Bay Lines

    The ferry terminal where locals and visitors embark and return, giving views of islands, docks, and the sea’s shifting light. It’s both a transit hub and a scenic vantage.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Mariner's Church Banquet Center (Pass by)

    Nestled at the corner of Fore and Moulton, the Mariner’s Church connects Portland’s maritime heritage with abolitionist history through its proximity to early printshops and meeting houses.

    Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Commercial Street

    Commercial Street is a bustling waterfront strip of seafood shacks, boutique shops, and views of working piers. This is where Portland’s fishing past and present meet.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • United States Custom House (Pass by)

    A stately building that once regulated trade and imports, the architecture of the United States Custom House recalls Portland’s deep ties to maritime commerce. It’s a solid landmark of federal presence amidst local hustle.

    Admission ticket free
  • 6
    DiMillo's Old Port Marina

    A floating restaurant and docked marina that blends nautical charm with delicious meals overlooking the bay. Here, you’ll find a unique way to dine with both water and history underfoot.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Wharf Street

    Once lined with warehouses, Wharf Street now brings you close to the waterfront where you can see the working docks, lobster boats, and taverns that tell the city’s working-shore story.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Boothby Square

    A small public square surrounded by historic buildings, offering benches, shade, and glimpses of old Portland architecture with little fanfare.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 9
    Friends Meeting House

    This historic meetinghouse on Federal and Pearl Streets has been the site of abolitionist speeches, anti-slavery riots, and Quaker worship for nearly two centuries.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • The Maine Lobsterman (Pass by)

    An iconic waterfront restaurant and pub serving up fresh lobster rolls and seafood with views of working wharves. The Maine Lobsterman is a local flavor with a seafaring atmosphere.

    Admission ticket free
  • The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection (Pass by)

    Housed in a former newspaper printing facility, this boutique Press Hotel blends history, craftsmanship, and design. It’s also a good anchor point for exploring nearby Old Port streets.

    Admission ticket free
  • Portland Observatory (Pass by)

    Built in 1807, the octagonal tower of the Portland Observatory served as a maritime signal post, where watchmen helped ships entering Casco Bay avoid danger. The elevated deck now offers panoramic harbor views.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Drives & Detours

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Architecture Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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