The Maine Experience: Coast, Culture & History

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5 to 6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

This isn’t just another sightseeing trip—it’s a curated journey through Maine’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, woven together into one unforgettable day. From the elegance of Portland Head Light, the nation’s most photographed lighthouse, to the playful charm of Eartha, the world’s largest rotating globe, every stop reveals a different facet of Maine’s character. Guests walk a historic suspension bridge built by the engineers of the Brooklyn Bridge, explore the state’s proud maritime heritage in Bath, and visit the legendary L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport.

What sets this tour apart is the balance of scenery, history, and culture: stunning coastal views, hands-on heritage at museums and memorials, and Maine icons you won’t find grouped together anywhere else. And because it’s a shorter itinerary, it’s the perfect choice for cruise ship passengers or travelers with limited time who still want a rich, memorable Maine experience.

What's Included

Private transportation
Bottled water
All entrance fees are included for listed tour stops
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle
Gratuities are not included in the tour price and are never expected—but always appreciated. If you feel your guide provided an exceptional experience, tipping is a great way to show your appreciation
Guests will have the option to select a variety of options to stop and enjoy lunch. Guests are responsible for the cost of their own lunch.
Guest must provide their own child seat or booster seat.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Your guide will contact you 1 to days before your tour to confirm you pickup details and to answer any questions you may have.

OR
Meeting point
Downtown

This is a generic pickup location. Your guide will contact you and if you are driving in from outside the pickup radius, they will help you find the best location to meet up.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 5 to 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Bug Light Park

    Nestled at the edge of Portland Harbor, Bug Light Park offers sweeping views of Casco Bay, the Portland skyline, and the historic Portland Breakwater Lighthouse — affectionately known as “Bug Light” for its small size. Built in 1875, this elegant lighthouse features Corinthian-style columns and stands as a symbol of Portland’s maritime heritage. The park is also home to shipbuilding memorials honoring the Liberty Ships constructed here during World War II, making it both a scenic and historic stop.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Portland Head Light

    Standing proudly on the rocky cliffs of Fort Williams Park, Portland Head Light is the oldest lighthouse in Maine, commissioned by George Washington in 1791. This iconic beacon overlooks the dramatic Atlantic coastline, where waves crash against rugged granite ledges. Visitors can stroll the park grounds, explore historic military ruins, and capture postcard-perfect photos of one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Eartha, the World's Largest Revolving and Rotating Globe

    Located at the former DeLorme mapping headquarters in Yarmouth, Eartha is the world’s largest rotating and revolving globe. Standing over 40 feet tall, this massive three-dimensional scale model of Earth slowly spins on its axis, replicating the planet’s real rotation. Guests can view it from a glass atrium or outdoor observation area, making it both a fascinating engineering marvel and a unique photo opportunity.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 4
    L.L. Bean Factory Store

    Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the L.L. Bean Flagship Store in Freeport is a true Maine icon. Since 1917, it has welcomed visitors from around the world to explore its vast selection of outdoor gear, apparel, and home goods. The campus features multiple specialty stores, seasonal events, and the famous giant Bean Boot — a must-see photo stop. It’s not just shopping; it’s a slice of New England culture and tradition.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Androscoggin Swinging Bridge

    Built in 1892 by the Roebling Company — the same engineers behind the Brooklyn Bridge — the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge is a historic pedestrian suspension bridge that gently sways as you cross. Spanning the Androscoggin River, it offers charming views of the water and surrounding forests. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s both a peaceful walk and a unique piece of Maine’s industrial history.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Maine Maritime Museum

    Set on the banks of the Kennebec River, the Maine Maritime Museum celebrates the state’s rich seafaring heritage. The museum features interactive exhibits, historic shipyard buildings, and a full-size sculpture of the schooner Wyoming — the largest wooden sailing vessel ever built. Guests can explore Maine’s shipbuilding traditions, lighthouse history, and maritime culture, all in a scenic waterfront setting.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Travel By Vogue

Tags

Day Trips
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Seasonal
Car Tours
Luxury Car Tours
Shore Excursions
New Product
Port Pickup

Cancellation Policy

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

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