The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 1,706 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local worth booking?
The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local is a 1.8-hour experience in Portland, United States, from $74 per person. It scores 93 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “90+ Club”, based on a 5/5 rating across 1,706 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing. It sits in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
- Outty Ranking
- 93 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (1,706)
- Duration
- 1.8 hours
- From
- $74 per person
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.
What you get
About this experience
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.
What's included
Included
- Knowledgeable, entertaining guide with 20 years experience giving tours of his hometown of Portland.
- In-vehicle air conditioning
What you'll see and do
Commercial Street
We start at historic Commercial Street, the heart of Portland's working waterfront. See original cobblestone and brick that was laid in the 1850s.
Pass by without stopping
United States Custom House
See one of the most beautiful granite buildings in all of Portland.
Pass by without stopping
Fort Allen Park
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.
Pass by without stopping
Eastern Promenade Trail
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.
Pass by without stopping
Portland Observatory
We'll get a great view of the only remaining maritime signal tower in the U.S.
Pass by without stopping
Eastern Cemetery
Hear about the legends and lore regarding the oldest cemetery in Portland, first established in 1668.
Pass by without stopping
Congress Street
One of the busiest streets in all of Maine, we'll see Portland's eclectic downtown, Monument Square, and arts district.
Pass by without stopping
The Cathedral Of The Immaculate Conception
The neo-Gothic architecture of this cathedral built in 1869 dominates the skyline of Portland.
Pass by without stopping
The First Parish Portland Unitarian Universalist
This church is the oldest in Portland, and you'll learn about its rich history.
Pass by without stopping
The Wadsworth-Longfellow House
See the home where Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow grew up and wrote his early poetry.
Pass by without stopping
Arts District
We'll tour the center of downtown Portland, and its highly acclaimed Arts District.
Pass by without stopping
Portland Museum of Art
See one of the finest art museums in New England, and learn about its exhibits.
Pass by without stopping
One Longfellow Square
See the statue of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, born in Portland in 1807.
Pass by without stopping
Victoria Mansion
Get an up close view of the Victoria Mansion, the finest example in the country of a 19th century Italianate brownstone.
Pass by without stopping
Fort Williams Park
We enter one of the most beautiful parks in the state, Fort Williams Park, and drive to Portland Head Light (located in the park) where you will be let off to explore.
Pass by without stopping
Portland Head Light
This iconic lighthouse located within Fort Williams Park is the most photographed lighthouse in the country. Walk right up to the lighthouse, explore Fort Williams Park, and take in the views of Maine's rugged, rocky coastline.
20 minutes here
Fort Preble
Get an up close view of Fort Preble (one of the oldest forts in Casco Bay) and learn about its storied history.
5 minutes here
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
Get out for a photo of Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, and its 900 foot long breakwater connecting it to the shore.
5 minutes here
Bug Light Park
Enjoy panoramic views of the Portland skyline from this beautiful park that sits directly across the bay from Portland.
Pass by without stopping
Liberty Ship Memorial
Get an up close view of the Liberty Ship Memorial, and learn about the thousands of shipbuilders who worked here during WWII.
Pass by without stopping
Portland Breakwater Lighthouse
Get a photo of Portland Breakwater Light (affectionately called "Bug Light" because of its small size).
5 minutes here
John Ford Statue
Get an up close view of this statue dedicated to one of the most distinguished movie directors in history, and learn about his connections to his hometown of Portland.
Pass by without stopping
Old Port
See the center of the bustling downtown/waterfront district known as the Old Port. Learn the history of this vibrant area of Portland that is home to countless eclectic shops, businesses, and world class restaurants and bars.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Portland
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.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
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 book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 13 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- The Real Portland Tour
Know 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.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,690 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
3 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
1,690 verified traveler reviews for The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Good tour
Worth the cost and very nice tour guide who was well informed of the area
via Tripadvisor
Entertaining, Amusing and Informative Portland Tour
Excellent tour. The van is a little snug and hard for an older person like me to get in and out - but Derek lends a hand so that is not a problem. His narration of the tour route is entertaining, amusing, and informative. He has an unbelievable depth of knowledge and shares it in an enjoyable and interesting way. There are several stops of reasonable length - enough time to get out and explore a little.
via Tripadvisor
Highly recommend!
This is THE tour to take to truly learn about Portland. Derek gives you the native's perspective of this interesting, vibrant town. He is so engaging and informative! His van is very comfortable and the amplification is strong so his narration could easily be heard. He gave us sufficient time at the various lighthouses to explore, take pictures, etc. We thoroughly enjoyed Derek and this excursion.
Response from the operator: Thanks so much for the excellent review! I’m glad to hear you had a great time, and appreciated the clear narration and comfort of my tour van! I take pride in giving an informative and entertaining tour of my hometown, and it’s nice to hear you enjoyed it so much. Thanks again, and hope to see you again in Portland, Maine!
via Viator
Real Portland, Maine Tour Company
Following a lengthy review of available tours in the Portland Maine area we decided to book with Derek based on the experiences of many previous guests. This tour was the best excursion we experienced during our recent cruise to other notable locations such as Bar Harbor, St. John’s and Halifax. Derek’s enthusiasm and love for his hometown of Portland perpetuates throughout the entire tour. Intended as a compliment, we felt like we were on Disneyland’s Jungle Boat Cruise. His knowledge, humor and vast array of “Dad Jokes” had the entire van in stitches. But not lost behind the smiles was the fact everyone gained a deeper understanding of Portland’s history, landmarks, and positioning as one of America’s great little “hidden gems” of a city. One sidenote, Derek will relentlessly update you with many communications via text or email prior to your tour, which is very comforting when someone is juggling the many plans and activities of a cruise vacation. Job well done Derek. 11 out of 10 Stars for the Real Portland Tour Company! Jim Tuso and Friends.
Response from the operator: Thanks so much for the excellent review! It means a lot to hear you considered my tour the best of your trip! I’m glad you enjoyed all the local info and relished the humor! Also happy to hear you appreciated the pre-tour communication. I take pride in giving an informative and entertaining tour of my hometown, and it means a lot to hear you and your friends enjoyed it so much. Thanks again, and hope to see you again in Portland, Maine!
via Tripadvisor
Real Portland Tour
Our guide Derek was very knowledgeable about the area and had a great sense of humor. He showed us Portland from the eyes of a local.
Response from the operator: Thanks so much for the excellent review! I’m glad to hear you had a great time, and appreciated my local perspective and humor too! I take pride in giving an informative and entertaining tour of my hometown, and it’s nice to hear you enjoyed it. Thanks again, and hope to see you again in Portland, Maine!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 1.8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 597
- Verdict
- 90+ Club
Why this scores 93
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Portland.
How much does The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local cost?
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Prices start at $74 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Portland usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local take?
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Plan for about 1.8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Portland is not rushed.
Is The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 93 out of 100, which we label "90+ Club". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 1,706 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Portland, and how flexible the cancellation terms are. Scoring 90 or above puts it in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
Can I cancel or reschedule The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local?
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Around 597 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Portland can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Portland and add a light layer if any part of the 1.8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Portland within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Portland?
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Portland sells lighthouse and lobster-boat tours in Casco Bay, Old Port food and brewery walks, seal and puffin cruises, and fall foliage runs up the Maine coast. On Outty we rank every Portland experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Portland, Maine: Hidden Histories Guided Walking Tour, A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland, Portland Explorer | Maine History, Culture, & 3 Lighthouses Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Portland?
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June to October, with peak foliage in early October. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Portland?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local?
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Included: Knowledgeable, entertaining guide with 20 years experience giving tours of his hometown of; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local?
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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. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchairs, walkers, and luggage do not fit in the van. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local?
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Across 1,706 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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