Portland By The Foot Walking Tours
The Ultimate Guided Walking Tours in Portland, Maine
FEATURED PORTLAND BY THE FOOT WALKING TOURS
Portland Hidden Histories Tour
2-Hour Guided Walking Tour
A guided historical walking tour about the lives of Portlanders of all backgrounds whose wit and grit have made Portland, Maine, what it is today. We’ll visit the city’s Old Port, waterfront, and downtown district.
Portland Black History Tour
2-Hour Guided Walking Tour
A guided historical walking tour focused on the lives of Black Portlanders. We’ll visit the city’s Old Port, waterfront, and East End neighborhood.
Private Walking Tours
2-Hour Guided Walking Tour
A Private History Tour of Portland, Maine Just For You, Your Family and Your Closest Friends.
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Discover Portland By The Foot
Experience Portland, Maine's Best Walking Tours
Portland, Maine is a popular tourist destination known for its charming streets, historic architecture, and vibrant food scene. While there are many ways to explore the city, one of the best ways to fully experience its charm is by taking a guided walking tour. Portland By The Foot Walking Tours offers a unique and immersive way to discover the city’s hidden gems and fascinating history.
PORTLAND HISTORY FACT: Portland was named after the English Isle of Portland in 1786. The city was previously named Falmouth, but it was renamed after suffering heavy damage by British naval bombardment during the American Revolution.
A GUIDED HISTORY TOUR OF PORTLAND MAINE
Portland By The Foot Hidden Histories Tour
My husband and I did a walking tour of Portland’s history with Dugan Murphy, the owner and very knowledgable guide of Portland by the Foot.
DUGAN MURPHY: The founder of Portland By The Foot, is a locally-raised historian and performer who has guided countless happy guests through his hometown. Tripadvisor has named him the top-rated tour guide in Maine, and for a good reason. Dugan's passion for Portland and his entertaining storytelling style make him the perfect guide to lead you through the city's streets.
It was a beautiful day in June, 70 degrees, no humidity and lots of sunshine. Dugan, our tour guide was easy to find in a designated park as he stood there with a sign in hand. We gathered around and made introductions. There were 3 other people in our group from out of state.
Dugan explained that this two-hour walking tour would move at a slow pace, on level ground and allow for rests along the way.
As we walked through the streets of Portland, Dugan would stop at different spots and point out architectural details of many buildings and share their history along with some interesting facts. I began to feel like it was my first time visiting the city even though I have lived here for many years.
I realized there was so much about Portland that I never knew, such as the tragic history of fires and the important role the waterfront played in the development of Portland’s commerce.
PORTLAND HISTORY FACT: The Great Fire of 1866 destroyed a third of the city, including over 1,500 buildings, leaving around 10,000 people homeless. The fire started in a boat house on Commercial Street and quickly spread due to high winds and the large number of wooden structures.
As we continued to wander along the streets of the city and learn about the history, it became clear that Dugan had done his research. He was engaging and entertaining as he told us stories with enthusiasm and passion. At every stop he made a point to ask the group if anyone had any questions or wanted more information about anything we were seeing or hearing.
One of the highlights was seeing old photos of the very places we stood. Dugan carried a binder of old photos that he would hold up so we could see then vs. now. I could just imagine myself standing in that spot all those years ago. We stopped at different monuments and places I had driven by a hundred times and never noticed.
It occurred to me that we move so quickly through this life that we fail to slow down long enough to learn about and appreciate the places where we live and the stories that go with them. Portland by the Foot with Dugan as your guide provides an opportunity for those near and far to slow down and appreciate the rich history and local architecture.
Dugan offers different tours that cover different topics, and you can go in the morning or in the afternoon. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience and would highly recommend you check him out at www.portlandbythefoot.com.
WHAT TO EXPECT
What to Expect on a Portland By The Foot Walking Tour
When you take a Portland By The Foot Walking Tour, you can expect:
- Small group sizes for a personalized experience.
- Comfortable walking pace suitable for most fitness levels.
- Insider tips and recommendations from a local guide.
- Opportunities for photos and breaks along the way.
OUR GUIDED WALKING TOUR BENEFITS
Benefits of Taking a Guided Walking Tour with Portland By The Foot
Taking a guided walking tour with Portland By The Foot offers numerous benefits, including:
- Gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of Portland’s history, culture, and cuisine.
- Discovering hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations.
- Supporting local businesses and the community.
- Making lasting memories and connections with fellow travelers.
PORTLAND HISTORY FACT: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the renowned American poet, was born and raised in Portland. His childhood home is now a museum open to the public, showcasing the city's literary heritage.
BOOKING & CONTACT INFORMATION
How to Book a Tour and Prepare for Your Experience
Booking a tour with Portland By The Foot is easy. Simply visit their website or contact them directly to check availability and reserve your spot.
To prepare for your experience, be sure to:
- Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights along the way.
- Arrive at the designated meeting point a few minutes early.
- Inform the company of any accessibility considerations you may have.
PORTLAND BY THE FOOT - WHERE MEMORIES ARE MADE
Create Unforgettable Memories in Portland, Maine with Portland By The Foot Walking Tours
Portland By The Foot Walking Tours offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors to Portland, Maine. By taking a guided walking tour, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems.
I highly encourage you to include a Portland By The Foot Walking Tour in your Portland, Maine vacation itinerary. Whether you choose the Hidden Histories Tour or the Black History Walking Tour, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Book your tour today and start exploring the best of Portland on foot!
PORTLAND BY THE FOOT FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions about Portland By The Foot Walking Tours in Portland, Maine
The following are answers to some common question about the Portland By The Foot Walking Tours:
How long are the Portland By The Foot Walking Tours?
The tours typically last around 2 hours, covering approximately 1.5 miles at a comfortable pace.
Are the tours suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Yes, the tours are designed to be accessible for most people, with a gentle pace and frequent stops. However, please inform the company of any specific accessibility needs when booking.
What should I bring on the walking tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and a bottle of water are recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat on sunny days!
Do I need to book the tour in advance?
While walk-ups are sometimes accommodated, it’s highly recommended to book in advance to guarantee your spot, especially during peak season.
Are the tours available year-round?
Tours are offered from May through October, weather permitting. In the off-season, private tours may be arranged by contacting Portland By The Foot directly.
Locating Portland By The Foot
Portland By The Foot Contact Info
- Website: https://www.portlandbythefoot.com/
- Location: Post Office Park
- Address: 167 Middle Street
- City: Portland
- State: Maine
- Zip Code: 04101
- Phone: 207-200-5885
- Office Hours (In-season): 8am - 6pm
- Email: hi@portlandbythefoot.com
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