Explore Portland's Hidden Histories on a Guided Walking Tour
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Discover Portland, Maine, through a guided walking tour that uncovers its hidden histories and stories often left out of the mainstream narratives. Your local guide, Dugan Murphy—Portland’s top-rated guide on TripAdvisor—will take you on a 2-hour journey through the city’s past and present, revealing extraordinary tales of resilience, ingenuity, and diversity.
As you stroll along brick sidewalks and admire Victorian-era architecture, you'll visit key landmarks and secret spots that highlight the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Learn about Indigenous Wabanaki leaders, pioneering women, and overlooked figures whose contributions shaped Portland into what it is today. This tour offers an inclusive perspective, celebrating stories of all backgrounds and identities.
From the historic Old Port to waterfront districts, each stop provides a fresh look at Portland’s complex history—fascinating, empowering, and surprising. Whether you're a history buff or a curious traveler, this experience will broaden your understanding of Maine’s largest city and its ongoing story.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Portland, Maine: Hidden Histories Guided Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and covers about 1.5 miles.
What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to up to 15 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children and people with mobility challenges?
Yes. It's accessible for wheelchair users, and infants or small children can ride in a pram or stroller.
What’s included in the tour?
You’ll receive a fully narrated 2-hour guided tour, a 10% discount on water tours with Portland Paddle (instructions provided at booking), and a donation toward restoring the Abyssinian Meeting House, one of America’s oldest Black churches.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes. You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- 10% off water tours with Portland Paddle (instructions at confirmation)
- Two hour fully narrated guided tour.
- Donation toward restoring the Abyssinian Meeting House, America's third-oldest standing Black church
Not included
- A tip for your guide!
Itinerary
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Stop 1
You and your guide Dugan will walk the downtown district, visiting major landmarks and a few hidden gems. Dugan highlights unsung heroes and overlooked figures from Portland's history.
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Stop 2
Meet the woman who, a century ago, lived authentically and improved the lives of Mainers against all odds.
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Stop 3
Appreciate the architecture and hear stories not captured in plaques or statues.
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Stop 4
Learn about Indigenous nations' resilience and their modern diplomatic efforts.
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Stop 5
Uncover hidden stories about individuals not recognized by Portland’s main monument.
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Stop 6
See the oldest building in downtown Portland and hear a surprising story about its famous occupant.
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Stop 7
Stroll through Portland's Old Port, discovering the city’s diverse history and the people whose grit built it.
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Stop 8
Learn about one of Portland's most famous sons and the complex history surrounding him.
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Stop 9
Admire Victorian architecture and learn about influential but often forgotten historical figures.
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Stop 10
Discover the relationships between stevedores, captains, shipowners, and sailors in 19th-century Portland.
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Stop 11
Walk along Commercial Street, exploring the waterfront’s history and economic forces shaping Portland.
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Stop 12
Gain insights into Portland’s industrial and maritime history and its global impact.
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Stop 13
See the working waterfront and learn about the women whose contributions are often overlooked.
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Stop 14
Hear how federal policies have influenced life in Portland’s port city over the years.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
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 is 10 minutes before the tour starts. The park is about half a mile from the cruise ship terminal.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day before
- 0% refund if cancelled within 0–24 hours
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $54.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
