Welcome to the Portland, Maine Tour – Self-Guided
Experience historic architecture, harbor views, and rich seaside culture with this self-guided driving tour of Portland, Maine! Cross the cobbled streets of Old Port, chock full of shops, restaurants, and bars, all complemented by the sparkling bay. Dive into the city’s long and embattled history at a church still sporting British cannonballs. See iconic Maine lighthouses and visit pristine beaches. Portland may be a small city, but it packs a big punch!
We are proud to be a part of the official Maine Tourism Association!
About the Tour
Your Portland tour begins at the Visit Portland Center. From there, you’ll drive down Commercial Street and hear about the city’s industrial beginnings. Along the way, you’ll see the wonderfully preserved Victoria Mansion, dating back to 1858. That’s followed by the even older Danforth Inn, which goes back to 1823.
As you drive up the Western Promenade, you’ll hear about some famous folks who were laid to rest in Portland, including the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (a statue of whom you’ll see next in Longfellow Square).
After that is the Art District—perfect for picking up a souvenir—followed by a church that was once destroyed by the British.
Continuing toward the shore, you’ll pass an observatory site that once guided ships into Portland’s occasionally treacherous harbor. Then you’ll spot a couple of picturesque lighthouses perfect for any photo collection.
Next is the Eastern Promenade, a 68-acre seaside park sporting plenty of unforgettable ocean views. Then you’ll see the strange and controversial “baked beans” building before passing through Old Port again for a second chance to stop at one of the neighborhood’s many restaurants and boutiques.
After passing a statue of Portland’s own John Ford, you’ll cross the Casco Bay Bridge into South Portland, home to a quieter community than its buzzing northern neighbor. Finally, you’ll arrive at Fort Williams Park, which is full of beauty and history. The tour concludes here.
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Portland Maine Map
Where To Start?
14 Ocean Gateway Pier, Portland, ME 04101
(The tour begins in the parking lot of the Visit Portland Information Center at 14 Ocean Gateway Pier. This is a suggested starting point, and we’re not affiliated with the information center or any businesses here, so their staff will not have any information about this tour.)
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Welcome
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Commercial Street
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The Victoria Mansion
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The Danforth Inn
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Danforth and Vaughn/Western Prom
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West Street and Western Prom
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Fore, Middle and Back
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Congress and State Streets Longfellow Square
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Art District - Congress and High Streets
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Congress and Brown Streets, The Wadsworth Longfellow House, Monument Square
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Congress and Temple Streets
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Congress and Exchange City Hall
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Congress and Franklin Streets, Franklin Tower and The Cathedral
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Eastern Cemetery
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Observatory
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Casco Bay
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Eastern Promenade
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Obelisk
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Baked Beans
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Fort Sumner North and Walnut St
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Fore and Pearl
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John Feeney Gorham's Corner
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The Casco Bay Bridge/ South Portland
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Meetinghouse Hill-Portland Players
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Cape Elizabeth Story
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Joan Benoit Samuelson
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Fort Williams Park
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Conclusion
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Portland, Maine is popular for its picturesque waterfront, vibrant arts scene, rich maritime history, and renowned culinary offerings.
Four popular walking trails in Portland, Maine include the Eastern Promenade Trail, Back Cove Trail, Casco Bay Walkway, and the historic Old Port district.
Yes, Portland, Maine is pedestrian-friendly, with walkable neighborhoods, well-maintained sidewalks, and designated pedestrian crossings.
Old Port in Portland, Maine features streets like Commercial Street, Fore Street, and Exchange Street, known for their historic charm, shops, and restaurants.
Portland, Maine has a single main port, known as Casco Bay, which encompasses several small islands and is a hub for maritime activity.
Portland, Maine is home to several lighthouses, with the most iconic being the Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth.
The Portland Head Light is known for being Maine’s oldest lighthouse, offering stunning coastal views and a picturesque setting.
In a few hours, you can explore the Old Port area, visit local boutiques, enjoy a seafood meal, and take in waterfront views.
Yes, downtown Portland offers a variety of attractions, including museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, and access to scenic waterfront areas.
Yes, Portland, Maine is considered a foodie city with a thriving culinary scene featuring fresh seafood, farm-to-table dining, and diverse cuisines.
Spending 2-3 days in Portland, Maine allows you to explore its attractions, enjoy its dining scene, and take in the coastal beauty.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
