 our homes, our neighborhoods, our future |
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our homes, our neighborhoods, our future |
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Guided Walking ToursRegularly offered walking tours (July through September). We have private group tours too!The Old Port: Hear the mysterious, amazing, and amusing inside stories as you explore the rich array of architecture that reflects Portland's history from its early days as a busy seaport to its present role as the largest commercial center in Maine. Each guide offers a slightly different tour -- you may want to try this more than once! Highly informative, and great for guests of all ages. Purchase tickets and begin the tour at Tommy's Park at the corner of Middle and Exchange Streets in Portland. Monday - Saturday, July 1st through September 30th, 10:30 am to Noon; $7 per person. Children under 16 are free when accompanied by adult. Homes of Portland's Golden Age (1800 - 1860): Special Events & Tours for Summer & Fall 2008 May 28 - the Spring Historic House Gala at Peter & Barbara Shaw's home, 29 Bowdoin Street in Portland. June 5 & 7 - Restoration Academy workshops related to caring for older buildings June 14 Flag Day at the Portland Observatory - free tours, sea chanty music and family activities all day! August & September - Sunset Tours at the Observatory - Thursdays, 5:00 pm - 8:00pm Sunday Strolls - Sundays in September; 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm Sept. 7: Changing Face of India Street Walking Tour Munjfest - free tours and activities at the Observatory (date TBA) October 11 - Portland Running Tour with Christine Wirth (check back for more information) Bowdoin College Architecture tour (date TBA) November 22 - Museum Shopper's Day at the Thomas Room in South Portland Private Group Tours (available April through mid-October) All tours are appropriate for both students and adults unless otherwise noted. Please allow at least two weeks notice to book a group tour. The Portland Observatory (1807) is the only remaining maritime signal
tower in the country. Sea Captain-turned-entrepreneur Lemuel Moody built
the tower to signal the arrival of ships into the harbor through the use
of specialized flags. Climb the 103 steps to the top and enjoy the finest
views of Portland, Casco Bay, the islands, and the White Mountains. The Eastern Cemetery is the oldest burial ground on the peninsula.
Established in 1668, it is the resting place of early settlers and other
famous Portlanders. Among those buried in Eastern Cemetery are Commodore
Edward Preble, Lemuel Moody, and the two young captains of the Boxer and
the Enterprise, who died in a famous sea battle during the War of 1812.
Interesting and beautiful headstone art symbolizes our ancestors' changing
attitudes toward death over the years. Congress Street is the commercial and transportation hub of downtown
Portland. Our tour will trace the evolution of the street from its
earliest beginnings as a back road to its present day configuration as the
focal point for business and retail activity. Along the way, see how
Portland's rich architecture changed to reflect the city's status as one
of the leading maritime ports in America. Inside stories give a human face
to the city, and an insight into why Portland continues to be a growing
and vibrant community. From its earliest days, the East End/Munjoy Hill area has been home to a
diverse group of citizens who have helped shape Portland's history. Learn
how this area evolved from cow pasture to booming economic seaport,
railroad hub, and neighborhood. Along the way, notice the mix of
residential, religious, and commercial architecture and enjoy the Elegant Federal mansions, Greek Revival residences, and Italianate homes
grace the Homes of Portland's Golden Age, which highlights the Spring Street Historic
District, once home to Portland's leading merchants and entrepreneurs.
Glimpse the more personal side of the city's history and architectural
development as you pass sweeping church façades, magnificent residences,
and fine examples of compatible 20th century design in an area which was
added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. Our Western Promenade Tour focuses on 19th and 20th century residential
architecture and what it reveals about Portland’s society and culture. The
tour route features the magnificent Italianate, Second Empire, and
Colonial Revival homes of Portland's successful 19th and early 20th
century business leaders as well as more humble examples of vernacular
architecture. Recognized as one of America's best-preserved Victorian
neighborhoods, the district was entered on the National Register of
Historic Places in 1982. Step back in time in Portland's Old Port for a personal look at the events
and people who shaped our city and left their imprint on its streetscapes
and architecture. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, you will
be enchanted by the inside stories that trace the development of this
historic area from its earliest days as a bustling seaport to its revival
as a vibrant retail and commercial center. Common Architectural Styles can help you to prepare for your tour >> Tourist information available from the Convention and Visitor's Bureau. |