Visit The Last Remaining Maritime Signal Tower In The US!

The integrity and architectural significance of the Portland Observatory is well documented through its listing as a National Historic Landmark and National Civil Engineering Landmark. However, the tower is so much more than these recognitions!

Join a passionate, knowledgeable docent for a 45 minute guided tour where you will be fascinated by Captain Lemuel Moody (the builder) and his family, hear why this place is “NOT A LIGHTHOUSE,” and learn more about the tower’s place in the rich, unique maritime history of Portland (Maine). After climbing 7 stories (104 stairs!), you will be gifted a tremendous view of Casco Bay and her islands. Trust us, the history tour is worth the admission price, but you can’t beat the view either! (Wanna learn at your own pace and get to the top quick? Visit during the times allotted for self-guided tours during weekends and select weekday evenings.)

The Portland Observatory is owned by the City of Portland and operated by Greater Portland Landmarks, a non-profit organization dedicated to the stories of the people and places that make Portland a home to visit, work, and live in. Scroll down to learn more about our work in The Column!

Hour of Operation

Summer Hours:
-Monday - Wednesday
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, last entry at 3:30 pm
4:30 pm – 7:30 pm, last entry at 7:00 pm

-Thursday - Sunday
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, last entry at 3:30 pm

Check out our social media for more news!

Admission Price

Adults - $10

Seniors/ Military/Students - $8

Kids (6- 16) - $5

Kids under 6 – free

Portland Residents – Adults - $5, Kids- $3

Tour Information

Weekdays:
Guided tours on the hour and half hour
Summer (June - August) Evenings: Self-guided tours only

Weekend:
Guided tours at 10:00 am, 10:30 am, 11:00 am, 11:30 am
Self-guided tours from 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm

Interested in large group tours?
Contact Aimee, akeithan@portlandlandmarks.org

Frequently ASked Questions

Find Us:

📍138 Congress Street, Portland

📞207-253-1800

📧portlandobservatory@gmail.com

 
 

Gift Tickets

Observatory History

The Column

A look at GPL’s advocacy work

Self-Guided Walking Tours