Which Portland, Maine Trolley Tour Should You Take?

If you are mapping out your first trip to Portland, Maine, you may be overwhelmed with the number of destinations to see. While this is a great problem to have, logistics often prevent you from visiting everything on your list. Fortunately, Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours offers convenient, fully narrated trolley tours that allow you to explore Portland’s history and landmarks without the hassle of driving or parking.

Table of Contents

• Portland City & Lighthouse Tour
• Peek at Portland Tour
• Guardians of the Harbor Trolley Tour
• Explore Portland’s Historic Sites
  • The Old Port
  • The Victoria Mansion
  • The Wadsworth–Longfellow House
• FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
• Things to Know Before You Go

Why Choose Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours?

Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours is well-known for providing high-quality, informative, and enjoyable sightseeing tours. As Portland’s #1 sightseeing tour company, we ensure a stress-free experience for our guests. Our trolleys are modern, impeccably clean, and feature open-air seating with unobstructed views and crystal-clear narration. With comfortable seating and knowledgeable guides, you can explore Portland without the logistical headaches.

Portland City & Lighthouse Tour

The Portland City & Lighthouse Tour is our most popular and comprehensive tour. This 1 hour and 45-minute adventure gives you a perfect mix of Portland’s urban history and coastal beauty. You’ll travel through the historic Portland peninsula, enjoying views of the city’s landmarks, before heading to Portland Head Light, Maine’s most iconic lighthouse. This tour is ideal for those who want to experience the best of Portland in a short amount of time.

• Ages: All ages
• Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
• Tour Availability: April 27 – October 27

Tour Highlights

• Historic Old Port: Portland’s historic district with cobblestone streets and vibrant shops.
• Coastal Scenery: Stunning views of Portland’s waterfront and coastal beauty.
• Harbor Views: Experience panoramic views of Portland Harbor.
• Iconic Lighthouses: Visit the Portland Head Light and other nearby lighthouses.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of stops for scenic photos throughout the tour.
• Narrated Stories: Hear fascinating stories about Portland’s maritime history, literary connections, and architecture.

Peek at Portland Tour

The Peek at Portland Tour is the perfect option for visitors who are short on time but still want to experience the highlights of Portland. This 60-minute tour takes you through the heart of the city, exploring key landmarks and offering a glimpse into Portland’s rich history. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover Portland, this tour provides a great introduction to the city.

• Ages: All ages
• Duration: 1 hour

Tour Highlights

• Portland Observatory: America’s last remaining historic maritime signal tower.
• Longfellow House: The childhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
• Victoria Mansion: A pre-Civil War mansion with stunning architecture and historical significance.
• Scenic Views: Get a taste of Portland’s beautiful waterfront and urban landscapes.
• Narrated Tour: Learn about Portland’s history, famous figures, and local culture.
• Quick and Convenient: Ideal for those with limited time who still want to experience the best of Portland.

Guardians of the Harbor Trolley Tour

For those looking to dive deeper into Portland’s maritime history, the Guardians of the Harbor Trolley Tour offers an immersive experience. This 2.5-hour journey takes you to three iconic lighthouses, military forts, and coastal defense sites. With guided walking opportunities at each location, you’ll explore Portland’s history from a unique perspective. This tour provides exclusive access to lighthouse grounds and historical military sites that are typically off-limits to the public.

• Ages: All ages
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Tour Highlights

• Three Lighthouses: Visit Portland Head Light, Spring Point Ledge Light, and Bug Light.
• Military History: Learn about Portland’s role in maritime defense and WWII history.
• Coastal Fortifications: Explore historic military sites and the Liberty Ship Memorial.
• Walking Exploration: Guided walking at each lighthouse and coastal defense site.
• Expert Narration: Hear stories of shipwrecks, naval battles, and lighthouse keepers.
• Exclusive Access: Access to lighthouse grounds and military installations not available on other tours.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long are the Portland trolley tours?

The Portland City & Lighthouse Tour lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes, the Peek at Portland Tour is a 60-minute tour, and the Guardians of the Harbor Trolley Tour lasts 2.5 hours.

2. Can I book the Portland trolley tours in advance?

Yes! We recommend booking your tour in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.

3. Are the trolley tours family-friendly?

Absolutely! Our trolley tours are perfect for families of all sizes. The open-air seating and comfortable ride make it a great choice for kids and adults alike.

4. Do you provide wheelchair access?

Yes, the trolleys are equipped with wheelchair accessibility. Please let us know in advance if you need special accommodations, and we’ll be happy to assist.

5. What is the best time to take the trolley tours?

Our trolley tours run year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring, summer, and fall months, when the weather is pleasant and the sights are at their best.

Things to Know Before You Go

• What to Bring: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera for stunning views of Portland’s waterfront and historical landmarks.

• Weather: Portland can be windy and chilly, especially near the coast. Dress in layers and bring a jacket, even during the summer months.

• Parking: There is parking available at the trolley boarding location, but we recommend booking tickets in advance to save time.

• Accessibility: Our trolleys are wheelchair accessible and are suitable for all ages, making them perfect for families and guests with mobility needs.

• Duration: The tours typically last between 60–150 minutes, depending on the tour you choose. It’s a great way to maximize your time in Portland.

Book Your Tour Today

Ready to explore Portland, Maine in style? Book your Portland City & Lighthouse Tour, Peek at Portland Tour, or Guardians of the Harbor Trolley Tour with Portland Discovery Land & Sea Tours today! With our informative guides, comfortable trolleys, and flexible tour options, you’re sure to enjoy the best that Portland has to offer.

Book your trolley tour today and secure your spot!