Portland, Maine With Kids: Best Family-Friendly Tours and Activities
If you are visiting Portland, Maine with kids, sightseeing tours and harbor cruises are some of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the city. Portland Discovery Tours offers family-friendly experiences that combine lighthouse views, waterfront scenery, and local history without the stress of driving or parking.
In this guide, we’ll cover some of the best family activities in Portland, Maine, including trolley tours, visits to Portland Head Light, and scenic sunset cruises through Casco Bay.
Why Families Choose Guided Tours in Portland
Exploring a new city with kids is easier when someone else handles the logistics. Guided tours allow families to see Portland’s major landmarks, waterfront neighborhoods, and coastal scenery without worrying about parking, directions, or planning multiple stops.
Parents appreciate the narrated experience and relaxed pace, while kids stay engaged through lighthouse views, harbor scenery, and stories about Portland’s history. With tours lasting about 90 to 105 minutes, they fit easily into a family travel itinerary without taking up an entire day.
Discover Portland’s Family-Friendly Tours
Portland Discovery Tours offers several family-friendly ways to experience the city, whether you want to explore Portland by trolley or see Casco Bay from the water. Here are some guests’ favorites:
Portland City & Lighthouse Tour
The Portland City & Lighthouse Tour is one of the most popular Portland, Maine tours for families. The narrated trolley tour takes visitors through Portland’s waterfront neighborhoods, historic districts, and coastal areas while sharing stories about the city’s history and landmarks.
Kids enjoy the trolley ride and lighthouse views, while parents appreciate the easy sightseeing experience without needing to drive around the city.
Duration: ~1 hour 45 minutes
Sunset Lighthouse Cruise
For families looking for a relaxing evening activity, the Sunset Lighthouse Cruise offers scenic views of Casco Bay, nearby islands, and Portland’s historic lighthouses from the water.
The calm evening atmosphere and sunset views make this a memorable experience for both kids and adults.
Duration: ~1 hour 45 minutes
“My daughter (13) and I took the Sea Sunset Tour on June 29th. The Captain and guide were great, and the views were breathtaking. If you want some of those once-in-a-lifetime photos from Portland/Lighthouse, this tour is a must.”
Explore More Portland Tours
Explore additional tours throughout Portland and Casco Bay, including narrated trolley tours, harbor cruises, and lighthouse sightseeing experiences to find the best fit for your family.
More Things to Do in Portland, Maine With Kids
One of the highlights of the Portland City & Lighthouse Tour is the stop at Portland Head Light in nearby Cape Elizabeth. Families have approximately 30 minutes to walk around, take photos, and enjoy one of Maine’s most famous lighthouse views — making it one of the easiest ways to visit Portland Head Light with kids during a trip to Portland.
If you have extra time after your tour, many families also enjoy exploring Portland’s Old Port district. This historic waterfront area is known for its cobblestone streets, local shops, seafood restaurants, and views of the working harbor.
The Old Port is an easy add-on for families looking to spend more time along Portland’s waterfront after a narrated trolley tour or harbor cruise.
What to Bring for a Portland Tour with kids
Families visiting Portland’s waterfront should bring:
- A light jacket for harbor breezes
- Sunglasses
- A camera for lighthouse photos
- Comfortable walking shoes
Even during summer, temperatures on the water can feel cooler during evening cruises.
FAQ: Portland, Maine, with Kids
Are Portland Discovery tours good for kids?
Yes. The tours are family-friendly and designed for visitors of all ages.
Are strollers allowed on the tours?
We can accommodate a limited number of strollers on the boats, but prefer they be left behind as they can block the way for other passengers if we have too many onboard. On the trolleys, we can’t guarantee space for them so we prefer they be left behind as you won’t need them on the tour.
Is the Sunset Lighthouse Cruise family-friendly?
Yes. Many families choose the sunset cruise because of the relaxing atmosphere and scenic harbor views.
Should families book tours in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended during busy travel seasons.