The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Welcome to my hometown! Hop aboard for an authentic 1 hour and 45 minute historical sightseeing tour of Portland, Maine and 3 lighthouses with an experienced guide who is a real local, born and raised in Portland, Maine.
Get an insider’s look at the current happenings and rich history of my hometown. We’ll go where other tours go, and then I'll take you places other tours don't - you'll see hidden gems and learn little known facts about Portland and the great state of Maine that only a real local knows!
As a college librarian I'm always researching the hidden history of Portland, while at the same time keeping on top of what's new in town and visiting as many local establishments that I can. I take pride in representing this city, and providing an informative and entertaining tour, delivered with a true Mainer's sense of humor.
This is The Real Portland Tour!
Check my website for a complete listing of tour days, times, and availability.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The tour is in Portland, MAINE. Unfortunately no pets/animals of any kind can be accommodated on board.
The tour does not pickup/drop off at hotels, and it does not pickup/drop off at the cruise ship terminal. Everyone has to be at the tour starting point ready to board at least 10-15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time.
Wheelchairs, walkers, and luggage do not fit in the van.
This is not a private tour. The tour vehicle is a 13 passenger, high roof Ford Transit van. The tour often sells out, so you will be riding with a total of 13 people in the van.
Please double check the month, day, and time of your booking to make sure it is accurate, as some folks make mistakes when booking online and choose the wrong date.
What To Expect
Commercial Street
We start at historic Commercial Street, the heart of Portland's working waterfront. See original cobblestone and brick that was laid in the 1850s.
United States Custom House
See one of the most beautiful granite buildings in all of Portland.
Options
The Real Portland Tour
What‘s Included
Knowledgeable, entertaining guide with 20 years experience giving tours of his hometown of Portland.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
1,552 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Very informative!
Nina S,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour was a great, quick way to see Portland and learn about the history of the forts and lighthouses on land. Derek was charming and was very knowledgeable. He grew up in the area and knew so much. It was quite entertaining to hear about his life as well. Highly recommend.
Great tour
Jenny G,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Delightful and informative tour guide/owner, Derek. I learned so much in 2 hours about Portland ME. Definitely a value for the experience. The group size was perfect, van was clean, and Dad jokes hilarious. We had just the right amount of time to visit each lighthouse. I would recommend this tour!
Informational and entertaining
juliamG1791YH,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I recommend this tour for anyone that wants a fun tour of Portland. Derek was fun and funny. Knew a lot about Portland. Born and raised. Please make this a must do activity.
Lighthouse experience with Maine history!
lisaaL3656OF,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour with super savvy guide! Our tour guide really made the experience so much more! He was super knowledgeable and a very fun speaker! We thought we were only going to see lighthouses but learned so much more about Maine!
Very nice and...
Harry F,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very nice and knowledgeable guide. He knew the area and It’s history. He made the tour special. Five stars plus.
Great Portland tour
jdunkie,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative. Small group of up to 13. We enjoyed the presentation and learning about the history of Portland.
Great Tour
William R,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great!! Derek has so much knowledge about the history of Maine and he made the tour fun!! Highly recommended for first time visitors to Maine!!
Great tour of Portland
R7232SPmeganm,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience! Derek was very knowledgeable and personable. He kept it funny and interesting while diving and driving into Portlands history. Would like to do any tour with him... very smart guy. He gave us all kinds of follow up literature to check out too! The van is roomy and comfortable. I was worried an 90 minutes wouldn't be long enough but it was perfect!
Info and Humor
Joe B,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Wealth of knowledge and you'll learn a lot of interesting things about Portland, Maine. The tour guide kept you engaged and laughing with lots of fun facts & great sense of humor!
Great experience. Would highly recommend. Must do experience. Would recommend to everyone
Excursion52874757368,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Must do when you visit Portland
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