If you’re looking to add a mysterious twist to your Portland visit, the Old Port Ghost Walking Tour offers just that—an eerie stroll through the city’s darker past. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary reveal a fascinating mix of supernatural tales and local lore that can turn a regular evening into a ghostly adventure.
What makes this experience engaging? First, it offers a combination of historical locations and ghost stories that are both intriguing and atmospheric. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem to deepen the storytelling, making each stop more captivating. Lastly, the tour’s affordable price point provides a surprisingly good value for such a rich, story-driven experience.
One thing to consider is that the ghost stories are often based on theories and legends, not all of which are rooted in documented history. If you’re seeking a strictly factual historical tour, this might not be your ideal choice. However, if you’re curious about local legends, supernatural phenomena, and enjoy a bit of theatrical storytelling, this tour could be just right. It tends to attract those who love a good ghost story, are interested in Portland’s waterfront history, or simply want a fun, different way to explore the Old Port district.
This walking tour is best suited for those who enjoy storytelling, spirited atmospheres, and uncovering the mysterious side of a city. It’s also ideal for visitors who want an evening activity that’s engaging but not overly intense—perfect for a relaxed yet intriguing night out.
Good To Know
- Affordable and Accessible: At $29, this tour offers a lot of storytelling for a reasonable price, with no extra charges for most stops.
- Engaging Guides: Multiple reviews highlight knowledgeable hosts, with one reviewer noting her guide was “very knowledgeable and nice.”
- Variety of Locations: Stops range from historic waterfront spots to pubs, giving a well-rounded ghostly experience.
- Authentic Historic Atmosphere: Sites like DiMillo’s On the Water and Andy’s Old Port Pub provide a real-time sense of Portland’s maritime and social history.
- Stories Based on Legends and Theories: Some reviews mention that ghost stories often lack concrete origins, but they still offer fun and captivating tales.
- Good for Small Groups: With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour feels intimate, allowing for better engagement and storytelling.
The Itinerary in Detail
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Starting Point: DiMillo’s On the Water
The tour kicks off at this floating restaurant, a standout spot with a haunted reputation. According to reviews, guests are told about spectral chatter in the former engine room—an atmospheric way to start the night. The guide hints at whether the ghostly crew still haunts the vessel or if a portal to the past remains open. This stop is very brief—only about 10 minutes—but sets a spooky tone right at the waterfront, immersing you in Portland’s maritime ghost lore.
Custom House Wharf
Next, the tour moves to the historic harbor area where legendary maritime stories unfold. It’s here you might hear about a ghost ship that allegedly returns to claim the lives of certain unlucky sailors. This spot is steeped in legends of sailors and ghostly apparitions, making it a favorite among visitors intrigued by nautical superstitions and maritime tragedies.
Andy’s Old Port Pub
A lively, atmospheric pub that’s famous for its ghostly visitor—an unseen entity that reportedly hurls dishes and enjoys playing pool. The review from Cassidy R calls it “more active than most,” adding a lively, slightly mischievous vibe to the ghostly tales. It’s a fun, interactive segment that leaves many guests wondering about spirits with a sense of humor.
FBI Building
Here, the tour takes a turn into the mysterious world of psychic phenomena. You’ll learn about Alex Tanous, a psychic who assisted law enforcement, allegedly helping solve high-profile cases like the Patty Hearst kidnapping. The declassified CIA file on Tanous adds an intriguing layer of authenticity to the story, appealing to those who enjoy paranormal investigations intertwined with real history.
Rosie’s Restaurant & Pub
A lively pub with a supernatural twist—its “Jukebox from Hell” is said to randomly blast rock ‘n’ roll music, annoying or startling patrons. The spirit here doesn’t like to be ignored, which adds a humorous and slightly spooky element to the tour. Guests can expect to hear stories about spirits that enjoy causing a little chaos.
Henry’s Public House
This 19th-century pub offers ghost sightings on the stairs, along with phantom piano music on the breeze. Reviewers mention its charm and the persistent stories of ghostly pair sightings, making it feel like a living piece of Portland’s haunted past. It’s a cozy spot that contrasts nicely with the waterfront stops.
The WL Blake Building
This historic building is notable for a ghostly encounter experienced by author Nomar Slevik, adding a personal touch to the tour’s paranormal stories. It highlights Portland’s enduring connection to the supernatural.
Art Alley at 26 Exchange Street
Portland’s artistic spirit is alive in this hidden alley, which transforms into a vibrant art gallery by night. Here, you’ll find out whether Henry Wadsworth Longfellow believed in ghosts, adding literary and cultural flavor to the experience.
Portland Regency Hotel & Spa
The tour concludes at this elegant hotel, where guests have reported items moving, rattling doors, and TVs switching on by themselves. This final stop leaves an eerie impression, emphasizing the city’s haunted ambiance.
What We Love About the Tour
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The combination of historic sites and lively storytelling creates an engaging experience that feels immersive rather than scripted. You’re not just listening to ghost stories—you’re walking through the actual locations that fuel those tales, which adds authenticity.
Guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness. Cassidy R mentions her guide was “very knowledgeable and nice,” which makes a big difference in a storytelling tour. Not every ghost tour has such a personable approach, and that’s a significant value-add.
The variety of stops ensures the tour covers different aspects of Portland’s haunted reputation—maritime legends, historic pubs, and mysterious buildings—making the experience diverse and visually interesting. Each location offers a unique ambiance, from lively pubs to quiet waterfront spots, keeping the tour dynamic.
The tour’s timing and group size—around 2 hours with up to 30 people—strike a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. It’s long enough to tell a good number of stories but not so long that it drags.
The affordability at $29 per person makes it an accessible way to enjoy a different perspective of Portland. It offers good value, especially considering the local stories and atmospheric stops, some of which are free to enter or view.
Practical Details and What You Can Expect
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Duration and Timing: The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, starting at 8:00 pm. It’s scheduled for the evening, perfect for embracing the nocturnal, spooky vibe. The timing helps heighten the eerie feeling, especially when visiting waterfront and historic sites under moonlight.
Pricing and Value: At $29, this tour is quite reasonable for a guided, story-rich experience. There’s no mention of additional charges, and the tour includes stops at multiple historic and lively locations. Considering the guide’s storytelling and the variety of sites covered, it offers solid value.
Meeting Point and Accessibility: The tour begins at DiMillo’s Old Port Yacht Sales—an easily recognizable waterfront location. The tour is near public transportation, making it convenient to access. Service animals are allowed, accommodating travelers with mobility needs or service animals.
Group Size: With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour remains intimate enough to allow questions and personalized stories. This size fosters a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Weather and Cancellation: The tour requires good weather, as it’s outdoors. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternate date or a full refund. Cancelling at least 24 hours in advance ensures a full refund, which is quite flexible.
Who Would Love This Experience?
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This ghost walking tour is perfect for history and mystery enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy storytelling with a touch of theatrics. It’s suitable for adults and older teens—younger children might find the ghost stories too spooky or not engaging enough.
If you’re in Portland for a few days and want a fun, different evening activity that combines local legends with waterfront views, this tour is a great choice. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples looking for a personalized experience.
Fans of paranormal investigations or those interested in psychic phenomena will appreciate the segment on Alex Tanous. Meanwhile, those curious about Portland’s maritime past or seeking a lively pub crawl combined with ghost stories will find this tour hits the mark.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?
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In a nutshell, the Old Port Ghost Walking Tour offers a charming mix of spooky legends, historic landmarks, and lively storytelling. It’s a cost-effective way to explore Portland’s waterfront and historic district after dark, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience. The variety of locations—from haunted pubs to waterfront spots—keeps things fresh and interesting, making each stop memorable.
While some stories are based on theories rather than hard facts, this doesn’t detract from the fun. It’s all about the atmosphere, storytelling, and the thrill of uncovering Portland’s haunted past. The tour’s balance of history, legend, and lively guides makes it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a spirited, slightly spooky night out.
If you’re after an authentic yet entertaining ghostly adventure, this tour is well worth the price. It’s best suited for curious travelers, fans of local lore, and anyone looking to add a mysterious twist to their Portland visit.
FAQ
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How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the group and how long stories take at each stop.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at DiMillo’s Old Port Yacht Sales, 1 Long Wharf, Portland, ME, and loops back there at the end.
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $29 per person, making it a budget-friendly option for a fun night out.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. The tour is a walking experience, so be prepared for a bit of strolling through the Old Port district.
Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but the ghost stories might be more suitable for adults and older teens due to spooky content.
What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 30 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.
Are there any special considerations for weather?
Yes, the tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 34 days in advance, and securing a spot is recommended, especially during busy seasons.
In summary, the Portland Old Port Ghost Walking Tour is a fun, atmospheric way to explore the city’s waterfront while enjoying some spooky tales—perfect for those looking for a relaxed, story-driven experience with a bit of a ghostly edge.