2 Hours | Portland Black History Walking Tour in Portland booking from $49.00

2 Hours | Portland Black History Walking Tour

Overview

Trace the steps of the Black Portlanders who moved our city, state, and country closer to the ideals of freedom, democracy, opportunity, and equality. Maine’s earliest settlements couldn’t have existed without Black labor, skill, and insight. You'll meet the Black Yankees who founded Maine communities, overturned slavery statewide, drove our maritime industries, gained political influence, crossed color boundaries, and expanded Mainers’ rights in the modern era.

Stepping on granite cobblestones crooked with age — that once saw footfalls from national heroes like Frederick Douglass — you’ll pass storefronts once home to Black-owned barbershops where abolitionists whispered intelligence to Underground Railroad conductors.

Enjoy 2 hours of entertaining and enlightening historical narration over a 1.5-mile route. Owner and guide, Dugan Murphy, dug through the archives to present an amazing constellation of stories left out of most tours. TripAdvisor named him Portland's #1 guide!

City: Portland

Fri 20 Jun

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Starting at $49.00

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Fri 20 Jun

Starting at $49.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

10% off water tours with Portland Paddle (instructions at confirmation)

Two hour fully narrated guided tour.

Donation toward restoring the Abyssinian Meeting House, America's third-oldest standing Black church

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pets are not allowed on tours unless medically required.
Portland is a hilly city. Participants will walk uphill sometimes, including a staircase of 17 steps.

What To Expect

Old Port

Follow Dugan through the Old Port to a historically-Black section on the eastern end of the waterfront, uncovering Black history hidden all around us. You'll hear about the people who founded Maine communities, overturned slavery statewide, drove our maritime industries, swung elections, founded houses of worship, crossed color boundaries, and expanded Mainers’ rights in the modern era. Stops include: Lobsterman Park, Exchange Street, Mariner’s Church, US Custom House, Commercial Street, and so many other memorable sites!

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (109)

Road741264

Nov 2024

Dugan was very knowledgeable and seemed excited about what he was talking about. He answered all of our questions thoroughly while walking at a comfortable pace.

Response from Host

Nov 2024

There's so much amazing Black history in Portland, I could spend a whole day showing you around. I'm always happy to elaborate when I get questions from guests. Thanks for joining me, asking questions, and leaving a review!

Emely_B

Nov 2024

It was a great experience Dugan was great and knowledgeable. You can really tell he knows and is passionate about his work.

Response from Host

Nov 2024

My tours are research-based and I'm always learning new things I'm excited to share with guests. I'm glad you also enjoy learning about Black history in Portland! Thank you for including this tour in your visit to Maine.

chiderao190

Nov 2024

This tour was an insightful and engaging experience, guided by someone with deep knowledge and passion for the subject. The guide shared fascinating stories about Maine's Black history, connecting the past to the present in a meaningful way. The time passed quickly as the tour was both educational and captivating, offering perspectives often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Overall, it was an enriching experience that deepened my understanding of the state's history and its diverse communities.

Response from Host

Nov 2024

The white population having such a large majority here, locals and visitors often make the mistake of thinking that's the only story with talking about. I'm always glad to meet people like you who want to dig a little deeper. Thank you for choosing this tour and reviewing it!

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2 Hours | Portland Black History Walking Tour

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