2 Hours | Portland Women's History Walking Tour

Overview

Running the factories or running for office, Portland women boldly shaped our city’s culture while continually moving the country toward equal rights. Hear stories of women who achieved remarkable things, like the Indigenous Penobscot performer who reframed immigration policy, the Chinese immigrant and laundress who won American Mother of the Year, the white tavern keeper who went up against the British Navy, and the enslaved Black maid who abolished slavery statewide. Experience the charm and depth of a city that was almost lost were it not for the impact of women’s collective energy and passion.

Stories are told with heart, humor, and humanity by locally-raised and exceedingly-excited tour guide, Dugan Murphy. See museums, stately row houses, soaring churches, regal Federal-style mansions, and other landmarks on this 2-hour guided walking tour over 1.3 miles in Portland's Arts District and West End neighborhood.

City: Portland

Mon 23 Dec

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $39.00

Make a reservation

Mon 23 Dec

Starting at $39.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pets are not allowed on tours unless medically required.
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons
COVID-19 vaccination required for guides
Masks are optional, but encouraged for non-vaccinated guests. You should bring a face covering in the event your tour group is invited inside a historic building for an impromptu visit or for use if you’d like while walking outside.

What To Expect

Arts District

We'll stroll through the Congress Street Historic District, learning women's stories along the way. *Highlights include:* Portland City Hall, First Parish Church, Portland High School, Monument Square, Portland Public Library, Time and Temperature Building, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow House, Arts District, Mechanics’ Hall, Congress Square, Eastland Hotel

Cancellation Policy

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews (28)

TarraBdoesitagain

Apr 2022

Wow! I lived in Portland for 13 years and Dugan shared stories on the Women's History Tour that I'd had no idea happened here. It adds a new layer of wonder walking past buildings I'd never really noticed before and learning they were a stop on the Underground Railroad or that they are connected to (arguably) one of the first lesbIan novels. I'm currently using a walking aid and had reservations about doing a walking tour, I reached out regarding accessibility and received a quick and helpful response on which tour would be most comfortable. I didn't feel singled out or like I was a burden to the group. The website is easy to navigate and booking was simple. I'm excited to check out the Black History Tour and to learn more about my city!

Response from Host

Apr 2022

I'm glad you found the Women's History Tour through the Arts District and West End to be accessible to you. The sidewalks are nice and even and the ground is fairly level. Thanks for coming with us!

noahfishman

Apr 2022

What a treat to be in the presence of an engaging expert! The route for our tour (Women’s History) wove across a few parts of Portland’s downtown, and we learned a ton along the way. There’s one particularly juicy anecdote about the Longfellow house that you’ll need to hear for yourself. Dugan has done his research, and his passion speaks for itself. Bring water, layers, and plenty of questions. Highly recommend!

Response from Host

Apr 2022

I'm glad you enjoyed our jaunt through the Arts District and beautiful West End neighborhood. Isn't it amazing how great an impact on Portland women have had over the years? I hope you can return for the Hidden Histories Tour or the Black History Tour!

O4738KJkatiem

Apr 2022

Not only is Dugan a charming and captivating tour guide, but he is a real historian and you can tell how much he loves his hometown. I am so glad that Portland by the Foot is engaging with parts of Portland's history that might otherwise be glossed over! An honest and big-hearted way to get to know the biggest city in Maine.

Response from Host

Apr 2022

I just love unearthing these remarkable stories you don't hear from other tour guides. And I do prefer being honest and straightforward about the more difficult chapters. I hope you can return for the Black History Tour or the Hidden Histories Tour!