Portland Observatory Reviews

I really enjoyed this! They offer AAA discount. Allow for about an hour or so to see this.
It felt a little like going to top of a lighthouse but much fewer steps. Public restrooms located nearby on other side of firehouse. You will learn how things were here back in the 1800's.Cute little coffee shop/bakery, BLVL nearby for a coffee/baked good before you tour Observatory.

This observatory is a very interesting restored building in Portland. There are many interesting displays explaining the history of the structure. Amazing 360 degree views from the lantern at the top. A must-see when visiting Portland and be ready to the stair climbing.

The Portland Observatory has such a rich history! I didn’t expect a guide, but I’m glad that we had one (Gail) who was knowledgeable, patient and kind. Our experience was undoubtedly enhanced by Gail.

The Observatory has several levels that require walking up (and down) stairs to access. In some instances, the stairways wind and become more narrow and steep. So, if someone has mobility issues, this will be extremely difficult. There are chairs on each level (except the very top) for resting while your guide shares knowledge of the pictures and artifacts on that level, however.

We visited in mid-July and it was hot! Since there’s no hearing & air, we welcomed the cool breeze thy flowed through the open windows. Perhaps, bring a bottle of water if you visit during warmer months (or want to stay hydrated in the winter months).

The reward for climbing stairs and ensuring heat? The best 360° views of Portland! Munjoy Hill has an elevation significantly higher than other parts of Portland so you can see quite a lot at the summit.

We parked on a side street beside a cleaners about two blocks down. If you’re fortunate enough to find street parking, it’s free and safe. While we waited for our scheduled time, we enjoyed an outdoor lunch at The Front Room Restaurant-about 2-3 blocks from where we parked and 4-5 blocks from the Observatory. What a lovely spot with great food and service.

For a first visit to Portland, I would highly recommend Portland Observatory!

Very interesting historical site. Extremely accommodating staff.
Very well organized and easy to climb to top by series of levels.

Worth a visit for the views over the city. Lots of interesting displays detailing the history and restoration.
We didn't time it well for a tour (but we had done it before years ago), however, the guide stopped to speak to us on his way down from an earlier tour, to explain about the flags used as signals, which was really nice of him to do so, and very informative!

This historic attraction is an easy walk from the tourist area downtown (although the last few blocks are uphill). There is a small, but cute, gift shop on the first floor. The guided tour is included in the price of admission and definitely enhanced the experience. Our guide stopped our small group on each of the floors as we climbed the stairs and provided brief lectures on the history of the building and the surrounding area. The steep staircase climb would make this a difficult attraction for anyone with physical disabilities, and the views from the top, while fantastic, will be dizzying to anyone with acrophobia.

The last signal tower, this tower played an important role in Portland trade. From its vantage point and it's height, incoming trading ships could be seen from eighteen miles out. Flags were then hung as signals to notify local trade merchants when their expected ships were to arrive. Tours include interesting life and a walk up several flights to view the city and port from the top. A great story of history and entrepeurial inspiration.

This is well worth a trip. This was a signal tower (not a lighthouse). The keeper looked for vessels on the horizon and would raise flags indicating the type of ship or schooner arriving, so the dock workers could prepare. During WWII it served as a spotter for aircraft flying towards the coast. there is nothing like it anywhere else. Originally constructed from 65 foot single timbers from single trees as the outer frame. Highly recommended addition to your trip to Portland.

Darned COVID! It was not open for climbing or touring but I did enjoy reading about it on the Internet and seeing it in person!

Be sure that you stop here for a tour. Guide was very knowledgeable and this place had such an interesting history. The views at the top are phenomenal and it is a nice spot to sit for a few minutes. Great afternoon.

Best thing we saw in Portland.

Amazing views and very cool history. Would recommend everyone see the view at least once.

Really helpful and friendly staff.

Nothing else needs to be said!

It was a cloudy day on our visit so our view was not as great as it could have been. The tower is cool, its all wood and was used to signal ships in the harbor with flags. As you go up there are stops at each floor with information on the tower and the is a person at the top top answer questions.Its a very interesting structure.

Took the opportunity to visit on the access between 5.00pm and 8.00pm every Thursday in the summer (last day was 29 August for 2019).
Staff were great and were excellent to chat to and had really good info.
104 steps to the top. Well worth it for the views.
Amazing history and flag arrangements for notification of incoming ships back in the 1800’s.
Each floor has detailed info about the Observatory and its construction and purposes and over the years. plus its restoration.
Well worth visiting and supporting.

We loved the tower.

We go to towers all over the place when we travel. Mostly for the views.

This one was built for seeing ships and signaling the towns merchants before ship to shore radio. So Cool. And it is made of wood.

Go on a clear day. The view is incredible. The steps are not bad and you get to stop on the way as needed.

Take the guided tour it is informational and quick.

We parked on the street near the tower for free.

Plenty of local places to eat in walking distance from the tower.

For 30$ you get to climb to the top of the old Portland Observatory. It's 104 steps to the top and the view is breathtaking. If your out of shape the walk up the steps is also breathtaking. However, doubt fret the history lessen on the way up will allow some rest time without the guilt. Picture oasis.

The construction of the building is quite interesting. Make sure you take a guided tour, it will give you a better understanding of it. They have done a great job restoring the building and creating displays to help you understand the time period and how this building operated

When your in Portland you have to go . SO glad we got to go on their last day open for the season . The history about it I found very interesting. The views from the top are fantastic!

My husband and I were in town for a half marathon last weekend, and having been to Portland a number of times, were looking for some different things to explore. He found the Observatory on line and it fit the bill. WOW were we happy we did. Even on a rainy day, the view was stunning- which, listening to the very knowledgeable docent who conducted the excellent tour, was the whole point. It did not disappoint, and in our group there were people from all over the country from grandparents down to kids who enjoyed it. Nifty gift shop as well. Well worth the trip from anywhere!

My boyfriend talked me into going. It was far from where we were at the time and I didn’t think it’d be worth it. It was. Great history and incredible views in just 20-30 minute visit.

Just visited here with 11 and 13 year old on a hot day. Very intersting and able to hold the kid's attention since the tour wasn't too long and the views were exceptional. 6 floors and with every floor the cool, refreshing breeze increases. Would definitely recommend the guided tour...more interesting.

We walked up to the Observatory after having taken a trolley tour and decided to take the narrated tour (no extra cost). Our guide was very knowledgable and gave us loads of information about the history of the observatory and of Portland itself. Greta views of Portland from the top

we took the tour of the observatory. hardy climb. our docent, Barbara, was so informative! very interesting. beautiful views from the top! well worth it!

We took friends out here. The observatory used to be the tallest building/structure in Portland and has a fascinating history. Also look at the tram tracks in front of the observatory.

We walked to the Observatory from Old Port (less than a mile walk). The staff at the Observatory were all super nice and knowledgeable. We took a guided tour, which stopped on each floor of this lighthouse style building providing historical facts about the Observatory and Portland. The view from the top is very cool. Worth a visit!

This should be one of your first places to visit in Portland to get a good perspective of the city and surrounding area

Side tracked off our route to make our road trip interesting. Found this observatory very interesting. Amazing story behind the original concept and founder of this landmark. Tour guide knowledgeable.

I'd never heard of this until my parents suggested it. I'm glad they did; it was very interesting and well worth the time.

This place is a lot neater than expected. The history of the tower and its uses, as well as the person who started it is very interesting. On a hot day, it was still cool inside with a breeze blowing through the windows. We missed the guided tour and went in the 5 PM hour self-guided. I’m sure the guided is interesting, but we found the self-guided to be perfectly fine.

What a wonderful way to spend an hour or so. We wandered past here on a walk to a planned bike tour and decided to pay a visit as it looked fascinating. The lovely ladies working here were a delight and we received a private tour which was wonderful. Every floor hosts a display explaining some part of the tower's history. The fact this is a rare ballast supported building is incredible and something you will think about at the top. Thoroughly enjoyed the story of Captain Moody and how the sea trade operated in Portland back in the day. The highlight of course is the small telescope room and open walkway at the top - incredible views all the way around and a stunning view across the waters towards all the islands. Wonderful place, wonderful people, and do check out the gift shop as they carry some fantastic items to take away with you.

A great way to get an awesome view of the bay and downtown Portland is by checking out the Observatory. It is very informative about the history of Portland and some of the best views in town! Glad we stopped!!!

This morning we spent about an hour exploring the Portland Observatory and it was time well spent! We had a informative tour explaining the history and entrepreneurship of Captain Moody in 1807 as we went up each floor. Arriving at the top the views were spectacular! You will not see much if it is not a clear day, however.

We did a self guided tour of the tower. It was interesting and the visual media contained lots of history about the observatory. I expected the tour to be longer and the tower to be be a bit bigger but the view at the top was amazing. The fee helps the restoration and preservation of history and that's always a good thing.

As you climb the steps, you stop at two or three different levels where the guide tells stories about the tower, the city and the fires that have devastated it. There are photos and artifacts, and great views of the city and bay.

Very knowledgeable volunteer tour guide. Nice views from top even on a cloudy/rainy day. Masks not recently required or encouraged. Lots of information provided regarding the tower and surrounding neighborhoods, as well as information provided regarding views of far away areas viewed from the tower.

If you walk through the neighborhood leading to Portland's Eastern Promenade you can't miss the Portland Observatory. It's a historic marker for ships in the nearby harbor and today is surrounded by lovely homes, small restaurants, and so forth. If you arrive at the right time, you can visit inside and see various historic displays. The whole experience of the neighborhood, the Promenade, and the Observatory is a Portland treat that is easily accessible by foot from the center of town.

i found the staff to be so congenial, friendly and informative. While my son and husband walked all around the outside deck of the observatory, i stayed inside the viewing box and had the nicest conversation with one of the docents, who pointed out all the sites viewable from the excellent vantage point. Enjoyed this the most of everything we did in Portland!

The Portland observatory is well worth a visit. The docents are extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Amazing views of Portland.

this is a historical structure, with great view of the Portland bay area, and interesting structure.

What a fun way to get a sense of Portland waterfront landscape and to learn a little history as well. Lovely receptionist and tourguides. Breathtaking view

Interesting place to learn about Portland in the early days of its seagoing history. Breathtaking views from the top. Guide gives you lots of history and time to "rest" between flights if you want. Self guided tours are also available.

Great views of the city of Portland from the Observatory. Guide gave us an informative tour on each level. Interesting and educational - great way to learn about earlier times.

It's the same price to go to the top alone or with a guide....so wait for the guide! Its worth the wait to get so much more information.

Stopped by to look at the site. Two ladies gave us a wealth of information on the tower, the three Light houses that are close to the site. Also a very good dining establishment was also passed on to us. A foggy day but a great place to spend an hour or nore.

This is the last surviving example of a maritime observatory. The building is actuallt not connected to the ground, but is held in place with stone ballast! Choose from a self or guided tour and learn about the history of Portland and the observatory. Great views at the top!

The Portland Observatory is a great historical place with a rich history. You can see everything from up here! Worth the trip.

The Observatory is amazing. You get to climb to the top, it is a little over a hundred steps to the top. You can not get a better view than the top of the observatory. While you work your way to the top you get to see pictures and read about the history and building of the observatory.

Fascinating spot, with outstanding Maine hospitality. We arrived just as a tour was beginning so the lady at the admissions desk said we could pay on the way out. The docent, Peter, was very knowledgeable and friendly and our climb to the top was rewarded by what must have been the freshest breeze available on this unusually hot (97 degree) day!

Well laid out with historical exhibits on the 1st floor & on landings as you climb up. Pleasant docents, & fair admission amount. Views from windows give a great panorama of Portland!

The Portland Observatory allows a trip into the past before radio. It was a clever way for merchants to be prepared when a ship with their products were about to make port. The building is restored beautifully and there is plenty of information on the steep climb to the top.

Wonderful small attraction. The each floor has interesting historical exhibits, including the details of the structure of the building and renovation of same. The building was constructed to notify the town when ships entered the harbor, so that people would know that unloading work was available, The view from the to is fabulous and the docents are friendly and helpful. I didn't take the tour - I walked around on my own which was great. I cannot recall the entry fee but was minimal.

The Views were 360 and the tour guide was awesome and very knowledgeable. You could see for miles!!!

We started our trip here so we could see Portland from the top. We took the guided tour and it cost us $30 for the family pass. The guide was full of information and the history was interesting. The views from the top are just beautiful.

We arrived at the Observatory after a long day of touring Portland. As it turned out, we saved the best for last! The structure sits atop Munjoy Hill, with a commanding view of the city and its harbor. It has an interesting history and interesting architectural features, all of which we learned about as we slowly wound our way to the top of the tower, led by Sue, our exceptional and engaging guide. Sue brought the details of the observatory to life with her wonderful gift of storytelling. Without Sue it would have been a pleasant but not exciting visit. With her, it was delightful and memorable!

Was on vacation in June and it happened to be flag day so we got free admission. That was a major plus. There are lots of interesting things to see and the people were knowledgeable. Really cool view at the top!

It’s only by guided tour and locks you into 45 minutes and lots of stairs, but still very enjoyable if even a bit TOO much tour information before you get to see the view

Beautiful views and picture taking spots. Parking was easy and it was a short walk to the light house.

This place is awesome! The history of Portland is very unique. Had no idea how important Portland has been for centuries. The kids loved the view! Will come back for sure. Peg, Karen, and Barbara made the experience wonderful!

We really enjoyed getting to go up into the observatory and look out over Portland, Maine. The volunteers that man the tower are all exceptionally friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful (they even gave us great advice for other attractions and the best restaurants). There were 4 senior citizens in our group and they were all able to climb the 100 steps up into the tower. What really helps is that on each level (about 30 stairs) there is a rest station and historical posters.

The best view of Maine with the Fort Knox Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory being a very close close 2nd. The walk up you get to enjoy large story boards painting a picture of the history of the observatory. Check to see if Stacy is volunteering at the top because you will be enveloped with rich and interesting stories for as long as you can listen. My wife and I listened to his stories for over an hour and it was a highlight of our trip. I forget the other lovely volunteer at the entrance but her recommendations for our visit up the coast created even more wonderful memories. Cost was $10 for a non-senior adult without AAA.

While on a Portland Discovery Trolley tour we went by the Portland Observatory and head about its interesting history. It was built in 1807 and its the only wooden watch/signal tower still around. There are 103 steps to the top and it has awesome views of Casco Bay and Portland.

Didn't expect to find this gem in the heart of the City. Well maintained and staffed, historic structure offers a fantastic view and educational outlook on the history of shipping and it's relation to Portland. All stairs, no elevator...but well worth the gentle climb!

As they clearly like to point out this is NOT a lighthouse. Really cool and well worth the tour – there is a lot of interesting info on how the owner turned ships arriving in the old days into a lucrative business.

The Portland Observatory is of historic significance. The observatory was built in 1807 it served to communicate with ships providing two way communications. There were both a telescope and signal flags that were used in the day. The observatory is worth a visit as it is iconic to Portland.

what a beautiful observatory., I could overlook all of portland. and the view was Fabulous.i would recommend this to everyone to visit.

Weren't sure what to expect when we stopped here. Was a slightly foggy day and were only charged local rates! Highly recommend taking a guided tour. Very interesting history about this structure. Our guide was very knowledgeable; each floor holds another tidbit of history. Takes about 30 mins. Don't recommend taking very young children.

This is a great place to learn the history of Portland and the ships. There are several flights of stairs so not for the non climbers. Lots of artifacts to look at and read.

Thought ticket was for a self guided visit but is was actually a guided tour. Good view, good information, it was worth the hour.

They offer a free guided tour or you can tour yourself. My grandmother was able to climb the stairs and she said it was not too bad. They have different models on each floor that takes you through history. Neat view from the top.

We almost always show visiting friends this historic tower built on Munjoy Hill in 1807 and owned by by Lemuel Moody. It has been attractively restored by the city of Portland. The city is a peninsula by a tidal basin, a river, and by Casco Bay and numerous islands, all of which are visible from the tower's cupola, 88 feet above Munjoy Hill and 222 above sea level. Volunteer docents and informative panels give you plenty of informaiton.

There are stairs to climb, but they are old, historic stairs, and the guides are great in explaining details of this historic structure - plus you get great views from the observation level.

Many times to Portland and this was my first trip to the Observatory! We walked from the Old Port - a pleasant walk (and an excuse to stop by the bookstore Print!). There are lots of stairs, and the top level is very small but lovely. The views are great, but the old glass, the docent, the wooden details... all so quaint! There is a family discount and a AAA discount (probably others as well). The historical information on the ways up are worth a read!

One of the best tours we had. She was very informative. Enjoyed the view from the top! It was an easy climb - stairs very easy and had a talk on each floor.

I did not expect to enjoy this visit as much as I did. I earned more about the history of Portland and especially of munjoy Hill. Would recommend it for locals and visitors both

We saw this online before our visit and walked up to see the building on a lovely sunny day. Unfortunately for us it was closed for the rest of the season but its still worth the walk. We were very lucky to speak to the Lieutenant at the Fire Station next door who took out photo and then allowed us a quick look around inside the Fire Station. These guys deserve all the praise and support they get in the US and UK.

Great place to have quality time with family great views and staff was friendly loved it nice restaurant around the location to

This is a very old (and rebuilt, largely) observation tower from which men used to monitor harbor ship traffic. You'll learn all about this and more, as well as getting a great view of the city and the harbor. You can take a Congress St. bus if you don't feel like walking up Munjoy Hill, through what used to be a sketchy neighborhood decades ago but is now just quaint, like much of Maine's largest city.

The congierge of our hotel recommanded us a visit. But we were very disappointed. The building looks like a decor and the spot is dull.

Portland Observatory Museum is the only remaining maritime signal tower in America. There is a reasonable entrance fee and discounts for families and groups. There are guided or self guided tours available. It is definitely worth it to take the guided tour as the associates are very knowledgeable and you get to hear more historical stories and specific details of the building of the tower along the way up to the top. Each separate ‘landing’ of the tower has informational displays about the tower, its history and the surrounding area. Once you reach the top there are the beautiful views of the Portland harbor area.

Fun way to spend 30 minutes or so. The kids really liked it. There is a free tour that is included with admission or you can just read the signs yourself.

Climb 104 steps for the best views of Portland. On a sunny day it's worth the trip for sweeping views of the water, dotted with ships big and small. You can ascend to the top with a guided group or on your own, learning about the history of the structure as you go. By the time you head back down you'll understand why the Observatory is the pride of Portland.

The views of all of Portland and the surrounding areas is spectacular. The explanatory material is very informative and interesting. We really enjoyed the fact that the wood that was replaced during renovations was left unstained so you could see the extent of the damages.

This observatory is central to Portland. It costs $10 adults and $5 for children. We used our AAA discount for $2 off. Definitely get on a free tour. The history of Capt Moody is fascinating. The tower architecture is phenomenal. We enjoyed the history surrounding the tower. The views on the top are stunning. Definitely ask the guide to get a phot shot. Look at the hatchet at the bottom floor to see the foundation- it will stun you.

This is definitely a place to visit in Portland. You'll learn about its history and its importance to the city and the East Coast. Plus, you'll get a beautiful view of the city on the last floor. The staff is also really nice and kind.

Located on Congress Street near the very East End of Portland, the observatory is a short tower with over 100 steps from the street to the top of the tower. In addition to the Portland history here, the tower affords great 360 views of the entire area.

Pretty neat observatory. I've been to a few and this one is different. Kind of small but definitely had a good visit. Located right in the middle of a neighborhood. Not too much parking.

It was fun climbing to the top of the tower. A great view of Portland. A lot of history with many pictures.

We toured the observatory and it has such great history. We did the guided tour with our 10 and 7 year olds. Tour guide was a fountain of information! The kits took a lot home with them. I definitely think you get more out of the history by taking the tour guide. Tour took approximately 30 minutes. If you want to just look out over Portland so the self guided tour. The view was phenomenal!

The ticket includes an informative tour that gradually takes you to the top of the Observatory. It stops on 4 or 5 levels making it quite manageable for people like me who are, shall we say, “not thin.” Then you have time at the top to just take in the views. On my visit it was a little hazy which hurt photo ops, but it was still a beautiful day to be there.

Offers a panoramic view of all of Portland from bay to River from the top. You have 110 steps over 7 levels to climb but there are landings and chairs to rest at each level. The view from the top is spectacular on clear days.

We made a stop at the Portland Observatory on our last day in Portland, and we were pleased to be able to use that as a kind of recap to all of the wonderful experiences we had during our vacation. The birds-eye view of everything that Portland has to offer was unique, and the volunteers were eager to share the rich history of Portland and the observatory.

We did not take a guided tour, but they are available with the price of admission, so if you are interested in learning more about the history of Portland, I recommend making time for that.

Walk up the hill to this well preserved 1807 tower. Built by a sea captain to see ships coming into the harbor from far off, He would then raise color coded flags to alert the town folks about which ships would be arriving soon. $8 guided tour is very informative, lots of maps and pictures, history of Portland and history of how the tower was built . Views from top are incredible. The walk up the 100 or so steps to the top is broken up by several landings, where you stop and get some history, so the trip up does not seem too hard

After arriving in Portland we walked up from our hotel to see the Portland Observatory. We were there on time to join a tour for $10/person. The tour guide told us all about the history of the observatory, how the signaled the ships coming in, how it was built and then later restored. Very interesting and well worth the tour and walking up for the view. Very neat it still is there to learn that piece of Portland history.

A fantastic history which was imparted with enthusiasm by an excellent docent (Brian). A good insight into Portland's history.

Having been on a Portland Harbour Cruises tour around Casco Bay & the lighthouses, this was a must see place to understand the view available from the top. A full 360 degree panorama of Portland.

The display boards on four levels explain the origins of the tower, how it was constructed and how it is maintained. If you are fit enough to climb the five levels to the top I'd highly recommend the view.

Observatory was used in the last century to observe cargo ships coming into port and alert (via colored flags) shore crews as to which ship was arriving. Guided tours available, very informative. Just about the highest point in Portland; the view from top overlooks all of Portland and Casco Bay. Bring a camera!

If you haven't been, it is well worth the visit! It was a glorious day in New England and one of the spots left for us to visit was the observatory. We were really impressed. The tour was excellent and the observatory is such an interesting piece of Portland and coastal history.

The Portland Observatory is definitely something you should do on a sunny clear day. Why? Because aside from the great historical information provided to you by the knowledgeable tour guides (TAKE THE TOUR!!! It's wonderful! and not long.) the views of Portland are incredible from above. Get an idea what Portland used to look like before it became what is it today. Give yourself 30 minutes and you won't regret it.

We thoroughly enjoyed out time here. We learned a little history about Portland and enjoyed listening and talking to the docent, Laura Feder. The view was wonderful on the clear day that we were here. It was worth walking up 103 steps.

Great history of the town and the man who loved it! Views were spectacular. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and even took time at the top to discuss great food options around town!

You get great views and a bit of Portland history in a short time. Inexpensive and fun for kids too. Windy stairs to climb, but not many, and it's worth it!

You get a very good feeling for the history of the area by paying a visit to the Observatory. The staffers are passionate about this place, and the tour was extremely informative. Is a short walk form the downtown area.

How often do you get to climb a 200+ year old wooden tower? Easy climb, great views of the city and port. Very interesting peek into the history of Portland.

We went here on a clear summer day and found the docent tour relaxed and informative. You travel up 6 floors, stopping at each floor for info. The small space at the top gives wonderful views of Portland in all directions and on our clear sunny day it was delightful to be up there. Docent tours are included with admission, or you can read the information at your own pace.

It's about 30 minutes nice and interesting walk from the terminal to Portland Observatory. Climbing 103 steps to the top is not regrettable because once you are at the top you can observe and enjoy the magnificent and extraordinary views of Portland and Casco Bay. This 1807 signal tower is the only remaining wooden maritime signal tower in USA. for a modest admission fee you can get fascinating history information on this Observatory from well trained and friendly staff.

We went on a warm Sunday, it was not crowded at all. Just a litttle walk up from some of the hotels and courthouse area. Glad it was a little breezy, but they also had some fans on most of the levels ascending the observatory. Lots of cool info if you take the time to read the visual displays. The docent at the top was very knowledgeable and friendly, never seemed to tire of our numerous questions. Too bad it was a hazy day as we could not see very far at all, but was still nice to be above the city and get a good view inland. All in all, worth the admission for sure and I’d go again if the opportunity presented itself on a clear day.

Interesting to visit, knowable guide. Have to climb to top, but views were worth it and learnt some interesting facts.

We both thought this was very interesting, we'd never heard of a signal tower like this. It went well with a visit to the lighthouse later in the day, both are an interesting part of Maine's history. You do need to climb 100+ steps, but it is done in short bursts. The tour went on just a bit too long for me. Great views from the top. Would have liked to see some of the flags. About an hour.

We visited after a mailboat cruise so had a terrific view of where we had been plus neat views of town in every direction. There were docents up top and below and informative displays on every level (5 or 6?). The tower is a great piece of history.

Don't be daunted by the idea of climbing stairs: the guided tour takes 30 minutes to reach the top. You stop on multiple floors for approximately 5 minutes each to look at exhibits--maps, artifacts--and hear what your guide has to say. On each floor, you can sit on a chair if you want. Every floor has windows. Then up one more flight. Great view from the top. You come down on your own. It's an interesting, worthwhile tour. You find out a lot about the history of Portland.

I climbed the Portland Observatory with an 86 year old friend. When the people tending the Observatory that day saw my friend, they gave us what, I think, was a special tour. Our tour leader, Stacy, stopped and told us things about the history of the Observatory at every level (climb a flight of stairs/sit and get some info) so that my friend was able to complete the climb and not even get winded. She was thrilled that she was able to do the climb and I was thrilled that we had such a patient guide with so much info. They usually have a person at the top of the Observatory and one at the bottom. Stacy stayed at the top and my friend and I were able to descend slowly at our own pace too. It was great. Thank you Greater Portland Landmarks for keeping this place opened. It is a wonderful historical place and a great view from the top.

This place is about a 3/4 mile walk from the pier area but worth the trip. This is the only observatory of its type left in the U.S. just as a warning, there is no elevator, you climb some narrow steps. However, you do stop at almost each level and get some additional info about the observatory and the history of Portland. Our volunteer guide was Jeff and he was very knowledgeable and answered all questions that were asked. The tour takes less than an hour so it is well worth making the trip there if you are in Portland

What an impressive piece of history! I really enjoyed this attraction. We climbed all 108 stairs to the top for some spectacular views via the self guided tour route as we had kids who wouldn't be patient enough for the guided tour. The kids enjoyed it and were impressed by how tall it was. I would return again and try the guided tour so I could learn more than what was on the fact sheet for the self guided tour.

Of our cruise ship buddies, no one stopped at this site as they thought it was just a light house and there are so many things to do in Portland! Well, it's not a lighthouse but was designed to be a simple but effective communication medium back in the day. It's subscription service to companies/vessels designed a unique flag for each one and hung them from the tower. This enabled the towns folk to know what merchandise was coming in.

The structure itself is historic and quite a marvelously constructed wooden building. Unlike a lighthouse regular internal platforms have stations with information about the significance of both the structure, as well as Portland.

The view from the top is a phenomenal 360 of the city and the harbor. We did the self guided tour as we didn't want an overload of information from a docent. We were happy with our choice, but we passed a docent tour that certainly had the group captivated.

We were there over an hour, fascinated but the exhibits and the view. We learned so and we're so excited by "our discovery" that we were pretty darn good at telling its tale in a way that resulted in some of our cruise buddies' commenting that they had no idea what a treasure they missed seeing.

We did the guided tour. Knowledgeable docent. The view from the top was very nice. I am not sure what it would be like if the weather had not been so clear ... so I would consider the weather before heading up there.
Walking around the neighborhood was also interesting as this is a little bit further away from the main Portland attractions.

Great history tour. Staff is so helpful and nice. Very interesting history of the port. They even directed us to a great lunch spot. Not to hard a walk even to the top since they stop at each level. Joe was a great guide

The observatory has a good view after you've climbed over 100 rather steep steps. The history of the building is interesting. It's a 20 minute or more walk from the old port. I would recommend driving since it's in a neighborhood on a hill with parking. It's OK but nothing special.

This was a great initiation to Portland! Do the guided tour, these volunteers know SO much about the history of the Observatory, Portland and the US!! Susan walked us up to the top with interesting stories on each floor. Definitely a TO DO for tourists or people just moving to Portland.

Great view when you finally get to the top. Plenty of historical information if you're into that. A little pricey for what it is. A "family" is two adults and three children. If you bring grandpa, he's not family, and will be charged the senior rate.

My husband and I walked to the observatory from Commerical Street where we were staying. We decided to take the tour which last about 30 minutes. We happened to be the only ones in the observatory so we had the chance to have a private tour. Our guide was very knowledgable and clearly enjoyed sharing the history of the building. Walking all the way to the top was well worth the views. There was a guide at the top who we talked to us more about Portland and the things he enjoyed. We got great views of Portland and the harbor surrounding it and the guide at the top was also willing to take our photo for us. Definitely a must see.

This is a great way to spend a bit of time in Portland. I was fascinated by how the tower came together and how most of the original materials are still in place. You're literally walking around and breathing in history. Each floor of the tower is set up as a mini exhibit, detailing aspects of the tower and the surrounding community. Do yourself a favor and hop on any of the free tours given. Our guide was very knowledgeable and able to point out fun facts along the way. The view from the top is lovely!

Tip: Though this may be obvious - this is a historic landmark - meaning there aren't modern conveniences like an elevator. Take caution walking up and down the stairs as they are narrow.

Booked our tour online an hour before the visit. Kids had a good time taking in the views from the top. Tour guide is dedicated and really well informed.Very interesting for all ages ! An hours worth totally.

The observatory has quite the interesting history and construction (we learned about it on the Firetruck tour first). Beautiful view from the top and there was a docent at the beginning and the end to answer questions.Not a toughwalkbut there are 104 steps to the top.

The greatest 360 degrees view of this great city on a perfect day! The climb up the 104 steps was not difficult at all. My 69 year old mom made it to the top, we opted for the self guided tour and enjoyed it very much. Crazy to know that these looks outs are obsolete due to the 2-way radio and no longer in use. Thankfully this one still exists to share a bit of history.

The ladies that were running this joint were awesome. Very nice and knowledgeable. The stairs are steep but worth the view at the top. Lots of history!

I highly recommend the Portland Observatory tour for fans of local history or maritime history. The tour leads you from the main floor (intro information, gift shop) to the observation deck up top, and you stop on each level for information about the construction and purpose of the observatory, important events in its history, the biography of the original owner and his family, and different aspects of shipping in the area. If you're not in town for long and on the fence, you can definitely do the tour in about an hour while on your way to the Eastern Promenade, and the top offers a full view of the area and the bay on a clear day.

The docent gave us a wonderful tour of the observatory. Very interesting and fascinating. Views at the top were great.

I’m so glad we stopped here! Volunteers take you up to the top and provide a fun tour with lots of information about the observatory. Lots of steps, but you can rest on each level if you need to. Restrooms right next door at the fire department. This is a place to learn something you probably didn’t know before! Go see it!

Went here while visiting Portland at the suggestion of our guide on a lighthouse boat tour. She told us how they had no mail back then and sailors had no way of letting their loved ones know they were entering the port on a ship. So they came up with unique flags for each family and would wave them from the ship to the observatory which would then let their families know they were safe and coming home. Pretty cool!

There is no parking except along the busy street. The public restrooms are beside the fire station next door.

The architecture of this is amazing with lots of steps to go up so obviously it's not for those with mobility problems. At each landing along the way there are photos of the history of the observatory and then at the top there is a guide to answer questions. You can also pay extra to go on a guided tour. We chose to go on our own.

The views were spectacular, but it's tight at the top. Maybe 10 people or so could fit up there so I could see this becoming quite jammed if there were a lot of people. Thankfully we were there in the middle of the week without any problems.

Great short jaunt while in Portland!

We almost chose not to do this,but glad we did. Check their hours- we went on a Wednesday night and it was not crowded at all and the tour was $10 per person and self guided with a docent at the top to answer any questions. The history was interesting as there were story boards on each floor on the way to the top to tell the story of the observatory. It’s worth the money for the incredible views on a gorgeous evening!

Absolutely the best lighthouse tour we took in Maine!! Too bad someone stole the Fresnel lens. The views are spectacular but Barbara, our guide, said she loved giving tours on foggy days the best. Barbara is an excellent guide and very knowledgeable. However she tried to tell us the stairs to the ballast had been removed but Peg let us go down to see the ballast. We laughed more on this stop than any other stop in Portland!

Full disclosure- we know this isn’t a lighthouse! It’s a navigational aid. It never had a light. There are no stairs to the see the ballast. We wrote this review just for Barbara and Peg who are wonderful.

We went up to the top with a tour guide that had a great deal of knowledge about the tower and the city of Portland. The views were super. This is a must do while visiting Portland.

First make sure you make advanced reservations! I thought this was a worthwhile tour filled with really interesting information and a nice, unique view from the top. I’m not aware of other locations that have this view. You will be part of a 35-45 minute group tour with a docent so be prepared for that. And you’ll climb some stairs too. Really worth the $10 and check out Washington Avenue on. Munjoy Hill for a nice pre/post meal. There were also some cute neighborhood spots very close to the observatory if that’s more convenient.

If you are staying in Portland, I would definitely stop in here. It was only $10 and such an interesting piece of history with beautiful views. A little uphill hike but worth it.

The Portland Observatory is SUCH a gem. First, it's over two hundred years old and very much reflects the history of Portland itself. Their excellent volunteer docents will give you a perfect overview of both the Observatory and the city's history. But the real win is the view: the top of the Observatory is by far the best view of the city and the bay. You'll want to stay up there!

Stacy was an outstanding volunteer who told us so many stories and history that this was a fantastic deal and educational opportunity. It doesn't look very high from the ground floor looking up but the views on the way to the top are spectacular since the observatory is built on a mountain. There were very informative exhibits on each floor and there was a 5-10 minute story and history on each floor which allows plenty of breaks to recover from the stair climbing.

The portland observatory was visited on alovley sunny day.
The lady was very friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgable. Interesting place and glade it has been saved. Pretty views over Portland and worth the climb $10.

My brother's fiance wanted to check out this place during out cruise, and let me just say, "Go See It!" Take the guided tour and enjoy the amazing history of this place. it's a bit of a climb up the stairs, but well worth the effort (great view on top as well). The tour guides are very knowledgeable and the history is fascinating. They even have a model of the observatory from when it was rennovated a few years again, and even that was interesting. A bit of a walk from the dock where our cruise ship was, but worth it as well (and good exercise). It's kind of an icon on historical landmarks and restoration. Even if you're not really interested in history and such, the place just oozes personality. I highly recommend this place.

If you don't mind and can handle stairs, this place combines interesting history with a great view of most of Portland and beyond. Each floor has a small museum space, and the docents are very friendly and helpful.

A great treat to climb the very manageable stairs. Landings provide a glimpse into Portland Maine’s complex history. The story is s bit off , but history belongs to the victors. The panorama at the top is serene and majestic no matter how crowded it may be. A great gulp of fresh air.

Walk up 100 stairs on a winding staircase to see the most beautiful views of the city!! It was used in the past to alert the town to what ships were in the harbor. Very historic and gorgeous sites!!

Great place to visit with an excellent view of all Portland. It has spiral stair case that is easy to walk up

I was under the impression from other reviewers this was open during the winter but please be warned it’s actually closed! We walked over, ~15 in cold weather to discover it’s closed until late May.

For $6.00 ( senior rate) we had our entry fee which included a 30 min tour of the Observatory if we wanted. We learned a lot of the workings of the area and purpose and history of the structure from our friendly guide.

If you go to Portland, this should be on your list. This was my favorite thing we did in the city - so interesting, run well, free parking, and great views. Very knowledgeable and nice docents. Peg was THE BEST!

We were skeptical about doing the tour, but it is very interesting and well worth the visit! The guide, Barbara, did a great job in sharing the history and made it very interesting and fun! Would definitely recommend this for anyone visiting Portland. It only takes 30 minutes or so.

After Portland tour on the fire truck, walked up to observatory 107 steps in stages, quite easy. Great view, lovely day and colluded see Mt Washington.

What a cool little hidden gem in the city of Portland! It has an amazing view of Portland from the top and the tour was only about 30 minutes, the perfect length, and gave a great overview of not only the significance of the mast marine signalling tower in the entire U.S., but the history of Portland too. It was $8 for a student ticket and I highly recommend you take the tour. Plus, ask them to open up the floor board in the gift shop and entrance area to see the rocks that hold down the foundation.

This is well worth the time -- a great piece of Portland history, staffed with people who love the observatory and the city, capped off with an amazing view of Portland and the harbor. Brought my teenagers along and they felt that the payoff at the top of the tower was definitely worth the effort.

The Observatory is the last of its kind and the staff were really knowledgeable and passionate about its history. Amazing views of Portland from the top, well worth the 104 step climb.

Great panoramic view of the city. You climb 7 flights of stairs but you can stop/sit on each level if u need too. If you have AAA you get a discount on the admission.

Enjoyed the guided-tour of the observatory. Learn some history of old Portland along with the great views from the top floor. A nice 1-hour touristy visit.

Came across the observatory while walking through Portland and decided to join a tour and see the view. Everyone there was extremely knowledgeable and excited to teach myself and two kids about the unique architecture and history. A little pricey for a small venue/short tour, but their maintenance costs are understandably high so we were happy to donate to a worthy cause.

The Portland Observatory would be worth the price of admission for the view alone. But the floor-by-floor tour given by the docents offers a rich, entertaining history of the tower and the city. This was easily one of the most surprisingly delightful attractions in Portland.

I was a little skeptical about going to this place, not because of the historical standpoint but of is it actually worth the time to check it out. It was definitely worth the time to check out this historical Portland landmark. I would highly recommend doing the guided tour because of the additional information provided by her and she answers all of the questions you have. You can do a self-guided tour, but you'll miss a lot of facts that aren't posted or displayed. I will warn you that during the summer it does a bit warm inside, but once you reach the top and the breeze hits your face, it is worth the steps and sweat. I will say this, even my 15 year old daughter and her friend said that they were not excited about going initially but afterward they said they really did enjoy the tour and all of the historical information provided.

Lived in Portland over 30 years and finally went for a tour of the Portland Observatory. Very interesting history about Portland, schooners/shipping and the structure itself. Highly recommend!

The Portland Observatory is a gem in downtown Portland. We did the first tour of the day, and the group was about 8 people. The docent was really knowledgable and encouraged questions. At the top, we had a spectacular view that included Mount Washington! I'm so glad I brought my binoculars.

Such a funny location in a neighborhood but worth walking up the hill to visit. $10 general admission discounts available. I was the only one from our group that went up —7 levels of small narrow stairs but worth it for the views from the top. A nice stop.

If you walk from the waterfront area it's a uphill walk, so be prepared. The history of this building and of the man who built it is very interesting. The structure itself is amazing for the time period it was built. I think there were 130 steps to the top of it. Go see it while in Portland.

You can climb to the top of this observatory on Munjoy Hill and see way out into Casco Bay, as well as the city of Portland and South Portland.

Terrific view of the City below, unique historic structure -- only remaining signal tower (not a lighthouse but it looks like one) in US (I think). Nice exhibits. Lots of steps to climb, but worth it.

I wasn’t sure what to expect of, what I perceived to be an empty tower, but I was pleasantly surprised by the historical information which was presented in such a simple format that made it thoroughly interesting. The guide, Alessia (apologies if I’ve spelt this wrong), was very informative and clearly passionate about the history of the the observatory which helped to make it a throughly enjoyable experience. Many thanks, I would recommend a visit.

Really interstellar history here. The long and the short of it, a man by the name of Mooney figured out a way to communicate with the docks below and ships at sea. This was a signaling tower built in 1805. Place is still in pristine shape and make sure you take the tour. Price is a little much, but well worth it...the view of the bay are breathtaking and should not be missed

We had so much fun visiting the observatory. We were there on Flag Day, and admission was free! There was a guy singing sailor sea shanty songs throughout the building. The view from on top was the best in Portland. Can't recommend enough!

Tour guide gave some very interesting facts about Portland's history. The guide stopped at each level so the walk up was not too strenuous and the view from the top was lovely.

10.00 to walk up the winding stairs to the top, history of building interesting
I feel as if we paid for the view. Which was beautiful

This is worth the uphill walk to the observatory AND the 140 steps to the top BUT ist is so worth the effort. The history is amazing and the views are divine. We felt lucky to have the opportunity to see this historic site.

The views from the top are spectacular and the historical information provided by the tour guide helped create an entertaining and unique visit. I liked that each level had additional information available and increased the anticipation of the breathtaking views at the top as the views got better the higher we went! We had a lot of fun and I'm glad I included a stop here during our trip to Portland.

I learned the history, about signal flags and spent a couple of minutes at the top. Tip: Kids under 12 will not enjoy it much from my perspective and there are 4 flights of stairs. You often have to wait on the 3rd floor for space on the top one.

Wow this is definitely worth seeing! Couple of flights of stairs but the view of Portland is amazing! Must see!!!!

Easy it you can walk up stairs and down. 103each way. And if you're chasing a 6 year old,it'll be more than once. You can actually step outside at the top for the breathtaking view. Especially when the wind is blowing and you can feel the structure moving.

Definitely do not leave Portland without stopping at the observatory. There are a lot of steps and if you are scared of heights - would not recommend. Otherwise - stunning views!

It's a 6 story wooden signal tower. Other than being old, there's little historical significance. The museum portion is a joke with no artifacts and just a film loop to watch with two chairs in front of it. There is a 10 dollar tour but the guide has not enough facts about old portland and there was not one bit of humor.

The history of the observatory and the views were incredible. Our guide was really cool and I recommend that everyone come and see this landmark. $10 per person really can’t be beat.

Here on a cruise ship and took the hop on, hop off trolley ride and this was stop #2. If you enjoy history and excellent views this is a must see. If you are a AAA member or student there is a $2 discount to $8 for a well informed guided tour to the top.

My grandsons had a blast climbing the stairs to the top and didn’t mind that we could only see about 20’ in the fog. Great displays and we appreciated the free paper binocs for the boys. Can’t wait to go back on a clear day!

We opted for the docent tour and thoroughly enjoyed our visit here. I m always so thankful that people are willing to volunteer their time to share history of local areas. When we reached the top there was another docent so we sat on the benches and had two docents to interact with and to question.

Barbara, our docent, was very informative and incorporated some information utilizing the locations that tourists were from which made our experiences more personal.

Have you ever gone somewhere and encountered a group of people who really love what they do, and this makes the experience even better? My BF and I went on this tour at the end of the day, wandering in and looking to learn more about the history of Portland. We paid a woman at the bottom of the steps (hello AAA discount!!) and she was very informative! She gladly opened the trap door and showed us the ballasts beneath, and was so enthusiastic with her history. It was great. We then took our time on a self guided tour and made our way to the very top, where we were met by another tour guide who provided us with information about Portland, past and present. She was phenomenal. I believe she was the assistant manager. She was able to show us the different views from atop the tower which were absolutely beautiful. I could watch boats sailing in and out of the harbor all day. She also gave us great dinner recommendations, staying past closing to have a conversation with us. In short, I loved the views, loved the history and loved the staff. Well worth it.

Excellent experience! Eric was our Docent and provided an amazing visit with so much detail that made the visit well worth it. I wasn’t sure what this tower was used for but now I understand the visionary concept that revolutionized the town and port.

Spectacular views and great view of the shipping channel. This visit helped clearly see the needs of the various beautiful of the area.

You have the option of doing a self-guided tour or going with a tour guide. I opted for the tour guide and enjoyed listening to her talk about the city of Portland and how the Observatory came to be. Yes, there are quite a few steps (spaced out on 6-7 levels) and the climb gets narrower as you make your way to the top. Once you get to the top, however, THE VIEWS OF PORTLAND ARE AMAZING!! You can walk out onto and around the observation area. Only takes about 30 minutes with the tour guide, less if you go alone.

Beautiful view of Portland and interesting history.. We took the guided tour which was very informative. There are a lot of stairs.. but you stop on each floor while the guide gives more info.
Do bring your AAA card for a discount.

You'll get a very nice view of Portland and the history of the observatory is also interesting. The guides are very knowledgeable.

We visited the Portland Observatory in July 2017 with our two kids (ages 7 & 8). It was a little rainy that morning, so we were looking for an indoor activity. We paid our admission fee, and waited about five minutes for the next tour. You are able to do a self-guided tour as well if you don't want to wait for the group. Our docent was very informative, and we thought it was interesting to learn how important and more efficient the use of the tower made the harbor of Portland in the days before two way radios. Definitely recommend if you are interested in learning more about Portland's history, and the entire tour probably took about 30-45 minutes.

The place was very nice and the employees were very friendly.If you like history it's a place to visit.

Really interesting restored building. Looks like a lighthouse and commands amazing views from the lantern at the top. 360 degree views. Could even see Mt Washington in the distance. On each floor there are interesting displays explaining the history of the structure. Informative guides.

Lovely visit to the Portland Observatory.

We had intended on a self-tour but were told that self tours would start at 4:30pm…and that before that time, you would have to take a toured guide up the tower. As there was a scheduled guide about to start soon…we opted to take the guided tour. At that time (mid-week in late August around 12pm) there were only four of us on that tour.

Our tour guide, an older woman, was wonderful. As we ascended the tower during the 45-minute tour, we stopped off at each floor and she explained a bit about the tower and its history. Lots of interesting facts!

We made it to the top to take in some amazing views of the area.

Tours are $10 for adults, $5 for ages 6-16 and free for those 5 and under.

The stairs (there are about 100) throughout the tower are spiral-ish…so be careful of your foot placement on the narrowed parts of each step while ascending and descending.

Street parking signs can be a bit tricky in the area reading “…no parking on the 1st/2nd/3rd/4th ___day of the month…” Be sure to properly read those signs and park accordingly.

An easy climb up the 214 stairs. Each floor had exhibits about the building of the Observatory and stories about it's history.

This observatory is well kept. The terra cotta color is different from most observatories. Beware of the opening times, it is not open all year round.

We had a nice tour of the observatory on the last weekend tours offered in October. It's just.a twenty minute or so tour and was a neat introduction to the history of the town and it's located right by the historical cemetary.

Tour was excellent. Our guide was very informative and view from the top is spectacular. Great way to learn a little history of the city of Portland!

Looks like a lighthouse, but it's not. It was built on a hill, to watch for ships coming in and then putting out flags to signal the locals. Very interesting historical information on the walls inside. If you have mobility issues this is not the place for you. I think it was 6 levels and some steep stairs. The view from the very top was fabulous and worth the price of admission. Family rate $30. No parking lot, so park on a side street nearby.

A friend, my wife, and I were warmly welcomed by Peggy and then provided a guided tour by Dan. The story of Captain Lemuel Moody, the entrepreneurial builder of the observatory, and the success of his business plan (notwithstanding the embargo act of 1807, the year the observatory was completed), is fascinating, as is the ship-like design of the building, including the granite-rock ballast "below deck." Be sure to ask for the trap door to be opened to see what is keeping the observatory anchored. And the picture showing how rural Congress St. was at this location in 1807 is unforgettable. Our entire experience was very special.

A history of Portland is shown through small but excellent exhibits on the several landings on way up and down. An unworried and not scary vantage point from the top. Cheery and helpful attendants.

Fantastic view, great summary of Portland's history. We bypassed the guided tour, and it was the best decision we made. Do the self-guided.

We stumbled across the Portland Observatory while wandering the city, and we were so glad we did. We paid the few dollars to climb up. It's not too strenuous, but offers amazing 360 views of the city and water. Docents were standing by at the top to answer questions and tell visitors all about the city, observatory, nearby lighthouses, and the history of it all. The one who helped us was great; he answered a million questions patiently, but also gave us a lot of insight into the city today - great spots to eat, other activities to check out, and more. Definitely worth the trip if walking the city.

We'd not given much thought to visiting the Observatory but decided on a whim to stop by. The ground level has a nice diorama of information detailing the history of both the Observatory and Portland. The views, though, from the top were wonderful. Being a clear day we could see Mt. Washington in the distance as well as the islands dotting Casco Bay. Good way to spend an hour.

The view from the tower is superb. The guided tour is a good way to learn about the history of Portland and the observatory.

We caught a tour. Very interesting history of the area and the use of the tower. Great views on the top.

Portland may not be the first city you think of in regards to scenic observation decks, but the Portland Observatory, which is definitely not a lighthouse, is a landmark worth visiting.

We read about this place on TripAdvisor and decided to check it out. It is NOT a lighthouse even though it looks like one! It was designed as an observatory to notify locals when ships were arriving into the port of Portland. The facility is over 200 years old and has been renovated a few times. Lots of good information is displayed.

It is well worth an hour to see it and climb the 100+ steps to the top.

This 1807 observatory lets you see for miles around portland. The history of the observatory is super interesting!

This is a uphill walk from the wharf area in a residential neighborhood. Tours are included in admission, but you can also self tour. A tour had just started when we arrived, so we waited 20 minutes for the next tour, which ended up being just our family of four. Dan was the docent for our tour. We walked up to each level, then paused for information, then continued on to the next level. There are chairs or benches on most levels. The stairs are high and narrow and get more like a tighter spiral staircase as you go up. This might be difficult for anyone with mobility issues or with a fear of heights. The bottom floor is where you pay your entrance fee and there are some large displays there with more displays on each level. There is no A/C and not much breeze on the bottom floors, but as you a ascend, the breeze gets better. The information about the history of the observatory and the town is interesting and the views from the top are amazing. There is a small discount for AAA members. The entrance fee is a bit on the high side, but try to think of it as a donation to preserve this landmark.

Located not far from the wharf area, the Observatory provides a unique view of the city. There are also a number of interesting historical displays on each level allowing time for breaks for those not accustomed to climbing stairs. It is very doable for those who have reasonable mobility.

After an uphill walk from the waterfront, we enjoyed the guided tour of the Observatory. Learned a lot about Portland's history and about the merchants of the past century! It has a steep staircase that you have to climb to see the views of Portland's Harbor. It is an amazing sight!

the last of its kind and it sure is a beautiful place to see the views of Portland. Must see on any tour of the town.

This was a great history lesson on Portland! The people working here were fantastic! We chose to do the tour instead of the self guided tour and it was definitely worth it. They also do discounts for teachers and students as well.

I was not aware of these maritime observatories - not lighthouses - but it all made sense after the highly informative and personal tour of the Portland Observatory. The structure itself is fascinating, and even more so coupled with the rich historical context it gives to the city. Not to mention the unequalled views of the city and Casco Bay from the top. A must-see in Portland.

Definitely worth the visit with a great historical tour and an excellent view of the city and the surrounding bay.

This structure has an interesting history and a fantastic view, but it is overpriced. I recommend this if you have a lot of time, a big budget, and an interest in maritime history. Otherwise, pass on it, and do leave your kids at home. Ours were bored out of their minds.

Was a very interesting about how the observatory was built and used flags to notify merchants of what boats were coming into the port. Every ship company had its individual flag. Great tour and people were very nice.

Similar to a lighthouse but unfortunately closed this time of year, will definitely be back to learn all the history surrounding this place.

We put off visiting the observatory thinking it would be boring, but oh my goodness, it definitely was NOT! We learned some really interesting things about the history of Portland and ended the tour with breathtaking views of the peninsula and the bay. I can't believe we almost skipped this!

It was so cool learning about the history of the observatory. You get to climb to the top of it and see a beautiful view of Portland! Not air conditioned, so plan accordingly.

Very cool. 100 foot observation tower, used back in 19th century as a look out for ships coming in. Resembles a lighthouse, but isn't. Highly recommend, spectacular view.

The tower is beautiful and well maintained, the views are probably great and the staff is knowledgeable. Yet the prices are too high, even with the offer of $30 per family, that's not reasonable for a short visit of 10-15 minutes. There's only one person working there, and no elevator.

I suggest they let people walk up freely, and let visitors donate as much as they want and can. That way parents wouldn't have to wait downstairs and only let their kids go up and enjoy the view. Such places should be open to the public and affordable.

Definitely worth a visit, it will take you about an hour and you'll learn a lot about Portland's maritime history. I'd give it 5 stars, but it's somewhat limited in terms of exhibits and learning materials. View from the top is definitely worth it.

We happened upon this strange looking building en route to see the ocean. We were curious, and opted for the docent led tour. It was excellent!! We stopped on each of the seven levels, and learned a good bit about the man who built the Observatory and why! It’s a nice way to spend 35 to 60 minutes, if you don’t mind stairs and heat (in summer)!

You really do have to take the guided tour to appreciate the history and the meaning behind each level of that observatory. Lucky us we had a wonderful gentleman for our tour. He knew how to transmit his passion and knowledge of the city and the history surrounding that architectural gem.

This was a good find whilst in town, it's about a 10 minute walk from the town but it's easy to find and if you keep walking you will reach the promenade. It's good value for money and the price is the same if you would like a tour of the tower. The staff are very friendly too. The views from the top are very nice, you can see the whole of Portland including the harbour.

My husband and I took a guided tour of the observatory and enjoyed the history, architecture and stunning views. You learn a lot about Portland as well as the tower.

So amazing to see. Definitely take the free tour as the guide gives great information about the purpose of the observatory. Don't miss seeing this on your visit.

A nice and quick way to get an eagle's eye view of the entire city. Restricted hours, so plan ahead.

If anyone sought a unique view of Portland, this would be the place to go. Built in 1807, this adorable edifice stood atop Munjoy Hill in the city’s East End. When I went, the signal tower was still closed for the season, but the unusual octagonal structure itself was worth a stop. Time-limited parking was curbside. Sidewalks were uneven. The area had an extraordinary array of places to eat, drink, and shop. Historic Eastern Cemetery was just downhill on Congress Street. I liked all that I saw here; I only wish the tower had been open.

We actually walked to observatory from downtown Portland. If your used to walking uphill its great if not you may want to call a ride especially if its hot out. LOL 7 blocks never seemed so far. When we reached the observatory we were greeted very kindly. Hot and exhausted from the heat we could not get there and not go all the way to the top. I am glad we did the history and beauty were astounding!!! Don't miss this walk or ride it's a site seeing opportunity!

Very nice view of the city with an interesting guide leading you all the way to the top telling you history of the observatory.

We lucked out that we were in Portland on a gorgeous Thursday evening when the Observatory is open. The views from the top were incredible. We could see all the way to the mountains in New Hampshire. The history of the tower including its construction and use was very cool. The entrepreneur spirit from over 100 years ago reminded us modern day people who see a need and find a way to fill it. Worth taking the many steps to the top!

We spend our day off the ship walking around Portland. Our daughter, who had just recently visited here, told us it was well worth the visit and the inexpensive fee. It was. Great information given by the guide. Wonderful views of the city. Stop at every level on the way to the top. We loved it. Then go across the street and eat at the Superette.

$10 to enter but they do discounts for oap/students
Worth the walk up and learn the history behind the observatory and check out the views from the top.
There are several stairs but each floor does have reading material to break up the climb

Historic 1800's observatory. challenging and fun to climb stairs. interesting tours. nice to get away from jammed streets and stores to explore this on eastern end of the main street (COngress St) of town

For us, it is always a win situation with a visit to a observatory. We got a nice view on Portland, found some nice information about the city.

Before heading to the airport, we decided to explore around the city for a few hours. One of the spots we read about in the heart of the city is the Portland Observatory. It is one of the oldest structures in the city with a lot of associated history. It’s $10 per adult, but you can save a few bucks if you are a Triple A member.

The observatory is several stories tall, and on each floor there is some type of historical information of the building (maps, flags, models, use of the structure, etc). You can have a guided tour or use the available pamphlets to provide background of the observatory. The stairs steadily get more narrow as you head to the top and if you are tall, watch your head because the ceiling is low. When we got to the top you have a 360 degree view of the area. Because the weather was perfect you could easily see ten miles away. In fact with the right camera and lens you can see the Portland Head Light House. It is said that former employees of the tower could spot ships from 30 miles away.

We only spent about 15 minutes at the observatory but if you want a piece of history and amazing views of the city, you won’t find a better spot.

This is an interesting building that gives you insights into the history of Portland as a shipping hub. Plus, the view from the top is amazing but you have to work to get there - stairs no elevator. However, if you are semi-fit, it is definitely worth the climb.

The displays are interesting and informative. I learnt a lot in a short space of time. Would definitely go back and would recommend that any visitor to Portland come here.

This was the coolest thing we did in Portland! It’s the only remaining navigational observatory in the country, and on a clear day, you can see Mt. Washington in New Hampshire, 67 miles to the west! The guides are very knowledgeable and the views are incredible!

A worthwhile stop. In about 45 minutes on the tour, you will learn the history of the town via the life and times of this building and tits owner and in the end be rewarded by amazing views (if not foggy). But even if foggy it’s still worth the climb.

I went on a rainy foggy day so my views were not great. But the guide was knowledgeable and the history of the structure was worth the reduced rate I paid.

We used to live next to this wonderful Portland landmark on Munjoy Hill. Be sure to go up to the top for a panoramic view of the harbor and city. A truly Maine gem.

Portland is a visually attractive town and its sits on a gorgeous harbor. From the observatory, you can see virtually all of it. The observatory itself is a fascinating building.

Great trip! We arrived at approximately 10:30 am and made our way up the steps and inside to buy our tickets. There were several informational plaques located throughout the observatory that detailed the history of the structure, along with its importance. The tour guide was wonderful and led us up seven flights of stairs, while stopping at each landing and going over the observatory's history. The view from the top was absolutely breathtaking, and we were able to see 360 degrees around Portland.

Tip: I recommend spending 1 hour here if you truly want to see everything.

We parked on the street a couple of blocks away and arrived in time to buy $10 tickets for the 3pm tour, which took about 45 minutes. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the 86-foot-tall observatory and how it was used in the 1800s and early 1900s to signal the town about the arrival of ships by raising various flags. To preserve the historical nature of the building, it has not been modified to add restrooms or air conditioning, but they said the restrooms in the nearby building on the other side of the fire station were available for visitors. The windows were open with breezes blowing through so it was fairly comfortable. The tour stopped on each floor to view the interesting exhibits, hear more from the guide, and allow everyone to move upstairs at a reasonable pace. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and taking photos of Portland from the top of the observatory. Note that self-guided tours are no longer available so be sure to check the hours and time your visit accordingly. They said some unsupervised visitors had caused problems before so now all tours are guided.

My favorite building in Portland! Last week, I visited the observatory for the 5th time over the last four years, but this time it was self-guided. My other visits were guided and a different docent got me to the top each time in about 30 minutes. I have had four docents each sharing different stories or facts additional to what is on the educational boards making each visit unique and very entertaining. The educational boards on each floor do tell part of the story of Lemuel Moody, the building, and some of Portland’s unique history, but in my opinion, it is the volunteer docents that make this building so fascinating! Along with stories about Moody and the observatory, gaining an understanding of Casco Bay; its islands, lighthouses, and forts, the railroad that had served as Montreal’s winter port, multiple fires and devastation the area has encountered, Native American history, Portland’s revolutionary war influence, World War 2 ship building efforts are just some of the topics the docents touch upon that are not on the educational boards. Sure, if you only want to see the view from the top and get a real basic understanding of the observatory, self-guided works, but if you want to understand City of Portland coastal history since the 1600s, come enjoy portions delightfully served in each guided tour. So much history to learn and observe from this building! Visit on Thursday or Friday, you can share time on the first floor with Doug who is a 98 y.o. docent who actually manned the observation tower when the government took possession of the tower for WW2. No way, right? The man is amazing! Lastly, the site managers are docents as well, and their love and passion for all things mentioned are equal to the volunteers. What a deal for $10 (at the most) to climb to the top with a docent during a guided tour.

If you are a lighthouse lover then it's worth the walk to see the Observatory. It looks exactly like a lighthouse and it is very well maintained. We did not go inside, as it was a $10 admission charge for each adult.

This was a great, "don't miss" experience we definitely recommend. The climb to the top is very doable. We walked up a flight at a time and then rested for a few minutes as we listened to the tour guide discuss various aspects of the history of the observatory. We would highly recommend taking a guided tour. Our docent was very personable and knowledgeable. This is an enjoyable educational experience, and we were rewarded at the top by a spectacular view of the city. The observatory was about a 20 minute walk from our Old Port hotel. Historic Eastern Cemetery is also located on Congress Street not far from the observatory. Great experience!

Wasn’t sure what to expect but we were really impressed with the history and the views from the Portland Observatory. It was a short uphill walk from where we parked downtown so we got to explore the neighborhood as a bonus.

Great view with history - another historic must see in Portland with a great view of the city - top of observatory leads to great view of portland

Definitely worth the price of admission ($10 or $8 with AAA). You can walk up by yourself or do a tour where a docent provides info at each level. The story of why and how the observatory was built is so interesting. The view at the top is gorgeous. We sat and enjoyed it for 15 minutes while chatting with the docent. I definitely recommend doing the tour.

There are 104 steps to the top of the observatory, but it is worth the climb for the view over the bay and town. You can have a guided tour or take yourself around with the help of an information sheet. The observatory has a wonderful history. At each level in the climb, there are information boards which relate the story of the man who built it and used it to keep track of shipping in the bay. This is certainly a top attraction in Portland.

This is a different and historic way to get a 360 degree view of Portland.

Make sure to take the guided visit so you get all the history.

Nice way to see all of the beautiful Portland area. We arrived by cruise ship and walked just over half a mile to the observatory. Fee for the family was $30. You can choose guided or self guided tour. We chose to join the group. The docent was knowledgeable and it was nice for all to learn some history. The view from the top was amazing! Glad we decided to do this.

the guides here are very knowledgeable and we had the fortune of being on a tour with a local resident who added a lot of color to the narrative. Once at the top, the views are fantastic and the maps come to life. Great for families and adults of all ages.

Good view and interesting history . Not a must see but I was glad we stopped by . Great view . It was neat to walk in the neighborhood too .

A bit of a walk to the top but once there , views are excellent, 360 degrees around Portland.
Docent was able to give us a bit of history which added to the visit.
It became cloudy as we were finishing up on top and we were offered a refund on our admission fee but we declined. Nice gesture on the part of the volunteer.

Great views of Portland. The 30 minute guided tour gives you the history of the observatory and info on the surrounding areas as you climb the stairs to to the top.

We had a great time looking at all the historical exhibits that are on every floor. Our guide was very nice, and we had a wonderful panoramic view at the top. The money we paid (which was $15) was completely worth it!

We had a beautiful clear morning. The views were fantastic. Neat history and guided tour included with admission.

I was initially not too thrilled about making the "trek" to this place, as the temperature had crept up during the morning, but since the sky was clear, we decided to go for it. The lady who welcomed us in was absolutely lovely and seemed genuinely interested in the history of the place. We decided not to take the tour, but stopped and read all of the information at every level, and rested at the top where another lovely lady offered to answer any questions, but otherwise was pleasantly distant and didn't interfere with our conversation. A nice little stop in Portland. I think it'd be great fun for kids.

Great experience with a tour guide who provided lots of information and a fantastic view from the top!

Unique, great guided tour, great views. I think the last ship tower standing in the US. A piece of history you should not miss.

This beautiful salmon lighthouse structure has a fascinating history as a maritime signal station. We trudged up the 100 or so steps to take in the panoramic view at the top. Along the climb up, there are a few 'rest stops'. The first floor has a gift shop and exhibits of historic artifacts and photographs.

You will not be disappointed with the Portland city views from the top of this historic landmark.With only about 150 steps to the top, and plenty of windows and resting spots on the way up, you just can't beat the 360 degree panoramic views.

We took the harbor views tour and we loved it! The tour guide was wonderful, she had a lot of information about the islands. After the boat tour we hopped on the trolley tour and enjoyed that too!

We did manage to go on a beautiful clear day in September, but having visited Portland before this unique building was a favorite attraction for us! We were there early enough to see Mt. Washington which is over 60 miles away in New Hampshire. But my favorite part was the tour and the tour guide whose name I cannot recall but he did a wonderful job. If you skip the tour there is a lot of reading and I think you'd miss where the Observatory's builder carved his initials. Again, we found this well worth the cost of admission; however, we had a spectacular day weather wise.

visited today it was awesome. 140 steps but worth every one. When you reach the top the view is magnificent..well worth the climb.$10 adults $8 seniors bring binoculars..the view is beautiful and you can see clearly all the small private Islands
Off the coast of Old Port Wharf. Make this a stop when you visit Portland

The Last remaining 7 story wooden light tower. We had a guided tour for 45 minutes, very interesting and good 360* view of waterfront and city. Well worth your time and money.

We walked to the observatory to find it closed! It is open May to October only. This year it closed October 10th!

Great timber framed observatory used for spotting sailing ships coming into the bay. You can see much of the lay of the land around portland and the islands.

We really enjoyed our tour of the Portland Observatory. Having spent most of my life in Texas and Colorado, I really did not know what this was. Yes, the Observatory reminds you of a lighthouse, but it is not a lighthouse. The Observatory was constructed during a time when communication was challenging - no phones or other rudimentary means of sending messages existed. So this was used for people to spot ships coming in to port and flags were raised to let workers know it was time to come to the dock and unload the cargo. There is a ton more history involved in the Observatory that you can learn on the approximately 90 minute tour. Of course, there are plenty of photographic opportunities and certainly some of the best views of the city from the top of the tower. There are a lot of steps, but you stop and rest several times on different floors as your guide provides details of the tower. We were there in June and it was really warm inside as it is not airconditioned. Don't miss this unique part of Portland's history.

This was a great tour. It was really well laid out with lots of good information plus docents available. And the views from the top were fantastic! Great way to see Portland!

We enjoyed learning all about the history of the Portland Observatory. It was about a 15 minute walk (mainly uphill) from our hotel. We paid $10 each to get in. They do offer discounts for students, seniors and military. On each level on the way up are displays that you can read that tell you all about the landmark. The steps leading up to each level are quite steep so it might be difficult for anyone who might have trouble with stairs or taking small children. The docents at the very top were so nice and helpful and answered any questions we had. I would recommend this tour if you want to learn more about the history of Portland.

I've lived on the Hill for more than five years and never took the time to visit the observatory until I was looking for something to do with my parents when they visited. I'm so glad I finally went. It's more than just a tower you climb up. The structure is CHOCK FULL of amazing historical information about my neighborhood, the characters who shaped it, and you get rewarded with a great view at the top. There is a discount on admission for Portland residents, too. I heard you can even get married up there!

Climb the 104 steps including the 17 outside leading to the building (87 steps were actually inside). There was some heavy fog so we couldn’t see much, but it was still a nice view from what we saw. The volunteer at the top was very knowledgeable and nice to talk to.

Wonderful Place To Really See the City, Plenty of Place Around the Observatory for Coffee, A Bit To Eat. a Nice Walk to the Promenade.

Fully guided tour was informative. Portland Observatory is the only signal tower left standing in the US. Appreciated learning its construction and operation. Gained insight into Portland's history and topography as well. Reasonably priced ($10 per adult, $8 senior) and worth your time. Great 360 deg views at the top.

This was a great stop for us. we were able to get great views of the city from here...it doesn't look high from below. do the guided tour!

This was the perfect first stop on a quick trip to Portland. Our family of five (including three young) decided to start here as a great way to get acquainted with the city and learn a little bit about its history. The 104 steps was easy enough for all of us. Watch your head at the top. Docents were helpful and were available to answer questions without being part of a tour. The view was incredible!

A very interesting time spent and our guide was knowledgeable about the Observatory and local history. Great views of Portland from the top of the building

Well worth the donation to go to the top. Great view , not to busy. Very informative with the displays on each floor which gives you plenty of time to rest as you make your way to the top.

We had a great tour from Karen. She knew lots of fun facts not only about the building but also about the family. She also had some interesting information about the Great Portland Fire. If you like to go up in high towers for city views this is a great place to see Portland.

We came here to see the views of Portland (which were great), but we were pleasantly surprised to see how each floor of the observatory had a lot of information on the history of Portland and the observatory!

Love the place. Brought friends from Paris to see the view. New panels really capture the history as you climb the stairs. Great history. Great views.

We came for the views and abit of local history. Warning it did require us to walk up 4 flights of stairs.

We came to the Observatory to learn a little about the history of Portland and got more than what we bargained for. This is a great stop. We learned about architecture, the history of the city, and we got some great views of the area once we got to the top.

A friend and I stopped by for a visit while we were in Portland. The steps seem daunting, but they weren't bad at all. I recommend waiting for a guide and walking up with him or her. We were guided by Richard, who had extensive knowledge and a clear passion for history. Great guide. Amazing view.

Reserve your spot, put on your stair-climbing shoes, and enjoy some history and seeing the sights of Portland from above. The Observatory tour offers an overview (!) of the historic working port and a cool breeze on a hot day.

It's an easy walk - about a half mile - from the Old Port area.

I almost did not take the tour, but I'm glad I did. Stan, our guide, had me with "This is the last remaining signal tower...". At each landing, there were chairs so we could listen to a short lecture in comfort. We learned about signal towers, the history of Portland, the Moody family who owned the tower for over 100 years, the Portland fire, the difficulty of navigating the Portland ship channel and how the tower was "ballasted". At the top was a wonderful view of Portland and Casco Bay.

Although the stairs were steep, there were railings an a landing at each floor.

We visited the observatory on a Thursday evening after dinner to enjoy the panoramic views of the city at sunset...it was gorgeous! We also had a great visit with the extremely well-informed and personable docent at the top of the observatory. She was a great source of info for our visit. There were interesting exhibits to read on each level of the observatory, but many narrow steps to climb, so you need to be in decent shape! So glad the city of Portland saved this landmark!

Wonderful tour, the guides are so friendly. Lots of stairs, but you pause to learn more on each level so a very do-able climb. Timed tickets so it is not crowded, and masks are required at least when we went in August 2021.

We found the observatory easily via GPS, but we drove around for a while wondering where to park. We finally realized it was free to park on the street near the observatory. It's beautiful up on the hill with amazing views all around. There was a $10 admission fee to climb to the top and different tours available. Unfortunately, we were out of time and couldn't take a tour or we might have missed our flight! We will definitely return next time we are back in the area.

Such a great experience. We really enjoyed walking through the neighborhood up to the observatory, then spend about 45 minutes in the observatory with a guided tour from the docent (there are certain times of the day/week when you have to do the tour with a docent, as opposed to being self-guided). At any rate, the guide was fantastic and offered some neat stories about observatory.

Pleasantly surprised. I thought it would be nice, nice views, but wasn't expecting much more. It turned out to be very interesting. Lots of history and context for the Portland old port.
The doscent Doug Johnson really made it. He had a mastery of the history and weaved in the technical and business of the observatory, and even personal stories. It was largely like a story narrative.
The observatory has steep stairs that spiral around and go up 4 levels, but we went up only one level at a time, with narrative and demo at each level.
And of course wonderful views.

Built in 1807 to alert the owners of sailing ships entering Portland harbor, this facility now provides us with the best view of the surrounding area on clear days. Quite an impressive structure as you ascend to the top.

Friendly volunteers run the place. I think $8 tp tour. You can pretty much see all of Portland from here. You get the history of the place and take lots of pictures of the area.

Very interesting tour of a signal observatory. Our guide was well informed and the structure is very well maintained.

I was born and raised here and I would recommend to ANYONE who comes to visit Portland to visit the Portland area. Greater Portland Transit District has many many buses going to Maine Mall, Freeport, Brunswick. There is also Concord Coach Lines as well as Amtrak Downeaster. Amtrak will start going to Rockland either this summer or the following summer.

In years past before radios, when ships came to a seaport, observatories on the high hills surrounding these seaports, someone would observe via telescope during the day light hours, what ships were coming into the harbor. When a ship was sited, a signal flag would be flown to identify the ship or cargo that was coming into port. Local merchants would begin the process of preparing the off loading. warehousing and selling that cargo. This one was built in 1807 is the only surviving observatory tower still standing today. Take the guided tour. There is no charge for the tour, but there is a small entrance fee to get in. The tour was very informative. There are multiple levels on the way up to the top with descriptive exhibits telling the story and history of the tower. When you finally reach the top, the view this day was spectacular. This is not a disabled person friendly historical site. You have to walk to the top which I believe is 138 steps. There is no elevators.

Ahhh how amazing! Over 100 steps in total to get to the best view in the city! Our triple A cards got us a discount. We opted to wait till a docent was available so we could get the guided tour. It’s not mandatory but definitely worth it. The docents are very passionate and dedicated, we learned so much about the observatory. Once at the top we took tons of pictures while enjoying beautiful views and warm weather... will probably have to return!

There’s free parking on nearby side streets so don’t get discouraged!

There are about 120 steps to climb to the top but the views are worth it. There is a guided tour if you want but I just read the information on each floor and enjoyed the views

They were down a tour guide when I visited, so I can't speak to the tour, but the best part of the observatory is definitely the view. I could take or leave the history part, but you're not going to get a better unobstructed view of the town and ocean. The admission is a bit pricey at $10, but I think it's worth it to support a historical landmark. Be prepared to walk up a lot of stairs and make sure you watch your head as your get towards the top. Those ceilings get low at the end!

Definitely pay for the guided tour. There is a very interesting history of the observatory. The guides were informative and fun. Be ready for lots of stairs but the views from the top are worth it.

This is an amazing location for a unobstructed 360 degree views of all of Portland. The guide gave us a terrific history of the building and Portland. It is well worth the time to visit.

This definitely should be on everyone's "to-do" list for Portland. A neat piece of history with great views from the top, and the guided tour fills you in on the city's interesting past.