Portland, Maine: Black History Guided Walking Tour

Trace the steps of the Black Portlanders who moved our city, state, and country closer to the ideals of freedom, democracy, opportunity, and equality. Maine’s earliest settlements couldn’t have existe

Trace the steps of the Black Portlanders who moved our city, state, and country closer to the ideals of freedom, democracy, opportunity, and equality. Maine’s earliest settlements couldn’t have existed without Black labor, skill, and insight. You'll meet the Black Yankees who founded Maine communities, overturned slavery statewide, drove our maritime industries, gained political influence, crossed color boundaries, and expanded Mainers’ rights in the modern era. Stepping on granite cobblestones crooked with age — that once saw footfalls from national heroes like Frederick Douglass — you’ll pass storefronts once home to Black-owned barbershops where abolitionists whispered intelligence to Underground Railroad conductors. Enjoy 2 hours of entertaining and enlightening historical narration over a 1.5-mile route. Owner and guide, Dugan Murphy, dug through the archives to present an amazing constellation of stories left out of most tours. TripAdvisor named him Portland's #1 guide!

From: $0.00

Location: Portland

What's Included

Community Discussion

Q&A

Q: Is there a dress code for the Black History Walking Tour in Portland?

A: There's no strict dress code, but I recommend wearing comfortable shoes since you'll be walking on cobblestones for about 1.5 miles. Dress for the weather, too! It can get chilly by the water, so layering is a good idea. Also, a hat or sunscreen could help if it's sunny.

Q: Are kids allowed on this walking tour?

A: Yes, kids are welcome on the tour! It's a great educational experience for children to learn about Black history in Maine. Just keep in mind the walking distance, so if you have little ones, consider bringing a stroller or baby carrier for younger kids.

Q: What happens if it rains on the day of the tour?

A: The tour runs rain or shine! If the weather looks rough, I'd suggest bringing an umbrella and maybe wearing a rain jacket. However, if it becomes dangerous, like lightning, they may cancel and reschedule. Just check in with Dugan before you go.

Discussions

Just took the Black History Walking Tour in Portland!

Hey everyone! I finally went on the Black History Guided Walking Tour last weekend, and wow! Dugan, the guide, was so knowledgeable. It was amazing walking where heroes like Frederick Douglass once stood. The stories about the Black-owned businesses and the Underground Railroad were so moving. Highly recommend if you’re in Portland! Definitely wear good shoes though; the cobblestones can be tricky!

Considering gifting the Black History Tour experience

I’m looking to get this Black History Tour as a gift for my parents, who love history and walking tours. Has anyone done this? How was the experience? I want to make sure it’s worth it before I buy!