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Portland Observatory and its collection

Portland Observatory
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The Portland Observatory, located at 138 Congress Street in the Munjoy Hill section of Portland, Maine, is a historic maritime signal tower. Constructed in 1807, it holds the distinction of being the only known surviving tower of its kind in the United States.

National Historic Landmark and Museum

In 2006, the tower was recognized as a National Historic Landmark and a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. Today, it is managed by Greater Portland Landmarks, a local nonprofit dedicated to historic preservation. The observatory is open to the public and operates as a museum.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Science & Technology Science & Technology Historic house Maritime

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#1 History & Anthropology in Portland #1 Science & Technology in Portland #1 Historic houses in Portland #2 History & Anthropology in Maine #2 Science & Technology in Maine #2 Historic houses in Maine #2 Maritime museums in Maine #127 History & Anthropology in United States #47 Science & Technology in United States #92 Historic houses in United States #20 Maritime museums in United States

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Portland Observatory
138 Congress St
ME 04101 Portland
Maine

Images of Portland Observatory

Visitor information Portland Observatory

Opening hours

Monday
10:00 – 16:00
16:30 – 19:30
Tuesday
10:00 – 16:00
16:30 – 19:30
Wednesday
10:00 – 16:00
16:30 – 19:30
Thursday
10:00 – 16:00
Friday
10:00 – 16:00
Saturday
10:00 – 16:00
Sunday
10:00 – 16:00
More opening hours

Admission

0 – 5Free
6 – 16US$5.00
AdultsUS$10.00
MilitaryUS$8.00
Portland residentsUS$5.00
SeniorsUS$8.00
StudentsUS$8.00

Portland Residents – Adults - $5, Kids- $3

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Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Portland Observatory.

Location & Map

138 Congress St, Portland

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Portland Observatory have been found.

Portland Observatory Reviews

Portland Observatory has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Portland Observatory, located in Portland, Maine, offers visitors a chance to explore an important piece of maritime history. Built in 1807, this octagonal tower served as a communication station for ships entering Portland Harbor. Today, it stands as the last remaining maritime signal tower in the United States.

    Visitors generally appreciate the historical significance of the site and the opportunity to climb to the top for panoramic views of Portland and Casco Bay. The guided tours are often praised for being informative and engaging, providing insights into the tower's past and its role in Portland's maritime heritage.

    Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and passionate volunteer docents who bring the observatory's history to life. The climb to the top, while steep and narrow, is considered worthwhile by most for the rewarding views it offers. Some visitors note that the tower provides a good vantage point for understanding Portland's layout and geography.

    On the downside, some visitors find the admission price a bit high for the relatively short experience. A few also mention that the stairs can be challenging for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights. Additionally, some reviewers note that the exhibition space at the base of the tower is somewhat limited.

    Overall, the Portland Observatory is generally well-regarded as an educational stop for those interested in local history and architecture. While it may not be an extensive museum experience, it offers a unique perspective on Portland's past and present.

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  • Aggregated rating

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