Portland, Maine: Black History Guided Walking Tour
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Portland, USA
- 2 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Maine's Black community is small, but its history here goes back more than 400 years. On this guided tour, you’ll dive deep into Portland’s Black history, discovering how this community—national leaders, laborers, skilled workers, activists, and more—fought for freedom and equality and defined the state's path. From Frederick Douglass to lesser-known Black Yankees, there’s far more here than meets the eye, and with this tour, you’ll learn all about it.
- Follow Portland's #1 guide, per TripAdvisor, across the city
- Explore a historically-Black section of Portland's East End neighborhood with a local guide
- Learn more about Abyssinian Meeting House, Green Memorial Church, Portland Observatory, and more
- Limited to 15 travelers, you'll get a fun, small-group experience
What's Included
- Two hour fully narrated guided tour.
- 10% off water tours with Portland Paddle (instructions at confirmation)
- Donation toward restoring the Abyssinian Meeting House, America's third-oldest standing Black church
- A tip for your guide!
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- First Parish in Portland, Unitarian Universalist425 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101, USA
Meet at the front steps of First Parish Church. Your guide will be holding a sign that says "Portland by the Foot." Check-in time is 10 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time. The church is one half mile from the cruise ship terminal.
End point
- Eastern Cemetery224 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101, USA
Eastern Cemetery is on Congress Street at the head of Montgomery Street. If you want to get back to where we started, it's an easy, straight shot 0.5 miles (10-minute walk) down Congress Street. It's also 0.5 miles from the cruise ship terminal.
Itinerary
1
Downtown
50 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Lobsterman Park (Pass By)
Congress Street (Pass By)
The Cathedral Of The Immaculate Conception (Pass By)
2
Commercial Street
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Mariner's Church Banquet Center (Pass By)
United States Custom House (Pass By)
Bell Buoy Park (Pass By)
3
Old Port
50 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Exchange Street (Pass By)
India Street (Pass By)
The Abyssinian Meetinghouse (Pass By)
Portland Observatory (Pass By)
Green Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church (Pass By)
Eastern Cemetery (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- Pets are not allowed on tours unless medically required.
- Portland is a hilly city. Participants will walk uphill sometimes, including a staircase of 17 steps.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
5.0
based on 174 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Dugan Tours provided an exceptional experience. I truly valued the diligent research and commitment dedicated to uncovering the narratives of Black families who significantly shaped the Portland, Maine area. His efforts have inspired me to further explore these histories independently. Thank you, Dugan, for your instrumental work in bringing this historical legacy to life.
Response from Host, Oct 2026
Get in touch if you'd like any reading recommendations. Many of the topics I raised on the tour haven't received any scholarly attention, so I've had to do my own original research. Other topics are covered well by academic articles and books. I'm glad you found these stories as interesting as me! Thanks for the great review.
I planned a solo trip to Portland, Maine because I'd never traveled to the New England states and recently learned of its (Portland specifically) food scene. My preferred way to experience a city is by history and food. When I discovered this tour on Viator I immediately booked it, because many have a misconception of African Americans' influence in the history of the United States (as it pertains to Northern States roles in the enslavement, financing, disenfranchisement, etc. of its citizens); often an untold and under appreciated history as most of what Dugan shared/educated me on was never taught in my public school system or even in undergrad, unless you selected these studies as your major.
I was scheduled to be in Portland for two full days, day two was the scheduled history tour in the afternoon and the weather changed from sunny and 70 degrees the day prior to rainy, windy and cold the day of. Dugan gave me the option to cancel for a full refund, or reschedule. Because of my limited availability and excitement for the tour I elected to move forward.
I arrived at the meeting location promptly as scheduled and Dugan was there in his rain gear waiting. We navigated the city and stopped to highlight various landmarks or accomplishments. The weather was terrible and midway through the tour as the rain became heavier I considered requesting to terminate early, but Dugan was so engaging that I was intrigued to learn what more was to come. If you're a fan of history and enjoy a narrator that keeps you engaged while encouraging questions, then I would highly recommend this tour. Dugan is very knowledgeable and you can tell he's spent a significant amount of time researching the facts. I was impressed that the weather did not impede Dugan's enthusiasm; and if I'm ever back in Portland in the future I'd definitely engage in this experience again.
Response from Host, Oct 2026
I'm happy to hear you found the experience so engaging. Like you just said, Black history in Maine is so consistently overlooked that locals and visitors alike are generally amazed to learn what comes up on this tour. I really appreciate you taking the time to write such a detailed review. Thank you very much!
10 out of 10! My parents and I *LOVED* the Black History Tour we took in Portland yesterday! Dugan is incredibly knowledgeable and such a gifted storyteller. We were blown away by the history he shared—so many stories, people, and important pieces of history that we were never taught in grade school.
The tour was engaging, eye-opening, and truly memorable. We walked away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Portland’s history and the Black experience in the area. Dugan has a way of bringing history to life that makes you want to keep listening and learning.
If you’re visiting Portland—or even if you’re a local—I **highly recommend this tour!** It’s an experience you won’t forget. 🙌🏾
Response from Host, Oct 2026
I am honored the Black History Tour had such an impact on your family. I had a great time showing you all these landmarks and sharing these stories. Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed review! I really appreciate it.
First of all have a good pair of walking shoes on and be able to take good notes. There will be a lot of good information to take back home to share with your family , friends , and love ones. I live in Georgia, grew up in Mississippi I learn so much on this one day tour about black history in the north. You will get plenty of exercise on this tour. Please pay attention and enjoy the scenery . There is alot of historic buildings still bring used today.
Response from Host, Oct 2026
Thank you for learning about Maine's Black history with me! I'm happy to know someone else who as impressed as I am by what I found in the archives. I appreciate you taking the time to write a review.
1. Very interesting and informative. Dugan is a great guide and extremely knowledgeable about Portland history.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thanks for the great review! I hope the rest of your stay in Portland was just as enjoyable.
An interesting tour through the experiences of African-Americans which reveals a lot about Maine and US history. Our guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about the subject. He researched several of the stories himself. The tour was thoughtfully planned with several rest stops along the way. Well with an afternoon.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Many of the people and events on this tour have gotten little scholarly attention despite their impactful role in history. I'm excited to share the results of my research. Thank you for learning about Black history in Portland with me! And thank you for taking the time to post a review.
The Black History tour with Dugan was outstanding. He’s extremely knowledgeable and made the tour interesting, informative and fun. It was a great opportunity to learn about African American history and explore the Portland downtown area.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
It was great to meet you last Tuesday. I also had a great time exploring the stories and landmarks relevant to Black history in Portland. Thank you for choosing this tour! I hope you enjoyed the rest of your cruise.
Duegon was very passionate about African American history and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend this experience!
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you for the recommendation. I wasn't taught any local Black history in school, so I'm as amazed as you are by the people and events that are still mostly overlooked. Thanks for joining me!
This tour was a highlight of my entire trip to the northeast. Our tour guide Dugan was a wealth of knowledge and had so much insight, including very thoughtful and thorough answers to all of our various questions about the topic. We learned so much and would recommend this tour to anyone interested in black history (or history in general). He even reached out before the tour to confirm and recommend how to best deal with the weather that day which was a very nice extra touch. I wish tours like this existed in more cities.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Highlight of the Northeast! I'm honored. I too wish there were more people offering Black history tours in other cities. My research indicates that pretty much everywhere in North America that seems to have no Black history actually does. I'm happy to know someone who is as amazed as I am by these stories. Thanks for the review!
Wonderfully informative tour guide who was able to answer all of our questions along the way. Absolutely worth it!
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you for bringing your curiosity! There's so much Black history to explore in Portland, so questions are able to bring out stories I night not otherwise be able to fit into the tour. I hope you enjoyed the rest of your visit!
Dugan was great, so much detailed info about subject mostly unknown. He had illustrations and recommendations of books, more places to explore if time allowed. He allowed questions and sitting if needed in places with benches. 2 hours is long enough, but not too much. I'd definitely take any tour with him again!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for asking about book recommendations! Many of the people and events on this tour have received very little scholarly attention, but many do have books about them. I'm glad you're as impressed as I am by Black history in Portland!
If you have any interest in Portland/Maine history or Black American history, take this tour!
Dugan is so knowledgeable and has created a really interesting and educational tour that even includes visual aids. He provides so much information on the subject plus he’s great at answering your related (and unrelated) questions. We learned so much during this outing! On top of all that Dugan is very personable and friendly.
The tour is not too strenuous. The pace is very comfortable with lots of stops. A bit of a hill and a stretch of stairs toward the end.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for the questions! Black history in Maine runs deep, so there's always a ton to discuss, as well as many relevant landmarks to visit. Questions help me personalize each tour a little bit. I hope you enjoyed the rest of your time in Portland just as much!
A great tour that I'd definitely recommend to any visiting or in Portland. Dugan was an excellent and knowledgeable guide and gave a history of Portland that I never knew existed. The route is easily manageable with mostly downhill and flat with one slight hill towards the end.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
So many locals have no idea how deep Black history goes in Portland. I was honored to share some of those stories with you. Thank you for taking this tour!
Kindest and most knowledgeable guide I’ve ever had! We’ve done a lot of tours and this one was so engaging. Loved the supporting images he carried and the story sharing kept us all engaged.
My kids all left with at least 1 fact that stuck with them so it was a win in my books with them (14, 11, 5)
And on top of it all we got our steps in and saw parts of Portland we would have never seen!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Kindest and most knowledgeable guide is a fabulous compliment and I am honored. I loved meeting you and your kids and sharing Black history in Portland with you. Thank you for joining me! And thank you for posting a review.
My mom and I loved the Portland Black History Tour that was guided by Dugan. We learned so much Maine Black history that we never knew existed. Dugan was so detailed and knowledgeable about the history. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to learn more about Portland, and Maine. Thank you again, Dugan, for the amazing experience!
Response from Host, Jun 2026
You're welcome. I'm always happy to meet people who are as impressed as I am by these historic accomplishments. Thank you for writing a review about your experience!
If you come across this in your search of things to do in Portland, Maine, BOOK IT! Dugan is one of the best tour guides I've experienced and you are in for a treat. It was a small group, we were able to ask questions, I learned more than I thought I would about Maine's roles in Black history. Would recommend to anyone! Just wear some walking shoes and be ready to be surprised with info!
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Get ready to be surprised is right! The Black history of Portland includes some amazing accomplishments for how small the Black community is and has been. Thank you for choosing this tour!
Dugan knows his Black history and does an awesome job of engaging you throughout the tour. I would recommend this for solo of family fun.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
The history of Portland's Black residents is astounding and I loved sharing it with you on our walk. Thank you for taking this tour and for writing a review!
I thought it was a great, very in depth look at Black history through the century in Portland. My guide Dugan took his time to careful explain how ghe African American population influenced Portland. He happily answered questions. He did a wonderful job with his presentation along with the pictures he displayed the locations during specific time periods.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
The images I bring with me on the tour do a great job illustrating topics as we explore the city. Thank you for learning about Black history with me and for reviewing your experience!
Dugan was amazing with historical knowledge and the ability to answer questions appropriately. Recommend this as a must do. If it is in the colder season layer and bundle up because you will want to give your full attention.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
A must do! Thank you for the recommendation. Black history in Portland is too often overlooked, so it's important to me to share these stories and landmarks with others.
This tour was outstanding and very interesting. Dugan is an exceptional tour guide with a wealth of knowledge and an amazing way of presenting it. Not to be missed!
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Those are very nice compliments. Thank you for saying so! I love sharing history and the history of Black Portland is particularly amazing.
It took the entire 2 hours and even a little longer for the tour so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk up and down small hills and stairs.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Comfortable shoes are definitely recommended. Portland is a hilly city and our sidewalks aren't always super even. I'm glad you find the Black history in Portland as amazing as I do! Thanks for the review.
This was a very informative and insightful tour that provided the long history of Blacks in Portland, Maine that many don’t know exists.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
You're right that Black history in Portland is often overlooked. That's my main motivation for creating and leading this tour! I'm glad to meet someone who appreciates these stories too.
Fantastic tour with an excellent guide! Would recommend to every and anyone who is a history buff. Thanks Dugan!
Response from Host, May 2025
Of course. I really enjoyed sharing history with you yesterday. I hope the rest of your visit to Portland went really well. Thank you for reviewing the tour!
I had a wonderful experience as Dugan was insightful along with fully prepared with any questions the group had.
Response from Host, May 2025
Black history runs deep in Portland, so there is so much to talk about. I appreciate you bringing questions so I could personalize the experience a bit. Thanks for choosing this tour and for working a review!
It was a great experience Dugan was great and knowledgeable. You can really tell he knows and is passionate about his work.
Response from Host, Nov 2024
My tours are research-based and I'm always learning new things I'm excited to share with guests. I'm glad you also enjoy learning about Black history in Portland! Thank you for including this tour in your visit to Maine.
Very informative tour of Portland’s Black history. Dugan was a great tour guide. We also appreciated the visuals that he shared along the way. I highly recommend!
Response from Host, Oct 2024
I like to bring visuals with me on tours to help guests understand what Portland used to look like and who the important figures were. I'm glad you liked the Black History Tour so much! Thanks for reviewing.
Another example of Black History untold. I make a point of learning something about Black history wherever I go on vacation. Not only did I learn something about Portland but American History at large. I only wished I was given a summary of all the wonderful people that I learned about. Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Thanks for the review! There are definitely so many connections between Black history in Portland and the rest of the country. And I am happy to send you a summary! I'll do that right now.
Dugan was knowledgeable and professional. I enjoyed enjoyed the pictures the tour guide provided. The day was warm and sunny for the walk.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Thanks for the review! Carrying pictures is so worth it so you can see what people looked like as I tell their stories and see what places used to look like in their time.
Dugan was an amazing tour guide! He’s extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. We learned so much about the very surprising black history of Portland. Highly recommended!!
Response from Host, Aug 2024
So many surprising stories, right? I was delighted to show you the landmarks and tell you about the people associated with them. Thanks for writing a review!
The breath of knowledge the tour guide provides was immeasurable. And the little know Black History fact of Susan Rice family really impressed us
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Not a lot of people know about her connection to Maine, but her mom and grandparents were super important, as you now know. Thanks for taking this tour and for reviewing it!
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per personWas $54.00(-5%)
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