2-Hour Portland Old Port Ghost Walking Tour

Discover Portland’s Haunted Waterfront on a 2-Hour Ghost Tour

The 2-Hour Portland Old Port Ghost Walking Tour offers an engaging way to explore Portland’s historic waterfront after dark. Priced at $29 per person, this guided experience takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours and visits iconic locations such as DiMillo’s On the Water, Custom House Wharf, and Portland Regency Hotel & Spa. The tour departs at 8:00 pm from DiMillo’s Old Port Yacht Sales and features a mobile ticket for easy access.

While the tour is not overly long, it balances fun spooky stories with historical insights, making it ideal for those interested in Portland’s maritime past and ghost legends. The small group size—a maximum of 30 travelers—ensures a more personal experience. The tour is suitable for most, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options, but note that transportation is not included.

Key Points

• Price: Only $29, making it an affordable way to experience Portland’s nightlife.
• Duration: About 90 minutes to 2 hours, starting at 8:00 pm.
• Stops: Includes 8 distinct stops across Old Port, from haunted restaurants to historic buildings.
• Highlights: Ghost stories about spectral chatter, flying dishes, and phantom pianos.
• Guide: An experienced storyteller who shares tales of psychic phenomena, ghost ships, and local legends.
• Review Summary: Generally positive reviews, with some noting the knowledgeable guides and entertaining stories.

Portland Old Port’s Haunted History Begins at DiMillo’s On the Water

The tour kicks off at DiMillo’s On the Water, a renowned floating restaurant with a haunted reputation. Guests learn about spectral chatter still heard in its former engine room, adding a mysterious edge to this lively waterfront spot. The story of ghostly crew members and a gateway to the past sets the tone for the evening’s supernatural journey.

This stop lasts about 10 minutes, and although admission is free, it’s more about setting the scene than exploring the restaurant itself. The floating setting gives an authentic maritime ambiance that enhances the ghostly tales to come.

Exploring Maritime Legends at Custom House Wharf

Next, the tour moves to Custom House Wharf, where stories of haunting maritime legends unfold. This location is linked to a ghost ship that allegedly returns to claim the lives of the unfortunate, fueling local ghost lore. Guests are encouraged to consider the possibility of being frightened to death by these legends.

Spending around 10 minutes here, visitors get a look at Portland’s shipping history while contemplating the eerie tales that have persisted for generations. The mix of historic architecture and ghost stories makes this stop particularly atmospheric.

Andy’s Old Port Pub: A Ghostly Barroom with Flying Dishes

At Andy’s Old Port Pub, the tales of a more active ghost come to life. Unseen but mischievous, this spirit is known for hurling dishes off shelves and occasionally playing pool with patrons. The ghost’s playful yet unsettling antics add a lively touch to the spooky evening.

This 10-minute stop offers a chance to imagine ghostly interactions happening right in this bustling pub. Its reputation for unseen activity keeps the atmosphere fun and slightly unpredictable.

The FBI and Psychic Phenomena at the Declassified Files

A unique aspect of the tour is the visit to the FBI building, where the guide shares the story of psychic Alex Tanous. Known for assisting law enforcement with cases like the Patty Hearst kidnapping, Tanous’s work with declassified CIA files adds an intriguing twist to the ghostly theme.

Spending about 10 minutes here, the stop reveals how psychic phenomena have been linked to law enforcement efforts. It’s a fascinating intersection between the supernatural and the official, providing a glimpse into the mysterious side of psychic work.

Rosie’s Restaurant & Pub and the “Jukebox from Hell”

Rosie’s Restaurant & Pub offers a particularly memorable stop with its “Jukebox from Hell”—a spirit that blasts rock’n’roll unexpectedly. This ghost doesn’t like to be ignored and may do more than just play music if provoked.

Guests spend around 10 minutes here and can ponder what next might happen if they cross this spirited jukebox. The lively spirit adds a playful, slightly mischievous vibe to the tour.

Ghostly Encounters at Henry’s Public House

Henry’s Public House stands out for its pair of ghostly figures seen on the stairs and the phantom piano music drifting on the wind. This 19th-century pub continues to charm visitors with its haunted reputation.

The stop lasts about 10 minutes, offering a chance to absorb Portland’s historic pub atmosphere while imagining ghostly figures moving in the shadows. It’s a cozy yet eerie addition to the ghost tour.

Author Nomar Slevik’s Encounter at the WL Blake Building

At the WL Blake Building at 79 Commercial Street, paranormal author Nomar Slevik recounts his personal experience of a ghostly encounter. This stops provides a personal connection to the supernatural stories woven into Portland’s history.

In 10 minutes, guests learn about real ghost stories connected to local buildings, emphasizing how Portland’s ghosts continue to influence both residents and storytellers.

Art Alley and the Ghostly Beliefs of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The tour explores Art Alley at 26 Exchange Street, where hidden art galleries and cobblestone streets evoke the old-world charm of Old Port. Here, the guide discusses whether Henry Wadsworth Longfellow himself believed in ghosts.

This 10-minute stop blends visual art, local history, and ghost lore, adding a cultural layer to the evening’s stories. It’s a quieter but equally compelling segment that connects literature and supernatural beliefs.

Haunted Rooms at Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

The tour concludes at the Portland Regency Hotel & Spa, where reports include items moving in rooms, rattling closet doors, and a TV switching on by itself. These ghostly phenomena contribute to the hotel’s long-standing haunted reputation.

For about 10 minutes, guests can imagine ghostly activity lingering among the historic walls of this elegant hotel, making it a fitting end to a ghostly adventure.

Practicalities and What Sets This Tour Apart

The meeting point at DiMillo’s Old Port Yacht Sales is easily accessible and the tour runs nightly at 8:00 pm. The small group size enhances the storytelling, making it more intimate. The tour’s affordable price of $29 offers good value for a guided walk filled with ghost stories and historical tidbits.

The tour is not inclusive of transportation, so visitors should plan accordingly. It’s suitable for most, including service animals, and is a good option for those interested in maritime history, ghost legends, or Portland’s waterfront after dark.

Final Thoughts on the Portland Old Port Ghost Tour

This ghost walking tour provides a solid introduction to Portland’s haunted waterfront and maritime legends. The stops at notable historic and lively spots along the Old Port make the experience both informative and entertaining. The knowledgeable guides and engaging stories stand out, creating a theatre-like atmosphere as you stroll through the city’s historic streets.

While some reviews mention theories rather than proof of ghostly activity, the overall experience is fun and atmospheric. It’s a great choice for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a lighthearted spooky adventure in Portland. The affordable price point and nighttime setting make it a compelling option for an evening activity, especially for those who enjoy urban legends and maritime tales.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at DiMillo’s Old Port Yacht Sales, 1 Long Wharf, Portland, ME.

What is the cost?
The tour is $29 per person.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including most children.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included; guests need to arrange their own arrival.

What is the tour’s group size?
The tour is limited to 30 travelers for a more personal experience.

Is parking available?
Parking details are not provided; guests should plan accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What makes this tour different from others?
It combines maritime history, psychic stories, and ghost legends, with notable stops such as the FBI building and Portland Regency Hotel.

Is the tour suitable for all weather?
The experience requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.