Portland Head Light in Maine
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Looking for something to do while you’re in Portland, Maine? Check out Portland Head Light! This lighthouse is the most photographed lighthouse in the United States! It’s also the oldest lighthouse in Maine! It’s definitely worth the visit.
About Portland Head Light
Portland Head Light is Maine’s oldest lighthouse. It was built in 1787. It didn’t go into service until 1791. When the lighthouse was initially built, it was 72 feet tall. In 1865, another 20 feet were added to the tower.
On top of being the oldest lighthouse in Maine, this picturesque lighthouse is the most photographed lighthouse in America! People come from all over to visit and photograph this historic landmark!
Getting There
Portland Head Light is located in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. To get there, take I-95 towards Cape Elizabeth. From I-95, take Exit 30 and follow Spurwink Avenue until they reach Shore Road which takes them directly to the light house in Fort Williams Park.
Once in the park, there are various spots to park, but the main parking lot is near the lighthouse. You will have to pay to park here using kiosks if you’re visiting April-November. However, the cost is fairly reasonable. In the off-season, parking is free!
Things to Do
While the Portland Head Light is the main attraction in Fort Williams Park, there’s much more to do than viewing the lighthouse.
Visit the Lighthouse
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the lighthouse or join a ranger-led program to learn about Portland Head Light’s rich history. There’s also a museum and gift shop you can visit!
In addition to Portland Head Light, there’s another lighthouse you can view from the shore. The other lighthouse that can be viewed from land is the Ram Island Ledge Light. If you’re looking to see this lighthouse from land, you’ll need binoculars or a telephoto lens. The lighthouse is about a mile from land.
Hiking Trails
After you’ve enjoyed visiting the lighthouse, be sure to explore the rest of Fort Williams Park. There are various trails throughout the park you can walk. The most popular is the trail that takes you along the coast. The ocean views are stunning! There’s also a beach you can enjoy Casco Bay from!
Goddard Mansion
Another thing to do within Fort Williams is view Goddard Mansion. The mansion was designed and built by the New York architect Charles A. Alexander for local businessman John Goddard in 1858. In 1900, the mansion was acquired by the U. S. army and used as NCO Quarters (non-commissioned officers/sergeants), and later included an NCO Club.
Why Visit Portland Head Light
If you’re ever in Maine, it’s definitely worth taking the trip to this historic landmark. Enjoy the lighthouse and surrounding buildings and beauty as you make your way through Fort Williams Park. It’s a great spot for history lovers and nature lovers!
FAQs
It depends on when you go. If you go between April and November, you’ll have to pay. If you go in the off-season between December and March, parking is free.
