Historic Homes and Sites

This section of Portland features restored waterfront buildings that now are home to shops and restaurants. Information: www.portlandmaine.com/discover-portland/areas-of-interest/

Also known as the Morse-Libby House, this mansion was built in 1858 and is a gorgeous example of the Italianate style of architecture. It was a summer home of Ruggles Sylvester Morse, a Mainer who made a fortune running luxury hotels in New Orleans. The house was designed by Henry Austin of Connecticut and built between 1858 and 1860. The building details, interior décor, sculptures and furniture are wonderful samples of this style.
Hours: Open for guided tours May through October 31. Check website for admission.

This historic home doubles as a museum and headquarters for the Maine historical society. This was the home of three generations of one remarkable family that made significant contributions to the political, literary, and cultural life of New England and the United States. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882), grew up in the house and went on to become one of the most famous men of his time. The gallery of exhibits focuses on the state's history in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Hours & Admission: Tours available from June to October. Tickets must be reserved online in advance. Adults $15, Children 6-17 $5, Under 6 Free.

Built in 1807 as a communications tower for Portland’s harbor, the Portland Observatory is a National Historic Landmark and the only remaining maritime signal station in the United States, The Observatory operated as a museum and historic site, offering educational programs and guided tours.
Hours: Memorial Day Weekend through Columbus Day, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Guided tours only; no unsupervised tours. Allow 45 minutes for the tour 207-774-5561.
Information: http://portlandlandmarks.org/observatory/