Climb 103 Steps To The Top Of The Portland Observatory In Maine And You Can See All The Way To New Hampshire
By Michelle|Published October 16, 2019
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Though we might be slightly biased, Maine tops the list of most scenic states in the country. With all that forest and the absolutely spectacular coastline, it’s no surprise why our highways are packed when the weather is nice. While there are plenty of hikes and drives that will allow you to take in the surrounding vistas, we love this simple little attraction located in Portland.
Welcome to the Portland Observatory, located in the Munjoy Hill neighborhood of Portland.
If you've visited the city, you've probably seen this large brick structure. it might not be the tallest structure, but its location on the hill makes it visible from all over town.
Construction of the 86-foot high observatory began in 1807. It was intended to be a communication station for ships entering and leaving Portland’s harbor.
While it served as an important safety operation, it also existed to make money for Captain Lemuel Moody, its creator. Shipowners who paid him a subscription fee of $5 each year were alerted when their ships were arriving.
The powerful telescope installed inside saw as far as 30 miles away!
But, technology eventually took over. In 1923, the two-way radio was invented rendering the tower obsolete. This is when it ceased operation.
Between 1939 and the current day a number of restorations have been done to allow for visitors and in 2006 it became a National Historic Landmark. It celebrated it's 200th birthday in 2017!
The Portland Observatory is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can learn more about its history and how to visit here. Or, check out all the Portland landmarks on Facebook. If you have questions, you can reach them on 207-774-5561. Please note that as of today’s writing, the elevator is not working. Please be sure to check with them before visiting to see if it’s been repaired.
Another great view in Maine is from the world’s tallest bridge observatory in Prospect, Maine! Check it out here.
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