The Portland Region is known for many things. Its picturesque countryside has long captured the imagination. Add to that the strong local economy, welcoming atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, and you have a place anyone would be glad to call home.

The chance to see Portland's beautiful lighthouses is just one more amazing perk.

Pharology is the study of lighthouses, and Portland region lighthouses have long held a special place in the hearts of hobbyists due to their combination of beauty, historic value, and efficiency. If you've never had the opportunity to see them before, summer in Portland is the perfect time.

Portland Head Light – See Website for Location Information in Cape Elizabeth, ME
Portland Head Light is located at Fort Williams Park and is managed by the town of Cape Elizabeth. When you visit the lighthouse, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the Museum at Portland Head Light located within the preserved Keepers' Quarters. Interpretive displays help deepen your understanding of this unique site.

The Portland Head Light is just over 100 feet tall, and its construction began in 1787 at the order of George Washington. Completed in 1791, it's one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Situated on a stunning stretch of rocky coastline, it offers one of the best views of any local lighthouse.

Interestingly, the Portland Head Light is believed to have inspired the famous Henry Wadsworth Longfellow poem "The Lighthouse." Buses and tours are welcome to come to the lighthouse nearly any time of year, and there are several annual events there, including Family Fun Day and the Beach to Beacon 10K Race.

Bug Light Park – See Website for Location Information in South Portland, ME
Bug Light Park is located at the eastmost point of the Greenbelt Walkway, making it a popular place for hikers to commemorate a journey. The Portland Breakwater Light is the main attraction here. First built in 1855 as a wooden structure, it was revised in 1875 with a six-room home for the lighthouse keeper.

The Portland Breakwater Light was originally decommissioned in 1943 but was fully restored in 1989. In 2002, it was reactivated. At Bug Light Park, you'll get to enjoy the history of the Portland Breakwater Light up close. In addition to the lighthouse itself, you can learn about the shipbuilding efforts of World War II.

Picnicking, boating, kite flying, and saltwater fishing are all popular outdoor pastimes that take place right in the Park. Seasonal events you can experience include the Kite Festival, Summer Movie Nights, the Classic Car Show, and the day-long 4th of July celebration capped off with one of the state's biggest fireworks displays.

Ram Island Ledge Light – See Website for Location Information in Portland, ME
Ram Island Ledge Light is located on the Ram Island Ledge, the northern entrance into Portland's outer harbor. A hazardous spit of rock under half a mile long, it notes a spot with a ferocious reputation that formerly caused many shipwrecks. The spot has been marked for navigational purposes in one form or another since 1855.

In 1902, after the high-profile wreck of the 440 steamship Californian, the modern lighthouse was authorized by Congress. Luckily, the 21 passengers and crew of the Californian were saved. Work was completed in 1905 – after several other significant disasters. Today, the site is privately owned but continues to be preserved.

Ram Island Ledge can clearly be seen if you visit Portland Head Lighthouse. There are also opportunities to take a boat tour and view it from the sea. One of the most popular options is the Portland Discovery Lighthouse Lover's Tour. Experienced guides and captains help ensure a fun and safe excursion for everybody.

Spring Point Ledge Light – See Website for Location Information in South Portland, ME
Spring Point Ledge Light is last but not least on the list of local lighthouses you should see when you're in the Portland area. Unlike many other regional lighthouses, Spring Point Ledge Light enables guests to step into the history of the lighthouse by touring the actual working facility, which has been lovingly preserved.

In fact, this is the sole caisson-style lighthouse in the United States that visitors are allowed to walk into and tour. That makes it a "can't miss" part of any pharologist's itinerary. With a history reaching back to 1897, Spring Point Ledge Light holds a variety of events, so you don't need to worry about reserving a private tour.

The lighthouse is open to the public for tours most weekends from June through to Labor Day. Even if you miss the high season, the nonprofit Lighthouse Trust that supports the structure's preservation also holds occasional special events for groups. Admission is just $5 per person. Due to steep ladders, there is a height requirement.

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