Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours
The BEST and most UNIQUE Sightseeing Tour of Portland Maine aboard a vintage Fire Engine!
Health & Safety
The Portland Fire Engine Co. is excited to announce that we are open for business and will be offering tours of Portland Maine starting April 25th 2025! We are committed to the health of our team, our communities, and our guests and have outlined the precautions we are taking to keep everyone safe below.
After a successful and Covid-19 free 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 season we are ready to offer tours of Portland Maine! Our Fire Engine is completely open-aired and has a Bimini top for sun protection thus offering a very safe way to see the City of Portland from a great viewing platform.
Guests should provide their own face coverings, water bottles, sunscreen, and rain gear.
Overview
Activity details
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours, offering guided sightseeing and history tours aboard a vintage fire engine. Explore Portland’s charming cobblestone streets and pass iconic landmarks, including Portland Head Light, historic forts, and stunning waterfront views. Our 50-minute narrated tour provides an engaging introduction to the rich history and culture of Portland, Maine.
What's included
Step aboard for Portland’s most engaging narrated sightseeing tour. Journey through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, past scenic waterfronts, and iconic landmarks while our expert guides share captivating insights into Portland’s storied past. Our open-air fire engine provides the perfect vantage point to soak in the sights while enjoying an informative and entertaining experience.
We do provide disposable ponchos when weather conditions demand!
What's not included
Food or Drink
Itinerary
- US Customs House
- Maine State Pier
- Casco Bay Lines
- Ocean Gateway Terminal
- Shipyard Brewing Company
- Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad
- The Portland Company
- Fort Allen Park
- Spring Point Lighthouse
- Fort Gorges
- Bug Light
- Baxter School for the Deaf
- Eastern Promenade
- East End Beach
- Loring Memorial Park
- East End Community School
- Portland Observatory
- Eastern Cemetery
- Maine Jewish Museum
- St. Paul’s Church
- The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
- Lincoln Park
- Central Fire Station
- City Hall
- First Parish Portland Unitarian Universalist
- Chamber of Commerce
- Monument Square
- Portland Public Library
- Longfellow House and Maine Historical Society Museum
- Maine College of Art
- Children’s Museum and Theatre
- Portland Museum of Art
- Longfellow Square
- Arts District
- Neal Dow Memorial
- Bramhall Station
- Maine Medical Center
- Adam P. Leighton House
- Western Cemetery
- Victoria Mansion
- Wharf Street
- Portland Downtown Shopping
Highlights
Why Choose a Portland Fire Truck Tour?
Owner Keith, a history enthusiast and vintage vehicle expert, created this tour to showcase Portland’s unique fire history in an exciting and accessible way. Retrofitting a classic fire truck for small-group tours, he designed an intimate and engaging experience unlike any other in the city.
Learn about the four great fires that shaped the city, its historic districts, and how Portland has evolved into the vibrant destination it is today.
Enhancing your journey, our fire engine features a large screen displaying archival photos, offering a visual connection to Portland’s past.
Join us for an unforgettable adventure where history, storytelling, and breathtaking sights come together. Book your Portland Fire Engine Co. Tour today and discover the best of Portland, Maine, in a truly one-of-a-kind way!
Resurgam!
Pricing
Infant (0-2) - Free
Kids (3-12) - $28.00
Adults (13-64) - $34.00
Seniors (65 and Older) - $32.00
Private Charters ( 13 People Max) - $380.00
Additional information
Check-in details
A printed ticket is NOT needed. Just the name, date, and time that you booked under.
What to bring
Appropriate clothing and rain gear.
Water or other beverages.
Sunscreen
Special requirements
Kids 0 thru the age of 2 are free but need to order tickets.
Restrictions
It is a bumpy ride for people with back problems.
Accessing the the seating area is by a small 5 step ladder with large hand rails.
All tours are given in english
Extras
When it comes to special events, sometimes you just need to go BIG! Our 13 person fire truck is the perfect way to enhance any major event you’re planning. We offer private chartered trips for all occasions. Our birthday party packages which include fire hats and coloring books. We also offer wedding packages for the bride and groom, a very unique and priceless experience.
- Private Tour: $380
Disclaimers
Tours may be cancelled or postponed by bad weather or lack of participation. This will be determined up until the time of departure.
FAQs
- Where are you located, and how can I find directions?
Our tours begin and end at 180 Commercial St., Portland, Maine. We board right in front of The Portland Lobster Co. You can find driving directions on our Parking/Directions Page.
- How much does the tour cost?
Adults (13-64): $34
Seniors (65-110) & Military: $32
Children (3-12): $28
Infants (under 3): Free (must be held in your arms)
Private Charters: $380
- Is it difficult to board the fire engine?
Not at all! Boarding involves five steps, similar to climbing out of a swimming pool. We have large handrails for support.
- What is the best way to book tickets?
The best way is through our online ticketing system at www.portlandfiretours.com. You can also call 207-252-6358 for more information.
- Where do we pick up our tickets?
All tickets are sold online. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so book early!
- Do we need to bring a printed copy of our reservation?
No. We only need the name you booked under.
- Will you wait for us if we are running late?
Unfortunately, we operate on a tight schedule and cannot delay departures. Please allow extra time for travel and parking.
- How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, though Portland traffic may occasionally extend it by a few minutes.
- Do you have wheelchair access?
Due to the vintage nature of our 1971 fire engine, we do not offer wheelchair access. Boarding requires five steps, similar to a swimming pool ladder. However, we've had passengers as old as 98 years join our tours!
- Is gratuity expected?
Gratuities are appreciated for a tour well-given and a truck well-driven!
- Do you offer refunds?
Tickets are non-refundable but can be exchanged for another available date and time. If weather prevents us from completing at least half the tour, half of the ticket price will be refunded upon request. More details are available when purchasing tickets.
- Will we get wet on the tour?
We operate in light rain. Our bimini cover provides some protection, but we recommend bringing a raincoat. We also provide disposable ponchos in rainy weather. You may get a little wet—life is an adventure!
- Do I need a seat for my baby?
No. Infants under 3 years old can ride for free in their caretaker’s arms.
- Are pets allowed?
Pets are welcome as long as all other guests on your tour agree.
- Do you have storage for strollers?
Yes! We have space on board to store strollers and personal belongings.
- Where can I park?
Parking in Portland can be challenging, so allow extra time. Metered parking is available for up to two hours and is the most affordable option.
Cancellations
Important
WE LEAVE PROMPTLY AT THE DESIGNATED TOUR TIMES.
PLEASE have your cell phone with you the day of your tour in case we need to reach you.
PLEASE check the email you booked under for any last minute changes from us!
A paper print out is not needed just the name you booked under or confirmation on your phone.
Where can I park?
PARKING IS DIFFICULT IN PORTLAND SO LEAVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME!
Traffic can be bad at times in Portland so do not trust your mapping app on your phone for a time of destination. Leave plenty of extra time to find a parking spot.
Metered parking is for two hours so this is the cheapest solution but can take time to find. There is a lot on Union Wharf that offers parking close by. Here is a link: Parking Map