FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to help you prepare for your visit to Maine's oldest lighthouse.
Can you go inside Portland Head Light?
No. The lighthouse tower is closed to the public. You cannot climb it except on Maine Open Lighthouse Day.
Is Portland Head Light free to visit?
Yes. Entry to Fort Williams Park and the lighthouse grounds is free. However, premium parking and museum entry require fees.
Do you have to pay for parking at Fort Williams Park?
Premium lots near the lighthouse charge in season; a free overflow lot is also available. A free overflow parking lot is also available.
What time does Portland Head Light open?
Fort Williams Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Read Best Time to Visit for seasonal details.
How far is Portland Head Light from downtown Portland?
The park is a 15 to 20-minute drive from downtown Portland. The entrance is 2.4 miles from the Shore Road and Route 77 intersection.
Are dogs allowed at Portland Head Light?
Yes. Dogs are permitted in Fort Williams Park but must be kept on a leash at all times, except in the designated off-leash area.
When is the museum at Portland Head Light open?
The museum and gift shop operate seasonally. They are open from mid-May through mid-October.
How tall is Portland Head Light?
The conical tower stands 80 feet tall from the ground. The focal height of the light is 101 feet above sea level.
Who owns Portland Head Light?
The property is owned by the Town of Cape Elizabeth. The US Coast Guard maintains the active beacon.
How many lighthouses can you see from Fort Williams Park?
You can spot four other offshore lighthouses from the park's Cliff Walk Trail, including Ram Island Ledge Light.
What is the history of Portland Head Light?
It is Maine's oldest lighthouse, first lit in 1791. President George Washington commissioned it with a $1,500 fund.