Portland Observatory

Portland Observatory Review

This octagonal observatory on Munjoy Hill was built in 1807 by Captain Lemuel Moody, a retired sea captain, as a signal tower. Moody used a telescope to identify incoming ships and flags to signal to merchants where to unload their cargo. Held in place by 122 tons of ballast, it's the last remaining signal tower in the country. After visiting the small museum at the base, climb to the Orb deck and take in views of Portland, the islands, and inland to the White Mountains.