Before we shopped online, even before malls moved department stores to the suburbs, we had shopping arcades. Often ornately decorated, always filled with a variety of businesses, these arcades could offer shelter from inclement weather and one-stop shopping to meet almost any material need, all tucked unassumingly behind a single set of doors.
Join in a tour of some of Portland’s shopping arcades, the ones that remain today as well as the ones we’ve said goodbye to. Drawing on historic photos, participants will get a glimpse of shopping the way it used to be, as well as seeing some of the businesses that are thriving in the arcades that remain today!
This one-way tour will cover approximately 1/3 of a mile and will visit 7-10 stops, some of which we will be able to go inside. The final stop of the tour is an active arcade, and participants will be invited to go inside and check out the stores.
Accessibility:
This walk will take place on Portland city sidewalks. We will cross streets at marked intersections, but rough brick surfaces will be encountered throughout the walk.
Starting Location:
We will gather at the west end of Monument Square, just outside (but not blocking entry to) FedEx.
Ending Location:
The tour will end at 151 Middle Street where participants will be invited to come inside and explore the stores still in operation in one of the last of these wonderful shopping arcades!
Portland, Maine 04101
