Fort Williams Park welcomes buses and tours to visit our museum, headlight, and other amenities throughout the park. There is a fee of $220.00 per visit for each tour bus entering the park. To make the process smoother, below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions and a Motor Coach Reservation Form that can be submitted online.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Motor Coach and Tour Operators
Cape Elizabeth is the home of Portland Head Light. Situated along the shores of Fort Williams Park, the popular landmark is owned and managed by the Town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine. We wish to thank you in advance for assisting us in taking care of this national treasure. - Matthew Sturgis, Town Manager
I’d like to bring a group to visit the Park. Are there any fees?
Yes, there are Commercial Passenger Vehicle Fees. Pre-payment for tour buses is suggested and can be accomplished in two easy steps:
- Complete the online reservation form. The permit, one for each visit, should be presented to the Park Greeter upon arrival.
- Mail a copy of the permit and a check payable to "Town of Cape Elizabeth", to 343 Ocean House Road, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107.
Alternatively, payment may be made on-site the day of the visit with cash or check only.
What is Fort Williams Park?
Fort Williams Park was once a former military installation purchased by the Town of Cape Elizabeth in 1964 through the General Services Administration.
Where is Portland Head Light?
Portland Head Light is located inside Fort Williams Park. The Town acquired the property from the U.S. Coast Guard in 1993.
Where should visitors be dropped off in Park?
Attention all bus drivers, please proceed to one of the ten designated parking spaces reserved for motorcoaches in the Central Parking Lot. Once you've parked, kindly inform your passengers to disembark at the parking lot and walk approximately 200 yards to the lighthouse on the paved walkway. There are railings and benches along the walkway for those who may need assistance.
Please note that buses should remain in the parking space until the passengers have completed their visit and returned to the parking lot.
Are there restrooms available in the Park?
There are no permanent restrooms in the park. The Town utilizes portable restrooms that are cleaned and inspected regularly. They are located throughout the park, with multiple units located in the Central Parking Lot.
Why is the town charging a fee?
For many years, visitors have been delighted with the offerings of Fort Williams Park, including the Lighthouse and the stunning views it provides. To ensure that this park remains an unforgettable experience for future visitors, it is necessary to continue investing in it. All proceeds collected from the fees will be dedicated to enhancing the park property.
Where is Fort Williams Park Located?
Fort Williams Park is situated at 1000 Shore Road. If you're driving from the north or Interstate 295 in Portland, take Route 77 south to South Portland. Then, take a left on Broadway and a right on Cottage Road, and continue driving for 2 miles until you reach the entrance of the park. At the Cape Elizabeth town line, Cottage Road becomes Shore Road. If you're approaching from the south, drive on Route 1 north to Oak Hill in Scarborough. Then, turn right on Route 207 and left on Route 77 north to Cape Elizabeth. At the flashing blinker, take a right onto Shore Road. The park entrance is 2.4 miles away from the Shore Road/Route 77 intersection. The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset. You can find a map of the park and obtain more information on our Contact page.
How much time should I allow for a visit?
It is recommended to allocate one hour of your time for a visit to the Lighthouse, Museum, and Gift Shop. The Town manages a gift shop and museum on the premises, which are open daily from mid-May through mid-October. If you want to arrange group visits to the museum, you can contact us at directoratphl@gmail.com or call us at 207-799-2661.
Portland Head Light & Fort Williams Park
1000 Shore Road
Cape Elizabeth, ME
207-799-2661
www.portlandheadlight.com
Fort Williams Park
c/o Community Services
343 Ocean House Road
Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
207-799-2868
www.capecommunityservices.org