Answer extracted from The Boulos Beat: A Commercial Real Estate Podcast — listen to the full episode below.
What is the role and public access situation of the Portland Observatory on Munjoy Hill?
Greater Portland Landmarks serves as steward of the Portland Observatory, which is owned by the City of Portland. The building is open to the public from May through October and hosts guided tours attracting thousands of visitors annually from around the world.
From Signal Tower to Public Heritage Site
The Portland Observatory began its life with a practical maritime purpose. The structure originally functioned as a signal tower where flags were raised to alert the community about incoming ships, reflecting Portland's deep connection to its working waterfront and ocean commerce. This historic role ties directly to the preservation mission that brought Julie Gondzar to Greater Portland Landmarks.
Today, the experience visitors encounter has been shaped by careful restoration and interpretation. Educational displays throughout the building explain its original history and the reconstructions undertaken to preserve it for future generations. As Gondzar notes in the episode, these efforts reflect Greater Portland Landmarks' commitment to making historic structures accessible and meaningful to the public.
The seasonal operation—May through October—aligns with visitor demand and the organizational capacity of Greater Portland Landmarks, which manages multiple properties and preservation initiatives across the region. The fact that thousands of visitors arrive annually from across the globe underscores the Observatory's significance as both a local landmark and an international attraction.
"Success ultimately comes from collaboration. I believe that if you want a good result at the end of the day, collaboration is key."
Julie Gondzar — Director of Development, Greater Portland Landmarks. Gondzar joined the organization in January 2025 after relocating from Wyoming, bringing extensive experience in both public and private sectors. Originally from New England with roots in Scarborough and Portland, she holds a master's degree from Plymouth State University and co-founded the award-winning Snowy Elk Coffee Company in Cheyenne before transitioning to nonprofit historic preservation.
This philosophy of collaboration underpins how Greater Portland Landmarks operates the Observatory and manages its broader preservation portfolio on Munjoy Hill and throughout the city, ensuring that heritage conservation serves the whole community.
See also
How should preservation organizations balance advocacy with collaboration when engaging developers on historic buildings?
Greater Portland Landmarks has shifted from being confrontational to being proactive and collaborative. The organization now seeks to get a seat at the table early in development discussions to shape outcomes that respect historic character.
What was the historical catalyst for the founding of Greater Portland Landmarks as an organization?
Greater Portland Landmarks was founded in 1964 following the 1961 demolition of Union Station on St. John Street. The passionate group of people who fought to preserve the city's architectural heritage recognized the need for an organized voice.
How can specialty beverage businesses leverage outdoor lifestyle branding to build national distribution?
Snowy Elk Coffee Company was inspired by a passion for outdoor adventure, including fly fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping. The brand was designed to resonate with outdoor enthusiasts, creating an authentic connection that fueled growth.