Thompsons Point Information

Since 2015, the State Theatre Summer Concert Series has been held at Thompson’s Point on a yearly basis. On the Fore River’s northern banks, patrons have enjoyed watching and listening to such illustrious music acts as Bob Dylan and The Lumineers.

In the summer, Thompson’s Point also hosts its Maker’s Market, where local artists, farmers, and craftspeople can sell their wares. So, it’s a good event to check out when you seek something especially unique and thoughtful to give as a present to a loved one. Thompson’s Point is also the place to be for festivals.

The site of Thompson’s Point has a fascinating history. In the early 19th century, it was a seaport connecting Portland to the Cumberland and Oxford Canal. In the early 20th century, it was a railyard where locomotive engines were repaired.

Perhaps the most distinctive structure standing at Thompson’s Point today is the Depot Pavilion. You might recognize it from old photographs of the historic Union Station, which stood on Portland’s St. John Street before being demolished in 1961.

At that time, the Pavilion was saved and taken to Thompson’s Point, where it now forms part of a massive outdoor live music venue. 

Venue history

In the 19th century, the site of Thompson’s Point served as a port where barges and boats travelling along the Cumberland and Oxford Canal docked. However, the area has been repurposed multiple times since then – including as a train repair and storage facility later in the century.

By the early 20th century, Thompson’s Point had established itself as a stopping point for rail cars visiting Portland’s bustling shipyard. During this time, the railyard became renowned for its use of sophisticated technologies. For example, the site was the home of Maine’s first electric crane.

As the 20th century progressed, the rail and shipping industries in the area went into decline. Nonetheless, the area continued to be used for industrial manufacturing and storage.

When the iconic Union Station on Portland’s St. John Street was demolished in 1961, part of the building was moved to Thompson’s Point. Here, it was used as a workshop and storage structure for decades. Today, it is known as the Depot Pavilion – and a key part of the main outdoor performance space at Thompson’s Point.

More Thompsons Point information:

Ticket Policies:
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Seating Chart:
View the standard Thompsons Point seating map and read about different seating options.

Parking Information:
Information about the Thompsons Point parking options.