Portland’s reputation as a craft beer capital is well-earned. The city boasts an impressive number of breweries, making it a prime destination for beer lovers. But Portland’s charm isn’t just about the variety of brews; it’s also about the unique experiences that come with exploring its brewing scene. Whether you’re intrigued by stories of ghostly tunnels beneath the city, eager to pedal your way through vibrant neighborhoods, or interested in exclusive behind-the-scenes visits to distilleries, Portland has options. These tours promise not just great beer but also memorable stories and local insights that turn a simple tasting into a true Portland adventure.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best brewery tours in Portland, each offering a different way to experience the city’s beer culture. From underground haunted tunnels to bike rides through the city’s lively districts, and a private day-long journey through the Willamette Valley—these tours highlight the best ways to enjoy Portland’s brewing heritage.
Quick Overview
Below you’ll find a variety of brewery-related experiences, each with its own appeal. For a spooky twist, the Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings offers an immersive history walk beneath the city with beer tastings. For active beer lovers, the Portland Oregon Breweries By Bike and E-bike provides a lively cycling tour across Portland’s most popular breweries. If you’re craving a full-day private adventure, the Private Back-Country Distillery, Brewery, or Pub Tour takes you through the Willamette Valley with visits to distilleries and local eateries. Each offers a distinctive way to explore Portland’s beer scene.
1. Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings
At number one on our list, this Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings combines Portland’s mysterious past with its thriving craft beer scene. This 90-minute walking tour takes you beneath a popular restaurant into the narrow, historic tunnels that once connected hotels and businesses to the Willamette River. These tunnels have long been associated with stories of smuggling, secret deals, and ghostly encounters, including the legendary Nina who is said to haunt the space.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of history and spirits. The guide shares detailed stories about the tunnels’ role in Portland’s past, making it more than just a walk through dark passages. After the tour, you’re rewarded with three beer tasters and a full pint from a local, award-winning brewery. This experience is perfect for history buffs or anyone curious about Portland’s shadowy corners. The tour is small-group, ensuring a personal experience, and involves some stairs and maneuvering through pipes—so it’s best for those in decent shape.
Guests often comment on the depth of historical detail and the spooky tales. One reviewer says, “Very informative about the history of the tunnels. Natasha made it fun considering the darkness subject.” The price point is quite reasonable, offering good value for the unique access and combined storytelling plus beer. This tour is ideal for those looking to mix a ghost story with a tasting adventure.
Bottom Line: A fun, spooky way to learn Portland’s underground secrets while enjoying locally brewed beers—ideal for history lovers and brave souls alike.
2. Portland Oregon Breweries By Bike and E-bike
Next on our list, the Portland Oregon Breweries By Bike and E-bike offers a lively, active way to taste Portland’s prominent craft beer scene. This roughly 3-hour tour is perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with sampling. The route includes visits to two breweries favored by your guide, who is well-versed in the city’s brewing and neighborhood stories.
What makes this tour stand out is its use of bikes—both traditional and electric—to cover more ground comfortably. You’ll pedal past Portland’s scenic spots, including parks and historic districts, stopping at two selected breweries where you can sample local beers (drinks are at your expense). The tour ends back at the bike shop with a final microbrew and a souvenir pint glass, making it easy to remember your day.
Reviews emphasize the fun and relaxed pace, with some mentioning the knowledgeable guide and the chance to see parts of Portland that are hard to explore on foot. One reviewer noted, “This was a great way to see Portland and all the great things it has to offer. Pierre was my guide and I loved getting out and learning about the city while biking.” The price includes equipment and the guiding service, offering excellent value for a personalized experience. It’s best suited for active travelers or those new to biking who want an energetic, social way to enjoy craft beer.
Bottom Line: An engaging, health-conscious way to explore Portland’s breweries, making it a great choice for active travelers who love beer.
3. Private Back-Country Distillery, Brewery, or Pub Tour
Finally, for those seeking an exclusive, tailored experience, the Private Back-Country Distillery, Brewery, or Pub Tour offers a full-day adventure through the Willamette Valley. This 8-hour journey takes you off the beaten path to visit some of the region’s most renowned distilleries and breweries, with stops in Wilsonville, Aurora, Newberg, Dundee, and McMinnville.
This tour is designed for those eager to explore multiple types of craft beverages and local foods in a private setting. It includes a tasting at a local distillery and a farm, lunch at a delicatessen, and visits to two different breweries with unique processes. The itinerary gives you behind-the-scenes access to craft production, along with plenty of opportunities to sample and enjoy local specialties. It’s a curated experience that balances education, tasting, and scenic drives through the Oregon wine country.
With a high rating of 5 stars from just three reviews, the tour promises a personalized and in-depth experience. It’s best suited for serious fans of spirits and beer, or those celebrating a special occasion. The price is premium, but it includes the entire day’s itinerary, making it good value if you want a comprehensive, private experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for connoisseurs or groups wanting an upscale, all-inclusive day exploring Oregon’s best distilleries and breweries.
How to Choose the Best Portland Brewery Tour for You
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, how much activity you want, and your specific interests. If you’re fascinated by Portland’s hidden past, the Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour offers a spooky history combined with beer. For a more energetic day, the bike tour makes exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods fun and active. If you prefer a private, behind-the-scenes experience with a focus on craft spirits and wines along with beer, the back-country tour is an excellent choice.
Timing also matters. The bike tour is best in mild weather, while the underground tour can be enjoyed year-round. The private tour offers flexibility and can be booked for special occasions or when you want a deeper dive into Oregon’s beverage scene.
Booking early is a good idea, especially for the private tours which fill quickly, and for the popular bike tours in peak season. Check each tour’s details for group size limits and cancellation policies to plan your visit smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Portland’s brewery scene offers a wide spectrum of experiences, from ghostly underground walks to active cycling adventures and exclusive private tastings. For those keen on uncovering Portland’s darker secrets, the Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour provides a memorable mix of history and beer. If you’re looking for a fun, social way to taste the city’s best brews, the bike tour is ideal. For a personalized, all-day private experience, the back-country tour delivers a tailored exploration of Oregon’s craft beverage craftsmanship.
Whatever your style, these tours show that Portland is much more than just a place to drink—it’s a place to learn, see, and taste the local culture. Early booking is recommended to ensure you secure your spot, especially in the busy seasons. Cheers to an unforgettable Portland brewing adventure!