Haunted Pub Tour

Portland’s Haunted Pub Tour: A Spooky Sip Through History

Feeling curious about Portland’s darker, more mysterious side? The Haunted Pub Tour offers a 2.5-hour walk through Old Town’s shadowy corners, blending ghost stories, historic pubs, and local craft beers into one intriguing experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a beer lover, or someone intrigued by ghostly tales, this tour promises a fun and atmospheric way to explore the city’s underbelly.

We particularly like that this tour combines authentic Portland history, award-winning beers, and a lively guide. Plus, it’s a chance to uncover some of the city’s haunted legends while enjoying a relaxed walk with friends. That said, a potential drawback could be the tour’s outside stops—if you’re looking for a fully inside experience, this might not be ideal. Overall, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of storytelling, craft beverages, and a bit of eerie intrigue.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of history, ghost stories, and craft beer tastings
• Engaging guides who are knowledgeable and personable
• Historic Old Town as the perfect setting for spooky stories
• Visit the Merchant Hotel, Portland’s most haunted building
• Outdoor stops mean weather considerations
• No children or pets allowed, 21+ only

The Lowdown on the Haunted Pub Tour in Portland

Portland is known for its quirky vibe, vibrant food scene, and a few ghostly legends that still linger in its oldest buildings. This tour capitalizes on that reputation, offering a taste of the city’s eerie past alongside its thriving craft beer culture.

What’s Included and How It Works

For $45 per person, you get approximately 2.5 hours of walking, guided by a local expert. The tour is limited to 20 participants, ensuring a cozy, interactive experience. Included in the price are five beer samples of 5 ounces each, allowing you to sip your way through some of Portland’s finest breweries.

The tour operates rain or shine, so it’s wise to dress appropriately. You’ll start at Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub, a well-loved spot that sets the scene for a spooky adventure. The walk ends at Old Town Pizza & Brewing, just a short stroll from the starting point, at an award-winning brewery—perfect for winding down or continuing your night.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Stop 1: Skidmore Fountain
This local landmark is more than just Portland’s first public artwork—it’s also a hub of local legend. A brewery once made this fountain famous for offering free beer, giving visitors an early taste of Portland’s love of a good brew. The stop is brief—around 10 minutes—and is mostly about setting the tone for the tour. It’s free, so it’s an easy introduction to the city’s historic side.

Stop 2: Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Here, stories of opium smuggling, kidnapping, and brothels come alive amid the scenic views of the Willamette River. This area, once a dangerous waterfront, was notorious for sailors falling prey to underground activities. It’s a vivid reminder of Portland’s seedier past, and the stories here are colorful enough to make your hair stand on end. Expect another 10 minutes outside, soaking up this intriguing slice of history.

Stop 3: Keep Portland Weird Sign & Voodoo Doughnuts
Portland’s quirky spirit shines with the iconic Keep Portland Weird sign, a beloved symbol of the city’s eccentricity. Near by is Voodoo Doughnuts, which embodies Portland’s love of all things unconventional. This stop is a quick photo op and a chance to appreciate the city’s offbeat charm, lasting around 10 minutes.

Stop 4: Old Town Portland
The true heart of the tour, this historic district was once filled with opium dens, brothels, and underground speakeasies. Today, it’s lively with restaurants, nightlife, and a few ghostly legends to tell. The guide shares stories of Portland’s darker days during a half-hour walk, with the focus on its historic buildings and the spirits rumored to inhabit them. This is the core of the tour, where history and ghost tales collide.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Ghost stories in real historic buildings add an authentic thrill. The highlight is a stop at the Merchant Hotel, reputedly Portland’s most haunted spot, where visitors can hear about ghost sightings and unexplained phenomena. Though the tour primarily involves outdoor walking and stops outside buildings, this adds a layer of freshness and spontaneity to the experience.

Beer tasting is a major plus. The tour features six craft beers from award-winning Portland breweries, providing great value for those who appreciate well-crafted drinks. Reviewers mention the beers are “very tasty,” and the opener with a flight of beer encourages a relaxed vibe that helps everyone loosen up for the stories ahead.

Guides matter. Feedback highlights guides like Tiffany and Madison as being confident, knowledgeable, and engaging. Tiffany is praised for her readiness and attentiveness, especially regarding safety and guest concerns. One reviewer, Roberto, appreciated her communication style, noting she was ready to adapt if someone felt uncomfortable.

Authentic Ghost and History Stories

While some guests didn’t see actual spirits, the stories and ambiance left a lasting impression. “Our tour guide was great, had some amazing historical stories along our adventure,” mentions one reviewer. The tales of Portland’s illicit past—drug dens, kidnapping, and seedy nightlife—bring the city’s character into focus.

However, a few guests felt the content was somewhat light and that some stories could have been more detailed. For example, Cynthia remarked that the guide was “hard to hear” and that the stories felt “generic.” The outdoor stops and storytelling approach mean that the quality of narration is crucial, especially in busy, noisy streets.

The Value and Atmosphere

Price-wise, at $45, the tour offers a good balance of entertainment, education, and drinks. You’re not just paying for a walk—you’re getting a guided experience that combines local lore with beer tasting. For those who love craft beers, this is a smart way to sample several without needing to visit multiple breweries on your own.

The atmosphere is lively, with groups often mingling. Guests mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the fun of sharing ghost stories and beers with strangers. It’s perfect for date nights, small groups, or solo travelers wanting to connect over Portland’s spirited past.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress appropriately for weather—outdoor stops mean rain gear or layers are advisable.
• Arrive on time at Kells Irish Pub, as the tour starts promptly.
• The tour is 21+ and doesn’t accommodate children or pets.
• Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as the walk involves some standing and outdoor time.
• If you’re sensitive to street noise or street activity, be aware that some parts of the tour involve being outdoors amid Portland’s lively street scene.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts curious about Portland’s past. Craft beer lovers will appreciate sampling local brews in a relaxed, social setting. Ghost aficionados will enjoy hearing about the city’s haunted legends, even if they don’t see spirits themselves.

It’s particularly suitable for people who enjoy walking tours with a mix of storytelling and drinks, rather than a purely inside, museum-type experience. Travelers seeking an authentic, lively slice of Portland’s culture and a little spooky fun will find this tour a great fit.

The Sum Up

The Haunted Pub Tour is a well-rounded experience that combines Portland’s intriguing history, vibrant pub scene, and ghostly tales. With knowledgeable guides, a lively atmosphere, and quality craft beers, it offers excellent value for anyone wanting a taste of the city’s darker side in a fun, social way. The outdoor stops and storytelling make it unique, though it might not satisfy those seeking inside access or extremely detailed stories.

For curious travelers, beer lovers, or anyone with a penchant for ghost stories, this tour provides a memorable night out that balances education and entertainment. It’s best suited for those comfortable walking outdoors, eager to learn about Portland’s past, and open to a few shivers along the way.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? No, the tour requires participants to be 21+ due to alcohol consumption and the nature of the experience.

How long does the tour last? It runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering multiple stops around Old Town Portland.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, most bookings are made about 9 days ahead, ensuring a spot on this popular tour.

Are the stops indoors? No, most stops are outside or at least involve outdoor walking. The tour ends at a brewery, where you can enjoy your remaining time.

What if the weather is bad? The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly—rain gear and layers are recommended.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Less notice means no refund.

Overall, the Haunted Pub Tour offers a fun, atmospheric way to explore Portland’s mysterious side, making it a worthwhile choice for visitors who appreciate local stories, craft beers, and a touch of ghostly intrigue.