Portland: Ghosts, Poltergeists, and Psychopaths Walking Tour

This Portland haunted tour offers an intriguing look into the city’s darker past, blending ghost stories with fascinating historical tidbits. It’s a one-hour exploration designed for those curious about paranormal tales, local history, or just something different to do after sunset.

What makes this walk stand out? First, the expert guides truly bring the stories to life with engaging narration and local knowledge. Second, the tour covers eight haunted sites, including a notorious hotel and the infamous Shanghai Tunnels. Third, the accessible price point—just $24—makes it an affordable way to add a spooky twist to your Portland visit.

One possible downside? The tour involves about a mile of walking in potentially rainy weather, so comfortable shoes and an umbrella are encouraged. Also, note that you won’t go inside the tunnels, only see the entrances and hear their stories.

This experience is ideal for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a unique, storytelling-led evening in Portland. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for entertainment with a sense of mystery will likely enjoy this adventure.

Key Points

• Affordable and compact: Just $24 for a one-hour guided walk.
• Authentic stories: Guides share eyewitness accounts and researched tales.
• Historic sites: Includes notable haunted locations and the infamous Shanghai Tunnels.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages and rain or shine.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, personable, and engaging storytellers.
• Photo opportunities: Several stops lend themselves to memorable snapshots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Eerie Exploration of Portland’s Haunted History

This walking tour, operated by US Ghost Adventures, offers a compelling way to discover Portland’s spooky side while learning about its past. It’s especially valuable for travelers who appreciate authentic storytelling over mere ghost lore—though you will get plenty of both.

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The adventure begins outside the Harlow Hotel & Cafe on NW Glisan Street. Your guide, easily spotted with a lantern and wearing a branded T-shirt, kicks things off with a quick overview of Portland’s “City of Roses” reputation—then immediately shifts to its darker tales. The group size tends to be intimate, making it easier to follow the guides and ask questions.

Expect about a mile of walking through downtown Portland, exploring both the waterfront and historic Old Town areas. Tours run rain or shine, so bringing an umbrella is a smart move—many reviews note that the guides handle weather gracefully, keeping the energy lively regardless.

The Haunted Hotspots

Old Town Pizza is one of the first stops, where your guide will recount personal eyewitness stories of ghostly encounters. These stories make the history feel alive and tangible, especially with vivid details like strange sounds or unexplained movements reported by locals.

Next, you’ll visit the Portland Shanghai Tunnels, a site shrouded in myths of men kidnapped and “shanghaied” to work on ships. The guide explains how these tunnels were used for illegal activities such as gambling, opium dens, and prostitution—adding a layer of gritty history to the ghost stories. While you don’t go inside, the sight of the tunnels’ entrances triggers a sense of Portland’s shady underbelly.

Throughout the tour, other haunted locations are explored, with each stop revealing a different aspect of Portland’s paranormal reputation. Many reviewers mention the detailed storytelling and the guides’ ability to balance facts with creepy tales. For instance, one reviewer highlighted that the guide, Victoria, was “kind and so informative,” making the experience both fun and educational.

Kell’s Irish Pub is the final stop, where the guide recaps Portland’s strange activity and answers questions. It’s a cozy, social ending to an evening that’s both spooky and insightful.

What You’ll Learn

Beyond ghost stories, the tour offers historical context—such as the city’s 19th-century murders linked to hauntings, and how the tunnels played a role in Portland’s early vice scene. This gives the experience depth, transforming it from a simple ghost walk into a mini history lesson.

One highlight from reviews is how guides add humor and personal anecdotes, making the experience personable rather than purely eerie. For example, multiple reviews praised guides like Brendan, Lori, Victoria, and Dani for their engaging storytelling and approachable manner.

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Value for Money

For just $24, you get a highly engaging, hour-long tour led by passionate guides. Many reviewers felt the price was a steal for the amount of local lore and entertainment packed into the experience. The inclusion of photo opportunities and the chance to ask questions further enhance its value.

While the admission doesn’t include access to the tunnels themselves—which you might find disappointing—this isn’t a downside considering the cost. The focus remains on stories, history, and the atmosphere, which many find more than enough.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is suitable for all ages, family-friendly, and runs rain or shine. It’s about one mile of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential. If you have mobility issues, consider whether walking the route is manageable. Pets are allowed if kept on a leash, adding an extra layer of flexibility.

Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their passion for Portland’s haunted past. Many reviews mention guides like Victoria and Brendan by name, praising their enthusiasm, humor, and depth of research.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost walk is perfect for history lovers, paranormal enthusiasts, and nighttime explorers. It’s great for families with older kids, couples, or groups of friends wanting a memorable, spooky evening. If you enjoy a blend of storytelling and tangible history, this tour will satisfy your curiosity.

It’s also an excellent way to see parts of downtown Portland that you might otherwise miss, all while soaking up some eerie tales. If you’re visiting Portland and looking for a fun, different activity that balances entertainment with education, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This guided ghost tour in Portland offers a well-rounded mix of haunted stories, historic insights, and lively guides. The engaging narration, affordable price, and interesting stops make it a standout choice for a memorable evening. It’s suited to those who want a spooky vibe without the hassle of ghost hunting equipment or inside visits—just good stories and atmospheric locations.

While not a deep dive into paranormal investigations, the stories are immersive enough to give you chills and a new appreciation for Portland’s mysterious side. It’s also family-friendly and accessible, making it a flexible option for many travelers.

This experience provides authentic storytelling, stunning city views, and a fun glimpse into Portland’s darker history, making it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 1 hour, covering roughly a mile of walking through downtown Portland.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet outside the Harlow Hotel & Cafe at 722 NW Glisan Street. The guide wears a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carries a lantern.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and appropriate for all ages.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and an umbrella are recommended, as the tour runs rain or shine.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, dogs on a leash are welcome to join.

Does the tour include entrance to the Shanghai tunnels?
No, it doesn’t include tunnel access—only sights and stories about the tunnels.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
It’s not specifically designed for mobility impairments, so consider your comfort with about a mile of walking.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is in English.

What if I want to take photos?
There are photo opportunities at several stops, so bring your camera or phone to capture those spooky moments.

To sum it up, the Portland Ghosts, Poltergeists, and Psychopaths Walking Tour offers a fun, affordable way to explore a different side of Portland. It’s perfect for anyone interested in ghost stories, history, or just a quirky evening activity. Expect engaging guides, atmospheric locations, and plenty of memorable tales—making it a top pick for a spooky night out in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: