Portland, Oregon, is a city that knows how to mix great craft beer, lively spirits, and a dash of quirky fun. Its thriving brewing scene, haunted bars, and unique culinary experiences make it an ideal destination for those wanting to explore the city through its drinks and stories. Whether you’re interested in uncovering Portland’s spooky past with a haunted pub crawl or biking between beloved breweries, there’s a tour tailored for every taste. We particularly like the Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting for its combination of history and local brews, as well as the Private or Shared Party Bike Pub Crawl for its lively, social vibe. These tours highlight Portland’s reputation as a craft beer capital and its love for quirky, memorable experiences.
If you’re craving a more interactive experience, the pasta and sushi making classes at local breweries offer a taste of Portland’s creative culinary scene—a fun way to learn and eat. For those who prefer exploring on two wheels or in the company of spirits, this list covers a broad spectrum of tastes and interests. For a comprehensive look at Portland’s drinking scene, read on about each of the best tours available.
1. Portland: Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting
At number 1, the Portland: Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting offers a fascinating glimpse into Portland’s shadowy past. This 1.5-hour guided walk takes you into the haunted Shanghai Tunnels, an underground network beneath Chinatown used in the 19th and early 20th centuries for smuggling and forced labor. This tour is about more than just history; it’s about uncovering Portland’s darker stories, including tales of sailors, ghost sightings, and the city’s illicit activities.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of history and local flavor. After exploring the tunnels, you’ll head to Old Town Pizza to enjoy a full pint of Portland craft beer, which is included in the $44 price. The guide shares intriguing stories of ghostly residents and the city’s underground secrets, making it perfect for history buffs and curious adventurers alike. The reviews average 4.3 out of 5, with many praising the engaging storytelling and the authenticity of the tunnels experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a unique blend of history, haunted tales, and beer, making it ideal for those interested in Portland’s underground lore and craft beer scene. It’s a short but memorable experience that’s well worth the price for its story-rich atmosphere.
2. Portland: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
Second on our list is the Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl, which invites you to share a drink with the spirits of Portland’s most haunted spots. This 2-hour adventure takes you through downtown Portland’s eeriest bars and pubs, uncovering stories of pirates, murders, and government secrets. It’s a guided tour that combines storytelling with a bit of daring—some of Portland’s most iconic pubs are part of the route, notably Kelly’s Olympian and an Irish pub famed for ghostly encounters.
With a 4.4-star rating from 30 reviews, the tour is praised for its spooky tales and lively atmosphere. You’ll hear about, and perhaps see, some of the city’s spectral residents while enjoying your drink. The tour costs $30 per person, making it an affordable and lively way to spend an evening.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who enjoy a spooky story with their cocktail, this pub crawl blends Portland’s bar scene with ghostly lore. It’s a spirited way to get to know downtown’s haunted history.
3. Portland: Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits
Third, the Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits offers a fresh way to explore Portland’s East Side neighborhoods. This 3-hour guided ride takes you past historic districts and local breweries, making stops at two popular spots where you can sample some of Portland’s renowned craft beers. The tour is designed for those who want an active experience combined with the city’s best brews.
The tour’s highlight is the chance to learn about Portland’s craft beer scene from knowledgeable guides who share insights into brewing processes and local culture. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from just 2 reviews, this tour appeals most to active travelers who appreciate local flavors and a bit of exercise. It’s ideal for those who enjoy biking and want to see Portland’s neighborhoods from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: A great choice for beer lovers who enjoy cycling, this tour combines exercise, local breweries, and city sights into a memorable afternoon. It’s particularly suited for active travelers eager to explore and taste.
4. Portland: Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery
Number 4 on our list is the Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery, a hands-on experience that combines culinary skills with Portland’s brewing culture. This 2-hour class teaches you how to make pasta from scratch—kneading dough, shaping various pasta types, and cooking to perfection. The class is beginner-friendly and perfect for foodies or couples looking for a fun night out.
Set in a local brewery, you’ll sip on freshly brewed beer while you work, making this experience as much about socializing as cooking. The class is led by a talented chef who provides step-by-step guidance, ensuring everyone goes home with new skills. Although the exact rating isn’t provided, similar classes in Portland are well-received for their approachable instructions and relaxed atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culinary enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed, interactive experience, this pasta class blends good food, local beer, and fun learning—all in a brewery setting.
$75 per person
5. Portland: Private or Shared Party Bike Pub Crawl
Next, the Party Bike Pub Crawl offers a lively, social way to explore Portland’s bar scene. This 2-hour tour takes place on a 15-seater party bike, where you pedal and dance to your favorite tunes from onboard speakers. Led by eccentric guides, the tour visits 3 curated bars, each with its own vibe, ending with a memorable polaroid photo.
This experience emphasizes fun and socializing, making it perfect for groups celebrating birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just a night out with friends. The flexible format allows for private or shared options, and the cost of $25 per person makes it a budget-friendly choice.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an energetic, interactive way to drink and celebrate, this pub crawl is a fantastic pick. It’s especially suited for groups wanting to combine sightseeing with party vibes.
$25 per person
6. Portland: Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery
Finally, the Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery offers a Japanese culinary experience in Portland’s brewing scene. This 2-hour class teaches you how to prepare sushi rice, roll sushi with bamboo mats, and create various sushi types, all while sipping on local beer. It’s perfect for those who want to learn a new skill and enjoy a relaxed, social environment.
Led by a talented chef, the class emphasizes beginner-friendly techniques that anyone can master. The experience is akin to a date night or group activity, combining food, drink, and instruction seamlessly. The price is $75 per person, which reflects the quality of instruction and ingredients, although reviews are not specified.
Bottom Line: This sushi class is great for food lovers who want to add Japanese cuisine to their culinary repertoire while enjoying Portland’s craft beer culture.
$75 per person
How to Choose Your Portland Drinking Tour
When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, interests, and activity level. If history and haunted tales intrigue you, the Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting offers a story-rich experience. For a lively night with a spooky twist, the Haunted Pub Crawl is perfect.
Active travelers who enjoy biking and local brews might love the Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits. Culinary enthusiasts should check out the Pasta or Sushi Making Classes, which combine hands-on cooking with Portland’s beer scene. And for those wanting a party vibe, the Party Bike Pub Crawl offers a memorable, energetic experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots on these popular experiences.
In summary, Portland’s wide array of drinking tours showcases its love for craft beer, storytelling, and creative culinary pursuits. From haunted tunnels to lively pub crawls and hands-on cooking classes, there’s something to match every traveler’s taste. Whether you prefer a historical walk, a cycling adventure, or a fun group activity, these tours promise genuine Portland flavor and memorable stories — so plan ahead and reserve your spot soon.