Portland: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to combine a walk through Portland’s eerie past with a drink or two, this tour offers the perfect mix. For just $30 per person, you get a 2-hour guided journey that takes you through four of Portland’s most haunted pubs and bars, exploring the city’s dark legends and chilling stories. The starting point at The Benson Hotel adds a touch of classy elegance, setting the tone for a night full of spooky surprises, spirited tales, and local craft beverages.

What we particularly like about this tour is the balance between storytelling and atmosphere. The guide’s enthusiasm makes the ghost stories come alive, and the different locations each have a unique vibe — from haunted Irish pubs to underground tunnels turned bars. Another highlight is the opportunity to explore some of Portland’s historic sites along the way, adding depth beyond just the ghost stories.

A potential consideration is the pace of the tour. According to reviews, the guide can walk quickly, which might be challenging for some, and not every stop may offer the chance to enjoy a drink, especially if bars are closed or crowded. Nonetheless, it’s a lively experience that’s best suited to those with an interest in local history, ghost stories, and a good story with their drink.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a night of entertainment with a spooky twist, particularly those eager to learn about Portland’s haunted spots while enjoying the city’s vibrant bar scene. It’s perfect for small groups or couples looking for a fun, memorable evening that balances history, mystery, and a little bit of ghostly fun.

Key Points

• Authentic stories: Guides are well-versed and bring the haunted history of Portland to life.
• Variety of locations: Four different pubs and bars, each with its own unique ghostly tale.
• Historic atmosphere: Stops include some of Portland’s most haunted and atmospheric venues.
• Flexible experience: Includes some exploration between stops, with varying visit lengths.
• Value for money: At $30, you receive a guided tour plus a chance to sample local drinks.
• Accessible for most: The tour is wheelchair accessible, though not suitable for those with mobility impairments or under 21.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl Experience

This tour is a lively way to get a taste of Portland’s spirited history — literally and figuratively. Starting at The Benson Hotel, a place with a reputation for ghost sightings and an elegant, historic vibe, sets an intriguing mood. From there, the guide, who dresses up and carries a lantern, leads you through the streets to Kelly’s Olympian, a historic pub with a reputation for being haunted. You’ll hear stories of ghostly encounters and old Portland legends that add an extra layer of mystery to your drink.

The tour then moves on to Kell’s Irish Pub, where whispers of paranormal activity have been shared for generations. Here, the storytelling is especially engaging, often in private rooms that enhance the spooky ambiance. One review mentions that the “great storytelling from our guide” made it feel like hanging out with an old friend sharing ghost stories, which is exactly the kind of relaxed but immersive experience we look for.

Your final stop is the Shanghai Tunnels Bar, an underground venue with a dark history tied to Portland’s underground tunnels and covert activities. This location provides a different kind of haunted atmosphere — underground and mysterious, with stories that make you think about Portland’s shadowy past.

What makes these locations stand out is not only their haunted reputation but also the atmosphere each location offers. Whether it’s an old Irish pub or a subterranean bar, each has a distinctive vibe that enhances the ghost stories being told. The stops usually last between 15-20 minutes to an hour, depending on the day and the crowd, allowing for both storytelling and a chance to soak in the environment.

The interactive elements like EMF readers, mentioned in reviews, add a fun twist, especially for those interested in paranormal phenomena. While drinks are not included in the price, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of beverages at each stop, which complements the storytelling well. The tour’s small group sizes and private room settings make for an intimate experience, allowing the guide to tailor the stories and respond to questions.

Some reviews point out that the tour could be faster paced, and at times, the guide walks quickly, which might be challenging if you want to hear every detail or stop for a drink. One review notes that, “the tour was fun but not worth the cost,” citing a missed opportunity to stop for drinks at the first bar and some bars being closed on Sundays. Still, the overall enthusiasm of the guides and the engaging stories seem to overshadow these minor inconveniences.

The value of the tour is clear: for $30, you get not only ghost stories but also a curated experience of Portland’s historic bars, some of which are not on typical tourist routes. The stories shared are authentic, and the atmosphere at each location is consistently noted as “great” or “haunting,” making it a memorable way to spend an evening.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

If you’re interested in Portland’s haunted lore or simply looking for a fun way to explore the city’s historic bar scene, this tour checks all the boxes. It suits those who enjoy stories that send shivers down their spine but don’t mind walking and standing in some atmospheric settings. It’s also a good fit if you’re traveling with a small group or partner, as reviews highlight the personal, relaxed vibe created by the guides.

However, it’s important to note that this is not a pub crawl focused on drinking — drinks are not included — so if your goal is to sample multiple craft beers or cocktails, you might want to plan beforehand. Also, because it’s geared towards those over 21 and accessible for most, it’s not suitable for children or people with mobility issues.

Practical Details

Duration: 2 hours, usually in the evening
Price: $30 per person, offering good value considering the guided storytelling and multiple locations
Meeting Point: The Benson Hotel Portland, 15 minutes early — the guide is dressed in costume and carries a lantern, adding to the spooky vibe
Inclusions: Tour guide, visits to 9 historic haunted sites, including 4 pubs
Exclusions: Food and drinks, although you can enjoy beverages at each pub
Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly; not suitable for those with mobility impairments
Weather: Tours run rain or shine, so dress accordingly

FAQs

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included, but you’ll have the chance to sample beverages at each pub along the way.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 21, as alcohol is involved and some stories might be too spooky for kids.

How long does each stop last?
Visit durations vary from about 15 minutes up to an hour, depending on the location and the day’s schedule.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some locations might require walking or standing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves walking outdoors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

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Final Thoughts

The Portland Ghosts, Boos, and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers an engaging way to explore the city’s haunted side without sacrificing comfort or fun. The combination of authentic ghost stories, atmospheric pubs, and local history makes it a memorable experience for those interested in Portland’s darker corners. With knowledgeable guides, private rooms, and a relaxed vibe, it’s a great option for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to add a spooky twist to their Portland visit.

While it’s not a drinking tour, the opportunity to enjoy Portland’s vibrant bar scene alongside chilling tales makes it a well-rounded experience. The price point of $30 provides excellent value, especially considering the intimacy and authenticity of the storytelling.

If you’re curious about Portland’s haunted legends or want a fun, atmospheric way to spend an evening, this tour is sure to entertain. Just remember to arrive prepared for walking, dress appropriately for the weather, and get ready to meet some of Portland’s most spirited residents — real or imagined.

You can check availability for your dates here: