Haunted Pub Tour

Experience the Spooky Side of Portland with the Haunted Pub Tour

If you’re looking to add a touch of the supernatural to your Portland adventure, the Haunted Pub Tour offers a lively blend of history, ghost stories, and local beer. For $45 per person, this 2.5-hour walking tour takes you through the historic streets of Old Town Portland, famous for its 19th-century buildings, saloons, and some darker stories of kidnapping, gangs, and opium dens. Led by knowledgeable guides—sometimes Tiffany or Gabby—you’ll explore some of the most haunted spots in the city, all while sampling six craft beers from Portland’s award-winning breweries.

What we really like about this experience is its mix of authentic local history and lively storytelling. It’s not just about ghost tales—though there are plenty—it’s also a chance to learn how Old Town Portland’s notorious past still whispers through its buildings. Another highlight is the opportunity to sample Portland’s vibrant craft beer scene in friendly, historic pubs, which adds a welcoming, social aspect to the spooky stories.

However, one thing to consider is that the tour mainly takes place outside, with some stops inside pubs, so weather conditions might influence your comfort. Also, reviews indicate that sometimes the storytelling can be light on detail or a bit hard to hear, especially during busy parts of the night. That said, if you’re curious about Portland’s haunted history, love a good beer, and enjoy a relaxed, walking experience with a small group, this tour is a fantastic fit.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate local history with a spooky twist, are looking for a social evening out, and enjoy trying new craft beers. It’s less about intense ghost hunting and more about enjoying Portland’s stories, atmosphere, and drinks in a fun, relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Portland history: Learn about the city’s gritty past involving gangs, kidnapping, and opium dens.
• Craft beer sampling: Enjoy six different beers from local award-winning breweries.
• Historic locations: Visit two historic pubs and the most haunted building—The Merchant Hotel.
• Short walking distance: The tour covers key landmarks in Old Town Portland, including Skidmore Fountain and Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
• Expert guides: Guides like Tiffany and Gabby are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and storytelling.
• Weather-proof: Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately.

A Detailed Look at the Haunted Pub Tour

Starting Point & First Stops: The Historic Landmarks

The tour kicks off at Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub in downtown Portland, a lively spot known for its hearty Irish fare and historic charm. It’s an easy walk from public transportation, making it convenient for visitors staying downtown. Here, you get introduced to the overall theme and meet your guide, setting the tone for an entertaining evening.

The first stop is the Skidmore Fountain, a local Portland landmark notable for being the city’s first public artwork. An interesting tidbit is that a local brewery made this fountain famous by offering free beer here, which adds a fun local twist. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, but it anchors your experience in Portland’s history and community spirit.

Next, the tour heads to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, a scenic area along the Willamette River. Here, guides share stories of the waterfront’s gritty past—opium smuggling, brothels, and sailors kidnapped by local gangs. The stories paint a picture of Portland’s rougher, less polished days. This stop, also about 10 minutes, is perfect for those who love stories rooted in real places.

The Quirky Portland Spirit & Old Town’s Darker Past

A quick visit to the Keep Portland Weird sign next to Voodoo Doughnuts is an obligatory Portland photo op, but it also symbolizes the city’s love for all things quirky. From there, your journey takes you into Old Town Portland, the historic heart of the city, alive today with restaurants, nightlife, and a vibrant crowd. But 100 years ago, it was notorious for opium dens, underground speakeasies, and illicit activities.

Spending about 30 minutes here, the group explores this atmospheric neighborhood, hearing about its shadowy past. As one reviewer noted, “The stories of opium dens and underground speakeasies gave a real sense of the city’s darker side.” It’s a chance to walk through streets that once hosted Portland’s illicit nightlife, now reborn as a lively hub.

Inside the Pubs & Ghostly Tales

The tour stops inside two historic pubs in Old Town. While one of the main highlights is the Merchant Hotel, known as one of Portland’s most haunted buildings, guides will share stories of ghost sightings and local legends that give the place its haunted reputation.

Although some reviews, like one from Angela, note disappointment about not going inside more buildings, the stops inside the pubs still provide a cozy setting to absorb the stories. You can expect to enjoy your beer samples while soaking in the ambiance of these historic establishments—perfect for a relaxed, social vibe.

Beer Tasting & Atmosphere

Sampling six beers—each about 5 ounces—means you’re getting a real taste of Portland’s craft beer scene. As one reviewer put it, “The beers were very tasty, and it was a fun way to kick off the evening.” Guides are friendly and enthusiastic, often sharing tidbits about each brewery or the beer styles.

The experience is designed to balance storytelling with social drinking, making it a great way to connect with other travelers or enjoy a unique evening out. The beer stops are spread throughout the tour, often at places rich in history or with a lively atmosphere.

The Ending & Practicalities

The tour wraps up at Old Town Pizza & Brewing, just a short walk from the initial meeting point. The final stop offers a chance to reflect on the stories, enjoy some last sips of beer, and soak in the Portland nightlife.

With a maximum group size of 20, the experience maintains an intimate feel, letting guides tailor their stories and respond to questions. The tour operates rain or shine, so bringing appropriate clothing is recommended.

Authenticity & Value

The reviews highlight a wide range of experiences, from some guests praising the guides’ storytelling and fun atmosphere to others wishing for more detailed stories. Tiffany and Gabby are consistently praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which can turn a simple walk into an engaging storytelling session.

The value lies in the combination of historic storytelling, local craft beers, and the atmospheric setting. Rather than just a bar crawl, it’s an immersive experience that reveals the city’s enigmatic past and its vibrant present. For $45, you get a guided walk, six beers, and a chance to explore some of Portland’s most iconic historic spots—making it a reasonably priced way to spend an evening.

However, some reviews note that the storytelling can sometimes be light or difficult to hear, especially during busy moments. If you prefer a more in-depth historical tour or more inside visits, this might not be your ideal choice. But for those seeking a relaxed, social, and slightly spooky way to enjoy Portland’s nightlife, this tour hits the mark.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you enjoy local history, ghost stories, and craft beer, and you’re open to some walking in an urban setting. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a fun, casual evening that combines storytelling with social drinking. It’s also a good pick for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking to meet fellow beer enthusiasts or history buffs.

Those who appreciate guides with personality and knowledge will find it especially rewarding. If you’re visiting Portland for the first time or are intrigued by its past, this tour offers a different perspective—viewing the city through its stories of crime, intrigue, and hauntings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather, especially since much of the walking is outdoors.

What is the minimum age for this tour?
You must be at least 21 years old to participate, which makes sense given the beer tastings involved.

Are the stops inside the pubs or outside?
The tour includes stops both outside and inside two pubs in Old Town Portland. The rest of the time, you’ll be walking outdoors.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including walking and stops for drinks and stories.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience just for your group, which allows for a more personalized atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Pub Tour offers a lively, authentic way to uncover Portland’s darker past while enjoying some of its best craft beers. Guides like Tiffany and Gabby make the stories engaging and fun, often adding a personal touch that elevates the experience beyond just a pub crawl. The balance of history, ghost tales, and social drinking makes it a compelling choice for curious travelers.

While it might not satisfy those seeking in-depth historical investigations or inside access to certain buildings, it does deliver a memorable, atmospheric evening in Old Town Portland. The tour’s small-group size and charming historic setting make it ideal for those who appreciate storytelling and a relaxed, social vibe.

Whether you’re a history buff, a craft beer fan, or just looking for something different to do in Portland, this tour provides a fun, atmospheric glimpse into the city’s mysterious side—perfect for a memorable night out.

Note: Always check recent reviews and confirm availability before booking, as weather and local conditions can influence the experience, and some reviews mention variable storytelling quality.