Portland: Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting

Looking for a unique way to explore Portland’s darker side? This Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour is a fascinating mix of history, ghost stories, and local craft beer, all in under two hours. For just $44 per person, you’ll descend into the haunted tunnels beneath Chinatown, walk in the footsteps of sailors and ghosts, and finish with a pint of award-winning Portland beer at a historic pizza place.

What we love about this experience is the expert storytelling of guides like Natasha and Doug, who make historic Portland come alive with vivid tales and engaging narration. The atmospheric tunnels genuinely evoke a sense of stepping back in time, especially when you hear about their use in transporting sailors and the ghost Nina’s reputed hauntings. Adding a beer tasting at the end not only makes for a relaxing conclusion but also offers great value, with a full pint included in the ticket price.

A potential consideration is that the tunnels involve walking up and down stairs, maneuvering through narrow passages, and ducking under pipes—so it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues. Also, the tour is primarily geared toward those aged 13 and older, with some tours strictly 21+ in the evening. If you’re traveling with young kids or can’t handle uneven floors, this might not fit your plans.

This tour suits history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and beer lovers who enjoy a little spooky storytelling paired with Portland’s local flavor. It’s particularly well-suited for those looking for a memorable, authentic experience that combines Portland’s past with its modern craft scene.

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Key Points

Authentic Underground Experience: Explore the historic tunnels linked to Portland’s shadowy past.
Engaging Guides: Knowledgeable storytellers like Natasha and Doug bring stories and history to life.
Balanced Focus: Mixes paranormal tales with historical facts for a well-rounded narrative.
Locally Sourced Tasting: End the tour with a generous pint of Portland craft beer at Old Town Pizza.
Physical Considerations: Expect stairs, narrow passages, and uneven floors—wear comfortable shoes.
Family Friendly: Suitable for ages 13 and up, with some tours restricted to 21+ in the evening.

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The Experience in Detail

When you arrive at Old Town Pizza & Brewing, you’ll check in by announcing your presence for the tour, which is pretty straightforward. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it an ideal mid-afternoon or early evening activity that won’t wear you out. The meeting point in the historic pizza restaurant feels fitting, as it’s a local fixture with its own storied past.

Your guide—be it Natasha, Doug, or another personable storyteller—will kick off with some background on Portland’s underground tunnels. These passages, lying beneath the bustling streets of Chinatown and Old Town, once served as secret routes for transporting sailors, often against their will, to ships docked on the river. The stories of Portland’s darker history, including tales of smuggling and illicit activities, form the backbone of the narrative.

As you descend into the tunnels, you’ll notice the atmospheric ambiance—dim lighting, narrow corridors, and the sense of stepping into an old, forgotten world. The guides do a commendable job of balancing spooky tales with historical context, making the experience both fun and educational. Several reviews, such as one from Hannah, emphasize how informative and engaging Natasha was, adding a personal touch that keeps the atmosphere lively.

A highlight is the story of Nina, a resident ghost said to haunt the tunnels. While some guests find the paranormal aspect the most intriguing, the guides often emphasize that the ghost stories are part of Portland’s lore, adding an eerie charm. Karan’s review captures this, noting how the guides’ storytelling enhances the experience of walking through the tunnels “with a belief in spirits occupying the area.”

After exploring the underground labyrinth, you’ll head back upstairs to Old Town Pizza, a historic spot that’s part restaurant and part portal to Portland’s storied past. Here, you’ll sample a special beer tasting featuring Portland’s award-winning brews. A full pint awaits, perfect for relaxing and reflecting on the stories and sights. Hannah describes this as “the perfect setting for the tour and the beer was exceptional,” highlighting how well the beer complement the experience.

The tour’s value is notable: for $44, you get a guided exploration, ghostly tales, and a craft beer—an authentic taste of Portland’s local scene. The reviews suggest guides are consistently knowledgeable, making the experience worth the price. Mike’s comment about the “interesting place and fun guide” underscores the overall positive value.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

First, the guided storytelling is a major draw. Whether it’s recounting the tunnels’ use in nefarious activities or the tale of Nina, guides clearly love sharing Portland’s hidden stories. Their enthusiasm makes the tunnels feel alive—an experience that’s much more engaging than a static museum visit.

Second, the combination of history and modern Portland—through the beer tasting—is a clever way to connect past and present. You get a chance to taste local brews while soaking in a slice of the city’s past, which many reviewers appreciated. Heather points out that the guide’s mix of paranormal and historical stories kept the tour lively and interesting.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

The tunnels involve walking — mostly up and down stairs, with narrow passages and some obstacles like pipes and uneven floors. It’s physically manageable for most, but not suitable for those with mobility challenges. Comfortable shoes are a must. The tour also has age restrictions: children under 13 aren’t allowed, and some evening tours are strictly 21+.

While the stories are captivating, it’s worth noting that some parts of the tunnels are off-limits for safety reasons, so the walk is somewhat selective. Most guests still find the portions they visit to be atmospheric and compelling.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re interested in Portland’s shadowy side, enjoy stories of ghosts and history, or want a fun, relaxed way to learn about the city’s past. It’s well-suited for adventurous adults or teenagers who appreciate storytelling and local brews. If you’re traveling with children under 13 or have mobility issues, you might want to look for other options.

For those who love a mix of history, paranormal tales, and craft beer, this tour delivers all three in a friendly, approachable package. It’s especially appealing during the cooler months when the tunnels’ chill adds to the atmosphere.

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Final Thoughts

For just $44, this Portland Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting offers a memorable glimpse into the city’s hidden underground world. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, you’ll learn about Portland’s dark past, ghostly legends, and secret routes used by sailors and smugglers. The addition of a craft beer at the end makes this both an educational and relaxing experience, perfect for those who want to combine history, local flavor, and a little spooky fun.

The tour’s strong points are the engaging guides, the authentic underground setting, and the value of included beer and storytelling. While it involves walking through narrow, uneven passages, most guests find the experience both manageable and rewarding. If you’re curious about Portland’s mysterious side and enjoy a good yarn with a cold drink, this tour is well worth your time.

Ultimately, it’s an experience that offers a rare peek into Portland’s lesser-known history, told by passionate guides, all wrapped in a fun, social atmosphere. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, ghost lover, or craft beer fan, this tour hits the spot and leaves you with stories and sips to remember.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 13 are not allowed on the tour. Some tours are 21+ only in the evening, so check the schedule if traveling with teenagers.

How long does the tour last?
The underground tour itself lasts about 1.5 hours, with additional time at the end for the beer tasting.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking and navigating stairs. The tunnels are narrow, with uneven floors, so avoid high heels or bulky shoes.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Old Town Pizza & Brewing. Just announce you’re there for the tour, and if it’s before hours, knock on the door.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour, a special beer tasting, and one pint of Portland craft beer at the end.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. No same-day cancellations or changes are allowed.

Whether you’re a history buff, ghost enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to explore Portland’s underground secrets, this tour offers a distinctive experience with authentic local flavor. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, arrive on time, and enjoy the stories—and the beer—at the end.