If you’re looking for a way to mix a little history, a few drinks, and a good scare, the Portland: Ghosts Boo and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl might just be your ticket. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but the reviews and info paint a picture of a lively, spooky evening that’s especially appealing if you’re into ghost stories or Portland’s historic bar scene.
What really catches our eye are two things: first, the knowledgeable guides who share stories with enthusiasm and craft a fun atmosphere, and second, the unique locations—from elegant hotels to underground tunnels—each with its own eerie vibe. The one possible drawback? The tour lasts only two hours, so if you’re a serious paranormal buff, you might wish for more time at each stop or additional stories.
This tour seems best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy stories of the supernatural, historic pubs, and a relaxed social vibe. It’s not specifically family-friendly due to alcohol consumption and age restrictions, but for adults craving a spooky city night out, it hits the mark.
Key Points
- Unique Portland charm: Combines haunted stories with visits to historic pubs and bars.
- Guided storytelling: Guides are praised for their engaging, vivid storytelling.
- Variety of haunted sites: Stops include a historic hotel, Irish pub, underground tunnels, and more.
- Flexible experience: Tour visits 9 haunted sites and offers a mix of walking and stopovers.
- Cost-effective: At $30, it offers a good value for those interested in ghost lore and Portland’s bar scene.
- Weather-friendly: Tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately.
An Honest Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl
If you’re in Portland and the idea of combining a little spooky history with a night of drinks sounds appealing, this tour could be a highlight. It’s designed to give you a taste of the city’s darker past, mixed with the lively bar scene. The fact that it costs just $30 makes it accessible, especially compared to more elaborate ghost tours or private outings.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins at The Benson Hotel, an elegant spot with a reputation for ghost sightings. It’s a classy starting point, setting the mood with a touch of Portland’s historic charm. From there, you’ll move to Kelly’s Olympian, a historic bar with a spooky past—a place that’s said to be haunted and has an atmosphere that lends itself well to storytelling.
Next, you’ll visit Kell’s Irish Pub, which has whispers of paranormal activity passed down through generations. The stories here are often about ruthless murders and restless spirits, fitting the Irish pub vibe perfectly. The last stop is Shanghai Tunnels Bar, a place with a dark history of underground tunnels and eerie stories that make the atmosphere even more intense.
What to Expect at Each Stop
Each location offers a different flavor of haunted Portland. The guide’s storytelling is a big plus, as they share chilling tales, sometimes with props like EMF readers, which add an interactive element. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed the storytelling—one reviewer said, “Victoria is great,” and others appreciated the personal, friendly vibe that made it feel like hanging out with an old friend.
While the tour is primarily a walking experience, there’s enough time at each pub or bar to enjoy a drink or two. Drinks aren’t included, which is typical for a tour at this price point, but you’ll get the chance to sample Portland’s thriving craft scene. Be aware: the length of stay at each stop varies from 15 minutes to about an hour, depending on the night and place.
Highlights from the Reviews
A recurring theme among the reviews is the quality of the storytelling. One traveler said, “Great storytelling from our guide and a lovely way to learn about Portland’s history.” Others loved the atmosphere of each pub, mentioning private rooms that help keep the stories intimate and spooky.
Some reviews note minor issues, like the guide walking a bit too fast or some bars being closed on certain days, but overall, the comments are quite positive. One reviewer summed it up: “We were the only people on our tour, so it felt like hanging out with a friend hearing spooky stories,” highlighting how personalized the experience can be.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience Value
For the price, you’re getting not just a pub crawl, but a curated experience filled with haunting stories, local history, and a chance to explore some iconic Portland bars. The tour’s flexibility—visiting nine sites over just two hours—means you get a good mix of walking, storytelling, and drinking without it feeling rushed.
Accessibility and Practical Tips
The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch, but it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments. You should wear comfortable shoes and dress weather-appropriate, as Portland’s weather can change quickly, and the tour runs rain or shine. Remember to bring your ID, as you’ll need it to order drinks legally.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This haunted pub crawl is ideal for adults interested in ghost stories, Portland’s history, or just looking for a fun night out that’s a little different. If you enjoy storytelling, a lively bar scene, and spooky legends, you’ll likely find this experience worth the cost. But if you’re not a fan of walking or prefer a more intense paranormal experience, you might want something longer or more immersive.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a reasonably priced, engaging, and fun way to get to know Portland’s haunted side, this tour delivers. The guides’ storytelling skills and the historic sites’ ambiance stand out, making it a memorable night. Although it’s not a deep dive into paranormal phenomena, it strikes a nice balance between entertainment and history.
This experience works well for those who enjoy a social, story-filled evening with a spooky twist. It’s perfect if you want to add some haunted Portland charm to your trip and don’t mind a couple of drinks along the way.
Portland: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults, primarily because of the alcohol and age restrictions.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 2 hours, with visits to nine haunted sites and stops at four pubs or bars.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but you’ll have the chance to sample beverages at each stop.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is The Benson Hotel Portland, located at 309 SW Broadway. Arrive 15 minutes early.
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring weather-appropriate clothing, and carry your ID.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
How many people are typically on the tour?
Group sizes can vary. Some reviews mention touring alone or with a small group, which adds to the personalized feel.
The Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively, spooky, and affordable way to explore Portland’s haunted history. It’s a solid pick for those who enjoy storytelling, historic pubs, and a bit of supernatural fun.
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