Portland: Guided Holiday Delicious Donut Tour with Tastings

If you’re anything like us, a good donut is an essential part of a trip to Portland. This guided donut tour promises a fun, tasty way to explore some of the city’s top spots, all while celebrating the holiday season. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but reviewing the details and feedback from others makes it clear this tour has a lot going for it.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines delicious food with a bit of sightseeing. You get to see Portland’s vibrant downtown and famous sites like Pioneer Square and Chinatown, all while indulging in some of the city’s best donuts. Plus, you avoid those long lines at Voodoo Doughnuts — a definite win. On the flip side, since the tour is only two hours, it’s a quick hit rather than an in-depth exploration, so if you’re craving a full-day food adventure, this might feel a bit light. Still, it’s perfect for anyone wanting a sweet, fun introduction to Portland’s food scene, especially during the holidays when seasonal flavors add extra cheer.

Key Points

• Taste a curated selection of Portland’s top donuts, including seasonal options like peppermint and gingerbread.
• Explore downtown Portland sights like Pioneer Square, Chinatown, and PSU campus along the way.
• Skip the lines at Voodoo Doughnuts and enjoy the experience without the wait.
• Learn fun facts from a passionate guide about the city’s neighborhoods and food culture.
• Ideal for food lovers looking for a quick, festive treat and sightseeing combo.
• Wheelchair accessible, suitable for groups of all sizes, with flexible booking options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What You Can Expect

This tour is a straightforward, two-hour stroll through Portland’s donut scene with a little sightseeing sprinkled in. Your guide, someone clearly passionate about Portland’s food and culture, will lead you to four of the top donut shops near Pioneer Square and downtown. The stops include well-loved spots like Sesame Donuts, Blue Star Donuts, Voodoo Doughnuts, and possibly others, depending on the day.

A big perk is the curated donut tasting, which means you won’t just be nibbling on one or two donuts. Instead, you’ll sample a variety—classic glazed and chocolate, along with more adventurous flavors like lavender, plus seasonal treats like peppermint, hot chocolate, and gingerbread. During busy holiday times, these seasonal flavors can really add to the fun, making the experience feel festive and special.

An added benefit is that at Voodoo Doughnuts, you’ll get to skip the long lines — some visitors wait up to 30 minutes just to get inside. That alone makes the tour appealing, especially if you’re a Voodoo fan or just want to save time. Between stops, your guide will share stories and interesting facts about the sights you’re passing, like Pioneer Square and the PSU campus, making the walk feel lively and educational.

Tour Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

The tour often attracts a variety of groups—families, bachelor/bachelorette parties, couples, and friends. It’s designed to be flexible and fun, with a relaxed vibe that encourages chatting and enjoying the treats. The group size can vary, but it’s generally an intimate and manageable experience, making it easy to ask questions and enjoy the company.

Because the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s reasonably accommodating for those with mobility issues, but keep in mind that the main focus is on walking between locations. The guide’s entertaining commentary and the social atmosphere tend to be highlights for most, with many reviewers mentioning how much they enjoyed the lively, friendly environment.

The Stops: A Closer Look

Sesame Donuts is likely your first stop, a local favorite that offers a good variety of donuts, setting the tone for what’s to come. It’s a cozy place where you can get a feel for Portland’s local vibe. After that, you’ll head to Blue Star Donuts, known for their upscale, chef-inspired flavors and quality ingredients. The donuts here are more artisanal, often with inventive toppings and creative flavors that elevate the typical donut experience.

Next, the much-anticipated Voodoo Doughnuts — a Portland icon. Since you’ll skip the line, you’ll get to enjoy their famous, quirky donuts without the wait. Many reviews mention how fun and lively the atmosphere is. “You can tell it’s a Portland must-visit,” one reviewer said, “and the tour makes it even better because I didn’t have to stand in line.” The variety here is impressive, and the seasonal flavors mentioned, like peppermint or gingerbread, add a festive touch during the holidays.

The final stop varies but might include other popular spots or hidden gems, giving you a broader taste of Portland’s donut scene. Throughout, your guide will keep things lively with stories about each place and Portland’s food culture.

The Sights and Sounds of Portland

While the main draw is the donuts, this tour also offers a bit of sightseeing. Passing by landmarks like Pioneer Square, Chinatown, and PSU campus, you’ll get a taste of Portland’s diverse neighborhoods. The guide’s stories add context, making the experience more than just eating. It’s a nice way to get a quick overview of the city’s vibe, especially if you’re new or short on time.

During the holiday season, the tour’s atmosphere feels especially cheerful, with sights and sounds that evoke Portland’s festive spirit. The combination of treats and sights makes this a cozy, memorable outing.

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Is the Price Worth It?

At $70 per person, this tour offers a curated tasting experience combined with sightseeing and a lively guide. It’s a good value if you’re looking for a fun, stress-free way to sample Portland’s donut scene without worrying about lines or planning multiple stops. Keep in mind that it’s only two hours long, so it’s a quick intro rather than an all-day food adventure. For many, that’s exactly what makes it appealing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers, holiday visitors, or anyone wanting a playful, tasty way to explore Portland’s downtown. It’s also suitable for groups of friends or couples wanting a relaxed, social outing. If you’re traveling with mobility issues, it’s wheelchair accessible, but be prepared for some walking. Families might find it enjoyable if kids are donut fans, but note that the tour is primarily geared toward adults.

Final Thoughts

The Portland Guided Holiday Delicious Donut Tour stands out as a sweet, lively way to enjoy Portland’s famous donut culture while soaking in some sights. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate good food, want to skip lines, and enjoy a bit of city exploration without committing to a full-day tour. The seasonal flavors give it a warm holiday touch and make it feel extra special during the festive season.

If you’re after a relaxed, fun foodie experience that combines sightseeing and treats, this tour hits the right notes. It’s not a comprehensive city tour, but it’s a delightful taste of Portland’s sweet side—literally.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, making it a quick but satisfying experience.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy a curated donut tasting and a guided walk through downtown Portland, exploring sights along the way.

Can I skip the lines at Voodoo Doughnuts?
Yes, one of the benefits is that the tour includes skipping the line at Voodoo, saving you up to 30 minutes or more.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While mainly geared toward adults, kids who love donuts might enjoy it, but it’s not specifically designed as a family tour.

Are the stops all close together?
Yes, the donut shops are near Pioneer Square and downtown, making walking between them manageable within the two-hour window.

How is the group size?
The tour caters to groups of all sizes, including bachelor/bachelorette parties and family gatherings, with a friendly, social atmosphere.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchairs, but keep in mind the walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially in Portland’s changeable weather.

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

If you’re in Portland during the holidays or anytime, and you love donuts, this tour seems like a fun, tasty way to get a quick taste of the city’s sweet side. Just remember, it’s a bite-sized experience—not a full city exploration—so plan accordingly if you want a deeper dive into Portland’s many neighborhoods.

You can check availability for your dates here: