Portland: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re visiting Portland and enjoy stories that send a shiver down your spine—or just love a good ghost story with a drink in hand—the Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl might be just the thing.

This tour promises a mix of history, local legends, and a little paranormal fun, all wrapped into an easy 2-hour walk through downtown Portland’s most haunted spots. From elegant old hotels to lively Irish pubs, the experience aims to entertain both skeptics and believers alike.

What makes this tour stand out is its ability to combine entertaining storytelling with visits to four historic pubs, each with its own spooky past. We also appreciate the sense of local authenticity, as the tour is led by knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely passionate about Portland’s haunted reputation. On the downside, some may find the pace a bit brisk or the emphasis on storytelling somewhat uneven.

Still, for anyone curious about Portland’s darker side—whether you’re a night owl, history buff, or just in search of a memorable night out—this tour offers solid value and a fun atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour works best for those who enjoy a mix of history, mystery, and socializing. It’s perfect for groups looking for a unique evening activity that combines storytelling, walking, and pub hopping. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want a lively, slightly spooky night, you’ll find this experience suits you.

However, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or under 21, as the tour involves walking and alcohol consumption.

You can check availability for your dates here:

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Drinking Tours In Portland Oregon? Our Top 6 Picks.

Key Points

• Authentic haunted sites: Visit nine historic locations with stories that have been whispered for generations.
• Guided storytelling: Knowledgeable guides share entertaining and sometimes spine-chilling tales.
• Historic pubs and bars: Explore four iconic watering holes, each with its own ambiance and haunted lore.
• Flexible experience: Tour includes time exploring stop-ins that range from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on circumstances.
• No drinks included: While beverages are available for purchase at each pub, the tour price does not include drinks.
• Rain or shine: The tour runs regardless of weather, so dress accordingly.
• Accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible, though not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
• Great reviews for guides and atmosphere: Many reviewers highlight the guides’ storytelling skills and the atmospheric venues.

An Honest Look at the Portland Haunted Pub Crawl

We love the way this tour balances history, entertainment, and a bit of the supernatural. For many visitors, the charm of Portland’s historic pubs is intertwined with their haunted reputations, making each stop a chance to imagine the ghosts that may still linger. The guide’s storytelling is often praised as lively and engaging, with some reviewers saying it felt more like hanging out with an old friend than listening to a lecture.

The tour starts at The Benson Hotel, an elegant spot with a reputation for ghostly sightings. Its historic charm and slightly spooky reputation set the tone for the night. From there, you’ll stroll through downtown, stopping at Kelly’s Olympian, a lively bar with a dark past, and Kell’s Irish Pub, famed for its paranormal tales. The final stop, Shanghai Tunnels Bar, offers a unique setting—its dark history and eerie atmosphere make for an unforgettable ending.

Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: The Benson Hotel
The tour kicks off here, where you might get a glimpse of the elegant architecture and ghostly whispers associated with this historic hotel. Many appreciate the way the guide introduces Portland’s haunted reputation with a blend of respect and humor.

Kelly’s Olympian
A historic pub with a lively vibe, yet behind the scenes, stories of restless spirits and strange occurrences make this place a highlight. The guide often shares stories of ghostly encounters and local legends, adding to the pub’s character.

Kell’s Irish Pub
This spot has whispers of paranormal activity handed down through generations. The atmosphere here is cozy yet spooky, perfect for storytelling. Reviewers mention enjoying the private rooms where stories are shared in a more intimate setting.

Shanghai Tunnels Bar
The tour’s finale, this bar’s dark history as part of Portland’s underground tunnels offers a chilling backdrop. The atmosphere is described as eerie, making it a fitting end for those with an interest in Portland’s shadowy past.

Experience and Atmosphere

The tour is designed to be interactive and immersive. Guides often carry lanterns, creating a theatrical feel that heightens the spooky ambiance. The walk itself is straightforward, with the pace set to keep everyone engaged but comfortable. Depending on the day, each stop’s duration varies, allowing for more in-depth stories or quick visits—this flexibility is appreciated by many.

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Cost and Value

At $30 per person, the tour offers a decent value considering the experience. While drinks aren’t included, you’ll have ample opportunity to sample beverages at each stop, often in private rooms or areas with special ambiance. Reviewers note that the stories and the atmosphere often surpass expectations for the price, especially compared to other nightlife options.

The Guest Experience

Feedback highlights the guides’ storytelling skills and their ability to make history come alive. One reviewer said, “Victoria is great but would have liked to go to more pubs,” emphasizing how engaging guides can elevate the experience. Others enjoyed the private rooms and added extras like EMF readers—small touches that add fun and authenticity.

Practical Details and Tips

Meeting Point
All tours start at The Benson Hotel Portland, a well-known, centrally located spot. Arrive 15 minutes early to meet your guide, who will be dressed up and carrying a lantern—setting the mood right from the start.

Duration & Timing
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, generally available in the evening. This makes it easy to combine with dinner or other Portland activities.

Accessibility & Restrictions
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, and participants must be over 21 since alcohol is involved.

What to Bring
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and an ID are recommended. Since the tour runs rain or shine, dressing for the weather is wise.

What Not to Do
Smoking and video recording are not allowed, respecting the privacy and safety of all guests.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl offers a fun mix of Portland history, spooky legends, and lively pub atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers wanting an evening of storytelling combined with social drinking, especially if you love ghost tales or are curious about the city’s darker side. It’s also a great choice for small groups or couples looking to add a little intrigue to their Portland trip.

If you’re after a value-packed experience, the combination of nine haunted sites, engaging guides, and atmospheric venues makes this tour a solid pick. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate local authenticity—the stories and locations aren’t just touristy; they feel rooted in Portland’s actual past.

However, if you prefer non-walking activities, or are seeking a more traditional pub crawl with more bar hopping, this tour might feel more like a story-focused walk with pub visits rather than a night for hopping from place to place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since drinks are not included and alcohol consumption is part of the experience, the tour is designed with adult participants in mind. Non-drinkers may still enjoy the stories and ambiance but should be aware that alcohol is part of the experience.

How long are the stops at each pub?
The visit duration varies, from 15 minutes to possibly an hour, depending on the day and the atmosphere. This flexibility allows guides to tailor the experience without rushing.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but the walking nature and the standing required at some stops may not suit everyone with mobility impairments.

What’s the main focus of this experience?
Balancing historical stories, paranormal legends, and pub ambiance, the tour aims to entertain and educate about Portland’s haunted reputation while offering a fun evening out.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately, especially for an outdoor walk and visits.

Are children allowed?
No, participants must be over 21 due to alcohol consumption restrictions.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a compelling way to experience the city’s haunted side while enjoying its vibrant pub scene. The combination of well-told stories, atmospheric venues, and a relaxed walking pace makes it a memorable addition to any Portland itinerary—especially for those who love history, ghost stories, or simply a different way to explore. With friendly guides, interesting locations, and just enough spookiness, it’s a night that balances fun and intrigue beautifully.

While it might not satisfy everyone—especially those seeking a more traditional pub crawl or with mobility concerns—it excels at delivering authentic Portland charm in a lively, slightly spooky package. Whether you’re a skeptical explorer or a believer eager for ghostly tales, this tour is worth considering for a fun, atmospheric night out in the Rose City.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby