Craft Beer and City Walking Tour of Portland West Side

Exploring Portland’s Craft Beer and City Walking Tour of the West Side

Planning a trip to Portland? This Craft Beer and City Walking Tour of Portland’s West Side offers a compelling way to combine the city’s famed brewing culture with its vibrant neighborhoods and historic architecture. For just $59 per person, you get an engaging three-hour stroll through some of Portland’s most iconic districts, tasting a variety of beers and soaking in the local atmosphere.

What stands out are two things we really appreciate about this tour: first, its focus on three distinct breweries—each offering a different flavor of Portland’s craft beer scene—and the opportunity to learn about the city’s architecture and history along the way. The tour also strikes a good balance between tasting and sight-seeing, making it ideal for travelers interested in both beer and culture.

However, a possible consideration is the moderate physical activity involved—you will be walking about a mile, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Also, since the tour is geared toward adults 21 and over, it’s not suitable for families with children.

This experience is perfect for beer enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious travelers who want an authentic Portland experience that combines local libations with the city’s unique neighborhoods. Let’s explore what makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your Portland itinerary.

Key Points

• Inclusive brewery tastings showcase Portland’s diverse craft beer scene.
• Educational stops highlight Portland’s architecture, history, and culture.
• Walking tour covers notable districts: Pearl, Old Town, and West End.
• Duration is approximately 3 hours, making it manageable yet comprehensive.
• Cost of $59 offers good value considering multiple beer tastings and guided insights.
• Limited size group (up to 25 travelers) ensures a more personal experience.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This 3-hour walking adventure begins in Portland’s lively Pearl District, a hub of modern architecture, art galleries, and upscale boutiques. You’ll meet your guide at Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub, an iconic spot that’s been serving the city since 1990 in a historic building from 1889. Here, you’ll start with an introduction to Portland’s craft beer culture and the tour’s itinerary.

First Stop: Deschutes Brewery Public House

Your first brewery visit is to Deschutes Brewery’s Portland Public House, housed in a beautifully restored 1919 G.G. Gerber Building. Opened in 2008, this location represents Deschutes’ expansion beyond Bend, and it’s a lively spot filled with locals. Here, you’ll taste a variety of beers, experiencing the range Portland breweries offer—think hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, and crisp lagers. The 30-minute stop includes an admission ticket, so you can enjoy the taproom comfortably while your guide shares insights into Portland’s brewing history.

Underground Gem: Al’s Den

Next, you’ll descend beneath a tiny flatiron building from 1900—once a tire store and, for a time, a bathhouse—into Al’s Den. This underground bar is an atmospheric place where you can enjoy more drinks, food, and live music. It’s a favorite among locals for its cool vibe and historic charm. The 30-minute stop here offers a unique peek into Portland’s hidden bar scene, with another included tasting. The underground setting means you’re stepping into a part of the city’s layered history.

The Neighborhoods and Landmarks

The tour then shifts focus from breweries to the city itself. You’ll walk through districts like Old Town, known for its historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere, and the West End, with its mix of modern and vintage architecture. Along the way, your guide points out landmarks such as the Romanesque Revival armory annex built in 1891, and the floating dancefloor, a remnant of Portland’s psychedelic era.

Additional stops include the world’s largest independent bookstore, a testament to Portland’s literary and cultural scene, and Portland’s only dual independent lift bridge, an engineering marvel. You’ll also see the White Stag sign, an iconic Portland symbol that once served as the headquarters for White Stag Sportswear, and the Foucault pendulum, housed in a building that’s part of the city’s scientific heritage.

Final Stop: Kells Irish Pub

Your stroll concludes at Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub, Portland’s premier Irish pub. Since 1990, Kells has been serving both classic Irish beers and hearty food in a historic setting. This stop offers a chance to relax, reflect on the tour, and perhaps enjoy a final pint or a whiskey before heading off. The 30-minute tasting here caps off the experience on a convivial note.

The Experience in Detail

Taste and education go hand in hand on this tour. Each brewery offers a different perspective on Portland’s craft beer scene, from Deschutes’ flagship brews to Al’s Den’s underground ambiance. The included tastings ensure you get a true sampling of the city’s diversity—hop-forward IPAs, malty stouts, sour ales, and more.

Your guide’s commentary brings an extra layer of value. They’ll share stories about Portland’s architecture, such as the significance of the Romanesque Revival armory or the story behind the White Stag sign. These snippets turn a simple walk into an engaging cultural lesson.

The streets are generally flat, but expect about a mile of walking, so good shoes are a must. The pace is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop and take photos. As the tour is limited to 25 people, it feels intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized recommendations.

Authenticity and Value

While the tour is priced at $59, it’s important to remember it includes all beer tastings and guided commentary. Given that Portland is known for its craft breweries, this is a cost-effective way to sample several in one go, especially for those unfamiliar with the city’s beer scene. The stops at historic and cultural landmarks provide added depth, making this more than just a drinking tour.

Some reviewers have noted the tour’s flexibility and friendly guide, stating, “We loved the way the guide shared local stories and took us to places we wouldn’t find on our own.” Others appreciated the variety of beers offered, saying, “Tasting Deschutes and Al’s Den gave us a real sense of Portland’s diverse brewing culture.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adults over 21 who enjoy craft beer and are interested in exploring Portland’s neighborhoods and architecture. It offers a balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and storytelling, making it ideal for beer lovers, culture enthusiasts, and curious travelers. Keep in mind, it’s a walking tour with some moderate activity, so comfortable shoes and a moderate fitness level are recommended.

It’s a particularly good choice for visitors with limited time but who want an authentic and fun introduction to Portland’s beer scene and city streets. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the ease of walking from brewery to landmark makes it manageable even for those who don’t love strenuous activity.

The Sum Up: Is it Worth It?

In short, the Craft Beer and City Walking Tour of Portland’s West Side offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience Portland beyond its famous coffee and food scene. For $59, you get tastings at three breweries, a guided tour through historic neighborhoods, and a taste of Portland’s unique character—both in its architecture and its craft beer.

This tour is especially valuable for those eager to understand Portland’s brewing culture and explore its historic districts with an informed guide. The combination of drink, discovery, and storytelling makes it a memorable, authentic experience that captures the spirit of Portland.

While it may not be the best fit for families or those with mobility issues, for anyone who enjoys a good beer and a walk through a vibrant city, this tour offers a flavorful and insightful slice of Portland life.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
No, since the tour involves tastings at every brewery and the pub, it’s designed for adults 21 and over who consume alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, with about a mile of walking, making it a manageable experience for most travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub (112 SW 2nd Ave) and ends at McMenamins Al’s Den (303 SW 12th Ave), both in central Portland, close to public transportation.

Are tips included in the price?
No, gratuities are not included but are always appreciated for good service.

Is the tour family-friendly?
No, it’s only for adults aged 21 and over due to the alcohol tastings involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps some cash for additional purchases or tips. Eating beforehand is advised since food isn’t included.

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

Is this tour accessible for those with limited mobility?
It’s primarily walking and involves some moderate activity, so travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

In sum, if you’re looking for an engaging way to taste Portland’s craft beer, learn about its neighborhoods, and meet fellow travelers, this tour hits the right notes without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a curious explorer, it offers a satisfying slice of Portland’s vibrant culture.