Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings

If you’ve ever wandered through Portland’s Old Town and wondered about the hidden stories beneath your feet, this tour might just be your cup of local brew. The Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour offers a glimpse into the city’s shadowy past, blending tales of intrigue with a bit of ghostly folklore and a taste of award-winning craft beer. As travel writers, we’ve gathered insights from dozens of reviews and the tour details to help you decide if this experience fits your Portland itinerary.

What immediately appeals is its unique mix of history and eerie storytelling—you’re not just walking through old tunnels; you’re uncovering stories of Portland’s darker days, with some reviews highlighting how knowledgeable guides really bring the history alive. Another plus is the inclusion of beer tastings—a fun way to unwind and enjoy Old Town’s local brews after your underground adventure.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves narrow, uneven, and sometimes low-clearance spaces—not ideal if you’re uncomfortable with stairs, pipes overhead, or old floors. Plus, the tour is geared toward adults (21+ most days), so families with children under 12 will need to look elsewhere.

This experience suits history buffs, ghost story fans, or craft beer lovers wanting a taste of Portland’s underground secrets. If you enjoy a good story and a little spooky fun, this tour offers a distinctive peek into the city’s hidden corners.

Key Points

• The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and is a small-group experience
• It features exclusive access to the historic Shanghai Tunnels beneath Portland
• Visitors enjoy three beer tasters plus a full pint of local brew
• Guides are praised for their deep knowledge and lively storytelling
• The tour is physically moderate, involving stairs and maneuvering through pipes
• Adults only, with some sessions suitable for teenagers (12+)
• It’s highly booked, often 12 days in advance
• No refunds for late arrivals or same-day cancellations

Exploring Portland’s Underground History: What the Tour Offers

Our review of this tour is drawn from over 300 shared experiences, many praising the guides and the storytelling. You’ll meet at Old Town Pizza & Brewing, a convenient spot in the heart of Portland’s historic district. The tour then takes you beneath the restaurant into the tunnels that once connected hotels and businesses to the Willamette River.

The Itinerary: Walking Through Portland’s Shadowy Past

The core of the experience is the 90-minute walk through the tunnels, where your guide recounts stories of illegal activities, human trafficking, and the city’s rough-and-tumble days. The tunnels, which are rarely accessible to the public, have earned recognition from Conde Nast, USA Today, Thrillist, and Cosmopolitan as one of the most haunted places in America.

What makes this part special? The access is exclusive, meaning you get to see parts of Portland’s underbelly most visitors never will. The tunnels are narrow, with uneven dirt floors, low ceilings, and overhead pipes, creating an atmospheric backdrop for the ghost stories and historical anecdotes.

Guides and Storytelling: The Heart of the Experience

Several reviews emphasize the role of the knowledgeable guides in making the tour engaging. One reviewer praised Natasha for her entertaining style and detailed knowledge, describing her as “really entertaining” and “a blast.” Others appreciated guides who could present dark topics—sexual content, drug use, violence—in a way that’s informative yet respectful.

This makes a difference. A guide’s enthusiasm and expertise help make the underground spaces come alive, transforming what could be a simple walkthrough into a vivid storytelling experience. It’s clear that guides who have invested time in research and have a passion for Portland’s history elevate the tour.

Ghost Stories and Haunted Spots

One of the tour’s highlights is the legend of Nina, Portland’s resident ghost. Several reviewers mention feeling a shiver while listening to ghost tales, and some swear they glimpsed or felt Nina’s presence. It’s not a full-blown haunted house experience, but the stories and atmosphere add a spooky charm that appeals to fans of the supernatural.

Brewery Tastings: A Toast to Old Town

Once you resurface, the experience turns more relaxed with tastings of local craft beers. Included are three samples plus a full pint of Old Town’s internationally awarded beer, perfect for unwinding after navigating the tunnels. The beer tasting not only supports Portland’s thriving craft beer scene but also offers a chance to socialize and reflect on what you’ve just seen.

Touring and tasting together give this experience a well-rounded feel. Instead of just a dark, serious history lesson, you get a flavor—literally—of Portland’s vibrant brewing culture.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

At roughly an hour and a half, the tour is manageable without feeling rushed. It’s limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience. Booking early is recommended—most travelers book about 12 days in advance—especially for weekend or popular time slots.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

The tour involves navigating stairs, pipes overhead, and uneven floors. Guests should wear comfortable, sturdy shoes (avoid high heels). Given the building’s age and structure, it’s not fully accessible for those with mobility issues. The tour is designed for individuals with moderate physical fitness.

Age Restrictions and Content

Most sessions are 21+ due to alcohol consumption and mature themes, such as violence and drug use mentioned historically. There are exceptions for the 2 pm and 3 pm tours, which are open to teenagers. Kids under 12 are not permitted, mainly because of the nature of the stories and physical environment.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour starts at Old Town Pizza & Brewing, conveniently near public transport. The meeting point is straightforward, but arriving early is advisable to settle in and get comfortable.

Price and Value

At $40 per person, the tour offers good value. You’re getting behind-the-scenes access, expert storytelling, and local beer, all bundled into a 90-minute experience. For history and ghost-story enthusiasts, it’s a cost-effective way to deepen your Portland experience.

The Real Experience: What Visitors Say

Many reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling. One shared, “Natasha was a blast and made it fun considering the darkness subject,” reflecting how guides make the experience approachable and lively. Others appreciated the authenticity of the history: “Super informative about the Shanghai Tunnels and what they were used for,” said a reviewer emphasizing the educational aspect.

The beer component is also well-loved. Comments like “the beer was tasty” and “so interesting and presentation was spectacular” underscore how the tastings add a social and relaxed dimension to the tour.

Some mention the physicality—cautioning about headroom and uneven floors—which is good advice for those with mobility concerns. The dark, narrow spaces contribute to the overall spooky vibe, so expect a bit of an adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers interested in Portland’s hidden history, especially its darker chapters. Ghost story fans will enjoy Nina’s legend and the eerie atmosphere. Craft beer lovers will appreciate the local brews paired with the history, making it more than just a walking tour.

It’s also great for those who enjoy a guided narrative, as several reviews praise the guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. But keep in mind, if you’re not comfortable in dark, tight spaces or don’t drink alcohol, this may not be your ideal outing.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Underground Portland: Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings offers an unusual mix of history, mystery, and local flavor. For those willing to navigate narrow, uneven passages and listen to tales of Portland’s gritty past, it delivers a memorable peek into the city’s subterranean secrets. The inclusion of expertly guided storytelling and local beers makes it a well-rounded experience worth considering.

If you’re a curious traveler who enjoys learning about a city’s less-glamorous side, this tour provides not only an educational journey but also a fun social event. It’s best suited for adults, fans of ghost stories, and those with a moderate level of physical fitness seeking an authentic Portland adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most tours are 21+ due to alcohol and mature themes. The 2 pm and 3 pm tours are exceptions and are suitable for teenagers (12+). Kids under 12 are not permitted.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 90 minutes, making it a manageable outing that won’t overextend your day.

What is included in the price?
You get a guided walk through the tunnels, three beer tastings, and a full pint of local beer. It’s a good value considering the access and storytelling.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes. The tour involves stairs, low-clearance pipes, and uneven floors. Comfortable footwear is recommended, and it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. No refunds are given for late arrivals or same-day cancellations.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Old Town Pizza & Brewing, located at 226 NW Davis St, Portland. Arrive early to settle in.

Is the tour accessible?
No, due to the building’s age and structure, it’s not fully accessible for wheelchairs or those with mobility challenges.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 12 days ahead, especially during weekends or busy times.

Is this experience worth the cost?
At $40, it provides a good mix of history, ghost stories, and local beer. If you’re interested in Portland’s underground secrets, it’s a fun and educational option.

In all, this tour stands out as a lively, atmospheric way to uncover Portland’s hidden past while enjoying a beer or two. It’s perfect for curious, social travelers eager for a dash of ghostly fun and local flavor.