Portland: Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting

If you’re looking for a tour that combines a tinge of Portland’s mysterious past with a taste of its thriving craft beer scene, the Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting might just be your perfect match. This 1.5-hour experience takes you beneath the city streets into the shadowy world of the notorious Shanghai Tunnels — a place woven with stories of sailors, ghostly whispers, and clandestine transportation. Add a craft beer tasting at the end, and you’ve got an unusual but memorable way to spend an afternoon or evening in Portland.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances history, ghost stories, and local culture without feeling rushed or superficial. The guides are praised for their engaging storytelling and knowledge, often bringing the past to life with anecdotes that stick. The highlight for many is the chance to see the atmospheric tunnels up close, which are surprisingly smaller than visions of sprawling underground complexes.

A slight consideration is that the tunnels involve walking on uneven floors, narrow stairs, and maneuvering through some obstacles. This means it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children. However, for those who enjoy a good ghost story paired with a cold pint, this tour is definitely worth considering — especially if you’re into Portland’s darker, quirkier side.

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy history, ghost tales, and local brews. It’s also perfect for those wanting to explore Portland beyond the usual sights, adding a touch of intrigue and local flavor to their trip.

Key Points

• Authentic underground experience: Walk through Portland’s haunted tunnels with a knowledgeable guide.
• Ghost stories & history: Hear intriguing tales of Portland’s past, including the resident ghost Nina.
• Craft beer tasting: Finish the tour with a full pint of Portland’s award-winning beer.
• Atmospheric setting: Explore tunnels that once transported sailors, now infused with stories of the paranormal.
• Family-friendly considerations: Not suitable for children under 13 or those with mobility challenges.
• Value for money: For $40, you get a guided tour, beer tasting, and a full pint—worth the price for an unusual Portland outing.

The Experience: A Deep Dive Into Portland’s Haunted Underworld

The Guided Tour: Stories and Shadows

Starting at Old Town Pizza & Brewing — the tour’s meeting point inside a historic pizza place — you’re greeted with an inviting atmosphere that hints at the stories waiting underground. Announcing your presence, you’re ready to descend into the tunnels, which are dark, narrow, and atmospheric. Expect to spend about an hour exploring these underground passages, which once played a role in Portland’s shadowy shipping and possibly more illicit activities.

Guides like Natasha and Doug, who have received glowing reviews, bring history to life with engaging narration. One reviewer noted, “Doug was an excellent guide and talented storyteller,” emphasizing how experienced guides make all the difference in creating an immersive experience. Natasha, in particular, was praised for her charisma, knowledge, and ability to keep everyone entertained while sharing the grim tales of sailors being shanghaied and the alleged resident ghost, Nina.

Exploring the Haunted Tunnels

The tunnels are smaller than one might imagine, but packed with stories that give you a tangible sense of Portland’s darker past. These underground passages, once used to secretly transport sailors, are now known for their eerie ambiance. Visitors report feeling the spooky vibe, with some claiming to have seen orbs, though many take the ghost stories with a grain of salt.

The tour involves walking up and down stairs, passing between pipes near ceilings, and ducking under obstacles. The uneven floors and narrow doorways mean comfortable footwear is a must. For many, this adds to the authenticity—you’re truly walking in the footsteps of those who traveled these passages decades ago.

The Ghost Stories and Local Lore

Many reviewers highlighted the storytelling quality. One said, “She built lots of suspense,” referring to the guide’s knack for weaving local legends with historical facts. The resident ghost Nina is a recurring figure in tales, adding a supernatural flavor to the experience. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories add an extra layer of intrigue, making the walk through tunnels more than just a history lesson.

The Final Stop: Old Town Pizza & Brewery

After the underground adventure, everyone ascends back to Old Town Pizza, a cozy spot where the tour concludes. Here, you’re treated to a special beer tasting of award-winning local brews. Guests have raved about the quality of the beers, with one reviewer noting they enjoyed the “delicious full pint” while reflecting on their adventure.

The setting is perfect for unwinding, with many expressing how the combination of history, spirits, and a good craft beer created a memorable end to the tour. The opportunity to take a beer to go from the tasting adds a fun, relaxed element.

What’s Included & Practical Details

• The tour costs $40 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the guided experience, storytelling, and beer tasting included.
• Duration is approximately 1.5 hours, with check-in times available throughout the day. Be sure to arrive 10 minutes early to avoid missing the start.
• The meeting point, Old Town Pizza & Brewing, is in the historic part of Portland, making it easy to combine with other explorations.
• Guides like Natasha, Kaitlyn, and Doug are praised for their enthusiasm and storytelling ability, making the experience engaging and informative.
• The beer tasting takes place upstairs at Old Town Pizza, where you can enjoy a full pint of Portland craft beer—perfect for relaxing after the spooky exploration.

Important Considerations

• The tunnels involve some walking on uneven surfaces, narrow stairs, and ducking under obstacles, so comfortable footwear is essential.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 13, or people with mobility impairments.
• No refunds for late arrivals—so punctuality is key.
• The tour is conducted exclusively in English and includes some ghost and paranormal stories, which may not appeal to everyone.

Authenticity and Review Insights

Based on over 80 reviews, the tour consistently receives high marks (4.4/5). Many highlight the knowledgeable guides who make history lively and entertaining. Natasha, for example, was praised for her charisma and love for Portland, which she shared generously after the tour, adding extra value.

Tourists also love the atmosphere and authenticity of walking through the actual tunnels, which are smaller than expected but rich with stories. The paranormal tales, while enjoyed, are balanced with historical facts, making it appealing to a broad audience. One reviewer said, “It also doubles as a restaurant and would recommend others to try out the pizza,” which underscores the casual, friendly vibe at Old Town Pizza.

The beer tasting is generally well-received, with many appreciating the chance to sample Portland’s award-winning brews right in a historic setting. Multiple reviewers mention the guides’ storytelling talent, making the experience both fun and educational.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a unique mix of history, ghost stories, and local flavor, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for curious travelers who enjoy learning about Portland’s darker past and want to experience it in an authentic and atmospheric way. The inclusion of a beer tasting makes it more than just a spooky walk—it’s a chance to relax, chat, and enjoy Portland’s renowned craft beer scene.

This tour offers good value for the price, especially if you enjoy engaging guides who bring stories to life. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces and who appreciate a mix of history and folklore. Families with older children, adults, or groups of friends will find it a fun and memorable outing.

However, if you have mobility issues or are looking for a tour suitable for very young children, this might not be the best fit. Also, those seeking a very long or highly physical experience might find 1.5 hours a little brief.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 13. It involves walking through narrow, uneven tunnels, and some ghost stories may be too spooky for very young kids.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including both underground exploration and the beer tasting.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins inside Old Town Pizza & Brewing. It ends back at the same location, giving you the chance to stay and enjoy more of their offerings if you wish.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring ID or passport for age verification, and wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on stairs and uneven floors.

What if I am late?
Late arrivals miss the tour as the group will already be underground. There are no refunds for late guests, so punctuality is important.

Are there any restrictions on the drinking age?
Yes, the beer tasting is aimed at guests 21 and older. Some tours are limited to 13–20-year-olds at specific times, but the later tours are for guests 21+ only.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. No same-day cancellations or changes are permitted.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
No, due to narrow stairs, obstacles, and uneven floors, it is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

To sum it up, the Portland Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Beer Tasting offers a fascinating peek into the city’s shadowy past, paired with a fun and relaxed craft beer experience. It combines storytelling, history, and local flavor in a way that appeals to travelers interested in Portland’s quirkiest side. Whether you’re a history buff, paranormal enthusiast, or simply looking for an engaging activity, this tour delivers a memorable adventure beneath the city streets.