Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour With Brewery Tastings

Beneath the vibrant streets of Portland lies a dark and mysterious past, where tales of kidnapped sailors and forced labor echo through the shadowy passageways of the infamous Shanghai Tunnels. This exclusive underground tour invites visitors to descend into the eerie corridors and uncover the sinister history that has captivated the city for generations. As you navigate the haunting space, you’ll encounter the resident ghost, Nina, and learn about the chilling legends that have become ingrained in Portland’s folklore. But the tour doesn’t end there – a refreshing tasting of the city’s award-winning craft beers provides a delightful contrast to the haunting tales of the past.

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Drinking Tours In Portland.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to explore the hidden network of Shanghai Tunnels beneath Portland’s Old Town, uncovering the city’s dark past.
• Guided tour through the shadowy passageways, sharing chilling tales of kidnapped sailors and the resident ghost, Nina.
• Opportunity to sample three beer tastings and a full pint of award-winning brews from Old Town Pizza & Brewing.
• 90-minute experience that provides an immersive blend of haunting history and local craft beer.
• Meeting point at Old Town Pizza & Brewing, located in the heart of Portland’s historic district.

History and Legends of the Shanghai Tunnels

The Shanghai Tunnels beneath Portland’s Old Town district were a network of underground passages that once connected local businesses and hotels to the Willamette River, facilitating the transport of goods and the movement of people.

These tunnels have been shrouded in mystery and legends, with tales of kidnapped sailors, underground brothels, and the resident ghost, Nina.

Historians believe the tunnels were used to secretly move people, often against their will, to be sold as laborers or forced onto ships.

While the exact origins and purposes of the tunnels remain unclear, they’ve captured the imagination of both locals and visitors, who are drawn to their dark and captivating history.

Exclusive Access to the Tunnels

Beyond the haunting tales of the Shanghai Tunnels’ history, this exclusive tour grants visitors a rare chance to explore the tunnels themselves. The tour takes guests beneath a local restaurant, where they’ll discover the hidden network of tunnels that once connected businesses and hotels to the nearby Willamette River.

Guiding participants through the shadowy passageways, the experience offers an intimate glimpse into Portland’s dark past. As they traverse the dimly lit corridors, guests will learn about the tunnels’ sinister uses and encounter the resident ghost, Nina.

This unique access provides an immersive journey into a chapter of Portland’s history that few ever get to experience firsthand.

Chilling Tales and Resident Ghost

As visitors descend into the shadowy confines of the Shanghai Tunnels, they’re regaled with chilling tales of Portland’s dark history. Attendees learn about the resident ghost, Nina, and uncover the sinister activities that once occurred within these hidden passageways.

Guides recount stories of unwitting victims who were drugged and kidnapped, then forced onto ships bound for Asia. The tunnels were infamously used for the practice of ‘shanghaiing,’ where sailors were abducted and held against their will.

Guests shiver as they imagine the torment and fear that echoed through these underground corridors. The tales of the tunnels’ haunted past linger long after the tour has ended.

Beer Tastings and Award-winning Brews

Visitors to the Shanghai Tunnels tour can savor Old Town’s award-winning beer, with three tastings and a full pint included in the experience.

As part of the 90-minute walking tour, guests will indulge in a sampling of Old Town’s finest brews. Whether it’s their signature pale ale or a seasonal offering, the tastings provide a refreshing break from exploring the dark and chilling history of the tunnels.

After the tour, visitors can sit back and relish a full pint of Old Town’s award-winning beer. With its reputation for exceptional craft brews, the beer tastings and pint offer a delightful contrast to the haunting tales of Portland’s past.

Meeting Point and Tour Duration

The meeting point for the haunted underground Shanghai tunnel tour is Old Town Pizza & Brewing, located at 226 NW Davis St, Portland, OR 97209.

The tour itself lasts 90 minutes, providing ample time for visitors to explore the historic passageways and hear chilling tales of Portland’s dark past.

Participants will have exclusive access to the Shanghai Tunnels, which once connected local businesses and hotels to the Willamette River.

During the tour, guides will share the history and legends behind these underground tunnels, including stories about the resident ghost, Nina.

The 90-minute experience is perfect for those seeking to uncover the hidden secrets of Portland’s past while enjoying some of the city’s award-winning craft beers.

Age Requirement and Accessibility

For the haunted underground Shanghai tunnel tour, participants must be at least 21 years of age, except for the 2pm and 3pm tours which are open to all ages.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and is also not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions and other serious medical concerns, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tunnel exploration involves navigating through historic passageways, so individuals should ensure they’re up for the task. Those with any doubts about their ability to participate comfortably are advised to consider whether this tour is the right fit for their needs and physical capabilities.

Physical Fitness and Medical Conditions

To participate in the haunted underground Shanghai tunnel tour, guests must have a moderate level of physical fitness. The tour involves navigating through historic passageways, which may pose challenges for those with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical concerns.

Pregnant individuals are also advised against joining the exploration. Due to the nature of the tour, it’s not recommended for travelers with limited mobility or significant health issues. Participants should be able to walk, climb, and move through the tunnels without assistance.

Those with medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the experience are encouraged to reconsider their participation for their own safety and comfort. The tour operator’s primary concern is ensuring all guests have an enjoyable and safe exploration of Portland’s haunted underground.

Tour Reviews and Badge of Excellence

With a Badge of Excellence and 206 glowing reviews, this haunted underground Shanghai tunnel tour in Portland has garnered a stellar reputation among participants.

Reviewers rave about the exclusive access to the historic tunnels, the engaging storytelling that brings the city’s dark past to life, and the delightful beer tastings that cap off the experience.

Key highlights include:

• Chilling tales of the resident ghost, Nina
• Exploring the eerie passageways that once connected local businesses to the river
• Indulging in award-winning craft beers from Old Town Pizza & Brewing
• Learning about Portland’s shadowy history in an immersive underground setting

The 90-minute tour leaves a lasting impression on adventurous visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The tour operator encourages visitors to capture their experience and share it with others. However, flash photography may not be allowed in certain areas for preservation purposes.

Is the Tour Suitable for Claustrophobic Individuals?

The tour may not be suitable for claustrophobic individuals, as it involves exploring narrow, confined underground tunnels. Travelers with concerns about enclosed spaces should consider their comfort level before booking the tour.

Are the Tunnels Well-Lit and Ventilated?

The tunnels are dimly lit and can feel confined, as they were originally designed as underground passageways. While ventilated, the tunnels may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia or breathing difficulties.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is generally not allowed on this tour. The tour includes three beer tastings and a full pint of the brewery’s award-winning beer, which are part of the overall experience.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The Shanghai Tunnel tour is only offered in English. The website does not indicate any availability in other languages. Visitors who don’t speak English may want to consider a different tour option more suitable to their language needs.

Recap

Uncover the dark past of Portland’s infamous Shanghai Tunnels on this exclusive underground tour. Explore the shadowy passageways and hear chilling tales of forced labor and ghostly encounters.

After exploring the eerie corridors, savor the refreshing craft beers of Old Town, providing a delightful contrast to the haunting stories of the city’s bygone era.