Self Guided Solo Weird and Wonderful Portland Walking Tour in Old Town

Set out on a one-of-a-kind solo adventure through the captivating Old Town district of Portland, Oregon. This self-guided walking tour invites you to explore the city’s quirky history and supernatural side. From the notorious Shanghai Tunnels to the world-famous Voodoo Doughnut, each step uncovers the unique charm that has made Portland a hub for the unconventional. With smartphone guidance and the freedom to move at your own pace, you’ll discover haunted hotspots and bizarre attractions that showcase the city’s unwavering commitment to being "weird." But the true highlight may just be the opportunity to capture the perfect photo at the iconic "Keep Portland Weird" sign – a testament to the city’s enduring spirit.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Walking Tours In Portland.

Key Points

• Self-guided walking tour through Portland’s quirky Old Town, featuring haunted spots, the notorious Shanghai Tunnels, and the famous Voodoo Doughnut.
• Explore the dark past and ghostly tales of Old Town, including the haunted Old Town Pizza and the spirits of kidnapped sailors in the Shanghai Tunnels.
• Discover the unconventional charm and bizarre attractions of the neighborhood, such as the Keep Portland Weird sign and the devilish theme of Dante’s nightclub.
• Utilize the WalknTours app for personalized guidance and navigation, allowing for an independent exploration of the area’s historical and supernatural highlights.
• Be mindful of safety concerns, such as avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas, and remain vigilant during the tour to fully immerse in the unique experience.

Tour Overview

The self-guided walking tour in Old Town, Portland, allows visitors to explore the quirky history and allegedly haunted spots of the area.

Participants can learn about the city’s notorious Shanghai Tunnels, which were used to kidnap sailors. The tour also includes a stop at the famous Voodoo Doughnut, a local attraction known for its unique and creative doughnut flavors.

With a smartphone guided experience via the WalknTours app, visitors can embark on this adventure at their own pace and receive a recap of the tour upon completion.

The tour is designed to be private, catering to your group’s interests and preferences.

Tour Details

According to the information provided, this self-guided walking tour in Old Town, Portland has a rating of 2.0 based on 2 reviews.

The tour starts at Old Town Pizza, a local hotel known for its pizza and dark past. It ends at the Keep Portland Weird sign, near Dante’s and the famous Voodoo Doughnuts.

The tour is available daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, from July 20, 2021, to August 1, 2025.

The tour features:

1. Smartphone guidance via the WalknTours app.
2. A recap of the tour available after completion.
3. A private tour for your group only.

Tour Features

This self-guided walking tour features smartphone guidance via the WalknTours app, allowing participants to navigate the route on their own.

After completing the tour, walkers can access a recap to review what they’ve learned.

The tour is private, catering solely to your group, and is accessible for strollers and service animals, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.

Whether you’re interested in Portland’s quirky history or hoping to spot some allegedly haunted spots, this smartphone-powered experience offers a unique way to explore the city’s Old Town at your own pace.

Safety Considerations

Visitors should exercise caution when exploring certain areas of the tour route, as some spots may appear unsafe due to reports of drug deals and homeless encampments.

It’s recommended to visit during daylight hours to minimize any potential risks. The article also acknowledges Portland’s ongoing homeless crisis, which has impacted the city’s urban landscape.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, consider the following:

1. Remain vigilant and trust your instincts.
2. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas.
3. Stay with your group and avoid wandering off alone.

Meeting Information

The walking tour starts at 226 NW Davis St, Portland, OR 97209, which is the location of Old Town Pizza.

This meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for participants to access the tour.

From there, the tour winds through the charming streets of Old Town, showcasing the area’s quirky history and allegedly haunted spots.

The tour concludes at the iconic Keep Portland Weird sign, situated near Dante’s and the famous Voodoo Doughnuts.

This strategic end point allows participants to further explore the unique attractions of Portland’s vibrant downtown after the tour’s completion.

Exploring Old Town

As the walking tour progresses through Old Town, participants can’t help but be captivated by the neighborhood’s eclectic charm.

The area is peppered with quirky historical sites, including the allegedly haunted spots that have become a draw for those seeking a supernatural thrill.

Visitors will also learn about the notorious Shanghai Tunnels, once used to kidnap sailors, adding a dark and mysterious element to the tour.

Amidst the historical intrigue, the tour culminates at the iconic Keep Portland Weird sign, a testament to the city’s embrace of the unconventional.

3 Key Highlights:

1. Quirky historical sites and allegedly haunted spots
2. The notorious Shanghai Tunnels and their dark past
3. The iconic Keep Portland Weird sign, celebrating the city’s unconventional spirit

Haunted Hotspots

Portland’s Old Town is home to a number of reportedly haunted locations that captivate those seeking a supernatural thrill.

The Shanghai Tunnels, used in the late 1800s to kidnap sailors, are said to be haunted by the spirits of those who met their demise underground.

Voodoo Doughnut, a famous local attraction, is rumored to have paranormal activity, with some claiming to have witnessed unexplained phenomena.

Other allegedly haunted spots include the Old Town Pizza, known for its dark past.

As you explore these eerie locations, exercise caution and be mindful of the area’s ongoing homelessness crisis.

The tour provides a thrilling glimpse into Portland’s haunted history.

Bizarre Attractions

Alongside the haunted hotspots, Portland’s Old Town boasts a collection of bizarre attractions that captivate visitors seeking the unusual.

The iconic Voodoo Doughnut stands out with its quirky doughnut creations, drawing long lines of curious customers. Nearby, the Keep Portland Weird sign beckons, a testament to the city’s eclectic spirit.

Another peculiar site is Dante’s, a nightclub with a devilish theme that adds an element of the macabre to the area’s offbeat charm.

1. Voodoo Doughnut: Known for its unique doughnut flavors and unusual designs, this local favorite has become a must-visit destination for those craving the unconventional.

2. Keep Portland Weird Sign: This iconic landmark celebrates the city’s embrace of the offbeat and the unconventional, making it a popular photo opportunity.

3. Dante’s: This nightclub with a devilish theme adds an extra layer of the macabre to the area’s already quirky atmosphere, captivating visitors who seek the bizarre.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows photography during the self-guided walking tour. Guests are encouraged to capture the quirky history and allegedly haunted spots they encounter along the way to document their unique experience.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, visitors can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour is self-guided, so participants are free to enjoy refreshments as they explore the quirky history and landmarks of Old Town, Portland.

What Is the Refund Policy for the Tour?

The refund policy for the tour is flexible – it can be fully refunded up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. After that, partial refunds may be available upon request, subject to the tour provider’s discretion.

Can I Join a Tour Group, or Is It Private Only?

The tour is private for your group only and can’t be joined by other participants. However, you’ll get a personalized experience exploring Portland’s quirky history and haunted spots at your own pace.

How Long Does the Tour Typically Take to Complete?

The tour typically takes 2-3 hours to complete. It’s a self-guided experience, so visitors can explore the area at their own pace. The walking distance is approximately 1-2 miles, depending on how much time is spent at each stop.

Recap

Embrace Portland’s quirky charm on this self-guided walking tour through Old Town. Uncover the city’s haunted history, indulge in Voodoo Doughnuts, and snap the iconic "Keep Portland Weird" sign, capturing the essence of this unconventional destination. Explore at your own pace, guided by the WalknTours app, and discover the weird and wonderful side of Portland.