portland walking tour free

"Best Tour Ever!

Our guide was amazing. perfect mix of history and humor", "a must-do in portland, entertaining, informative, and wonderfully fun. five stars", "the best walking tour i have ever taken", "unforgettable experience, the perfect introduction to portland's unique vibe", "loved every moment, you'll see portland in a whole new light. highly recommend".

Uncover Enchanting Secrets on Our Captivating Walking Tours!

At Secrets of Portlandia, we’re passionate about revealing the hidden gems and rich history of Portland, Oregon through unforgettable walking tours. Join us to explore the city’s enchanting secrets and create lasting memories. Walk with us and discover the heart and soul of Portlandia.

Our Guided Walking Tours Reveal the Best of the City

At Secrets of Portlandia, we take pride in our #1 rated free walking tours of Portland! Join our tour to experience the hidden wonders of the Rose City. Our experienced, passionate guides will lead you through the enchanting streets, revealing the best-kept secrets and captivating stories that have shaped this amazing city for nearly 200 years.

Immerse yourself in the rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking architecture that make Portland a true gem of the Pacific Northwest. From iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures, our carefully crafted tours offer a unique and unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors alike. Book a tour with us, and let us show you all the greatest places in Portland, one step at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last.

Our tour lasts about 2 hours, including a bathroom break in the middle of the tour.

Are the walking tours suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, our walking tours are designed to accommodate a wide range of fitness levels. While some tours may involve moderate walking, we offer options suitable for most participants. Please feel free to inform us about any specific mobility concerns, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

What should I bring with me on the tour?

We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather, as most tours are conducted rain or shine. It’s also a good idea to bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the unforgettable moments along the way.

What happens if it rains on the day of my scheduled tour?

Portland’s weather can be unpredictable, but our tours go ahead rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, we recommend bringing appropriate rain gear and umbrellas. Rest assured that exploring the city’s secrets in the rain can be a uniquely memorable experience. But we do try to lead our tour under the cover of buildings whenever we can to keep everybody dry!

Where does the tour start and end?

Our tour starts at Pioneer Courthouse on SW 6th Avenue. We’ll be just across the street from Pioneer Square.

The tour wraps up at Mill Ends Park, the smallest park in America! We’ll be at the intersection of SW Taylor St. & SW Naito Parkway.

If you have any questions about our free walking tours of Portland, please contact us by email or with this web form! We are excited to have you in Portland and we’d be happy to help you plan your trip any way we can.  assist you in exploring the hidden wonders and captivating stories of Portland, Oregon. Join us on this unforgettable journey as we reveal the city’s best-kept secrets, one step at a time. We can’t wait to welcome you to Portland!

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3 Awesome Portland Self-Guided Walking Tours

**This post was updated January 16, 2024**

Walking in Portland makes for a fine way to spend an afternoon. Many of its main attractions are within walking distance, not to mention a plethora of restaurants, food carts, and coffee houses along the way. It is a fantastic dive deep into this city – to find its history, its surprises, and its quirkiness. 

**Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. When you click through a book a tour, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

Table of Contents

Rather have a guided walking tour of Portland?

I highly recommend booking this professionally-guided walking tour of downtown Portland. It’s a delightful 1.5-mile stroll through Portland’s rich history and vibrant culture! You’ll get to explore iconic historical sites, lively public squares, and some truly creative city planning concepts, all while having a chuckle at some funny trivia.

But if you are more of an independent explorer, read on!

Join me on a walking tour of Portland, OR with these self-guiding walking tours. I hope this will entice you to come to visit at some point in your future and discover your next favorite Portland haunt!

Walking  Tour Portland – Downtown Park Blocks

Start at my alma mater, Portland State University , at 18th and SW Broadway. It is a gorgeous campus that holds a farmers market every Saturday. Check them out here for hours of operation. But if you’re coming on a day that’s not Saturday, the campus is still a gorgeous place to explore. It’s so green! There are gardens, LOTS of trees, and park benches to sit and just take it all in.

Be sure to visit the PSU Library; a huge, 4-story library that is open to the public.

A few blocks east is the Portland Art Museum , one of the oldest art museums in the country. Directly across the street is the Oregon Historical Society Museum . A block further down is another classic Portland institution, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Over the years, I have seen the likes of Hugh Laurie play with his band, the astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson, and the actor/comedian Eddie Izzard, all perform or give talks here.

Here you will come to the end of the park. Take a right on Salmon Street, and you will run into the historic Heathman Hotel . If you want to splurge for a night, stay here, as they have uniquely decorated rooms. Then continue down two more blocks. You are now in “Portland’s Living Room,” Pioneer Square .

Look up! All around you, there are multi-storied and historical buildings that form quite the cityscape in the heart of downtown Portland . Each of these buildings has interesting architecture and each has its own story to tell.

This is a great place to people watch. There are a few food carts here if you’re hungry, along with a smattering of outdoor tables. There is also a Starbucks in the Square. So indulge and take a load off your feet for a bit. Look for the post with many signs pointing in different directions to destinations worldwide. Also, look for the “Portland Man” statue – he’s holding an umbrella and running towards something. But what?

Across the street to the south is Portland City Hall. Here you can take a self-guided tour (on select days and times) but just the outside of the building is pretty impressive in itself.

The Pearl District

For starters, this is a great place to get your brew and art on! Start with a beer or cider at any one (or more) of the pubs along the “Brewery Block” which consists of such historical buildings as the Portland Armory and Blitz-Weinhard Brewery building. Then head over the world’s largest independent bookstore, Powell’s Books . Within these walls, there are over 1 million books (yes, I said that right) and you can pick up a color-coded map at the entrance to find your way around. In case you’re wondering, yes, there’s a café inside if you need to take a break from your book adventure.

A few blocks east and down the hill a bit is Chinatown. While this one certainly does not hold a candle to San Francisco’s or Vancouver, B.C.’s Chinatown, it is definitely worth at least looking at the ornately decorated entrance. And they do have a couple of really good Chinese restaurants here, as well as the Chinese Gardens .

Not far from here is a cluster of art galleries, such as Elisabeth Jones Art Center, Upfor Gallery, Nine2Five Gallery, and the Art Institute of Portland. Here is a great website with other art galleries in this area.

The Pearl is great for shopping, whether that is a national chain or small boutique. Just walk along Couch St (pronounced “cooch”) from 10 th to about 14 th avenues and you will run into some great shops and restaurants. Also, 13 th and Everett has some great boutique shops, and for lunch or dinner.

To round out your walk (or start it, it’s your choice) go to The Fields Park, on NW 10 th and Overton. This is a small urban park, but it’s unique in all of the natural grasses and flowers you’ll find here. There are benches to sit on and lovely ponds to gaze in.

Belmont and Hawthorne Streets

For a more bohemian walking tour (and let’s face it, so much about Portland is bohemian) head to the east side and explore the parallel streets of Belmont and Hawthorne. You can start on one or the other, as they are a mere six blocks from each other.

As in a previous blog post , much of the charm of Hawthorne has been lost with gentrification, but the shining pearls of this great street remain!

McMenamins Baghdad Theater is worth a visit. This historic building hosts first-run movies and of course, a tasty brewpub right next door. The beauty of a McMenamin’s theater is that they have beer, wine, pizza, and other tasty nibbles in addition to your (also very tasty) popcorn, which you can enjoy during the movie.

Further down the street at Hawthorne and 39 th is one of Portland’s oldest venues, the Hawthorne Theatre . And right next door is a comedy club! 

When you get hungry and need one of the best pies in Portland, walk up to Apizza Schools on 47 th and Hawthorne. Call ahead to be sure you get your pie by the time you get there, so you don’t have to wait. They make every delectable pizza hot and fresh. Pro tip: better make that lunch, because they only make a certain amount of house-made dough every day, and when it’s gone, it’s GONE.

On your way north up to Belmont Street, be sure to meander a little bit in the residential areas. Some of Portland’s most wonderfully “Portlandic” houses are in this neighborhood, and you will get a true feel for some of the classic old Portland homes to be found throughout the city.

Now that you’ve reached Belmont, take a break at the Horse Brass Pub . This British-themed pub offers a ton of foreign brews, with down-home traditional dishes from the U.K. Scotch Eggs, or Bangers and Mash, anyone?

Walk up and down this historic street from 28 th to 39 th avenues – you will run into loads of unique shops and restaurants.

THEN…finish out your day at Laurelhurst Park , just five blocks north of Belmont on 39 th and SE Stark. (39 th St is also called Caesar E. Chavez Blvd.) It’s a huge gorgeous park with walking trails, places to picnic and a large duck pond.

There are so many nooks and crannies in Portland to explore and discover. Dare to get off the beaten path and find your own Rose City oasis!

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Susan Stephens has lived in Oregon most of her life and the Pacific Northwest is her playground. She has traveled extensively throughout Oregon, Washington State, and British Columbia. Her passion is to explore every nook and cranny of this gorgeous part of the world and bringing it to her readers.

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• United States

Portland Walking Tours: Your Essential Guide to Exploring the City on Foot

• 21 May 2023

Portland, Oregon, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Exploring the city on foot provides an intimate and engaging way to discover the diverse neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and local gems that make Portland a truly unique destination. Walking tours are a popular way for visitors and locals alike to get an in-depth look at the city’s architectural and historical sites, as well as experiencing the charm of its bustling streets, parks, and hidden corners.

There are a variety of walking tours available, including ones led by knowledgeable guides who share their insights and passion for Portland’s heritage. Among these offerings, the Architectural Heritage Center conducts year-round tours highlighting significant historical and architectural sites in different neighborhoods. Other options, such as Slabtown Tours and Around Portland Tours , focus on diving deep into Portland’s captivating past and its dynamic present.

Whether you are a first-time visitor looking to experience the best of the city, or a long-time resident seeking to uncover a new perspective on familiar streets, Portland walking tours offer an accessible and enjoyable means to uncover the stories, characters, and places that define this Pacific Northwest gem.

Types of Portland Walking Tours

Historical tours.

Portland’s rich history can be explored through various historical walking tours. These tours showcase the city’s architectural marvels, fascinating tales, and significant events from the past. Highly knowledgeable guides share interesting anecdotes and facts while leading the group through Portland’s iconic landmarks and historic districts.

Neighborhood Tours

Discover Portland’s diverse neighborhoods on foot, experiencing their unique charm and character. Neighborhood walking tours allow visitors to explore the city’s distinctive areas, such as the Mississippi, Alberta, and East Bank neighborhoods.

These tours provide an authentic taste of local life and culture while bringing to light the stories behind the city’s colorful street scenes.

Food and Breweries Tours

Portland is well-known for its thriving food scene and craft breweries. On a food and brewery walking tour, participants can sample the city’s gastronomic delights while learning about the history and production of locally brewed craft beers.

These tours cater to food lovers’ appetites and curiosity, offering a delicious experience that combines exploration and culinary adventure.

Nature and Hiking Tours

Nature enthusiasts can relish the breathtaking views and natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge on walking and hiking tours. These outings often include stops at scenic spots such as the Vista House and Women’s Forum Park.

Explorers will also get the chance to admire stunning waterfalls like Latourell and Multnomah and enjoy some invigorating exercise along picturesque trails.

Private Walking Tours

For those who prefer an exclusive and personalized experience, private walking tours are an excellent option. Available for individuals or small groups, these tours can be tailored to suit specific interests, schedules, and preferences.

Advance bookings are typically required, and pricing may vary depending on the tour length and itinerary.

Ghost History Tours

Delving into Portland’s spooky past, macabre ghost history tours lead brave souls through the city’s haunted sites and spine-chilling stories. These eerie adventures offer a unique perspective on Portland’s history while uncovering its dark secrets and supernatural encounters.

Prepare to be spooked as your guide recounts tales of ghostly occurrences and legendary haunted spots across the city.

Top Portland Neighborhoods for Walking Tours

Pearl district.

The Pearl District is one of Portland’s most iconic neighborhoods, known for its blend of historic warehouse buildings and modern architecture. A walking tour through this area offers a chance to explore the unique urban landscape, from converted industrial spaces to sleek condos and trendy eateries. Along the way, you may encounter some of the neighborhood’s numerous art galleries and boutique shops, as well as picturesque parks such as Jamison Square and Tanner Springs Park.

Slabtown boasts a rich history and a distinct architectural character, making it perfect for a walking tour. One option is to join a historical walking tour through Slabtown, which will highlight significant sites and share stories of the neighborhood’s past. During your exploration, you might discover the area’s various breweries, coffee shops, and eclectic shops. Additionally, you’ll encounter beautiful green spaces, such as Wallace Park and the North Park Blocks.

Nob Hill, also known as Northwest Portland or the Alphabet District, is characterized by charming Victorian and Craftsman-style homes, tree-lined streets, and a bustling shopping district. Embarking on a walking tour through Nob Hill allows you to appreciate the neighborhood’s architectural highlights while visiting local businesses, cafes, and boutiques. Don’t miss out on exploring the Wallace City Park or Macleay Park, which offer a serene environment for a leisurely stroll.

Lents Neighborhood

The Lents Neighborhood, located in Southeast Portland, is an up-and-coming area that has been experiencing significant growth and development. One of the most popular walking routes in this district is the Lents Green Ring Walk , a loop that circles the neighborhood and provides a glimpse into its unique character. The walk will take you past vibrant community gardens, spacious parks, and a mix of residential and commercial properties. This neighborhood is an excellent option for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

Points of Interest and Activities

Cannon Beach and the Oregon Coast

Cannon Beach, famous for its stunning coastline and iconic Haystack Rock , is a popular destination for visitors to Portland. Several walking tours offer day trips to explore this area, including guided visits to the nearby Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park.

Pioneer Courthouse Square

Pioneer Courthouse Square is a bustling urban park in the heart of downtown Portland. Walking tours often include a stop here to learn about the city’s history, admire the surrounding architecture, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Food carts, local events, and public art installations can be found throughout the area.

NW 23rd Avenue Shopping

For those who enjoy shopping and exploring local boutiques, NW 23rd Avenue is the place to be. This popular shopping district is lined with unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Many walking tours include a stop here, allowing time for visitors to browse and discover what makes this area special.

Portland Rose Garden

The International Rose Test Garden is home to more than 10,000 rose bushes, making it an idyllic spot to learn about and appreciate the beauty of roses. Several walking tours offer guided visits to this iconic garden, where you can enjoy panoramic city views and the serene ambiance.

Forest Park Urban Hiking Tour

Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, offering over 80 miles of trails and an impressive array of wildlife. An urban hiking tour can guide you through the park’s lush landscape, introducing you to its diverse flora and fauna. It is an excellent way to escape the city and experience the great outdoors without leaving Portland.

Willamette River Vista

The Willamette River is a significant feature in Portland’s geography, and many walking tours take advantage of its scenic views. Stops at waterfront parks, historic bridges, and lookout points offer opportunities for visitors to appreciate the city’s unique relationship with the river. In particular, the Willamette River Vista provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a must-see stop on any walking tour.

Practical Information and Tips

What to wear and pack for a portland walking tour.

Portland is known for its frequent rain, so dressing appropriately is essential for a comfortable walking tour experience. Wear layers, as the weather can change throughout the day, and consider bringing a waterproof jacket or poncho. Sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on various surfaces are also important. Some popular destinations during your tour may include breweries and coffee shops, so consider packing a reusable water bottle or coffee mug to stay hydrated and environmentally friendly.

Safety and Pedestrian Etiquette

Keeping safety in mind, follow pedestrian laws and be mindful of traffic, especially when crossing streets. Stick to the designated pathways and sidewalks, and always respect the local community and their spaces. When walking in a group, maintain a reasonable distance from other pedestrians and avoid blocking sidewalks.

Tour Maps and PDF Guides

To enhance your experience, consider downloading a map or a PDF guide for your specific walking tour route. These resources can provide you with valuable information about the sites you’ll be visiting, as well as help you stay on track and navigate Portland’s streets with ease.

Portland Public Transportation

Portland’s public transportation, TriMet , offers a convenient and affordable way to explore the city and access various walking tour starting points. Make sure to familiarize yourself with bus and light rail schedules, and consider purchasing a TriMet pass to make your journey even more seamless.

Walking Tours for Families and Groups

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging activity that the whole family can enjoy, a walking tour around Portland is the way to go. Walking tours allow families and friends to discover the beautiful city while getting some exercise and learning about their environment.

One option worth considering is the Intro to Portland Small-Group Walking Tour , which is suitable for both families and mixed-groups. This tour helps visitors get their bearings in the city and covers Portland’s most famous sights.

Another great walking tour for families is provided by Slabtown Tours . With more than 15 years of experience, the founder of Slabtown Tours has been taking families, Portland Public Schools groups, summer camp kids, and college students on guided walks around the city. These tours last for approximately 90 minutes and are accessible for people of all abilities. The cost for adults is $30, making it an affordable option for groups.

For those interested in exploring the outdoors, consider taking a hike in and around Portland . There are numerous self-guided tours available that utilize the GPSmyCity app. This app lets you explore the city at your own pace, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized experience for everyone involved.

Last but not least, the Bike Around Portland Oregon tour is perfect for those who prefer biking over walking. This tour takes participants through Portland’s beautiful neighborhoods, with a focus on the city’s famous bridges, poetry, and roses. It starts at $45 per adult, making it a budget-friendly option for families and groups.

In summary, walking tours around Portland offer an engaging and educational way for families and groups to explore the city together, get some exercise, and appreciate their environment.

In this article:

Post written by: Jay Y

• 20 May 2023

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Free Walking Tour of Portland

Free walking tours are the best way to explore a new city, and Portland’s tour is no exception! For history, great tips and suggestions throughout the city, look no further than the Secrets of Portlandia Free Walking Tour! The guide Erik is full of endless information, making this walking tour fun and informational. He’s been guiding the our for over seven years. The tour meets everyday at 11:00 am in front of the steps of Pioneer Courthouse (even if it’s raining). Look for Erik in a bright green neon shirt. The tour is free, but like any free walking tour, tips are requested.

Portland Original FREE Walking Tours

Daily: 11:00 am

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6. General Conditions: By entering or participating in the Contest, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules, and by the decisions of Sponsor, which are final and binding in all respects. Contest Entities are not responsible for: (1) any incorrect or inaccurate information or technical failures of any kind, (2) unauthorized human intervention in any part of the entry process or the Contest; or (3) any other computer, network, technical, human or other error, problem or malfunction that may occur in connection with the administration of the Contest, the processing of entries, or the selection or notification of Grand Prize winner. Further, if, for any reason, the Contest is not capable of running as planned for reasons outside the control of the Sponsor which, in the sole opinion of Sponsor, may corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Contest (or portion thereof), Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Contest (or portion thereof) and in the event of cancellation, the prize will be awarded in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received prior to cancellation. Sponsor also reserves the right at its sole discretion to disqualify the entry of any individual found to be (a) tampering or attempting to tamper with the entry process or the operation of the Contest or any website operated by the Contest Entities; (b) using any robotic, macro, automatic, programmed or like entry methods, which will void all such entries; (c) violating these Official Rules or the terms of service, conditions of use, and/or general rules of any Sponsor property or service; or (d) acting in an unsportsmanlike or disruptive manner, or with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten, or harass any other person. Contest Entities are not responsible for claims, injuries, losses or damages of any kind resulting, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from the awarding, delivery, acceptance, use, misuse, possession, loss or misdirection of the prize; participation in this Contest or in any activity or travel related thereto or from any interaction with, or downloading of, computer Contest information.

7. Release and Limitations of Liability: By entering, each entrant agrees to defend, indemnify, release and hold harmless Contest Entities from and against any and all losses, demands, damages, rights, claims, actions and liabilities of any kind arising out of or related to (i) entrant’s participation in the Contest or (ii) entrant’s participation in any prize-related activities (including, without limitation, any property loss, damage, personal injury or death caused to any person(s). The Grand Prize Winner and travel companion(s) assume all liability for any injury, death, or damage caused, or allegedly caused, by participating in this Contest or use or redemption of the prize. Any disputes that may arise hereunder shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of New York without regard to the conflicts of laws principles of any jurisdiction. Venue with respect to any such disputes shall be had in the state and federal courts of the State of New York. All taxes are the responsibility of the Grand Prize Winner, who may receive an IRS Form 1099 reflecting the final actual value of the prize, if applicable.

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8. Publicity. As a condition of entry into the Contest, except where prohibited by law, each entrant and potential Grand Prize Winner by accepting the prize grants to the Contest Entities, a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free license and right, to publicize, broadcast, display and/or otherwise use the Contest entrant’s name, city, state, biographical material and Instagram handle in any media now known or hereafter devised throughout the world in perpetuity for advertising and publicity purposes, without additional review, compensation, permission or approval of Grand Prize Winner.

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Secrets of Portlandia

• Erik’s Cooking Show
• No Reservation Necessary
• Private Tours
• Tour Meeting Point
• Tour Schedule, Summer 2015

The Tour Is Now Seasonally Closed- From Friday October 16th, 2015 to Sunday, May 1st, 2016.

Posted by secretsofportlandia on May 1, 2012 in Uncategorized .

• This tour is about 2hours long. Think of the tour as stand-up comedy about Portland's history and culture. You'll laugh your butt off AND learn about Portland's fascinating evolution into the culture capital that it is today. Plus, you'll get great insider tips on restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. The Tour is FREE in the sense that there is no reservation necessary, no payment up front- if you liked the tour you can leave a tip in your tour guide's hat at the end! Feel free to email us at [email protected] with questions.

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Your Tour Guide, Erik Kennon

Follow Us On Twitter 4 Insider Tips On Portland Culture!

• I've heard great things about @Ramys_LambShack . Gonna go in and see if it lives up to the hype! What should I order? #pdx 1 year ago
• I'm excited to try all the new food carts in Portland! @PDXfoodcarts #pdx one of my tried and true favorites will always be @KOifusionpdx 1 year ago
• I start my COMEDIC FREE WALKING TOUR season May 1st! I offer a FREE TOUR of #portland every day at 11am! #pdx #oregon #or 1 year ago
• I'm excited for 2015 @CityRepair Village Building Convergence, always one of PDX's most refreshing, original events. https://t.co/Rcy1yh44pe 1 year ago
• Gotta love that Portland is so pro ride-your-bike-to-work that we even have a special cycling forecast! #pdx https://t.co/prxrkfuBJO 1 year ago

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Slabtown Tours – N & NW Portland Walking Tours

Guided Walking Tours in Portland, OR – Our Roots are in Slabtown

Experience hidden treasures of Northwest and North Portland with an expert guide

The spirit of the 1890s is alive in Portland

A great activity for groups large and small

Time travel -- on foot

All of our walking tours are designed to take 90 minutes. our nw and se portland walking tours are moderate, level walks for all abilities. the st. johns daytime history tours and nighttime tours have a steep grade. use a restroom prior to arriving for or night tours. fir all tours wear your comfortable walking shoes, bring a water bottle and dress for the weather. tours are never cancelled for rain; ask us if you need to borrow gear/umbrella. all our online bookable tours are designed as loops with unique start points. the nob hill and slabtown walking tours are offered back to back so guests can have the opportunity to experience the upper-class and working-class sections of the nw alphabet district neighborhood on the same day from architectural history to social justice history in one day..

NW History Tours Prices [Adults: $30/each] [Seniors: $18/each] [Youths: $10/each] [Tots: Free] Slabtown Ghost Tour Prices: [All Guests $40/each] St. Johns History, Foster History and Murder, Mayhem and Oddities of St. Johns [$20/adults thanks to our sponsors] 24 hours advance reservations are required for the first booking on any tour date. Book now on PeekPro, or call 503-206-4676. Prices and times are subject to change without notice.

We are Looking Forward to Meeting You

The health and safety of our guests is our top priority. Our walking tours are 100% outside.  Contactless booking and waiver agreement are our new normal. We strongly recommend using a restroom prior to arrival for our evening and holiday tours. Our owner is a tenacious, active, and passionate advocate for public restrooms. We are accepting any & all expired gift cards.

Starting Points:

Slabtown walking tour starts outside of the Northwest Branch Library at 2300 NW Thurman Street.

Nob Hill & NW A Night With Ghosts walking tours start on the porch of Anna Bananas, 1214 NW 21st Avenue.

St Johns History tours start at Two Stroke Coffee Co., 8517 N Lombard St.

Our Murder, Mayhem & Oddities of St. Johns tours start at the Plaza in St. Johns (Lombard & N Burlington Ave.)

Foster Road History tours start at Kainos Coffee 5300 SE Foster Rd.

Tanya Lyn March PhD (Owner & Tour Guide)

VIDEO TOURS WITH TANYA MARCH AND OTHER PORTLAND EXPERTS

Slabtown tour.

Slabtown gets its name from slab wood — the rounded, exterior parts of logs cut away to square off lumber — produced as a popular form of heating fuel in the early 1900s by lumber mills of the neighborhood. We share with you numerous historic images of lost buildings and take you past existing historic sites, including the oldest house on NW23rd, the former sites of the Vaughn Street Ballpark, historic streetcar rails, the entrance of the 1905 Lewis & Clark Fair, and the world's greatest log cabin. Slabtown is a traditional working class neighborhood that is rapidly changing. The neighborhood was once redlined and targeted for everything from am urban renewal area to a freeway.

Private tours can be scheduled for any time of day by email request. 24-hour advanced reservations for individuals and gift card holder are encouraged. For the safety of all we are requiring masks for anyone over 5 years of age at this time. More info >

NOB HILL - ALPHABET DISTRICT TOUR

Our expert guide will show you the highlights of Portland's Nob Hill. The walking tour route guests beside some of the grand merchant homes of the 1890s and apartments built for the post Lewis and Clark building boom. The tour loops back to the starting point along the "Trendy 23rd" Street Shopping district, highlighting the evolution of this early streetcar commercial corridor. Nob Hill was named after the San Francisco area, and has become one of Portland's trendiest shopping areas. The neighborhood is known for fabulous tax-free shopping, great coffee and amazing verity of food. Many restaurants have added healthy street seating.

This 90-minute tour is offered year-round, every Saturday at 9 a.m. Day-ahead reservations are encouraged. More info >

ST. JOHNS TOUR

St. Johns is a neighborhood with small town charm in Portland, Oregon, located in North Portland on the tip of the peninsula formed by the confluence of the Willamette River and the Columbia River. Many structures from the days when the neighborhood was an incorporated city are still standing. The community is known for its amazing bridge, Jazz Festival, annual parade, and eclectic mix of restaurants and small businesses. This walk has some steep grades, so bring comfortable shoes and a water bottle. The tour starts at Two Stroke Coffee Co. 8517 N. Lombard St., Portland, OR, 97203. This tour is offered on the Third Saturday of each month at 3 p.m., Thanksgiving & Christmas 2023. Thanks to a partnership with The St. Johns Boosters, Venture Portland, and Prosper Portland, the tours are offered at a reduced rate. If you are interested in this tour but are not in town on the Third Saturday of the month, please reach out to us. We are flexible and can add dates. More info >

HAUNTED NORTHWEST HISTORY TOUR

Experience Portland's paranormal heritage as we investigate several local ghost narratives gathered from homeowners, alienists, and newspaper accounts. The tour stops at three locations where the spirits are known to be less than peaceful. This tour takes place on Halloween, Fridays and Saturdays in October, and every Friday the 13th, and by request year-round. More info >

Testimonials

Portland: One of the best ways to get to know the city is via walking tours. Put Slabtown Tours on your radar for when you have visiting friends or family or just want to get out and about and know a little more of the Portland story. Tanya is an amazing resource of knowledge...history and local lore that should be shared with every Portlander.

Tanya is the most knowledgeable person I know when it comes to historical buildings in Portland! Highlighting both flashy and gritty facts, her tours cover many eras. This is a can’t-miss if you like hearing the history behind the city you are enjoying. (And ask her about local museum displays — she points you to all the best ones!)

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History Fun Facts

Fun fact #71 how many city parks were combined to create forest park in 1947, slabtowntours.

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Our owner, Tanya Lyn March, Ph.D., wants to stay in touch. Sign up to get fantastic Portland-area history trivia, as well as invites to free and one-off walking tours, upcoming exhibits, lectures, the Slabtown Festival, and more -- ALL personalized and delivered to your inbox.

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Walk and Hike Around Portland tours

Wake up with doughnuts and city views 6:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m. $45 Viewpoints, doughnuts, 1 to 2 mile (2 to 3 km) urban hike Monday - Saturday

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Walk the Working Waterfront

Saturday, june 8, 2019 • 11am-3pm.

Walk the Working Waterfront is a free-to-attend, self guided walking tour proudly celebrating the people, businesses, and infrastructure that comprise the heart of Portland’s ocean economy. Now in its 6th year, this annual, community-centered affair was created to encourage visitors to discover firsthand what life on the historic Commercial Street waterfront is like.

From Becky’s Diner to the Maine State Pier, attendees are welcomed into dozens of businesses, taken onto select commercial vessels for tours, and encouraged to explore the piers in new ways, while taking plenty of pictures along the way.

For more information – including an event map & full list of activities – visit the all-new Walk the Working Waterfront website!

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