How to Plan Your Self-Guided Solo “Weird and Wonderful Portland” Walking Tour in Old Town

Are you looking for a unique and interesting way to explore Portland’s rich history and culture? Look no further than the self-guided solo “Weird and Wonderful Portland” walking tour in Old Town.

With the WalknTours app as your guide, you’ll experience Portland’s quirky side at your own pace. The tour takes you through the historic Old Town neighborhood, stopping at allegedly haunted spots and famous landmarks, like the Shanghai Tunnels and Voodoo Doughnut.

To help you plan your perfect self-guided tour, we’ve put together some tips and recommendations.

Overview

The “Weird and Wonderful Portland” walking tour is a smartphone-guided tour that you can take on your own time. The app provides you with all the information you need to explore Portland’s most interesting neighborhoods, including Old Town.

On this tour, you’ll hear stories about Portland’s rich history and the unique characters that have shaped the city. You’ll visit places like the Shanghai Tunnels, where local lore has it that they were used to kidnap sailors, and Voodoo Doughnut, a Portland landmark.

What’s Included

The tour includes the WalknTours app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. Once you download the app and select the “Weird and Wonderful Portland” tour, you can start whenever you wish. And after you’ve completed the tour, you can use the app to recap your experience and share it with friends.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts at Old Town Pizza, located at 226 NW Davis St in Portland. This spot is known for serving up delicious pizza but also has a dark past. Under its floorboards run the infamous “Shanghai Tunnels,” a maze of connecting passageways that were once used for illicit activity.

Planning Your Tour

To ensure you have a great experience on your walking tour, we suggest taking some time to plan. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Choose a Time

The “Weird and Wonderful Portland” walking tour is available 24/7, so you can start whenever you like. However, we recommend starting in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds and make the most of your day.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You’ll be walking around the city, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes. Choose shoes that are broken in and can handle a lot of walking.

Bring Water and Snacks

While the tour is not physically demanding, it’s still a good idea to bring water and some snacks. You’ll be out exploring for a few hours, so it’s important to stay hydrated and fueled.

Charge Your Phone

You’ll need your phone to access the app and tour, so make sure it’s fully charged before you start your adventure.

Booking Your Tour

If you’re ready to book your self-guided solo walking tour, you can do so online at viator.com. The tour costs $9.97 per person and is available year-round.

Book the tour here and get ready to explore Portland’s “weird and wonderful” side at your own pace.

Whether you’re a Portland native or a first-time visitor, the “Weird and Wonderful Portland” walking tour offers a unique and immersive way to experience the city’s history and culture. With the help of the WalknTours app, you’ll discover the secrets and stories that make Portland one of the most interesting cities in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Portland

If you are planning a trip to Portland or considering moving there, you might have some questions about this beautiful city. Portland is the largest city in Oregon and is known for its stunning natural beauty, parks, bridges, and famous food and drink culture. In this blog post, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about Portland to make your trip or move smoother.

What is the best time to visit Portland?

Portland has a temperate climate, with relatively mild winters and warm, dry summers. The peak tourist season is typically from June through August, so you can expect higher crowds and prices during this time. If you prefer a quieter time, spring and fall can be great times to visit the city. September and October offer pleasant weather and fall colors, while March and April are perfect for seeing the city’s beautiful cherry blossoms.

How do I get around in Portland?

Portland is known for being a pedestrian and bike-friendly city. If you are staying in the downtown area, most attractions, restaurants, and hotels are accessible on foot. You can also rent a bike from one of the many bikeshare companies or rent a car. TriMet, Portland’s public transportation system, includes buses, light rail trains, and streetcars, making it easy to get around the city. You can purchase tickets, passes, or day passes online or at ticket vending machines.

What are the must-visit attractions in Portland?

Portland has no shortage of things to see and do, from its beautiful parks to its fantastic food scene. Some of the top attractions include:

• Washington Park: Home to several gardens, a zoo, and the famous International Rose Test Garden.
• Powell’s City of Books: This world-famous bookstore occupies a city block and features over a million books.
• Portland Art Museum: A beautiful museum featuring a collection of over 42,000 art pieces from different cultures and time periods.
• Voodoo Doughnut: Known for its quirky doughnut flavors, Voodoo Doughnut is a Portland institution.
• Japanese Garden: This beautiful garden covers 12 acres and features stunning landscapes and traditional Japanese architecture.

What is the food and drink scene like in Portland?

Portland has a thriving food and drink culture, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. Some famous foods in Portland include Voodoo Doughnuts, Salt & Straw ice cream, and Stumptown Coffee. Portland is also known for its food carts, where you can find everything from tacos to waffles. The city has a booming craft beer scene, with over 75 breweries producing unique and delicious beers. You can also find many wineries and distilleries in the area.

What is the cost of living in Portland?

Portland’s cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, but still lower than other west coast cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. The cost of living in Portland can vary depending on where you live and your lifestyle. Areas closer to downtown and the river tend to be more expensive, while neighborhoods further away are more affordable. The city has a reasonable median home price, but rents can be high. It’s a good idea to research different neighborhoods and budget accordingly before moving to Portland.

Is Portland a safe city?

Overall, Portland is a relatively safe city. However, like any big city, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Property crime such as theft and vandalism can occur in some areas, so it’s a good idea to keep valuables out of sight and lock your doors and windows. You can also download the Portland Police Bureau’s app to receive alerts and stay up-to-date on any safety concerns in the city.

In conclusion, Portland has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike. With its natural beauty, vibrant food and drink culture, and friendly locals, it’s no surprise that Portland is a popular destination. We hope this blog post has helped answer some of your questions about the city and that you enjoy your stay in Portland!