Macabre Ghost History of Portland, Oregon walking tour

Embark on a haunting and fascinating cemetery walking tour through Portland’s inner eastside, where stories of fiery deaths, watery graves, and restless spirits bring the past to life. This immersive journey weaves together historical events with ancient legends and eerie coincidences observed over the years. As you walk among the final resting places of early settlers and forgotten souls, you’ll uncover tales of tragedy and mystery — from river drownings to devastating fires, from self-inflicted deaths to those driven by guilt or power. Guided by storytellers who blend history with a touch of the supernatural, the tour explores an area known for more disasters than any other part of Portland, offering a glimpse into the city’s darker past and its lingering echoes.

Beyond the spine-tingling tales, this walk is also a reflection on Oregon’s deeper history. Long before it was called Oregon, Ourigan was home to hundreds of thousands of Indigenous people whose stories and presence continue to shape the land. Their legacy, intertwined with the tragedies of colonization and modern misfortune, adds a profound depth to the ghostly atmosphere. As the tour concludes, participants are invited to return to the living world with a sweet stop on SE Twenty Eighth Avenue for ice cream — a lighthearted way to end a journey through Portland’s shadows and spirits.