Spirits in the Mist: Portland’s Most Haunted Locations
Portland, Oregon is no stranger to ghostly tales, and Halloween is the perfect time to delve into the city’s haunted history. Whether it’s the eerie whispers in old theaters or the restless spirits of long-gone residents, Portland’s haunted places are sure to send a chill down your spine.
One of the city's most infamous haunted spots is the Shanghai Tunnels beneath Old Town. These tunnels were once used to transport goods from the waterfront to various businesses. But darker tales surround them, with reports that men and women were "shanghaied"—kidnapped and forced into labor aboard ships. Many of those who entered the tunnels never left, and their spirits are said to linger, haunting the dark corridors to this day.
Artistic rendition of the so-called “Shanghai Tunnels” back in their day of operation. Image: Dalle3
Another spooky site is the Pittock Mansion, perched in the West Hills overlooking the city. Built in 1914 by newspaper tycoon Henry Pittock and his wife Georgiana, the mansion is a Portland icon. After the Pittocks died within a few years of each other, visitors began reporting strange occurrences: phantom footsteps, objects moving on their own, and sightings of the couple’s ghosts. Some claim to have seen Henry and Georgiana walking hand-in-hand in the gardens, forever tied to the home they loved.
The Bagdad Theater on Hawthorne Boulevard, originally opened in 1927, is another hotbed of paranormal activity. Moviegoers and staff have reported ghostly figures, strange noises, and unexplained cold spots. One particularly mischievous spirit is said to tamper with the theater’s equipment, disrupting shows, while another watches over the staff, ensuring that the operations run smoothly—even from beyond the grave.
For those seeking a different kind of haunt, the White Eagle Saloon, built in 1905, is one of Portland’s oldest and most notorious pubs. Originally a place for Polish immigrants, it later became a hotspot for sailors—and the darker side of Portland’s history. The saloon was connected to the Shanghai Tunnels and served as a brothel. Visitors and employees have reported ghostly figures in the bar and mysterious whispers, particularly in the basement.
An artistic impression of the Lone Fir Cemetery, Creep indeed! Image: Dalle3
Then there’s Lone Fir Cemetery, a historic site that holds the graves of many of Portland’s pioneers. Its towering trees and shadowy pathways make it a perfect setting for ghostly encounters. Many have reported strange sensations while wandering the cemetery at night, feeling as if they’re being watched by unseen eyes or brushed by invisible hands.
Even Portland’s Heathman Hotel has its share of ghost stories. Guests staying in certain rooms, particularly those ending in "03," often report feeling the presence of an unseen companion. Some claim they’ve woken up to a chill in the air or the sensation of someone standing at the foot of their bed. The hotel’s rich history, coupled with its eerie happenings, make it a must-visit for paranormal enthusiasts.
Portland’s haunted history is as deep as the fog that often rolls in on a fall evening. For those brave enough to explore it, these haunted spots may offer more than just a glimpse into the past—they just might offer a brush with the supernatural. So, as Halloween Night approaches, consider making a stop at one of these iconic and (if you’re channeling the past) spooky locations.
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