The Shanghai Tunnels
Portland

From 1850 to 1941, the illegal maritime practice of "Shanghaiing" took place. During this time, able-bodied men were kidnapped, or "Shanghaied," and locked up in holding cells in order to put them to work on ships bound for Asia. Now their spirits are said to linger inside the tunnels, and this is known as one of the most haunted places in America. This is "a huge part of Portland's 'alternative' history." The Cascade Geographic Society runs tours of these underground tunnels, and "there is always something new to see and discover." Tours include the history of the trade, plus ghost stories of haunted Old Town. Some say, "This is not for the claustrophobic." Read more.

Apple Valley Country Store
Hood River

Four-pound apple pies, apple or pear dumplings, and apple cider doughnuts are notable specialties at this country store located along the Hood River Valley's scenic "Fruit Loop" drive, but the real showstopper is the fresh fruit piled into everything from thick milkshakes to pies and cobblers. How could anyone refuse ice cream blended with ripe fruit? Summertime in the Columbia River Gorge is all about cherries, peaches, and huckleberries. Jams, jellies, pie fillings, and marinades are whipped up here, too--making it the ideal pit stop for souvenirs to bring back home. From April through October, there's a festival going on about once a month. Celebrate Cherry Days, Apple Dumpling Days, and the Huckleberry Harvest, among others. Read more.

Horse Brass Pub
Portland

This is an "American pub in the English tradition" that features over 50 beers, from handcrafted or cask-conditioned beers to imported beers and ciders. Chances are good that you'll find several "hard-to-find ales" here--they carry a boutique selection of hand-crafted Oregonian brews. The bar is "decorated with hundreds of horse brasses (amulets historically attached to a knight's horse-harness to ward off evil) nailed to hand-hewn timbers." "The staff and clientele run from young to old," and you'll find English, American, Scottish and Oregonian patrons sitting elbow to elbow. Read more.

Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters
Cannon Beach

The misty north Oregon coast town of Cannon Beach is the perfect backdrop for slugging back cups of steaming coffee on the porch at Sleepy Monk. Taking advantage of this beach town's year-round activities, ranging from beachcombing and surfing to wine tasting and storm watching, can work up a need for some piping-hot java. That's where Jane and Victor Harding come in. After attracting a cult-following in Redmond, Washington, they moved to the Oregon Coast to create a new community of coffee connoisseurs. Serving organic, fair-trade certified coffee roasted in the roastery that Victor made by hand, they've become a mainstay on Hemlock Road. While enjoying your beverage, you can learn how a green coffee bean goes through the roasting process and into your own cup. Read more.

Hole in the Wall Barbecue
Eugene

For "authentic, no-frills barbecue at its best," Hole in the Wall checks all the boxes. As well as "unbeatable" chili that’s "even better when it’s smothering a pile of fries and topped with cheddar cheese," this secret spot boasts slow-cooked meats, homemade sides, and luscious desserts. Rest assured, "you can’t find barbecue like this anywhere else in Oregon." Read more.