Portland: Donut Walking Food Tour with Local Favorites

Summary

Portland donut tour with tastings city strolls and quirky stops

You’ll wander through downtown Portland tasting donuts from iconic spots like Coco, Blue Star, and Voodoo Doughnuts on this walking food tour. Expect stories from your local guide, quick photo stops at quirky landmarks, and plenty of chances to chat with fellow travelers as you snack your way through the city’s sweet side.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the first bite — powdered sugar dusting my fingers, that faint yeasty smell hanging in the air outside Coco Donuts. Our guide, Jamie, handed out little napkins (which I definitely needed), and told us how Portland’s donut shops are basically as competitive as its coffee scene. I didn’t expect to laugh so much just talking about fried dough, but there we were, swapping stories about our favorite flavors while a couple of locals darted past on bikes, shouting something about “maple bacon or bust.” The air was cool but not cold — just enough to make the donuts feel extra warm in your hands.

We zigzagged through downtown — past Pioneer Square where some street musicians were setting up — and then wandered by the Portland Art Museum. Jamie pointed out a weird statue (I think it was called Portlandia?) and gave us a quick photo break. There was this one moment at Blue Star when someone in our group tried a vegan donut for the first time and honestly looked shocked it tasted good. I got a hint of cardamom in mine. Or maybe it was just wishful thinking? Either way, it worked.

The day trip donut tour from downtown Portland is more than just eating — you get these little slices of city life in between bites. At Voodoo Doughnuts, the line was already snaking around the block but Jamie had us sorted with samples so we didn’t have to wait (lifesaver). By then my hands were sticky and I’d stopped caring about calories. We ended near Shemanski Fountain — people-watching, licking glaze off our fingers. I still think about that last bite sometimes when I walk past a bakery back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Portland donut tasting and city sights

• Visit first donut stop
• Try Coco Donuts
• Explore Portland Art Museum
• Visit Oregon Historical Society Museum
• Photo stop at Portlandia statue
• See Shemanski Fountain
• Walk through Pioneer Courthouse Square
• Enjoy fresh donuts at second to last stop
• Try Voodoo Doughnuts

Top questions

How long does the Portland donut walking tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect a relaxed pace with several stops across downtown Portland.

Which donut shops are included on this tour?

The tour features Coco Donuts, Blue Star Donuts, Nola Doughnuts, Voodoo Doughnuts, and possibly more local favorites.

Are vegan or gluten-free donuts available?

Yes, many locations offer vegan or gluten-free options—just let them know ahead of time so they can highlight those for you.

Is this tour suitable for kids or people with strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers during the tour.

Does the tour include any historical or cultural stops?

You’ll pass by places like Pioneer Square, Portland Art Museum, Shemanski Fountain, and see the Portlandia statue along the route.

Are service animals allowed on the tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the walking food tour.

Is public transportation nearby if I need it after the tour?

Yes, there are public transportation options available close to the route’s start and finish points.

What’s included

Your day includes curated tastings at several top donut shops—like Coco Donuts and Voodoo Doughnuts—plus stories from your guide as you stroll between famous downtown landmarks. Vegan and gluten-free options can be arranged if you mention them ahead of time; all you need is an appetite for sweets and some comfy shoes.