Frequently Asked Questions
We've compiled a list of some of the more common questions people ask. We are always looking for ways to improve, so please let us know if you cannot find the answer you need.
Where do you pick up and drop off? Pick up locations vary. (See photos at bottom of page for details.) Most of our sightseeing shuttle tours pick up in front of Flying Elephant’s Delicatessen at Fox Tower, on SW Park Avenue. Walking tours pick up at the milepost sign at Pioneer Courthouse Square, across from Pioneer Courthouse. The pick up location will be listed in your email confirmation. When in doubt, call our office at (503) 208-4768.
What types of vehicles do you use? Our primary vehicles are Ford Transit passenger shuttles, with high ceilings and large windows, which are lightly tinted for your comfort. We prefer white shuttles to keep visibility high on the road. These vehicles accommodate 13-15 passengers, though we aim to keep a few seats free in order to maintain some flexibility in seating. All vans are clean, well-maintained, and climate controlled. Look for the “Peak Tours and Transit” sign on the side.
Is there assigned seating? Please see our van description above. Seating is generally first come, first served, but we try to accommodate any special needs, so please be prepared to be flexible so we can make the entire group as comfortable as possible. Please let us know if you have a specific request.
Where should I park? Street parking in downtown Portland is 2-hour parking, so it’s best to park in a garage. The closest garage to our pickup point is only a few blocks away, the SmartPark at 730 SW 10th Ave. The fee is $2.00 per hour, or $14 for the day (over 4 hours).
Is it customary to tip the tour guide? Our guides do accept gratuities, and they are greatly appreciated. It is common practice to tip your tour guide 15%. For your convenience, most of our guides accept cash, Venmo, and PayPal.
Do you have room for my luggage? For private tours or for transit/transportation service, we have some room for luggage. Please check in with us so we are prepared for your particular needs. If you’re taking a public tour, we don’t have room for luggage, because the tour shuttle doesn’t have cargo space. If you’re coming in on a train, the train station has lockers for luggage. If it’s too early to check into your hotel, the front desk will usually hold your bags for you.
Will food and drink be provided? On van tours longer than 4 hours, we will provide a meal. On van tours shorter than 4 hours, we have water and snacks available upon request. We ask that you not eat messy or aromatic food, or drink anything other than water, inside the shuttle.
How should I dress? Dress for the weather. Our shuttle tours are climate controlled, but we stop at points of interest along the way, where you can step outside and take in the view.
Will there be restroom stops on the tour? There will be at least one opportunity to use the restroom during the course of each walking tour and each van tour. If there is an urgent need, please bring it to the attention of the tour guide, and we will do our best to find a place to stop.
Do you give tours in languages other than English? At this time, we do not have tours in other languages. We would like to offer tours in other languages and are actively seeking to hire multi-lingual tour guides.
How much walking will there be? Each tour is different, and you can send an email about specific tours, but we can generalize here. All shuttle tours stop at points of interest along the way, where there is a little walking on easy terrain. You can always opt out of the walking and stay close to the shuttle. The walking tours will list approximate walking distances in the details, and all walking tours are on paved walkways.
What if I'm running late for a tour? If you are running late for a tour, we ask that you text or call our office as soon as possible at (503) 208-4768 to let us know. There are many factors to consider, and we will decide what to do on a case by case basis.
What if I miss my scheduled tour? In general, we do not offer make-up opportunities for missed tours, and we do not offer refunds for missed tours.
Do you have a lost and found? We usually take a good look around the shuttle when we drop off groups, but we are only human! If you believe you many have left an item behind, please call us at (503) 208-4768.
