As you walk the streets of historic downtown Pendleton you may not realize the secret world just beneath your feet. It all started back in the 1870’s when Chinese laborers began constructing tunnels to conduct business and take refuge from discrimination.

Today several of the tunnels have been restored and some of the town history recreated to form Pendleton Underground Tours. The tunnels were home to businesses such as Chinese laundries and butcher shops as well as providing a haven for plenty of illegal activities. Remnants of card rooms, bordellos and saloons provide a glimpse into the wild past of this hidden city. At one point there were eighteen bordellos operating in a town of just around three thousand.

Now, since some of the tour is geared towards adult guests, arrangements can be made to alter the route a bit. But children six years of age and up are encouraged to take the tour and learn more of the unique roles of the Chinese on our history in the west.

With the growing popularity of the tour, reservations are highly recommended and group packages are available. Just make sure to call ahead for seasonal hours and openings because space is limited and the tours fill up quickly.   So if you’re looking for a new take on the Old West bring the family and make your next journey to Pendleton, Oregon and take the Underground Tour because this is one hidden treasure that won’t be kept a secret for long….pendletonundergroundtours.org/