Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

Trip ideas while visiting Portland in Oregon

Freakybuttrue Peculiarium

The Peculiarium, owned by Mike Wellins and Lisa Freeman, is an art gallery, museum, and gift shop that showcases their love for science fiction, horror, cryptozoology, unsolved urban legends, and the mysterious. Unlike traditional museums with sterile rooms and serious guards, the Peculiarium has a unique charm. As you step inside, prepare to encounter an array of fascinating exhibits. From an alien autopsy to a theremin, this place has it all. They even have displays featuring ghosts, D.B. Cooper, and two (fake) vampire killing kits. When you’re ready for a snack, head over to the adjacent snack bar where you can indulge in Freeman’s specialties like Frankenballs, Franken Fries, and her renowned Bug Sundaes. These sundaes are made with Tillamook ice cream and topped with freeze-dried mealworms and cooked scorpions (don’t worry, the stingers have been removed).

You’ll find a unique and eccentric art museum/gift shop in Portland that truly embraces the motto of “Keeping Portland Weird.” This place is known for its unconventional displays of pop horror and strange curiosities. Prior visitors suggest starting your visit by exploring the gift shop. If the items there pique your interest and bring a smile to your face, then consider paying admission to explore the museum. However, if this kind of offbeat experience isn’t to your liking, it may be best to skip it altogether.