Unearth The Voyage
Portland, Oregon is home to one of the most unusual spots you’ll ever visit: Voodoo Doughnut and Wedding Chapel. This place serves up wild doughnuts with crazy toppings like bacon and cereal, but it also doubles as a real wedding venue where couples can get legally married. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack or looking to say “I do” in the most unexpected way, Voodoo Doughnut offers an experience that’s totally one-of-a-kind.
A Dual Identity: Doughnuts and Something More
Voodoo Doughnut and Wedding Chapel in Portland, Oregon isn’t your typical bakery. Founders Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon wanted to create a late-night doughnut spot, but they also had a wilder vision in mind.
They turned their shop into a legally-binding wedding and commitment ceremony venue. Couples can munch on creative treats while planning their big moment, or even tie the knot right there among the colorful décor and quirky vibes.
This blend of sweet indulgence and matrimonial fun makes Voodoo a magnet for travelers hunting down offbeat experiences. It’s not just about eating—it’s about creating memories in a space that refuses to take itself too seriously.
The Doughnuts: Bold Flavours & Outrageous Names
Walk into Voodoo and you’ll spot doughnuts that look nothing like the plain glazed rings at your local grocery store. The “Cap’n Crunch” doughnut comes topped with vanilla icing and a generous sprinkle of the famous cereal.
Meanwhile, the “Ol’ Dirty Bastard” features chocolate cake, chocolate icing, Oreo crumbles, and a peanut butter drizzle. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the “Bacon Maple Bar,” where crispy bacon meets sweet maple glaze.
There’s even a gingerbread-man shaped creation with chocolate icing, raspberry filling, and pretzel accents. The wild menu pairs perfectly with the shop’s velvet paintings and playful lighting, making every visit feel like stepping into a candy-colored dream.
The Wedding Chapel & Events
Getting married at a doughnut shop might sound bizarre, but Voodoo makes it happen. The venue offers official wedding and commitment ceremony packages, all legally recognized and conducted on-site.
Ceremonies tend to be secular and quirky, fitting right into the playful atmosphere. Imagine saying your vows surrounded by neon signs and the smell of fresh pastries—it’s unconventional, but that’s exactly the point.
Beyond weddings, Voodoo hosts monthly doughnut-eating contests and other special events that bring the community together. This mix of food novelty and meaningful rituals transforms a simple bakery visit into something far more memorable and heartfelt for everyone involved.
Location & Practical Tips
You’ll find the original Voodoo Doughnut at 22 SW 3rd Avenue in downtown Portland. The shop stays open 24/7, so you can grab a doughnut fix at any hour, though seating inside might be scarce during quieter times.
There’s a convenient drive-thru “doughnut window” for quick pickups. Because Voodoo is wildly popular, expect to wait in line, especially during peak hours or weekends.
If you’re planning to book the wedding chapel, call ahead to check availability and secure your spot. Coordinates are roughly 45.5227, −122.6732, making it easy to locate on maps. A little patience and planning go a long way in ensuring you get the full Voodoo experience.
Why It Resonates
Voodoo Doughnut isn’t just famous for wild flavors or kitschy weddings—it’s become a symbol of Portland’s love for the quirky and unexpected. The shop blends indulgence, ritual, and tourism in a way that feels fresh and fun.
Social media plays a huge role here; the Instagram-friendly décor and outrageous doughnuts make perfect photo ops. Visitors leave with more than a sugar rush—they take home stories and snapshots that capture the city’s creative spirit.
This intersection of foodie culture, novelty seeking, and experiential travel shows how modern attractions can be about more than products or services. Voodoo offers an entire vibe, a sense of place that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
Wedding Packages & What to Expect
Curious about actually getting hitched at Voodoo? The chapel offers several package options, ranging from simple ceremonies to more elaborate setups. Each package typically includes an officiant, a small gathering space, and of course, doughnuts.
Couples can customize their vows and choose music that fits their style. The atmosphere is relaxed and non-traditional, perfect for pairs who want something far removed from stuffy ballrooms or formal churches.
You’ll need to bring your marriage license and follow Oregon’s legal requirements, but the Voodoo team helps guide you through the process. It’s a low-stress, high-fun way to start married life, surrounded by colorful chaos and sweetness in every sense.
The Founders’ Vision
Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon didn’t set out to create just another bakery. They wanted a space that broke the mold, combining late-night cravings with a sense of whimsy and community.
Their idea was to fill a gap in Portland’s dining scene while also offering something totally unexpected: a wedding venue. This dual-purpose approach reflects their belief that food and celebration should go hand-in-hand.
Over the years, their vision has attracted locals and tourists alike, turning Voodoo into a cultural landmark. The founders’ willingness to embrace the weird and wonderful has made their shop a beloved icon, proving that sometimes the best ideas are the ones that sound a little crazy.
Visiting Voodoo: Tips for First-Timers
If it’s your first time at Voodoo, arrive with an open mind and a healthy appetite. The menu can feel overwhelming, so don’t be afraid to ask staff for recommendations or try a sampler box.
Bring cash if possible, as lines move faster when payments are quick. Snap photos of the décor, but be respectful of other customers and any ceremonies happening nearby.
If you’re visiting during busy hours, patience is key—good things come to those who wait. Consider going late at night or early morning for shorter lines. Whether you’re there for doughnuts, a wedding, or just the vibe, Voodoo promises an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.
