Popular Northwest Portland Odditorium the Peculiarium Is Expanding—and Moving to the Eastside

Portland's favorite faux-museum is on the move.

The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium is relocating in early 2020 to a 6,000-square-foot space at 640 SE Stark St.—much bigger than its current cubbyhole on Northwest Thurman Street.

A satirical take on odditoriums like Ripley's Believe It or Not, the business has been pranking locals and tourists alike since 2011 with "exhibits," such as an alien autopsy table and a gift shop selling fake worm cookies and bizarre art. But co-owner Lisa Freeman says they outgrew their building a while ago.

"We've been thinking about [moving] for a little over a year, as we get more and more crowded," she tells WW. "So many customers say, 'We love it, we need more!'"

The move will allow owners Freeman and co-owner Mike Wellins—a former Laika director—to try out some ideas they didn't have room for previously. That includes "something airline related," which people with a fear of flying might want to avoid, and a display that'll allow visitors to fake a selfie from the top of a tall building. There will also be a stage for live performances.

And yes, the giant stuffed Sasquatch that stands near the doorway is coming along. Word has it his "twin brother" might finally come out of hiding, too.

Related: Eight Places to Find Bigfoot in the Portland Area.

The new Peculiarium opens on Jan. 2, though only the gift shop will be in operation while they build out the gallery. The new exhibit area is scheduled to open March 31.