Portland Nightlife
Portland is a city with an incredibly fun nightlife! There are over 5 accredited universities in the city not to mention community colleges and the city is oozing with young people who are ready to party. There are also loads of young professionals as Portland is one of the technology capitals of the US. This means that any club, bar or pub that you go to in the city will be full of young, trendy people ready to have a good time! Portland’s nightlife is basically spit up geographically, which makes it easier to find what you are looking for based on if it is in Northwest, Southwest or the Pearl district.
The Pearl District: The Pearl District of Downtown Portland is by far the trendiest area in the city, not to mention the most expensive. But here you will find the most quality clubs and bars with the most creative cocktails. Here, when people go out they look good and so should you. The Pearl District is a series of blocks in between Northwest and Southwest Portland with high-scale shops, restaurants and of course bars and clubs. So, once here there is really no reason to leave and it is a great destination, especially if you are staying downtown. Trust is a must see with crazy cocktails, good music and great for people watching. Located on NW Everett St.
Dancing: LoLo’s room at The Mcmenimans Crystal Ballroom, which also has awesome shows, has an 80’s dance night on Fridays. It is a fun scene and a pretty small venue so you will no doubt be up close and personal with the other dancers. The floor shakes to the music and it is an all around fun time. Great place for a girl’s night out. Also check out their website for the show schedule as it is an awesome venue to come see small shows.
Wine Bars: Oregon is home to some of the best wine in the world. This means there are a lot of wine bars in the city with a great, calm atmosphere. Oregon Wines on Broadway is one place in Portland that offers a great selection of fine Oregon and Washington wines and is an awesome place to hang out with friends over great wine and conversation. Vino Paradiso is another great place to stop by. The atmosphere is candlelit and relaxing, especially when holding a glass of delicious Oregon pinto noir. Located in the Pearl District.
Across the River: While the west side of the river is technically downtown Portland the eastside has a lot to offer in the way of nightlife as well. Most notable is the Doug Fir, just on the other side of Burnside Bridge. The Doug Fir is one of the most popular venues in Portland for great local music. They also offer great specialty cocktails and amazing Oregon beers and wine. Check out their website for the show schedule. If you don’t have a place to stay, check out the Jupiter—the Doug Firs trendy little sister right next door.
Transportation: If you aren’t staying in downtown but want to go out anyway try taking the Max. Be warned, however, that the Max shuts down around 1 am while bars stay open until 2. Don’t get stranded! There are always cabs to call. If you are staying downtown take advantage of the fresh Northwest air and walk to your destinations. You will be glad you did, even if its raining most places are close to one another and Portland is an easy city to get lost in if driving.