The very best 12 nightlife spots in Portland, United States
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Welcome to the lively city of Portland, where the night owls are always hooting! In this entertaining article, we'll unveil the twelve most happening nightlife spots that would make even vampires book a one-way ticket. From the eccentric dance floors where synchronized flamingo moves are the norm, to the clandestine speakeasies hidden behind vending machines (insert quarters and secrets), Portland offers an out-of-this-world party scene that's sure to leave you howling for more. So, grab your dancing shoes, leave your inhibitions at the door, and dive into a nocturnal adventure that promises to be the stuff of legends!
Save destination1. Multnomah Whiskey Library
1124 SW Alder St, Portland, OR 97205, USA
Welcome to the Multnomah Whiskey Library in Portland, where reading between the lines takes on a whole new meaning. Nestled in the heart of the city, this place combines your love for books and booze in a way that Hemingway would surely approve of. With a collection that could even make Ron Swanson blush, prepare to embark on a literary adventure where cleverly hidden doors lead to shelves upon shelves of golden elixirs waiting to whisk you away to a world where books and whiskey live harmoniously.
Learn more2. Rontoms
600 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214, USA
Welcome to Rontoms, a hip and happening joint in the heart of Portland! As you step through the entrance, prepare to be greeted by a charming chaos of mismatched furniture, funky wallpapers, and an atmosphere so laid-back it's practically horizontal. This eccentric hotspot is perfect for music lovers, with live bands that will make you want to dance like no one's watching (even if, let's be honest, they probably are).
Learn more3. Bailey's Taproom
720 SW Ankeny St, Portland, OR 97205, USA
Welcome to Bailey's Taproom in the quirky city of Portland, where ales are greeted with open arms and pints come in for a bear hug. This watering hole exudes a charming yet laid-back atmosphere, as if your favorite local bar and a hipster's dreamscape merged to create the ultimate pub experience. With more taps than a drummer's kit, here you can immerse yourself in a delightful symphony of craft brews, as you explore a world where beer flows like water and the only hangover is from a hearty laugh.
Learn more4. Teardrop Lounge
1015 NW Everett St, Portland, OR 97209, USA
Welcome to Teardrop Lounge, where cocktails flow like tears of joy in Portland! This trendy watering hole captivates its patrons with a quirky blend of speakeasy charm and mixological prowess. Prepare to be wooed by the bartenders' dexterous juggling of shakers and glasses, as they create libations that will make your taste buds dance like nobody's watching. Trust me, you won't find a better spot to drown your sorrows or celebrate life's little victories than this liquid oasis.
Learn more5. Bit House Saloon
727 SE Grand Ave, Portland, OR 97214, USA
Welcome to Bit House Saloon, where drinks are mixed and vibes are distilled to perfection. Step into this funky establishment and be prepared to have your taste buds tickled and your laughter muscles exercised. With a dazzling menu of craft cocktails that'll make your head spin faster than a carousel, Bit House Saloon is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a boozy adventure in the hipster playground of Portland.
Learn more6. The Bye and Bye
1011 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, USA
Welcome to The Bye and Bye, a quirky watering hole nestled in the heart of Portland! This vibrant joint brings together booze enthusiasts and hipsters craving a laid-back atmosphere — think Portland's answer to "Cheers," but with a twist! Serving up an extensive selection of craft brews, delightful vegan eats, and a playlist that will take you on a nostalgic journey through the 90s, The Bye and Bye guarantees a splendid time filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses.
Learn more7. Prost!
4237 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217, USA
Welcome to Prost!, a quirky and lively beer hall nestled in the heart of Portland, where funky facial hair and lederhosen blend seamlessly with the hipster scene. With an ambiance that screams "Oktoberfest all year round," this place is undoubtedly a beer lover's paradise. Be prepared to raise your glass, clink steins with strangers-turned-friends, and indulge in an array of authentic German brews that will make you say, "Prost!"
Learn more8. Apex
1216 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202, USA
Welcome to Apex, where Portland's beer enthusiasts gather like giddy hoppy birds in a nest of craft brew goodness. This unpretentious neighborhood watering hole offers an exceptional selection of rotating taps, making it your one-stop-shop for sampling a pint of Portland's liquid gold. With a decor that screams "industrial chic meets beer lover's paradise," Apex is a must-visit destination for libation enthusiasts and weekend warriors alike.
Learn more9. Clyde Common
5474 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97213, USA
Nestled in the heart of Portland, Clyde Common continues to bewilder visitors with its enigmatic charm. This eccentric establishment, offering delectable cuisine and spirited libations, is a haven for those seeking an adventure to tickle their taste buds. With its eclectic décor, reminiscent of an antique store caught in a time warp, Clyde Common is the perfect spot to impress your friends by casually mentioning you discovered it way before it was cool.
Learn more10. The Hairy Lobster
900 NW 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97209, USA
Welcome to The Hairy Lobster, the quirkiest seafood joint in Portland! Nestled in the heart of this eccentric city, this funky little gem promises a hair-raising dining experience. With a name that's sure to make any lobster blush, brace yourself for a culinary adventure that combines mouth-watering seafood, curious décor, and a side of laughter guaranteed to tickle your tastebuds.
Learn more11. The Big Legrowlski
812 NW Couch St, Portland, OR 97209, USA
Welcome to The Big Legrowlski, the quirkiest and hoppiest beer oasis in the enchanting city of Portland. Nestled snugly on Southeast 2nd Avenue, this funky joint boasts a vast selection of craft brews, making it a must-visit spot for both beer aficionados and those just looking to wet their whistles. From the moment you step foot inside its cozy digs, you'll feel like you've stumbled upon the secret lair of beer-loving elves, with laughter filling the air and a beer menu that reads like a love letter to all things hops.
Learn more12. Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade
115 NW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97209, USA
Welcome to Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade, where time travel meets a pixelated adventure! Nestled in the heart of Portland, this gamer's oasis boasts a kaleidoscope of retro consoles and arcade machines that transport you back to the glorious heyday of gaming. With its buzzing atmosphere, you'll find yourself lost in a sea of gamers flexing their thumbs and trying to revive their childhood high scores.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Portland, United States by plane is by flying into Portland International Airport (PDX). Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest operate flights to PDX from major cities across the United States.
Car
Driving to Portland, United States is an excellent way to explore the Pacific Northwest region. You can take Interstate 5 (I-5) south from Seattle or north from San Francisco, depending on your starting location. The drive to Portland takes about 3 hours from Seattle and about 11 hours from San Francisco.
Train
Unfortunately, there are no passenger train services that operate to Portland, United States. Therefore, train is not a recommended mode of transportation to get to Portland.
Boat
Traveling to Portland, United States by boat is not a convenient way of transportation. However, there are some cruise lines that operate seasonal routes to the city, such as Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. The cruise ships dock at the Port of Portland, which is located in the city center.
Bus
One of the best ways to get to Portland, United States by bus is by taking the Greyhound bus service. Greyhound operates daily services to Portland from several cities in the United States, including Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Greyhound buses arrive at the Portland Bus Station.