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LIVE MAPOR

Portland Nightlife

Keep Portland Weird, and Wild After Dark

Best Bars in Portland

5 venues

Scotch Lodge

cocktail bar
4.8
$$$

Whiskey-focused craft cocktails

Central Eastside5pm-2am

Whiskey-focused cocktail bar with elevated Pacific Northwest-inspired small plates & a vintage vibe.

Palomar

cocktail bar
4.6
$$

Cuban-inspired cocktails and small plates

Northwest District4pm-12am

Trendy hangout with a Cuban vibe offering sharing plates with daiquiris & other tropical cocktails.

Teardrop Lounge

cocktail bar
4.6
$$

Inventive cocktails by talented mixologists.

Pearl District4pm-12am

Chic, buzzy space with classic & inventive cocktails.

Bar of the Gods

dive bar
4.4
$$

Great drinks, food, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere.

Hawthorne3pm-2:30am

Boisterous bar with a Greek temple theme, pinball machines, pool tables, and a covered patio.

Binks

brewery
4.5
$$

Known for craft cocktails, pizzas, and a cozy atmosphere with a fireplace.

Alberta Arts District12pm-2:30am

Laid-back neighborhood watering hole with pizza, house-infused spirits, and a fireplace on the patio.

Best Night Out in Portland

A curated evening itinerary from early drinks to late-night dancing.

7–9 PMPre-Game

Start with cocktails or craft beers at a neighborhood bar. Keep it relaxed — the night is young.

Bar of the Gods

Hawthorne · $$

9 PM–12 AMPrime Time

Hit the main strip. Rooftop bars, live music, or a lively pub crawl through the best neighborhoods.

Xport Bar & Lounge

Downtown · $$

12 AM–3 AMLate Night

The clubs open up. Dance floors fill, DJs take over, and the real nightlife begins.

CC Slaughters

Old Town Chinatown · $$

Nightlife Neighborhoods

Old Town Chinatown

A historic district known for its vibrant nightlife, including dance clubs, DJs, and diverse bars.

Best for: Dancing, LGBTQ+ friendly venues, and late-night entertainment.
Crowd: Energetic, diverse, party-goers
Walk Score: 95/100
CC Slaughters

Central Eastside

An industrial-chic area transformed into a hub for nightclubs, music venues, and trendy bars.

Best for: Live music, EDM, and unique themed bars.
Crowd: Hip, music-lovers, alternative
Walk Score: 80/100
Holocene45 EastScotch LodgeThe Coffin Club

Hawthorne

A bohemian and eclectic neighborhood with a mix of dive bars, pubs, and casual eateries.

Best for: Laid-back atmosphere, local haunts, and unique bar experiences.
Crowd: Bohemian, local, relaxed
Walk Score: 85/100
Bar of the Gods

Pearl District

An upscale neighborhood with sophisticated cocktail lounges, art galleries, and fine dining.

Best for: Craft cocktails, chic ambiance, and a more refined night out.
Crowd: Sophisticated, trendy, cocktail enthusiasts
Walk Score: 90/100
Teardrop Lounge
DistrictBest ForCrowdWalk ScoreTop Venues
Old Town ChinatownDancingEnergetic
95
CC Slaughters
Central EastsideLive musicHip
80
Holocene45 East
HawthorneLaid-back atmosphereBohemian
85
Bar of the Gods
Pearl DistrictCraft cocktailsSophisticated
90
Teardrop Lounge

Local Nightlife Tips

  • Public transportation is excellent in Portland, especially the MAX Light Rail and streetcar, making it easy to hop between nightlife districts.
  • Many bars and clubs in Portland have a casual dress code, but some upscale cocktail lounges might appreciate a slightly more polished look.
  • Don't be afraid to explore the diverse neighborhoods; each offers a unique nightlife experience.
  • Check venue websites or social media for special events, live music, or themed nights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best neighborhood for nightlife?

For dancing and high-energy clubs, Old Town Chinatown and Central Eastside are excellent choices. For a more relaxed and eclectic vibe, explore Hawthorne or Alberta Arts District. If you prefer sophisticated cocktail bars, the Pearl District is ideal.

What time do bars close?

Most bars and nightclubs in Portland close around 2:00 AM to 2:30 AM, especially on weekends. Some establishments may close earlier during weekdays.

Is there a cover charge?

Some nightclubs and venues with live music or special events may have a cover charge, typically ranging from $5 to $20. It's always a good idea to check with the venue beforehand.