When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Batting A Thousand - Batting Cages
Why Batting A Thousand - Batting Cages is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Batting A Thousand is a well-established indoor baseball and softball batting cage facility located in Portland, Oregon, that has been serving the community since 1991 and recently underwent a significant renovation in 2024. This makes it a fantastic destination for friends to meet up for an active and fun outing regardless of the weather or season. The facility features three upgraded batting cages equipped with automatic pitching machines and ball collection systems, providing a seamless and engaging batting experience. These cages offer adjustable pitching speeds and heights, accommodating players of all ages and skill levels—from young Little Leaguers to seasoned professionals—ensuring everyone can enjoy a personalized challenge. Additionally, Batting A Thousand boasts a 15x80 foot turfed training tunnel that can be divided into sections, ideal for more focused skill development such as live batting practice, soft toss, and tee work. Helmets and bats are available for rent or use, enhancing accessibility and convenience. Guests can reserve cage times online, making planning easy and efficient. The inviting atmosphere and variety of facilities make Batting A Thousand a go-to spot for socializing through sport and honing baseball and softball skills in the Portland area.
Here's what people think of Batting A Thousand - Batting Cages
As of recent, Batting A Thousand - Batting Cages holds a 4.5-star rating based on 208 reviews.
User reviews of Batting A Thousand reveal an overall positive experience, reflected in its strong 4.5-star rating from over 200 reviews. Many patrons highlight the quality and cleanliness of the recently renovated cages and training tunnels, praising the automatic pitching machines for their reliability and varied speed settings catering to different skill levels. Customers appreciate the facility’s welcoming environment and flexible reservation system, as well as the availability of equipment which makes it accessible to casual players without their own gear. The friendly staff and the facility’s suitability for both fun outings and serious practice are frequently commended in positive reviews. Conversely, some negative feedback centers around occasional wait times during peak hours, and a few users have mentioned limited parking space as a minor inconvenience. A small number of reviews note that the rental fees can be a bit on the higher side compared to other facilities. Overall, the majority consensus is that Batting A Thousand provides a valuable, enjoyable, and well-maintained environment for baseball and softball training and leisure, making it a highly recommended spot to meet up with friends and improve your batting skills.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Bernadette Little
I am quickly becoming a reoccurring customer here. It’s a wonderful relaxed environment to practice your swing and let off some steam. Jay is also one of the nicest folks around and has even helped give me a couple pointers to improve my swing 🥎
Jessica Hughes
This place is pretty neat as you can bat year round. There are 4 cages, so reserving does make it alot easier. The woman who helped us this am could have been a little nicer, and helpful, but everyone has their days. Did have fun it's all about the company right.
Noor Roberts
Fun and staff are nice. But this place has no air conditioning. Had we known that we would have chosen another day to do this, not when it was 94° outside.
Candace Houston
Super fun and chill. I felt comfortable here as a complete beginner as they had a wide variety of speeds to choose from and the staff were very welcoming
Nora Gruber
A family business for three generations since 1960s. The owner runs it alone… he’s about to give up on the whole enterprise because the neighborhood has gone downhill to where people keep breaking in. In any case, this place is awesome. We had a blast and there’s even some old school video games. Please come out and support this local small old school business. Portland cannot let places like this die. They are what makes this city so great.
How to reach Batting A Thousand - Batting Cages
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Why rally at Batting A Thousand with your friends? Because this place offers an engaging and unique way to blend sport, socializing, and fun all under one roof. With a high rating of 4.5 from over 200 reviews, it clearly stands out as a favorite spot in Portland. Whether you are a group of baseball enthusiasts or just looking for an active and entertaining outing, Batting A Thousand delivers a dynamic experience. Its recent full renovation in 2024 means the facilities are modern and well-maintained, ensuring comfort and quality during your visit. The atmosphere inside is vibrant and inviting, perfect for creating memorable moments with friends or family. Plus, the ability to reserve batting cages and training tunnels guarantees your group has dedicated space to enjoy yourselves without worrying about wait times or overcrowding. If you're looking to break the routine of typical meetups and add a competitive yet supportive vibe to your social gathering, this place offers the perfect batter’s box to hit your plans out of the park.
What are the main activities available at Batting A Thousand? This indoor sports venue boasts three upgraded batting cages featuring automatic pitching machines and ball collection systems, designed to accommodate both baseball and softball fans. Each cage offers adjustable pitch speeds ranging from 40 to 70 mph for baseball and slow pitch up to 60 mph for softball, making it suitable for players of all skill levels from beginners to experts. Additionally, the pitch height can be adjusted for a more personalized and challenging experience. Aside from the batting cages, Batting A Thousand offers a spacious 15 by 80-foot turfed training tunnel which can be split into two smaller sections. This tunnel supports a variety of training drills, including live batting practice, soft toss, and tee work, with balls, tees, and protective l-screens all provided to maximize safety and usability. Whether your group wants to focus on hitting practice, improve technique, or just hit balls for fun, these options cater comprehensively to baseball and softball training needs.
Why is Batting A Thousand perfect for hosting group meetups? For starters, the facility allows reservations for private use of cages and tunnels, ensuring your group’s session is uninterrupted and exclusive. Each batting cage can host up to six people per reservation, while the training tunnels accommodate smaller groups or larger parties if you reserve the full tunnel. This controlled environment fosters camaraderie and team spirit as your friends or family get to cheer each other on in real-time. The staff provides bats and helmets upon request, so you don’t need to bring your own gear, making it convenient for casual visitors or those new to the sport. Safety is also a priority here, with helmets required for all batters and clear guidelines to prevent accidents, so groups including kids or mixed skill levels can feel comfortable. Accessibility is enhanced by the location in Southeast Portland, with ample parking and straightforward reservation systems available online or by phone, simplifying the planning process for any organizer.
How accessible and flexible are the reservation options at Batting A Thousand? Reservations are highly encouraged and can be made easily online, which helps avoid uncertainty and waiting times. The facility offers 30-minute and one-hour slots for batting cages, allowing groups to tailor their visit either for a quick, energetic batting session or a longer, relaxed meetup. For those interested in the training tunnels, the pricing is affordable at $25 per half hour or $40 per hour for half the tunnel, with the full tunnel available at $40 per half hour or $64 per hour. Walk-ins are accepted but with the caveat that availability is not guaranteed, especially for larger groups, so calling ahead is recommended. Payment is generally handled online or via phone, reducing hassle at the venue itself. Importantly, the facility is designed to handle a maximum of six people per batting cage session and up to eight people in the full training tunnel for safety and comfort, ensuring your group’s experience is both enjoyable and secure.
What makes the environment at Batting A Thousand stand out compared to other batting cage venues? Since opening in 1991 and undergoing a recent renovation, this facility combines long-standing expertise with modern upgrades. The automatic pitching and ball collection machines allow for continuous action without delays, which is ideal for groups that want a smooth, fast-paced experience. The turfed training tunnel adds a specialty feature that many other batting cages lack, enabling not just batting but also versatile training drills under one roof. The staff’s friendliness and professionalism further enhance the visit, with supportive service that helps new and returning customers alike feel welcome. Moreover, the location avoids weather-related issues that outdoor venues face, guaranteeing a reliable place to gather for sporting fun no matter the season or conditions. With its strong community reputation, excellent facilities, and group-friendly reservation policies, Batting A Thousand distinguishes itself as a top destination for social athletic meetups.
How can families make the most of their visit to Batting A Thousand? This place is particularly family-friendly as it caters to players of all ages and skill levels. Kids can learn to bat in a safe environment with adjustable pitching speeds tailored for beginners, while adults can challenge themselves with faster pitches and refined drills. The availability of helmets and rental bats ensures no one is excluded due to lack of equipment. Booking a private session allows families to enjoy focused quality time without interruptions or distractions from other groups. Furthermore, the training tunnel spaces allow parents to teach batting techniques step-by-step or engage in fun competitions to keep younger children motivated. Combining exercise, skill development, and fun, a family trip here creates bonding opportunities through shared activity and friendly competition.
For groups planning to organize a meetup, what are some tips to ensure a smooth visit? First, make your reservation in advance through the Batting A Thousand website or by phone to secure your preferred time and space. Plan your group size according to the facility’s limits—up to six players per cage or eight for the full tunnel—to avoid any surprises at check-in. Bring your own bats and helmets if possible to speed up logistic arrangements, though rentals are readily available on site. Arrive a few minutes early to review safety rules and get acclimated to the layout. Consider mixing batting cage time with training tunnel drills to keep the energy varied and the experience engaging for all participants, from novices to experts. Finally, encourage friendly competition or themed challenges to add excitement, turning your meetup into an event everyone will look forward to revisiting.
What other features enhance the overall experience at Batting A Thousand? The quality and maintenance of the venue are important factors that improve your visit. Since its recent renovation, the cages and tunnels are in prime condition, promoting a smooth and safe batting experience. Automatic ball collection eliminates interruptions caused by chasing stray balls, keeping the pace lively and fun. Adjustable pitch speeds and heights allow groups to customize their sessions, accommodating everyone from kids to adults with differing skills. The venue’s policies on safety gear and participant limits reinforce a secure atmosphere without feeling restrictive. Finally, the friendly, knowledgeable staff are available to assist with equipment, answer questions, and provide advice, ensuring every visit is positive and memorable.
In conclusion, Batting A Thousand – Batting Cages is an excellent choice for hosting a meetup with friends or family because it seamlessly combines sport, social interaction, and fun in a clean, well-equipped, and friendly environment. Its flexible reservation options, personalized pitching machines, training facilities, and welcoming atmosphere provide everything needed for an exciting and memorable group outing. Whether your group is composed of competitive hitters or people looking for an active, entertaining break, Batting A Thousand delivers a versatile experience that appeals to all ages and skill levels. Reserve your space, gather your crew, and prepare to hit it out of the park at this top-rated Portland venue.