When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Board Bard Games
Why Board Bard Games is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Board Bard Games, located at 7960 SE Stark St in Portland, OR, serves as a premier destination for board game lovers and hobby enthusiasts of all ages. With an impressive inventory that includes over 250 games in their lending library, the store caters to a wide variety of interests, from classic favorites like Settlers of Catan, Magic: The Gathering, and Dungeons & Dragons, to emerging titles such as Wyrmspan. Beyond board games, they also offer trading cards, game accessories, vintage video games, and unique collectibles like locally made Dungeons and Dragons potion jewelry and Funko Pop figures. Board Bard Games distinguishes itself as not just a retail store but a vibrant community hub where friends can meet and play together, fostering connections through various weekly themed events. Highlights include Monday Night Magic focusing on Casual Commander play, Tuesday RPG Night, Wednesday Board Game Social, Thursday Miniature War Game Night, and family-friendly activities on Sundays such as Family Game Day, Kids D&D, and Pokémon League. The store also hosts Magic: The Gathering nights on Tuesdays and Fridays and Disney’s Lorcana on Saturdays, ensuring there is always a place to gather and engage in shared gaming experiences. Regular painting classes and tournaments augment the social atmosphere, making it a perfect venue for both casual enjoyment and competitive play. Board Bard Games exemplifies a community-centered business that combines an extensive product selection with active social programming, providing an inviting space for people to bond over their shared passion for games.
Here's what people think of Board Bard Games
As of recent, Board Bard Games holds a 5-star rating based on 97 reviews.
Reviews of Board Bard Games consistently highlight its exceptional 5.0 rating across nearly a hundred reviews, reflecting high satisfaction from its customers. Users frequently praise the store's extensive game selection that spans a diversity of genres and interests, ensuring there is something for everyone, from newcomers to seasoned players. The welcoming and inclusive environment is a common theme in positive reviews, with many noting how the staff's knowledge and friendliness enhance the overall experience. The variety of weekly events and open-play nights greatly impress patrons, who appreciate the opportunity to meet new people, learn new games, and participate in ongoing community activities. Positive feedback also emphasizes the store's commitment to fostering local gaming culture through its partnerships and events, such as the Dickinson County Board Gamers and themed sessions for Magic: The Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, and Pokémon gatherings. On the other hand, negative reviews are scarce but mention occasional disappointments relating to inventory availability, especially for newly released or high-demand games, although the store has been actively expanding its inventory to meet demand. A few patrons have suggested improvements in space layout or seating capacity to accommodate larger groups more comfortably during busy events. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of Board Bard Games as a well-loved and respected game store that excels in community building and game variety, with minor areas for growth. The consistently positive user experience and robust event schedule make it a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking a vibrant social gaming environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rain Dog
I had no idea there was a gaming store in Montavilla! While waiting for a table at across the street, I wandered in and spoke with Curtis. The store is spacing with plenty of tables to play yes and you do not have to rent them out. There is board games, card games, miniatures games, and role playing game to buy. You can rent board games and play them at other local restaurants and bars. Curtis said as long as beer is capped and unopened, you can bring it in a drink it. All the tables have cup holders attached to them, so win! I bought dice as gifts and Dungeon Craft Flat-Pack Minis for my collection.
Jason Van Camp
Hey! There's a new(ish?) gaming shop in town, and it's actually semi-sorta close to my house, for once! Stumbling across Board Bard Games after dining at a nearby favorite restaurant was a fantastic find, and I'm glad to know I don't have to drive all the way across town whenever I'm looking for a new board game, some dice, a new RPG book, a pack of [insert your favorite] TCG cards, miniature paints, brushes, and all manner of other gaming geekery and gear! Apparently everyone else in the immediate area got the memo before I did, because the place was *packed* with patrons playing pretend with painted plastic proxies of pistol-packing Primarchs punishing patrols and parties of pan-universal peoples...in this case, Warhammer: Kill Team. Every table was entirely covered with detailed terrain, miniatures, books, cards, tape measures and beverages, surrounded by gamers bent forward in ergonomically-unfriendly hunched positions, guaranteed to cause back problems in the future! It's not the largest gaming space in the city, but they pack a lot of product, and people, into it, utilizing every square inch of their real estate to its fullest. I saw several games that I own, or want to own, and enough of everything any nerd would need for the game that fits their fancy. I was very impressed, and will definitely be back in the future, likely sooner than later, the next time my dice betray me and end up in Dice Jail™.
Moon Song
We've been coming here every Sunday for Pokemon League Play and everyone who works here are super friendly and helpful. They offer boardgames for you to play in the store and there is a plenty of space for that. I am so happy that we have stumbled upon this cute local shop.
Spencer Valadez
Helpful friendly staff. An awesome balance of ttrpg and other table top games for all levels of gaming. Board Bard has excellent deals on custom minis. Printed minis looked excellent and the price was perfect for a tight budget.
Peter Montoya
Absolutely love this place! The space is amazing, the selection is top-tier, but what really makes it special is the people. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable, genuinely passionate about gaming, and they take the time to get to know you!
How to reach Board Bard Games
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Website: None
Why Board Bard Games may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Board Bard Games with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at Board Bard Games in Portland's Montavilla neighborhood creates an unbeatable environment for connection, fun, and shared adventure. This local game store and play space offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages everyone, from novice players to seasoned gamers, to dive into exciting board games, roleplaying campaigns, and card battles. It’s not just a store — it’s a vibrant community hub where you can explore hundreds of games together, laugh over unexpected twists, and create lasting memories. The availability of over 250 games in their lending library means you don’t have to bring anything but your enthusiasm; there’s always something new or familiar to try. The staff’s enthusiasm and expert knowledge help newcomers find perfect games while supporting veteran gamers with deep collections and accessories. For groups looking to break free from usual hangouts, Board Bard Games offers the perfect blend of entertainment, social interaction, and comfort, making it an ideal spot for meetups whether you want casual fun or a themed game night adventure.
What types of games can we play at Board Bard Games?
Board Bard Games boasts an impressive collection of games that cater to all tastes and group sizes. The store’s lending library includes over 250 titles ranging from timeless classics to the newest releases, offering something for everyone. Whether your group loves strategic economic games, cooperative adventures, family-friendly party games, or heavy thematic experiences, you’ll find a well-curated option ready to play. For those who cherish roleplaying games (RPGs), Board Bard highlights popular staples such as Dungeons & Dragons alongside a diverse assortment of niche RPGs like Magical Kitties Save the Day, Call of Cthulhu, Kids on Bikes, and Mork Borg. These selections provide rich narratives and engaging character-driven worlds perfect for collaborative storytelling sessions with friends. Miniature game enthusiasts will appreciate the support for games like Warhammer, Battletech, Malifaux, and others, plus the availability of painting supplies for customizing miniatures. Meanwhile, collectors and players of card games can enjoy Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Star Wars Unlimited, and Lorcana cards, making the store an all-in-one destination for multiple gaming interests. This diversity means your meetup can be uniquely tailored to the style and preference of your group.
Why is Board Bard Games perfect for group meetups?
Board Bard Games is designed to be a welcoming gathering place that prioritizes social play and group interaction, making it a go-to venue for meetups. The space offers open play every day, ensuring your group can drop in anytime to play. Beyond casual gaming, the store hosts weekly events that foster connection and community spirit. These include Casual Commander Magic the Gathering nights on Mondays, RPG sessions every Tuesday, board game socials with East Side Game Night on Wednesdays, and miniature game nights on Thursdays. Family Game Day on Sundays rounds out the week with opportunities to bring younger players and enjoy inclusive Pokémon events. These recurring scheduled nights provide structure for groups to join ongoing communities or establish regular habits of meeting up here. The friendly and knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience by helping groups set up games, explaining rules, or recommending new titles to try. The atmosphere encourages relaxed socializing mixed with immersive gaming experiences, ideal for friends or families wanting a lively, stress-free place to connect and compete or cooperate.
Are there special events or tournaments to join?
Yes, Board Bard Games hosts a variety of special events beyond the weekly schedule that add excitement to visiting with your group. The store’s calendar often includes game classes, one-off tournaments, and themed game nights that bring fresh challenges and opportunities to showcase skills or learn new games. These special events can solidify group meetups into memorable occasions by injecting variety and friendly competition into your routine. Whether it’s a Magic: The Gathering tournament testing deck-building prowess or a miniature painting workshop sparking creativity, the store’s events calendar keeps the experience dynamic and engaging. This also makes Board Bard Games a great place for groups looking to deepen their gaming hobby or try new activities together. Checking the store’s online calendar before planning your visit allows your group to participate in current happenings or coordinate meetups around special events that everyone is excited about.
What facilities and amenities support a comfortable visit?
Board Bard Games goes beyond just offering games by ensuring visitors enjoy a comfortable and convenient visit. The location in Montavilla features a friendly neighborhood vibe complemented by ample parking options. Although parking might seem limited at first glance, there is plentiful and unrestricted parking available a short walk south of Washington on 80th, which makes arriving by car hassle-free. Inside, the store environment is praised for its inviting ambiance, with well-arranged play spaces that comfortably seat groups of various sizes. Lighting and furniture are thoughtfully selected to create a welcoming gaming setting where players can focus on their games without discomfort or distraction. The presence of knowledgeable staff ready to assist with game setup or product questions adds to the smooth experience. Whether your meetups are spontaneous or planned, the store’s careful attention to visitor comfort makes it easy to spend hours playing and socializing.
How does Board Bard Games support newcomers or non-gamers in your group?
One of the standout features of Board Bard Games is how welcoming it is to newcomers or non-gamers joining your meetup. The staff’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge of games ensure that anyone can be gently introduced to a new game or hobby without feeling overwhelmed. They can walk you through basic rules, suggest beginner-friendly titles, or even help tailor game choices to the mood and experience level of your group. This support makes it easier for groups that include mixed experience levels to have fun and stay engaged. Additionally, the wide range of game types—from light party games to complex strategy or roleplaying—ensures there is something accessible no matter your group’s familiarity with gaming. Such inclusivity encourages everyone to participate and helps build group dynamics around shared fun, rather than competition or confusion.
Why is Board Bard Games rated so highly by its customers?
Board Bard Games consistently receives a perfect 5.0-star rating from nearly a hundred reviewers, reflecting its excellence as a community-centric gaming store. Customers highlight the friendly, helpful staff who create an inviting atmosphere that feels like a second home for gamers of all kinds. The well-curated library of games attracts both casual players and hobbyists, making every visit rewarding and fresh. Reviewers also appreciate the combination of product selection, affordable prices (particularly for in-store collectible card purchases), and the regular community events that enhance the social experience. The positive ambiance and strong community presence contribute significantly to the overwhelmingly excellent reviews, making Board Bard Games not just a shop but a thriving hub for social game play. For anyone looking for a reliably enjoyable place to rally friends or family, these customer accolades provide powerful reassurance.
What makes Board Bard Games unique compared to other gaming venues?
Board Bard Games stands out from other gaming venues due to its comprehensive mix of offerings and community engagement all housed under one roof in a friendly neighborhood setting. It is not only a retail spot but truly a play space centered on social interaction. The extensive lending library alone sets it apart, allowing groups to sample a huge range of games without needing to purchase upfront. The store’s dedication to diverse gaming styles—from traditional board games to RPGs, miniature painting, and collectible card games—ensures broad appeal. Coupled with the vibrant weekly event schedule and accessible location, this creates a uniquely welcoming place for groups to meet, play, and grow their gaming bonds. Many gaming venues focus only on retail or competitive gaming, but Board Bard Games blends leisure, learning, and community in a balanced way that invites everyone to join in the fun on their own terms.
Board Bard Games offers the perfect blend of inclusivity, variety, and community spirit that turns every visit into an opportunity for shared laughter, strategic thinking, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large game night, this Portland gem provides everything you need to rally your friends and family around a table of fun.