When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Exchange Ballroom
Why Exchange Ballroom is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Exchange Ballroom is a premier event venue located in Portland's Central Eastside, known for its spacious, adaptable, and modern design that makes it an exceptional place to meet up with friends or celebrate special occasions. Spanning 6,200 square feet, the ballroom accommodates up to 300 seated guests or 425 standing, making it suitable for a range of events including weddings, corporate parties, and fundraisers. The venue boasts a column-free open floor plan with neutral walls that serve as a perfect blank canvas, allowing customization to fit nearly any style or theme. A striking blown glass sculpture by artist Andy Paiko at the main entrance offers a unique artistic focal point that enriches the ambiance. Exchange Ballroom also includes many modern amenities such as 300 Chiavari black chairs, 30 round tables, cocktail bistro tables, movable bars, a built-in sound booth, AV capabilities, and tailored lighting packages to enhance every event. The venue features a two-level foyer ideal for mingling or registration and an outdoor rooftop space with breathtaking views of the Portland skyline, accommodating up to 140 guests for standing receptions. Its convenient location near the Oregon Convention Center and proximity to public transport make it easily accessible. Whether for an elegant wedding, an engaging corporate event, or a lively social gathering, Exchange Ballroom offers flexibility, style, and convenience for memorable experiences.
Here's what people think of Exchange Ballroom
As of recent, Exchange Ballroom holds a 4.5-star rating based on 54 reviews.
User reviews of Exchange Ballroom reflect a strong overall satisfaction, leading to a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 54 reviews. Reviewers consistently praised the venue's spaciousness and elegant yet neutral decor, which allowed for great customization and creativity in event planning. Many highlighted the gallery-quality blown glass sculpture by Andy Paiko as a beautiful and distinctive feature that adds character to the space. The ballroom's excellent amenities, including comfortable seating, quality tables, movable bars, and sound and lighting equipment, garnered positive remarks for supporting smooth event executions. Location was also appreciated thanks to its accessibility and central position within Portland's lively Eastside. On the negative side, some reviewers mentioned challenges with parking availability in the area, which could be inconvenient for guests. A few noted that while the staff was generally helpful, communication leading up to events could be clearer to ensure all logistical details are understood. Despite these minor drawbacks, many guests felt the venue's atmosphere and facilities outweighed any inconveniences. In conclusion, Exchange Ballroom is well-regarded as a modern, versatile, and attractive venue that meets diverse event needs and offers a memorable backdrop for social and corporate gatherings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Bailey S.
This venue was perfect for our company party - it is a large, clean, trendy space with an awesome view of the west side and the infamous "Portland Oregon" sign. We had about 270 people at our event and the space seemed to fit us pretty comfortably, with a combination of large dinner tables, smaller standing cocktail tables and standing space. We didn't have a DJ but there is an elevated DJ area that would make this spot ideal for a wedding reception. With 270 people and music it was pretty loud, since the space is essentially a converted industrial type room, and many of our guests complained it was difficult to have conversations once the room was filled. Overall it was beautiful and the staff of the catering comany (must use Vibrant Table) was helpful and friendly. We got a good price because we had our party on a Friday night and I believe the space is a fairly new renovation... I suspect a summer wedding event would be of a competitive price with other trendy Portland venues.
Stephen Mbah
Great event location. Attended RMHC Hope-Raisee 2022 event here.
Jon Turino (Jon Turino, Officiant)
Great venue for a wedding and reception. Rooftop bar a great feature.
kate mitchel
Shot a wedding here yesterday and it was lovely. Parking seemed to be a struggle for people but there is a parking lot on 2nd. The rooftop was super pretty for sunset photos.
Kim Morrill
As the owner of Your Perfect Bridesmaid I have worked with Vibrant Table for 15+ years. They have always exceeded every expectation. So when I was looking for a host location for The Venue Crawl, I knew the Exchange Ballroom would be absolutely perfect. When you choose the Exchange Ballroom you know you are getting a few things 1. Incredible customer service (start to finish). 2. Endless creativity. 3. Gorgeous and flexible event space with amazing amenities like a parking lot, getting ready suites that are beautifully designed and full handicap accessibility. 4. Out of this world catering through Vibrant Table. If you are looking for a venue for your next event look no further. The Exchange Ballroom is perfect in every way!
How to reach Exchange Ballroom
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Why Exchange Ballroom may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Exchange Ballroom with your friends? When gathering with friends or family for a special occasion or just a lively meetup, the Exchange Ballroom stands out as an exceptional choice. This venue offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern elegance situated in a prime location on the east bank of the Willamette River, directly across from downtown Portland. Its spacious interior and spectacular west-facing windows frame breathtaking views of the Portland skyline, creating an unforgettable backdrop for any event. Whether you’re planning a large party or an intimate gathering, the ballroom’s versatile layout can be customized to suit your group’s size and style. The welcoming and professional staff ensure your event unfolds smoothly, handling everything from set-up to logistics with attentiveness and flexibility. Parking is ample, alleviating one common concern for large groups. Moreover, the atmosphere here fosters connection and celebration, making it an ideal spot to rally with friends who want an experience that is both memorable and comfortable. This mix of location, ambiance, and service convinces many that Exchange Ballroom is more than just a venue — it’s a destination for quality time and joyful reunion.
What activities can you enjoy at Exchange Ballroom? Exchange Ballroom is not just a place for weddings; it caters brilliantly to a variety of group activities and events that make it perfect for meetups. Its large 6,200-square-foot main ballroom can host up to 300 seated guests or 425 standing attendees, providing ample space for diverse activities. Many groups have utilized the venue for birthday celebrations, corporate mixers, holiday parties, and reunion dinners, taking advantage of the elegant yet adaptable setting. The space allows for flexible seating arrangements—from banquet-style dinners to open dance floors—supporting both formal and casual formats. The striking, natural light from the expansive windows enhances any daytime event, while mood lighting options elevate evening functions. Beyond the ballroom, the attached Cascade Rooftop is a prime outdoor extension featuring panoramic city views and fresh air, ideal for cocktail hours or more relaxed socializing. Catering and event coordination services offered by the venue streamline planning, letting hosts focus on enjoying the moment with their guests. All these elements combine to create an environment ripe for group entertainment, bonding, and celebration.
Why is Exchange Ballroom perfect for a group meetup? Several features make Exchange Ballroom uniquely suited for gathering a group of friends or family. Accessibility is key: situated close to downtown Portland with easy parking access, it removes the stress of commuting and vehicle logistics for guests. The venue’s spaciousness means groups large or small have room to spread out comfortably without feeling crowded. The elegant and neutral décor acts as a versatile canvas, allowing event hosts to personalize the space to fit their theme or mood, from sleek modern to rustic chic. Additionally, the venue offers private dressing suites and prep rooms, which are great for groups wanting a special place to get ready or unwind before an event starts. The attentive and professional staff are highly praised for their responsiveness and flexibility, providing a tailored experience that adapts to your group’s needs. Together, these advantages create an inviting, stress-free environment conducive to creating lasting memories and meaningful connections among friends.
What makes the venue’s location and views special for your event? Exchange Ballroom’s location on the east bank of the Willamette River offers a truly spectacular setting that elevates any group meetup. With unobstructed, panoramic views of the Portland skyline seen through floor-to-ceiling west-facing windows, your gathering is naturally enhanced by a striking urban vista, especially during sunset. This feature makes for stunning photos and a captivating atmosphere that few venues in Portland can match. Besides the exquisite views, the venue is embedded in a vibrant neighborhood close to many city amenities, including hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it convenient for guests traveling from out of town or different parts of the city. The nearby Cascade Rooftop adds an outdoor dimension where your group can enjoy fresh air and fantastic vistas, offering a picturesque setting for mingling or casual moments amidst an event. This rare combination of a dynamic cityscape and riverfront location creates an unforgettable ambiance that transports guests beyond a typical meetup.
How do the amenities and services enhance your meetup experience? The comprehensive amenities and services at Exchange Ballroom improve the ease and enjoyment of hosting your group event. The ballroom includes a stylish on-site dressing suite with an elegant beauty station—perfect for groups preparing for a celebration or special moment. Equipment for lighting, sound, and audiovisual needs is available, supporting everything from speeches to DJ-led dance floors. With flexible catering options provided by trusted local partners, including Vibrant Table, you can customize menus to suit your group’s tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. The venue staff assist in event coordination, helping with setup, timeline management, and logistics so hosts can focus on socializing rather than operational details. Security and ample parking add to guest comfort and safety, important considerations when coordinating larger meetups. By combining these conveniences with high-end facilities, Exchange Ballroom offers an elevated, seamless event environment that respects your time and enhances your gathering’s flow.
What do past guests say about their experiences at Exchange Ballroom? Guests and clients consistently praise Exchange Ballroom for its professionalism, service quality, and remarkable setting. Reviews commonly highlight the staff’s attentiveness, patience, and efficiency, describing them as partners in the event planning process and on event day. Many have noted how the venue was the perfect size to comfortably accommodate their groups, whether for weddings, parties, or corporate functions. The city skyline views from the ballroom and rooftop are repeatedly described as breathtaking and a unique selling point, setting the scene for memorable celebrations. Clients appreciate the venue’s flexibility in decoration and event style as well as its reasonable pricing, especially for events held on Fridays or Sundays. These testimonials underscore the ballroom’s reputation as a reliable, beautiful, and enjoyable event space that helps client visions come to life seamlessly—a crucial factor when bringing friends together for a truly special occasion.
How does Exchange Ballroom accommodate different group sizes and event types? One of the key strengths of Exchange Ballroom is its ability to adapt to various event sizes and formats, making it a superb venue for all kinds of group meetups. The large main ballroom can seat up to 300 people comfortably for banquets or ceremonies and accommodate up to 425 guests for standing receptions or mixers. This generous capacity means the space works well for intimate family gatherings as well as lively reunions or corporate parties. The venue’s neutral décor and open floor plan provide a flexible canvas that allows customization—whether you want theater-style seating for a presentation, cluster tables for socializing, or space cleared for dancing and entertainment. The additional Cascade Rooftop adds versatility, offering an open-air environment for receptions, cocktail hours, or smaller breakout groups. The combination of flexible indoor and outdoor spaces allows groups to fully tailor their event experience to their size, tone, and agenda, enhancing guests’ engagement and enjoyment.
What makes the service and staff at Exchange Ballroom stand out? The reputation of Exchange Ballroom is greatly enhanced by its professional and dedicated staff, who play a critical role in creating a memorable event experience. From the outset, clients appreciate how responsive and communicative the event management team is, addressing all queries and accommodating unique requests with patience and efficiency. During events, staff members are praised for their attentiveness and seamless coordination of various event aspects, whether managing catering logistics, technical setups, or guest flow. This high level of service allows hosts to relax and enjoy their gatherings without worrying about details. The venue also works closely with experienced local vendors, such as caterers and decorators, to ensure quality and reliability across all event components. Through this blend of expertise, flexibility, and personalized attention, Exchange Ballroom ensures that every event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting, positive impression on guests.
In summary, Exchange Ballroom is a premier venue in Portland for rallying friends and family around any kind of celebration or meetup. With its stunning views, versatile and spacious facilities, attentive service, and accessible location, it checks all the boxes for hosting events that are both meaningful and enjoyable. Whether you are throwing a milestone birthday party, a lively reunion, or a relaxed gathering with cocktails and conversation, the Exchange Ballroom’s blend of style, comfort, and professional support makes it an outstanding choice to bring your group together in lasting harmony.