When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Experiment PDX
Why Experiment PDX is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Experiment PDX is a vibrant and inspiring space located in the heart of Portland, Oregon, dedicated to fostering creativity, curiosity, and learning for visitors of all ages. This unique venue blends science, art, and community, making it an exceptional place for friends and families to meet, play, and explore together. With interactive exhibits such as physics-based marble runs, electrical circuits, LEGO robotics, as well as biology displays featuring creatures like the resident bearded dragon, Ziggy Stardust, Experiment PDX ignites wonder and hands-on discovery. The Craft Lab offers all materials needed for artistic projects, encouraging visitors to dive into creative expression. The welcoming atmosphere, complete with a cozy museum cafe serving coffee and tea, invites families and friends not only to explore but also to relax and socialize. The space hosts popular after-school programs, summer camps, birthday parties, and is flexible enough to accommodate adult events such as networking, performances, and corporate team-building. Visitors can also enjoy an art gallery featuring local artists, a museum shop, and a friendly, inclusive environment that truly embodies Portland’s community spirit. Experiment PDX is an engaging destination where people come to connect, learn, and celebrate creativity together.
Here's what people think of Experiment PDX
As of recent, Experiment PDX holds a 4.9-star rating based on 49 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise Experiment PDX for its engaging hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity and cater to children and adults alike. Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the museum's welcoming atmosphere as key reasons families and groups enjoy spending time here. The wide range of interactive science and art activities, including the popular STEAM day camps and creative Craft Lab, are especially appreciated by parents who value educational experiences that also entertain. Positive reviews also commend the inclusive environment, the clean and cozy space, and the reasonable admission price, which offer great value for families seeking meaningful outings in Portland. On the other hand, some critiques mention that the museum can feel a bit small during busy periods and that the limited operating hours (Tuesday through Sunday, noon to 5 pm) may restrict visits for some. A few visitors wished for more frequent updates to exhibits or expanded programming for older children and adults. Overall, the review consensus is highly favorable, with a near-perfect rating reflecting the museum’s success in creating a creative, fun, and educational space. Experiment PDX stands out as a beloved community hub that continuously inspires visitors to explore science and art in playful, imaginative ways.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Johnpaul Morton
I’ve taken my family to the Little Lab science class twice now and my girls absolutely loved it. The teacher, Amber, knows how to connect with kids and really makes learning fun. The open play space is a random menagerie of activities which the kids enjoy exploring. They have a marble run section, which I was excited to play with, but it was a GraviTrax style which is more complicated than the typical runs I’m used to and my girls are a bit too young for it so I wasn’t able to play 😢. They were hosting a birthday party one week I was there and it looked like a lot of fun. Overall it’s a great way to spend the day with kids and would be a fun space to hold an event.
Marissa Gehr
A slightly rainy day led us to here with our kids that are 12 and 7, and what a fun surprising find! Much better than watching hours on end of tv and the little one agreed with me exclaiming they want to come back. In fact, he didn’t want to leave. I have been wanting to introduce them to coding and they learned a bit on the LEGO coding section. So much to do, reasonable pricing, and want to get the kids into the summer day camps! Also going to see if this is something my company would hire for the bring your kids to work day.
Courtney Christenson
We had my daughters 6th birthday here. We picked the fun science show! Definitely recommend the space, nice and open. The staff was so friendly and accommodating! The show might have been a bit long (over an hour) for 6yr olds, but every experiment made the kiddos squeal with delight. Can’t recommend this place enough.
Jillian Kurtz
I spent a lovely couple of hours with my kids (age 3 and 5) here on a Saturday afternoon. My daughter made art with watercolor paints and played with play dough while my son looked at the creatures and played with legos and the marble run. I enjoyed making some origami. Gem of a place!
Hannah Love
We've had and also attended a birthday party here; it's lots of fun! The interactive science sessions were really engaging, the museum is compact but has plenty to explore, and the party planning experience was seamless (and very affordable for a hosted venue). They also have a big assortment of different classes for all ages plus a variety of camp options for kids. Very cool to check out!
How to reach Experiment PDX
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Why Experiment PDX may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Experiment PDX with your friends?
When planning a memorable meetup with friends or family, the venue sets the tone for the entire experience. Experiment PDX in Portland presents an extraordinary setting that perfectly blends curiosity, creativity, and fun, making it an ideal rallying spot. Rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from nearly 50 reviews, Experiment PDX has rapidly earned a reputation as Portland’s go-to destination for engaging, hands-on activities that appeal to all ages. Whether you want to spark scientific wonder, unleash artistic talents, or just enjoy a comfortable and stimulating environment, this venue offers an inviting atmosphere to gather, learn, and celebrate together. Unlike typical event spaces, Experiment PDX provides interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and themed parties that transform routine meetups into immersive adventures. It’s not just a place to hang out; it’s a place to dive into experiences that encourage meaningful social interaction and shared discovery. For groups seeking an enriching, entertaining, and unique venue, Experiment PDX is designed to make every gathering one filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories.
What activities does Experiment PDX offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
Experiment PDX is built around the central idea of hands-on learning and creativity, which naturally fosters collaboration and conversation among groups. The venue functions as a hands-on museum and craft lab where guests are encouraged to experiment with science and art in lively, interactive settings. For groups, particularly families and friends with a mixture of ages, there are multiple engaging options tailored to collective fun. You can explore their interactive museum exhibits that invite curiosity and group participation. One highlight is their science-themed birthday party options featuring fun activities like Super Science Shows, LEGO Robotics, Slime Time, and Crafty Creations, where everyone can get involved and learn through doing. Groups can also engage in after-school classes and summer camps that explore scientific principles and artistic techniques in collaborative formats. Beyond children’s programming, Experiment PDX offers 21+ events in the evenings such as performances and networking opportunities that make it equally welcome for adult group gatherings. The combination of hands-on learning, creativity, and versatile event spaces means groups can tailor their visit to fit celebrations, casual meetups, or educational outings seamlessly.
How does the venue accommodate different group sizes and types of gatherings?
Experiment PDX is thoughtfully designed to cater to a wide spectrum of group needs, whether you’re organizing an intimate party, a lively family reunion, or a corporate team-building event. The venue houses three rental spaces that can be used as-is or customized with specialized art, science, or cultural experiences to elevate your gathering. This flexibility means your group can enjoy a private, curated event that suits the occasion and participants' interests. For families and children’s groups, the venue can host birthday parties featuring engaging activities led by professional educators and performers, ensuring everyone in your party is entertained and involved. For adult groups, the 21+ evening events provide a sophisticated yet accessible environment for socializing, networking, or enjoying live performances, all within a creative setting that fosters connections. The staff at Experiment PDX work closely with event organizers to craft personalized experiences, emphasizing engagement and community. This adaptability ensures every group, regardless of size or purpose, can find a comfortable and inspiring space that enhances their shared time.
What makes the environment at Experiment PDX conducive to social and educational experiences?
The atmosphere at Experiment PDX is uniquely crafted to be both stimulating and relaxed, which encourages guests to explore, ask questions, and collaborate freely. The venue’s focus on curiosity and creativity manifests in colorful, interactive exhibits and art installations that invite visitors to touch, build, and test ideas. This tactile experience breaks down social barriers, making it easier for groups to naturally interact and express themselves. Furthermore, the combination of science-themed activities and art workshops appeals to diverse interests, providing multiple entry points for conversation and teamwork. The venue also features an art gallery showcasing local artists’ work, a museum shop, and a cozy coffee and drinks bar, which add appealing social spaces where groups can relax and continue their engagement beyond formal activities. Because it’s Portland-based and community-focused, Experiment PDX conveys a strong sense of place and shared culture, making meetups feel more connected and meaningful. This enriched environment stimulates both mental and social engagement, making every visit both fun and intellectually rewarding.
How does Experiment PDX's programming support ongoing group engagement beyond single visits?
Experience at Experiment PDX extends far beyond a one-time visit through their comprehensive offerings designed for all seasons and age groups. After-school classes and summer camps provide structured, ongoing opportunities for children and teens to deepen their knowledge and skills in science and the arts while forging friendships and building teamwork. These programs offer families and peers a reason to regroup regularly, turning Experiment PDX into a hub for community and continuous learning. Additionally, their rotating schedule of 21+ evening performances, workshops, and networking events keeps adult visitors coming back for new experiences in a vibrant social setting. Special workshops and rental options for school groups, corporate teams, and community organizations also allow groups to customize repeated visits according to their evolving interests. This emphasis on recurring engagement helps groups build stronger bonds while maintaining excitement through fresh, innovative programming that reflects Portland’s creative spirit. As a result, Experiment PDX isn’t just a venue for a single meetup—it’s a dynamic community resource designed for sustained social and educational enrichment.
Why is Experiment PDX a standout choice compared to other meetup venues in Portland?
Experiment PDX distinguishes itself with an exceptional blend of creativity, education, and community spirit rarely found in typical event spaces. While many venues provide a place to gather, Experiment PDX offers a destination for discovery where interactive experiences encourage active participation rather than passive attendance. This hands-on approach creates memorable moments that appeal to both children and adults, providing a unique opportunity for multi-generational meetups. Its focus on science and art programming, combined with a welcoming and accessible environment, ensures guests of all backgrounds feel included and engaged. The venue’s support for local artists and performers alongside its commitment to educational outreach also reinforces its reputation as a vibrant community hub. With excellent customer feedback reflected in its near-perfect rating, Experiment PDX stands out as a thoughtfully curated space designed to inspire curiosity and foster meaningful connections, making it the perfect place to rally your friends or family for an unforgettable gathering.