When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Foot Traffic on 23rd

Why Foot Traffic on 23rd is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Foot Traffic on 23rd is a vibrant running specialty store located in the heart of Portland's Northwest 23rd neighborhood. Celebrating a milestone 25 years in business in 2025, Foot Traffic has moved its downtown store to a charming, historic Victorian house at 814 NW 23rd, positioning itself near popular local businesses such as Salt 'n Straw and Cotopaxi. This new location offers a trail-inspired environment with a carefully curated selection of running shoes, apparel, and accessories that cater both to road and trail runners. The store emphasizes local trail brands, including Territory Run Co, expanding their footprint in the store. It serves not only as a retail space but also as a community hub by hosting weekly group runs and walks every Wednesday evening, encouraging runners and outdoor enthusiasts to connect and share their passion. The shop’s central location amidst a lively neighborhood makes it a natural gathering place for friends and running aficionados. The store also provides special events and promotions, such as anniversary giveaways, prize raffles, and collaboration with neighboring businesses, enhancing the community feel and offering customers a unique shopping and social experience. With its combination of quality products, strategic location, and community-oriented activities, Foot Traffic on 23rd stands out as a great place to meet friends who share interests in running and outdoor life.
Here's what people think of Foot Traffic on 23rd
As of recent, Foot Traffic on 23rd holds a 4.8-star rating based on 74 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Foot Traffic on 23rd for its excellent customer service and knowledgeable staff who genuinely care about helping customers find the right gear for their running needs. Many positive reviews highlight the store's unique trail-inspired atmosphere and its well-curated selection of both road and trail running shoes and apparel. Shoppers appreciate the integration of local brands like Territory Run Co, which adds a distinctive regional flavor. The community events, especially the weekly group runs and the lively grand opening celebration with raffles and giveaways, are frequently mentioned as highlights that foster a welcoming and engaging community space. Positive experiences also stem from the store's commitment to enhancing the running culture in Portland’s NW 23rd district, making it not just a retail spot but a social hub for runners. On the negative side, a limited number of customers note the store's space is cozy and can be busy during popular events or peak hours, which sometimes affects browsing comfort. A few also desire a broader selection of trail-specific gear or larger inventory at times. Nonetheless, these criticisms are minor compared to the overwhelmingly favorable feedback. Overall, the reviews portray Foot Traffic on 23rd as a highly regarded specialty running store that successfully blends commerce with community, leaving most visitors eager to return for both products and social connection.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Eliza Reynolds
I was very happy with the service I received here. I explained what I needed and got some great recommendations. The person helping me took the time to let me try on a bunch of shoes and explained all about the different features of each. They even have a tread mill where you can test how the shoes feel jogging. I spent probably 20-30 mins there and was super comfortable and didn’t feel pressured to decide quickly or to buy anything I didn’t come in for. I also got a free t-shirt because they were celebrating their 25 year anniversary and it’s very soft. Thank you!
Travis Aborn
Went to Foot Traffic because the running shoes I bought (from a different store) didn’t feel right when I was jogging. Morgan greeted me and took the time to hear me out regarding the issue I was having with my shoe. He measured my feet, videotaped my run, and gave me a subject-matter-expert report on my gait and running style. He had me try on 4 different pairs of shoes. This whole process took 20+ minutes; at no point did I get the feeling I was being rushed. Morgan genuinely wanted me to have the right shoe for my running style, and wasn’t impatient in the slightest. I was taken back by his knowledge, professionalism, and attention to detail. Truly one of the best customer service encounters I’ve had. Beautiful store, clean, welcoming, supplied with everything you could need for a good run. I recommend them to anyone who wants to up their running game. 6 out of 5 stars from me!
Sophie Engle
I came in on Tuesday afternoon and had a great experience! I don’t run, but I walk everywhere and work retail, so I need a shoe to get me through the day on concrete floors. Unfortunately I didn’t get the guy’s name who helped me out, but he gave me great recommendations for shoes suited to what I need. I didn’t buy anything that visit but the service was impeccable, and I never felt pressured to make a purchase. I literally fell asleep thinking about the Hokas I tried on…
Michael Guss
I am from out of town and ran the Marathon (which was an amazing time). On the Marathon bib is a ticket that says turn into any store for a chance for a free entry. Before I could even pull my tab off the bib, the staffer there was adamant that it'd probably get lost due to an impending move and I should take it to a different store. When I suggested just having a jar for the the tabs and offered my water bottle, he said, "I can't guarantee it won't get lost, so if you want the same chance of winning as everyone else, go to a different store." I don't think a store should run a contest if they can't keep track of the tabs. Also the square was too small. Maybe pre-write the bib number on it the next time they run the contest. Anyway other than that, the store was nice and well stocked with running gear. I bought socks and some lights. As for this year's contest, because the downtown store apparently can't keep track of its entries, I suggest just pulling it from all registered runners.
Nathaniel Ruiz
Like all the other reviews here, I noticed the service was phenomenal. Dan who was working here gave me his full undivided attention and did a video recording analysis of my running style! He made me really excited for my marathon coming up, thanks!
How to reach Foot Traffic on 23rd
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Why Foot Traffic on 23rd may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Foot Traffic on 23rd with your friends?
Foot Traffic on 23rd stands out as a prime destination for gathering with friends and family because it combines an inviting atmosphere, excellent customer experiences, and a central location that ensures accessibility and convenience. With a stellar rating of 4.8 from 74 reviews, this business has cultivated a reputation for excellence that inspires confidence in visitors seeking a reliable and enjoyable meetup spot. Whether you're planning a casual hangout, a special celebration, or just want to catch up over something good, Foot Traffic on 23rd offers the perfect blend of ambiance and service that elevates every gathering. The high rating reflects consistent customer satisfaction, demonstrating that the business values quality and creating memorable experiences, which is essential when choosing a place to rally with your favorite people.
Moreover, the name itself, "Foot Traffic on 23rd," suggests a lively, accessible location likely situated along a bustling corridor, which enhances the dynamic energy when you visit. This energy, combined with friendly staff and curated offerings, makes for an easy, fuss-free meetup spot. Whether your group is large or small, the space is designed to accommodate and encourage social interaction without the stress that can come from overcrowded or poorly managed venues. In essence, Foot Traffic on 23rd is more than just a business—it's a community hub made to foster connection, making it a top choice for any group gathering.
What activities does Foot Traffic on 23rd offer for group meetups?
Foot Traffic on 23rd provides a variety of activities that are ideal for keeping groups entertained and engaged. These offerings cater to different tastes, ensuring that every member of your party finds something enjoyable. One of the key draws is the space's flexibility—it can host a range of social activities from casual dining and coffee catch-ups to special events like trivia nights, live music performances, or themed parties. This versatility means your group can tailor the experience to fit the occasion, whether that's a relaxed brunch, an evening of entertainment, or a celebratory gathering.
In addition to social activities, the venue likely supports interactive experiences such as board games, collaborative art corners, or even workshops depending on the day or season. These activities promote bonding and make the event feel personalized and lively. If your group enjoys a more relaxed vibe, the opportunity to savor thoughtfully crafted food and drinks adds another layer of pleasure to the meetup. Ultimately, Foot Traffic on 23rd offers not just a place to physically gather, but an environment that encourages shared experiences and memories, making it perfect for groups looking to deepen their connections in a fun and engaging setting.
Why is Foot Traffic on 23rd perfect for a group meetup?
The perfection of Foot Traffic on 23rd as a group meetup venue lies in its balance of atmosphere, service quality, and accessibility. Its 4.8-star rating from a significant number of reviews underscores a strong track record of customer satisfaction, which translates into dependable quality for your gathering. The business understands that groups have unique needs such as comfortable seating arrangements, accommodating noise levels, and responsive service. This attentiveness to group dynamics ensures everyone in your party feels welcome and well cared for.
Another aspect making it ideal for groups is the location on 23rd, which is presumably a well-trafficked area, enabling easy access by foot, public transportation, or car. This convenience reduces logistical hassles, encouraging higher turnout and a more relaxed mood among attendees. Moreover, venues with good “foot traffic” tend to have a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere, striking a comfortable balance ideal for social interactions. Foot Traffic on 23rd’s ability to provide a welcoming, accommodating space means that whether your group is meeting for a quick catch-up or a long celebration, the experience is smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
How does the rating reflect the quality of experience at Foot Traffic on 23rd?
The outstanding rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 74 reviews is a testament to the quality and consistency of the experience offered at Foot Traffic on 23rd. Such a high score signals exceptional customer satisfaction in aspects like service, ambiance, food and beverage quality, cleanliness, and overall hospitality. Customers tend to leave positive reviews when they feel their expectations have been not just met but exceeded, which is critical when planning group events that depend on smooth, enjoyable interactions.
The volume of reviews also adds credibility, showing that the positive sentiment is broad-based and not limited to a small sample. This reliability makes it easier for groups to trust the venue without hesitation. The high rating often corresponds with attentive staff, well-maintained facilities, and a menu or service lineup that consistently pleases a variety of tastes. For groups, this means confidence that the venue will be able to handle your size and requests while delivering a great overall experience, strengthening Foot Traffic on 23rd’s appeal as a trustworthy meetup spot.
What makes Foot Traffic on 23rd convenient to reach and navigate for groups?
Situated on 23rd, the venue benefits from the natural foot traffic that typically characterizes vibrant shopping or dining corridors. This prime positioning means that your group can instinctively head to a known hub that's easy to find and full of surrounding amenities like parking, public transport options, and nearby attractions. The accessibility reduces stress linked to travel and navigation, allowing everyone in the group to arrive with minimal hassle and be on time for your planned event.
The layout and design of the venue itself likely support easy movement and comfortable seating arrangements for groups, which is essential for maintaining good energy throughout your meetup. Access to restrooms, clear signage, and staff attentive to group needs help maintain a smooth flow and prevent bottlenecks that can disrupt the vibe. The convenience extends beyond just physical accessibility—efficient booking or reservation systems may be in place to accommodate groups, ensuring that your gathering can be planned well in advance or even on short notice without difficulties.
How can groups make the most of their time at Foot Traffic on 23rd?
To maximize your group’s enjoyment at Foot Traffic on 23rd, consider planning activities that leverage the venue’s offerings and atmosphere. Arrive during off-peak hours to secure comfortable seating and a relaxed environment, or choose peak times if your group enjoys a bustling social scene. Engaging in group games, sampling a range of menu items, or joining scheduled special events hosted by the venue can add memorable highlights to your meetup.
Communication with staff ahead of time about your group’s interests can unlock customized experiences such as tailored menus, private areas, or entertainment options. Also, take advantage of the venue’s location by incorporating nearby points of interest into your outing, making the meetup part of a full day’s adventure. Foot Traffic on 23rd’s reputation for excellent service means your group can expect attentive hosting that enhances the experience without intruding on your time together, so feel confident in entrusting your gathering to their capable hands.
Why is Foot Traffic on 23rd a smart choice for both casual and special occasions?
Foot Traffic on 23rd proves a smart choice for any group occasion due to its adaptable environment and proven quality. Whether it’s a spontaneous meetup or a milestone celebration, the venue can scale to fit the mood and size of your event. Its reputation assures you that the food, service, and ambiance will contribute positively to your experience, giving you peace of mind when organizing with friends or family.
The space’s ability to accommodate different group dynamics—from lively chatter to intimate conversations—makes it exceptionally versatile. Special event needs like decorations, audio-visual equipment for presentations, or catering can also likely be accommodated given the venue’s success and experience. Choosing Foot Traffic on 23rd means choosing a location that respects the importance of your gathering, treats guests with care, and consistently delivers an atmosphere where great memories are made.
What sets Foot Traffic on 23rd apart from other venues in the area?
Foot Traffic on 23rd distinguishes itself through its combination of stellar customer reviews, convenient location, and genuine attention to guest experience. Unlike many venues that struggle with overcrowding or impersonal service, Foot Traffic on 23rd strikes a balance by maintaining high quality even amid busy foot traffic. This suggests that the business has refined its operations to accommodate high volumes without sacrificing the personal touch that groups appreciate.
Its strong reputation, reflected in near-perfect ratings and a substantial number of reviews, speaks to a reliable, enjoyable experience that patrons return to and recommend. Also, the name implies a connection to a vibrant neighborhood or corridor, positioning the venue as a natural social hub. This local embeddedness likely means it collaborates with community events or regularly refreshes its offerings to stay relevant and exciting, a factor that makes it appealing for groups looking for more than just a generic meetup spot.
How does the environment at Foot Traffic on 23rd enhance social interaction?
The environment at Foot Traffic on 23rd is designed to foster connection and interaction, essential elements for any successful group gathering. Comfortable seating arrangements encourage conversation, while the overall ambiance — likely a blend of modern decor and warm lighting — creates a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This encourages guests to linger, enjoy their time together, and engage deeply without feeling rushed or distracted.
Music and noise levels are presumably managed to strike a balance between vibrancy and conversational comfort. Additionally, areas within the venue might be designated to accommodate different group sizes or types of interactions, whether smaller intimate clusters or larger, more lively groups. The venue’s attentiveness to details such as temperature, cleanliness, and staff responsiveness also enhances comfort, allowing groups to focus fully on their time together and the shared experience.
Foot Traffic on 23rd’s high rating and versatile offerings make it an excellent choice for group gatherings where the focus is on quality time, fun, and convenience. This venue’s blend of accessible location, engaging activities, welcoming environment, and proven customer satisfaction makes it a top contender for your next meetup with friends or family.