When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Kenton Club
Why Kenton Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The World Famous Kenton Club, established in 1947, is a historic bar and music venue located in Portland, Oregon’s Kenton neighborhood. Originally known as a biker bar, it evolved over decades to become a beloved spot for live music, karaoke, DJ shows, and social gatherings. The venue’s interior is characterized by nostalgic wood paneling, low ceilings, Formica tables, linoleum floors, and vinyl-upholstered chairs, creating a warm and unpretentious atmosphere that invites patrons to relax and enjoy the moment. The large hardwood dance floor in front of the stage is perfect for enthusiastic audiences who want to move to the variety of musical genres featured here, from classic country and blues to punk. Alongside the music, visitors can engage in a range of activities including billiards, darts, pinball, trivia, and video poker, making it an entertaining destination for groups of friends. Known for offering inexpensive drinks and a welcoming, sometimes rowdy crowd, the club has successfully attracted a diverse clientele — from longtime local regulars to younger audiences seeking a fun night out. Its storied history is further enhanced by its appearance in the 1972 film Kansas City Bomber, with memorabilia displayed inside, enhancing the venue’s cultural cachet. With weekday happy hours and consistent nightly entertainment, the Kenton Club remains a hallmark gathering place in Portland’s nightlife scene.
Here's what people think of Kenton Club
As of recent, Kenton Club holds a 4.4-star rating based on 640 reviews.
Reviews of the Kenton Club reflect its status as a cherished local establishment with a strong community vibe. Many patrons appreciate the club’s nostalgic ambiance, noting that the wood-paneled interior and classic décor provide a unique, old-school charm not often found in modern venues. Positive reviews highlight the diversity and quality of live music, with frequent mentions of the club’s ability to cater to varied tastes through its lineup of DJs, karaoke nights, and live band performances. The affordability of drinks and the availability of games such as darts and pinball also earn praise as enhancing the overall social experience. Reviewers often mention the welcoming and friendly crowd, appreciating the venue’s combination of a relaxed setting and lively entertainment, making it an excellent spot to meet friends or enjoy a casual night out. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around the club’s low ceilings and somewhat dated interior, which can feel cramped or dark to some visitors. A few reviews mention the crowd’s rowdiness at times and note that the clientele can skew older, which might not appeal to everyone. Some patrons have expressed a wish for improved smoking policies and tighter management of noise levels. Overall, however, the majority of reviews convey a strong appreciation for the club’s character, sense of history, and role in Portland’s music scene, concluding that the Kenton Club offers a distinctive and enjoyable nightlife experience that resonates with both long-time locals and newcomers alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Aimee Brentnell
Been coming here for half a decade, I spend so much money. But I love it cause no one knows what I’m talking about when I say it’s my favorite bar. So, I never see anyone I don’t want to see. I love that. But, I’ve met a lot of cool people. Very queer friendly. Bartenders are a bunch of cuties. Tip well! They love paying their bills and feeding their families. They also love it when you bring food in from other locations (before 5). And great music venue!
MISSCUTLAREY
I know nothing about the food. It's pretty standard bar food. But I didn't come for the food anyway! This place is a perfect place for a first date. Or a blind date. It's insanely dark and glows red with beer signs. It's wood paneling has been there for FOREVER and it still looks cool. If you come here, lose your attitude. It's a laid back neighbor joint. They do have a patio, but it was a million degrees out! I had fun.
Krysta James
This has become my second home. The bartenders are wonderful. The regulars are as welll. Dub makes ribs and they feel like I’m eating a hug. Love this place. Always will. 💜🥀🖤
Wyatt Serviss
Almost a country dive with a little more edge. Great food, very well priced drinks, and the food is amazing. Highly recommend the fried chicken burger or the strip basket.
payam parsadmehr
Big Dubs was 11/10 food quality all the options are amazing. Must try. Highly recommend
How to reach Kenton Club
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Why Kenton Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the Kenton Club with your friends? Because it perfectly blends a historic, laid-back vibe with a dynamic entertainment scene, making it a unique and welcoming gathering spot in Portland. Established in 1947, the Kenton Club carries decades of cultural significance, especially as a historic biker bar that evolved into a lively venue with something for everyone. Its reputation as the "World Famous Kenton Club" is not just a name—it is emblematic of its colorful presence in Portland’s nightlife and music scene. Whether you're after a chill spot to unwind with inexpensive drinks, a night filled with live music, or engaging games with your crew, the Kenton Club offers an authentic, memorable atmosphere. It’s a place where community thrives: where regulars mingle with newcomers, and everyone feels part of a friendly, rowdy crowd. The combination of affordable beverages, eclectic decor, and an ever-changing lineup of events ensures there is never a dull moment when you rally here with your friends.
What makes the Kenton Club perfect for group activities?
The Kenton Club stands out as an ideal venue for group meetups because it offers a variety of activities that appeal to a broad range of interests and tastes. First, the club hosts live music shows on Friday and Saturday nights, featuring genres from local indie bands to national touring acts, creating a vibrant soundtrack for any gathering. The intimate 150-person capacity means you and your friends can enjoy close-up experiences without feeling lost in a crowd. Besides music, they feature karaoke nights and DJ events that bring out the fun and interactive side of group hangouts. If your meetup is more about games and casual fun, the club offers billiard tables, darts, pinball, trivia, and video poker machines—ensuring there are plenty of ways to engage and compete playfully with your friends. Moreover, the venue has a large hardwood floor in front of the stage, perfect for dancing or just hanging out comfortably. These activities, combined with their happy hour specials offering cheap drinks each weekday, underline the club's commitment to making a fun, affordable night for groups of any size.
How does the venue’s atmosphere contribute to a great meetup experience?
The Kenton Club’s interior and ambiance play a big role in making meetups special. The venue’s wood-paneled walls, vinyl-upholstered chairs, and vintage Formica tables create a warmly nostalgic setting reminiscent of classic neighborhood bars. The low ceilings and retro linoleum floors add a cozy, intimate feel, so your group will feel like you’ve found a hidden gem rather than a generic commercial spot. This vibe is further enhanced by memorabilia from the 1972 film Kansas City Bomber, starring Raquel Welch, which lends a quirky historical charm and conversation starters for your group. The bar's clientele has historically been described as “gray-haired”, reflecting its long-standing local regulars, but recent years have seen a younger and more diverse crowd thanks to the music and game offerings. Additionally, the club’s “vast and intimate” smoking area provides a unique outdoor space where friends can retreat for quieter chats. Altogether, the setting is inviting and unpretentious—perfect for groups looking to relax, have fun, and connect in an authentic Portland bar experience.
Why is the Kenton Club a good place for live music lovers?
If your group is passionate about live music, the Kenton Club should be your go-to destination. It’s recognized as North Portland’s premiere live music venue and has earned a reputation as a favorite spot for both local bands and touring acts. The club’s upstairs or main stage regularly hosts performers from diverse genres, ensuring a wide range of music tastes are catered to—from punk and blues to classic country and more eclectic styles. The intimate venue size lets attendees get up close to the action, supporting a lively and engaging concert atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds of larger venues. Regulars appreciate the carefully curated jukebox, packed with classics from legendary artists like Hank Williams Sr. alongside modern punk and blues selections, providing a fantastic soundtrack even outside of scheduled shows. The energy and diversity of the live music scene here give groups a reason to keep coming back—not just for a single night, but for seasons of memorable outings together.
What food and drink options enhance the group meetup experience?
The Kenton Club enhances every group visit with hearty food options and budget-friendly drinks. While it’s especially known for its laid-back bar vibe, it also serves up comfort snacks that are perfect for sharing with friends during a night out. Notably, their “GIRTHY fries” have earned a fun reputation for being generously portioned and flavorful, ideal to satisfy cravings and keep the gang fueled for music or games. The drink menu offers inexpensive beer options and traditional bar cocktails that won’t break the bank, which is essential for groups looking to enjoy a long, casual evening without overspending. The club also runs happy hour specials on weekdays, making it a great place for early meetups or after-work gatherings. The combination of comfort food and affordable drinks complements the club’s overall inclusive and friendly atmosphere, making it easy to relax and focus on having fun with friends and family.
How accessible and convenient is the Kenton Club for groups?
Convenience is another strong point for hosting your meetup at the Kenton Club. Located at 2025 North Kilpatrick Street in Portland’s Kenton neighborhood, it’s easily reachable by car or public transit from most parts of the city. The venue’s longstanding presence since 1947 means it is well integrated into the community with ample parking options nearby and easy street access. The club’s hours are accommodating for evening outings, typically open from noon to midnight and later on weekends, which fits well with varied group schedules. The friendly staff are experienced in handling group bookings and can be contacted directly for event planning, allowing for tailored meetups from casual hangouts to larger celebrations. This accessibility and willingness to engage with customers make the club not only a fun destination but also a stress-free one to organize.
What do people say about their experience at the Kenton Club?
Reviews and word-of-mouth support the Kenton Club’s reputation as a welcoming, fun place to gather. Patrons often mention the club's friendly, rowdy crowd and its role as a community hub that welcomes all types of folks except for those who disrupt the vibe. The ambiance is frequently praised for its authenticity and character—people appreciate that it isn’t a polished, commercial club but instead a place with soul and personality. While some individual experiences with staff may vary, the majority highlight the excellent value for money, diverse entertainment options, and the sense of camaraderie that the venue fosters. Live music fans especially value the club as a second home for many local bands. These positive experiences make the Kenton Club a trusted choice for groups aiming to have memorable, enjoyable nights out.
Why is the Kenton Club a neighborhood gem?
Ultimately, the Kenton Club shines as a neighborhood gem because it combines history, culture, and community spirit in a way few venues can. It’s not just about the drinks or music but about the shared experience of gathering in a place steeped in Portland’s local heritage. The bar has evolved with the times while honoring its roots, offering something for both longtime residents and newcomers alike. The inclusive atmosphere, budget-friendly options, eclectic entertainment, and warm crowd all contribute to its charm. Whether organizing a casual meetup, celebrating a special occasion, or simply wanting to enjoy great live music and games with your friends, the Kenton Club delivers a distinctive, genuine experience that fosters connection and fun. It’s a place to make memories with your people, night after night.