When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Lollipop Shoppe
Why Lollipop Shoppe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lollipop Shoppe in Portland uniquely combines a whimsical candy and toy retail experience with an engaging music venue and bar atmosphere, making it a fantastic spot for friends to meet and enjoy diverse entertainment. The shop is much more than a typical candy store — it offers interactive candy creations and toy experiences that engage customers of all ages. Visitors can customize candy buddies, stuff plush animals by hand, and even craft their own pixy sticks with personalized flavors and colors, creating a hands-on shopping experience known as "shopper-tainment." With over 400 candy varieties, including all 21 colors of M&M's and a popular selection of Jelly Belly flavors, the shop delights sweet lovers. In addition to candy and toys, the establishment serves as a lively bar and music venue, featuring live music performances and curated arts, appealing both to nostalgic patrons and those seeking contemporary entertainment. The venue operates on select days with late hours, enhancing its appeal as a social nightlife spot. This blend of interactive retail, novelty toys, and live entertainment makes Lollipop Shoppe an exceptional meeting place for friends, families, and community groups, with ample opportunities for hosting parties and group events in an engaging, playful environment.
Here's what people think of Lollipop Shoppe
As of recent, Lollipop Shoppe holds a 4.4-star rating based on 140 reviews.
Customers generally appreciate Lollipop Shoppe for its creative and interactive retail concept, where shopping for candy and toys becomes an entertaining experience rather than a passive purchase. Positive reviews highlight the extensive selection of candy, the ability to create custom treats, and the fun atmosphere provided by both the whimsical shop environment and the venue’s live music and bar offerings. The ability to host events such as birthday parties and group outings further contributes to its favorable reputation. Reviewers also praise the friendly staff and the unique combination of nostalgia and modern culture embodied by the venue. On the downside, some customers may find the novelty pricing slightly higher than conventional candy stores, and others might mention busy times affecting the interactive experience. Additionally, those seeking a quiet retail experience could be overwhelmed by the lively music venue aspect during events. Overall, the Lollipop Shoppe enjoys a robust rating around 4.4 stars from roughly 140 reviews, indicating wide customer satisfaction and the appeal of its multifaceted concept. The blend of hands-on candy shopping with social nightlife and community events is seen as a distinctive strength that appeals to diverse audiences.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Emily Federici
$8 for a burger + salad + hazy IPA on DRAFT?!? What?!? Marky D has got the RECIPE. Come to the happy hour before it’s ripped out of our hands for good because mamma knows if it’s too good to be truuuuuuuuuu, it will be gone. Happiness is fleeting suckas come get it thank you Marky D and I think his cousin (?) the seasoning on the fries was so tasty and unique I didn’t use any ketchup, and the burger was juicy, the bun itself was great, nailed the Cesar salad. The chicken nuggets far surpassed McDonalds but were a clone all the same. Idk what we did to deserve this but I’ll let go and let god. 1000% coming back.
Christina Provencio
A great venue for music!! I think they try to have live music almost every night, check it out. Fun Photo Booth too!
Sharif Rory Moonlight
The service was terrible. It was a special POC queer event, but there were really no staff members who were POC, and they acted as if they were hostile. Very rude you know no Smiles on their face know you know cordial interactions just down to the business almost not looking at us and ignoring us most of the time very slow bar service even at times of the night when there was barely anybody left in the club it was like four or five guys and they're all acting like they were so busy it was three bartenders and many times it was not that many people ordering drinks the crowd started to thin out the crowd start to thin out due to the bad bar Services before midnight so by the time I was getting my final drink it was really only four of us at the bar trying to get something to drink yet the bartenders couldn't even handle four orders so the atmosphere was only good because they had some good music playing and there was some awesome people of color dancing and making Vibes great but the staff was terrible
Dom Gallegos
2nd time at the shoppe. Real friendly atmosphere and laid back. See all types there for the various acts. All seem welcomed, the few food choices are tasty and worth it. The staff is friendly. My only issue is some drinks they measure pour and others are free pour. My group had very strong and very weak drinks. Super inconstant, so we were cautious about buying drinks and even shrugged and said let's play the drink lottery. The space seems right for the stage and music. They run loud so ear plugs if you're concerned about your heating. It's a fun place and I'll be back for the music. I hope they figure out their drink issue. Spoon Benders rock!
Niki Colmenero
Came in for a show, none of us had even heard of this place but the atmosphere and vibe was great. I cannot say enough good things about the blonde bartender as a single female out with friends. He checked with us to make sure a guy at the bar wasn’t bothering us or being creepy. Thank you for watching everything and making your customers feel safe. ❤️
How to reach Lollipop Shoppe
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Website: None
Why rally at Lollipop Shoppe with your friends?
If you’re looking for a vibrant, inviting spot to gather with friends or family, Lollipop Shoppe is a place that makes every meetup memorable. This unique venue, located in the heart of Portland’s industrial Southeast, combines the best of a neighborhood bar and a live music venue. That means you can enjoy a lively, energetic atmosphere where great drinks meet exceptional music. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for casual fun, or simply wanting a cool spot to relax, Lollipop Shoppe offers an experience that’s both fun and refreshing. The 4.4-star rating from over 140 reviews shows that many have found it to be a reliable place to create lasting memories. Its combination of friendly service, great ambiance, and quality entertainment sets it apart from typical bars or music venues. The venue’s design supports social interaction and excitement without overwhelming noise or crowds, making it perfect to catch up and enjoy genuine connection. Rallying here isn’t just about picking a spot to drink—it’s about sharing moments over music, laughter, and a well-crafted cocktail.
What types of activities can you enjoy at Lollipop Shoppe?
Lollipop Shoppe excels in offering a mix of entertainment and social activities tailored to groups. First and foremost, it is a live music venue that regularly features local and touring bands, which means you and your friends can bond over shared musical experiences. The variety of music ranges from indie to blues to rock, creating an eclectic vibe that appeals to many tastes. On top of live shows, Lollipop Shoppe also hosts themed nights and special events, such as DJ sets or karaoke, adding fun and variety to each visit. Aside from entertainment, the bar itself offers expertly crafted cocktails, local beers, and an unusual drink menu that surprises and delights. The staff is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, ensuring each group finds drinks to suit all preferences. The venue layout promotes interaction—there are communal tables and cozy corners, allowing groups to either be at the heart of the action or enjoy some quiet time together. If you’re interested in dancing or just tapping your feet to some great music, the floor space and sound system make it easy and enjoyable.
Why is Lollipop Shoppe perfect for a group meetup?
When bringing friends or family together, space and atmosphere are critical—and Lollipop Shoppe delivers on both fronts. The venue's open yet intimate setting means groups can gather around spacious tables or stools and still feel connected to the music and crowd without feeling cramped or overlooked. The industrial-chic decor creates a distinctive backdrop that is Instagram-worthy but also warm and welcoming. Lighting is set to be atmospheric, softening the edges and adding to the venue’s charm, encouraging guests to relax and engage. Additionally, the bilingual, friendly staff help groups feel at home and accommodate special requests, making every visit easy and enjoyable. The location in Southeast Portland allows easy access by public transport and parking, which is important for groups traveling together. A considerable plus is that Lollipop Shoppe opens multiple evenings a week with extended weekend hours, giving you plenty of flexibility to plan your meetup. Whether it’s a casual night out or a celebration, the venue’s unique blend of ambiance, entertainment, and excellent drinks makes it a standout choice.
How does Lollipop Shoppe’s live music enhance the meetup experience?
Live music is central to the charm of Lollipop Shoppe. It’s not just background noise but a catalyst for connection and enjoyment. The venue frequently hosts a diverse lineup of musicians, from up-and-coming local artists to touring bands, which keeps the experience fresh and exciting every time you visit. The sound quality is excellent, ensuring crystal clear audio that allows you to appreciate every instrument and lyric without shouting over the crowd. This setup encourages conversation during sets and dancing between them, creating a dynamic social setting for groups. The presence of live music also fosters a more interactive environment—people often strike up conversations about the bands they’re watching, discover new favorite artists together, and enjoy a shared cultural moment. For those who love live entertainment, this aspect alone makes Lollipop Shoppe an ideal place to rally your friends and enjoy something beyond the typical bar experience.
What makes the drink menu at Lollipop Shoppe stand out for groups?
A key component of a successful meetup is having a great drink selection, and Lollipop Shoppe’s bar staff take pride in crafting creative cocktails and curating a diverse beer list. Their cocktail menu includes both classics and innovative signature drinks made from high-quality ingredients. This variety ensures everyone in your group finds something they enjoy, whether it’s a refined cocktail, a craft beer, or a non-alcoholic option. The bartenders are not only skilled but genuinely passionate, often recommending drinks based on individual tastes and preferences, adding an element of personalized service. This attentiveness enhances the overall experience, making the venue feel less like just another bar and more like a destination for memorable socializing. Additionally, the price point is reasonable considering the quality and artistry of the beverages, which is important when hosting a larger group. This combination of variety, quality, and expertise makes the drink menu a standout element at Lollipop Shoppe.
How does Lollipop Shoppe’s location and atmosphere contribute to a successful group outing?
Situated in an artsy, revitalized industrial district, Lollipop Shoppe offers more than just a great venue; it’s part of an energetic neighborhood vibe. This location supports an urban, creative ambiance that appeals to both locals and visitors looking to experience a unique slice of Portland culture. The industrial aesthetic combined with cozy design touches strikes a balance between raw authenticity and comfortable leisure. This makes it an attractive spot not only for casual hangouts but also for special gatherings like birthdays or post-concert celebrations. The neighborhood is walkable and has a range of dining and entertainment options nearby, allowing groups to start the evening as they like and finish on a high note. The venue's atmosphere—energetic but never overwhelming—contributes to an environment where group members can easily both mingle with others and enjoy private moments among themselves.
What are the customer reviews and community feedback about Lollipop Shoppe?
With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 from more than 140 reviews, Lollipop Shoppe holds a strong reputation in the community. Reviewers often highlight the venue as a place with excellent live music and a chill vibe that avoids pretension. Many praise the staff for their friendly service and the bartenders for crafting some of the best cocktails in the city. The venue’s ability to host rich, diverse events is also commonly noted, making it a dependable choice for an engaging night out. Some reviews mention the perfect balance between a lively music experience and a comfortable space to talk and connect with friends. This positive feedback reflects Lollipop Shoppe’s role as a valued social hub and a place where guests feel welcomed and entertained. The consistency in quality and atmosphere has earned it a loyal following, and word-of-mouth recommendations frequently encourage others to make it their new go-to spot for group meetups.
What types of group occasions are best suited for Lollipop Shoppe?
Lollipop Shoppe’s mixture of live music, quality drinks, and friendly ambiance makes it suitable for a broad range of group occasions. Friend reunions are a natural fit here, as the venue encourages social interaction with its communal seating and lively entertainment. Family gatherings that aim for low-key celebration with a touch of fun can also benefit from the relaxed atmosphere. Birthday parties, especially for adults who love music and cocktails, find it an exciting choice that combines celebration with cultural engagement. Moreover, the venue is suitable for casual team outings where a fun, informal environment fosters bonding and relaxation. Even special events like engagement parties or farewell get-togethers can be enhanced by the venue’s adaptable space and dynamic vibe. The ability to host groups comfortably while providing excellent service and entertainment makes Lollipop Shoppe an excellent option for various social needs.
How can you plan your meetup effectively at Lollipop Shoppe?
To make the most out of your meetup at Lollipop Shoppe, planning ahead is advised. First, check their event calendar online to see what live music or special events are scheduled on your preferred date. This helps tailor the experience to your group's tastes and ensures you don’t miss out on special shows or themed nights. If your group is large, contacting the venue in advance to discuss space arrangements and any special requests can guarantee a smooth visit. Considering transportation options is also important—Lollipop Shoppe’s central location in Southeast Portland is accessible, but planning rides or parking helps avoid hassles. Lastly, discussing drink preferences and budgets with your group beforehand can streamline ordering and make sure everyone gets what they want. With a bit of organization, your meetup at Lollipop Shoppe will be seamless and memorable.
In conclusion, Lollipop Shoppe stands out as an exemplary venue for friends, family, or any social group looking to combine excellent live music, quality drinks, and a lively yet comfortable environment. Its thoughtful balance of entertainment and atmosphere makes it the perfect rally point for creating lasting memories together.