When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Loyal Legion
Why Loyal Legion is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Loyal Legion is a vibrant beer hall and taproom in the Portland, Oregon area, perfectly designed for friends looking to gather over a vast selection of craft beers. The original location, opened in 2015, is situated in southeast Portland’s Buckman neighborhood inside the historic P.P.A.A. building, known for its unique architectural heritage linked to early 20th-century fraternal organizations. With seating capacity for around 220 guests, the space offers a spacious yet welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal meet-up spot. Loyal Legion honors Oregon’s world-renowned craft brewing tradition with nearly 100 taps of diverse beers, creating an unparalleled tasting experience that celebrates local flavors and innovation. The ambiance is complemented by its intriguing historical roots, including a prominently displayed restored sign from the early “Loyal Legion of Loggers and Lumbermen,” tying the venue to regional logging and labor history. This blend of heritage and contemporary craft culture provides patrons with not only a place to relax and socialize but also a connection to the local community and its brewing legacy. Loyal Legion's combination of rich history, expansive beer variety, and inviting social space makes it a compelling choice for casual outings or celebratory gatherings with friends.
Here's what people think of Loyal Legion
As of recent, Loyal Legion holds a 3.4-star rating based on 90 reviews.
Based on user reviews, Loyal Legion holds an average rating of 3.4 out of 5 from approximately 90 reviews. Reviewers frequently highlight the impressive variety of beers, praising the nearly 100 taps and the bar’s commitment to showcasing Oregon’s craft beer scene. The spacious layout and historic building also receive positive mentions, contributing to a comfortable and unique environment that many find enjoyable for groups and social occasions. Several patrons appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the overall vibe that combines a beer hall’s energy with a nod to Portland’s brewing heritage. On the downside, some reviews point out issues such as inconsistent service quality, occasional overcrowding during peak hours, and comments about pricing being on the higher side. A few customers also note that the atmosphere can sometimes be noisy or too busy for those seeking a quieter experience. Despite mixed feedback on these operational aspects, the overall sentiment remains favorable for those who prioritize craft beer selection and a convivial setting. In conclusion, Loyal Legion appears to be well-regarded for its beer offerings and atmosphere, though prospective visitors may want to consider timing and expectations regarding service and noise levels when planning a visit.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Heather A Adams
This bar is so great. I would contemplate coming here if I didn’t have to pick up a friend from the airport even. The staff is super kind and attentive, and The Food was great. The cocktails and prices are the same as in town, that’s by city order. The booths are huge and there’s lots of room to sit and enjoy the sunset over the airport.The Portland terminal is very well designed and beautiful. There’s even a bunch of TVs by the tables if you want to get into the sports. Word is there’s a speakeasy there…
J. D.
What an incredible airport experience! First of all this airport is gorgeous with a new renovation and all the beautiful wood architecture. Secondly this restaurant with their beer selection is just perfect. I’d ordered a Belgian Ale called wolves and people, very strong, but delicious. To eat, I ordered sweet potato fries, and the grill grilled chicken rice bowl, which had the perfect amount of umami and crunch. I did not feel like I was eating in the airport restaurant. I felt like I was in a very bustling downtown Portland restaurant. My travel partner ordered the Bavarian pretzel with a side of cheese, which was delicious. One in Portland make sure you stop by the spot before you head through security. You will not regret it.
CJ P
LL is before security. ORDER OR SIT AT THE BAR FOR SERVICE. This is the finest craft beer draught selection in an airport in the world. The cocktails and liquor selection are outstanding & affordable. Old fashioned with a BFC? No problem. Triple IPA? No problem. I bet they’ll even have fresh hopped IPAs here on tap come Autumn. Affordable tasty upscale bar fare. Lively music. Sports on big & I’m just guessing 80” TVs on either side of the bar. And drumroll please…a speakeasy that looks like Gianni Versace’s mind on psychedelic mushrooms. Holy cow, you’ve outdone yourselves LL. 1️⃣9️⃣7️⃣7️⃣*️⃣ ➡️ 🚪🌈🍄🤌🏼🍸 My only question is why the McLoyal burger is only a single burger & not a double patty like the other LL locations, albeit the burger bun was better at FlyPDX. 🍔
Daveed Tuck
Great spot for a drink and a bite at the airport! Loyal Legion has a fantastic selection of Oregon beers and a well-designed space that makes it a relaxing stop before a flight. The ambiance is modern yet warm, with a beautiful wooden ceiling and plenty of seating. Service was friendly, and the beer selection was impressive—lots of local options to choose from! The only reason I’m giving 4 stars instead of 5 is that the food was good but not exceptional, and the wait time was a little longer than expected. Still, it’s a great addition to PDX and a perfect place to grab a local brew before takeoff. Would definitely return!
Charlie Te
I liked that they open up a spot at the airport. They have a great food menu (also decently priced) and a good bar selection. I ordered the McLoyal, which is a great all around burger to have. It can get busy depending on the time and how many people are waiting to get drinks, but once you place the order in, the food comes out pretty quick. They also have plenty of seating and tvs for you to watch sports.
How to reach Loyal Legion
None
Website: None
Why Loyal Legion may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Loyal Legion with your friends?
If you're looking for a vibrant, welcoming place to gather with friends or family, Loyal Legion is an ideal choice. Located in Portland with a decent rating of 3.4 from 90 reviews, it offers a large, modern environment that’s perfect for socializing. The long bar provides ample seating, meaning your group won’t have to worry about crowding or limited space. Loyal Legion’s focus on quality is evident in its extensive all-Oregon tap list, featuring a wide variety of fresh craft beers that cater to diverse tastes. Friends who appreciate good brews will especially enjoy their care in maintaining tap lines, ensuring every pour is clean and tasty. Additionally, the bar offers sampler flights (minimum of four tasters)—a fantastic way to explore different beers together. With affordable growler refill pricing and tasty food options like their popular smash burgers and sweet potato fries, Loyal Legion balances great drinks and good eats. Though service can be a bit slow at times, the friendly bartenders and laid-back vibe make it an excellent spot to kick back, chat, and enjoy a relaxed night out. Overall, whether you're celebrating a birthday, catching up after work, or just want a comfortable place to drink, Loyal Legion provides a unique and memorable setting for group meetups.
What activities can you do at Loyal Legion?
Loyal Legion offers more than just beer drinking; it’s a space where you can engage in various social activities suitable for groups. Firstly, the beer tasting experience is a major draw. With an extensive list of Oregon craft beers, you and your friends can embark on a tasting journey, comparing different styles and flavors using their flights option. This sampling activity encourages conversation and discovery, making it fun for beer enthusiasts and novices alike. Secondly, Loyal Legion has a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual dining—sharing tasty snacks like sausages, burgers, and fries enhances the social experience and keeps hunger at bay while you enjoy drinks. Thirdly, the venue has both indoor and outdoor seating areas, which means you can choose your preferred ambiance—whether it’s the lively indoor bar with music or the outdoor space great for fresh air and people-watching. For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife energy, the bar’s music selection adds to the atmosphere, although it can sometimes be loud enough to warrant moving tables or heading outdoors for easier conversation. Lastly, Loyal Legion often serves as a stop on bar-hopping routes in Southeast Portland, so it’s ideal for group meetups that might extend to multiple venues. From focused beer tastings to relaxed socializing, Loyal Legion provides a variety of activities that encourage connection and enjoyment among friends.
Why is Loyal Legion perfect for hosting group meetups?
Loyal Legion’s design and offerings make it especially well-suited for group gatherings. The long bar with abundant seating accommodates large parties without feeling cramped, so everyone can enjoy their drinks comfortably. The bar’s attention to cleanliness and quality in beer service means your group can expect consistently fresh and great-tasting brews—important for a satisfying social outing. The availability of beer flights in minimum groups of four encourages trying different beers side-by-side, fostering a shared experience that’s easy to bond over. Loyal Legion’s cash-only policy might seem inconvenient, but with an on-site ATM, it’s a minor hurdle that doesn’t dampen the welcoming vibe. The inclusion of tasty food options like burgers and fries provides hearty options that complement the beers and satisfy different tastes, making it easier to spend several hours without needing to leave for a full meal. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating areas offers flexibility to suit weather and noise preferences, enhancing comfort for all guests. Regular patrons highlight the friendliness of the bartenders and the venue's central, easy-to-find location in Portland as added perks. Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration, casual after-work outing, or weekend hangout, Loyal Legion’s blend of quality drinks, food, space, and atmosphere creates a dependable group meetup spot that invites repeated visits.
What types of beer and food are offered at Loyal Legion?
Loyal Legion prides itself on an extensive all-Oregon craft beer tap list, showcasing a variety of styles from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing sours. This careful curation highlights local breweries and gives patrons the chance to experience the diversity of Oregon’s craft beer scene. Beer lovers appreciate the focus on freshness and cleanliness, as the bar actively maintains its equipment to ensure every pour reflects the brewers’ intent. The selection is broad enough to offer something for everyone in your group, from seasoned craft beer connoisseurs to casual drinkers. In terms of food, Loyal Legion offers comforting bar fare that pairs well with their beer options, including delicious smash burgers and crispy sweet potato fries, both favorites mentioned by customers. Their menu also includes sausages, a classic beer accompaniment, all priced reasonably which keeps group outings affordable. This combination of local beer expertise and solid food offerings creates a well-rounded culinary experience that supports lengthy social visits. Whether you want to savor a complex ale or enjoy a casual bite with friends, Loyal Legion’s beer and food selections stand ready to satisfy.
How does the atmosphere contribute to a group experience?
The atmosphere at Loyal Legion creates the right balance of vibrancy and comfort, making it an attractive place for groups to gather. The interior is stylish yet unpretentious, with a spacious layout centered around a long bar that encourages social interaction. This setup promotes natural conversation among friends seated next to each other and across the bar. The music selection adds energy to the space, enhancing a lively mood, though it can sometimes get loud enough that seating outdoors is recommended for quieter conversations—a flexibility many groups appreciate. Outdoor seating is a valuable feature that lets guests enjoy fresh air and a different vibe, which is great for groups that want to split time between environments. Customers often praise the friendly bartenders who contribute to the welcoming atmosphere by engaging with patrons and facilitating a positive experience. The location in Portland’s active neighborhood places Loyal Legion among other nighttime venues, making it a convenient and attractive spot for beginning or continuing a night out. Overall, the atmosphere encourages relaxed but spirited socializing, perfectly suited to memorable group meetups.
What is the overall value proposition of Loyal Legion for hosting meetups?
Loyal Legion stands out as a prime meetup location due to its combination of quality beer, inviting atmosphere, suitable space, and reasonable prices. The focus on Oregon craft beers not only supports local breweries but also provides drinkers a fresh, quality beverage experience rarely found in standard bars. Complementing this, the food menu offers familiar, well-prepared snacks and meals that suit a variety of tastes and keep energy up during long hangouts. The flexible seating—both inside and out—supports different preferences and group sizes, enhancing comfort and enjoyment. While the service can be a bit slow and the cash-only policy is a mild inconvenience, these are easily outweighed by the friendly staff, well-maintained facilities, and overall vibe. Loyal Legion’s central location in thriving Portland neighborhoods makes it accessible and ideal as a social hub. In essence, it’s a trustworthy, casual spot that promises a solid outing where friends or family can enjoy good drinks, solid food, and quality time together. If you seek a place that marries a serious beer selection with convivial ambiance and group-friendly amenities, Loyal Legion is an excellent choice.