When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns
Why Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns stands out as a dynamic and entertaining venue for friends looking to enjoy a unique and memorable outing in Portland, Oregon. Located at 8409 N Lombard St, within the vibrant St. Johns neighborhood, this recreational facility specializes in axe throwing sessions that are guided by expert coaches to ensure safety and maximize fun. The venue offers a spacious setting accommodating up to 50 guests, making it ideal for casual get-togethers, group celebrations, or team-building events. Beyond the thrilling experience of hurling axes at wooden targets, visitors can enjoy the ambiance of being inside StormBreaker Brewing, a full-service restaurant and brewery that complements the activity with a range of craft beers, wines, ciders, and non-alcoholic beverages. The facility is locally owned and has been in operation since 2015, known as Oregon's original axe throwing venue, providing both walk-in and reservation options for convenience. With knowledgeable staff and friendly service, Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns creates a welcoming environment where friends can connect, challenge each other, and share laughs in an engaging and unconventional setting.
Here's what people think of Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns
As of recent, Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns holds a 4.7-star rating based on 75 reviews.
Reviews of Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns reveal a strong overall satisfaction with a 4.7-star rating based on 75 reviews. Many users praise the venue for its friendly and attentive staff, especially highlighting the helpfulness and professionalism of the axe throwing coaches who make the experience enjoyable for beginners and seasoned throwers alike. Positive reviews often mention the clean, spacious facility and the convenient drink options provided through the partnership with StormBreaker Brewing, which enhances the social atmosphere. Several guests emphasize the venue's suitability for parties, corporate events, and casual meetups, appreciating the safe yet exciting environment that encourages playful competition. On the other hand, less favorable reviews occasionally point to wait times during busy periods and challenges in securing last-minute reservations, which reflects the venue's popularity. A small number of comments also mention issues with noise levels or limited seating during peak hours. However, the majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the value of Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns as a top destination for a fun and distinctive group activity. Overall, reviews confirm the venue's reputation as a well-managed, entertaining place to gather with friends, fostering memorable experiences through the unique sport of axe throwing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Daniele Self
Awesome experience! Went for a birthday celebration. The instructor was extremely friendly, welcoming, informative, and fun to be around. We threw for an hour or so and had the ability to order drinks while throwing. We ended up purchasing an axe as well. We plan on returning either for another date day or bringing our staff for a team builder.
Tori M
My experience at Portland Axe Throwing was truly incredible! I went for a 30th birthday party in a group of 12 and the team was so helpful in coordinating our reservation and even accommodated a last minute time change. They set up a competitive 3-rounsd tournament for us and by the end of the day our hosts felt like part of our friend family! They were AMAZING. Such a great spot for a party or hang!
Heather Gibbons
We arrived 90 minutes early to have dinner at the brewery. Food was what we expected (pub-like). We were welcomed by Royce and he taught us all we needed to know to get off to a good start. Worth the $25 per person fee. We will do it again and bring more friends along the way!
Emi Day
I was skeptical at first but wow what a great experience! Eilif knows so much about different axes, handles, styles, and sport. He is an excellent teacher and his passion and enthusiasm for throwing really shows. We went from true novices to making a bullseye and learning to aim in an hour! Who knew how satisfying it would be to sink steel into wood? Highly recommend as a group activity for those who like to be active, like a little competition, and try new things!
William Humphreys
A great place for a private party or event. The teacher ( our was Sawyer) was fun and helpful. The space was large enough for a party. Couldn’t recommend more.
How to reach Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns
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Why Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns with your friends? Because it offers a uniquely engaging and thrilling environment that combines friendly competition, skill-building, and social fun all under one roof. When you gather your group, whether friends or family, Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns provides a refreshing alternative to typical meetups, allowing participants to channel their energy into mastering the ancient art of axe throwing. The venue excels at fostering camaraderie and excitement, making it an ideal destination for bonding beyond casual conversation. The inclusive atmosphere ensures everyone—beginners to experienced throwers—feels welcome and supported by knowledgeable instructors. This spot is not just a place to throw axes; it’s a place to create memorable experiences filled with laughter, challenge, and positive vibes. Adding to its appeal, this location’s respectable 4.7-star rating from 75 reviews highlights its consistent quality in customer satisfaction and service. Gather your group, embrace the exhilarating challenge, and build together unforgettable moments at Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns.
What activities are available at Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns and how do they enhance group meetups? The core activity, of course, is axe throwing, which is facilitated by expert instructors who provide comprehensive safety instructions and hands-on coaching. This ensures that novices quickly get comfortable and enjoy the sport without fear or confusion. Each participant receives individualized tips to improve their technique, turning what might seem like a rugged activity into an accessible and enjoyable challenge. Beyond axe throwing lanes, the venue has created a relaxed, social environment where participants can watch others play, share tips, or just unwind between rounds. The layout encourages interaction and connection, making it easy for groups to bond over shared progress or friendly competition. The environment’s casual, laid-back vibe complements the activity, offering a thrilling yet non-intimidating experience for everyone present. This setup supports group dynamics beautifully, as members cheer each other on, compare scores, and even engage in playful rivalries.
How does Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns ensure safety and accessibility for all participants? Safety is paramount at Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns, particularly because the sport involves handling potentially dangerous equipment. When groups arrive, trained staff lead detailed safety briefings, explaining how to throw axes correctly and stand safely within the space. These briefings help to prevent accidents and set a respectful tone. The instructors’ approach is patient and encouraging, important for calming first-timers and ensuring that everyone understands the rules thoroughly. Accessibility is another key aspect — the venue welcomes all skill levels and ages, supporting a diverse clientele. Whether it’s a group of experienced axe throwers or a family trying something new, everyone receives personalized attention to maximize fun without compromising safety. This inclusive and professional approach makes Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns a trusted choice for groups looking to enjoy an exciting activity in a secure environment.
Why is Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns perfect for group meetups and celebrations? The venue’s spacious layout and social atmosphere make it particularly suitable for groups of all sizes. Its design facilitates interaction, making it easy for people to enjoy the activity together, share laughs, and engage in friendly competition. Whether it’s a casual gathering with friends, a family outing, or a celebration like a birthday party or team-building event, Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns adapts seamlessly to the group’s needs. The professional staff help organize and coordinate events, ensuring a smooth flow and catering to special requests. Since the venue used to be connected with a brewery, a social element of enjoying drinks alongside the activity adds to the festive atmosphere — even though the St. Johns location is now separate, local refreshments may still be available nearby. Overall, the space combines sport, socializing, and celebration in a way that elevates any group gathering beyond the ordinary.
What sets Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns apart from other entertainment venues in Portland? Aside from its standout activity—axe throwing—the business’s history and commitment to quality create a distinctive experience. Originating as Oregon's first axe throwing company and once the world’s first axe throwing venue inside a brewery, Portland Axe Throwing has extensive expertise and a pioneering spirit in this niche. The founders’ passion for the sport is evident in the venue’s warm, community-oriented feel, and in how they cater to both locals and newcomers. Reviews often praise the professionalism and friendliness of staff, their clear and thorough coaching, and the clean, inviting environment. The consistent high rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 75 reviewers underscores this reputation. Compared to other meet-up ideas like bowling or arcade centers, the focus on axe throwing offers a fresh, adrenaline-charged kind of fun that is memorable and engaging, fostering stronger social bonds through a shared sense of achievement.
How can your group prepare for a meetup at Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns? To maximize the fun and safety of your visit, groups should plan ahead by booking lanes in advance, which guarantees your spot and helps the venue manage group sizes effectively. It’s wise to arrive early to get acquainted with the venue’s rules and soak in the atmosphere. Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended to ensure ease of movement and safety during the throwing activity. Bringing a spirit of friendly competition and teamwork will also enrich the experience. Participants can look forward to discovering their hidden talents as axe throwers and sharing in each other’s progress and victories. The venue’s welcoming policies and expert guidance make it easy for first-timers to jump right in and for seasoned players to refine their skills, ensuring a great time for everyone involved.
What additional features enhance the group experience at Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns? Beyond the central axe throwing activity, the venue prides itself on its welcoming and inclusive environment, often described as a third space where community members can gather comfortably. Although the brewery partnership mentioned in past reviews no longer exists at this location, the surrounding St. Johns neighborhood offers diverse food and drink options that groups can enjoy before or after their throwing sessions. This proximity to local eateries and bars means groups can extend their meetup seamlessly, making it a full-day social outing. The staff also frequently provide encouragement and celebrate participants’ milestones, contributing to a positive vibe. Moreover, Portland Axe Throwing’s focus on technique and player development means groups are not just entertained but also challenged in a rewarding way, which elevates the overall meetup experience.
In what ways does Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns accommodate different types of group meetups? Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a birthday party, a corporate team-building event, or a family outing, Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns is versatile. For casual groups looking for adventure and laughter, the venue serves as an exciting playground. Birthday parties benefit from dedicated group spaces and engaging activities that make celebrations memorable and interactive. Corporate groups enjoy the team-building potential inherent in the collaborative and competitive elements of axe throwing, which encourage communication, strategy, and mutual support. Family meetups are equally welcome, with staff adjusting coaching to suit all ages and experience levels. The venue’s inclusive philosophy means that no group feels out of place, and every event is handled with care to ensure a rewarding and hassle-free experience tailored to the group’s unique needs. This adaptability makes Portland Axe Throwing St. Johns a premier choice for a wide variety of group occasions.