When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Portland Metro Arts
Why Portland Metro Arts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Portland Metro Arts (PMA) has been a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in the Portland Metro Area since its establishment in 1952. This non-profit organization is dedicated to offering comprehensive arts education and diverse performance opportunities to people of all ages, with a special focus on youth engagement. With its mission rooted in the belief that arts education significantly enhances student achievement and personal success, PMA provides an inclusive environment where creativity thrives. Located at 9003 SE Stark St., PMA offers a wide range of programs including dance, music, theatre, and visual arts. These programs include classes, workshops, summer camps, and private lessons, available during after-school hours, weekends, and summer breaks. The organization also facilitates community participation through monthly volunteer opportunities and special events. Portland Metro Arts’ commitment extends beyond education to include active performance involvement, allowing participants to apply their skills on stage in a supportive setting. Its welcoming atmosphere and strong community involvement make it an ideal meeting place for friends and families who appreciate the arts and want to nurture their own creative talents together.
Here's what people think of Portland Metro Arts
As of recent, Portland Metro Arts holds a 4.7-star rating based on 22 reviews.
Overall, reviewers have expressed consistently positive experiences with Portland Metro Arts, reflected in its high rating of 4.7 out of 22 reviews. Many users highlight the organization's welcoming atmosphere, talented instructors, and the comprehensive range of artistic programs available. Positive feedback particularly focuses on the quality and diversity of arts education opportunities, with numerous patrons appreciating the focus on youth and community engagement. Parents have praised the summer camps and after-school activities for fostering creativity in children. Moreover, the organization’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity has been recognized as a major strength. On the other hand, some negative reviews note occasional scheduling conflicts and limitations in class availability due to high demand. A few reviews mention the need for clearer communication regarding specific program details. Despite these minor critiques, the community sentiment remains overwhelmingly supportive, emphasizing Portland Metro Arts' role as a vital resource for artistic growth and cultural participation. In conclusion, Portland Metro Arts is widely regarded as an exceptional institution fostering artistic development and community connection in the Portland area, backed by strong user endorsement and an active, passionate volunteer base.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kaiser Ghost
This place was awesome, nice staff. Some are a bit scary though, I used to go here, and I took art classes where they let me do digital art on my tablet (I still do art), and stuff, I don’t have much to say about it due to my Memory being terrible. But yea, good place, I recommend it if you wanna send your kid here :)
Eleni O'Neill
Review is for the summer camp for kids: I was not a huge fan of this place. It is very far from our home (took ages to get here and back again), and there is nowhere shady to park or wait for your kiddos. The children, when they play out-of-doors, play in the same, unshaded parking lot that you park your car in when you pick them up: yuck! However, my daughter had a really good time here. She did some acting and some singing. She LOVED the singing and learning songs from different cultures. And, speaking of different cultures, the diversity in the student population was appreciated.
TJ Larison
I've been a part of this organization since 1987. It has many different art forms to share. It is a family. I've raised my children within this non-profit. My oldest daughter now teaches for them and now I will have the opportunity for my granddaughter to grow, experiencing the arts. There is Dance, music, theater and visual arts.
Joyce Pfleger
Saw The Geezer Palooza II Geezers Gone Wild last night. It was entertaining and the production was OK. All was fine until one of the actors gave a political rant in the Ohio location in the production. It made our entire group very uncomfortable and what was suppose to be a fun comedy turned into a political protest, of sorts. I do not choose to attend political protests and did not appreciate her involving me in one. I was tempted to leave during this, but decided to be polite. I do not recommend this production because of this. Our group left feeling unhappy. It was not a fun filled evening after all!
Exuro Piechocki
Honestly a gem. It's owned and operated by people who actually care about their work and how it impacts their students and community. They have multiple dance studios in the space with mirrors and handrails along the walls. There is a theater space with ~100 seats which can accommodate plays that that require back drops, curtains, lighting and sound control, etc. Check out a show the next time they put one on!
How to reach Portland Metro Arts
None
Website: None
Why rally at Portland Metro Arts with your friends? Portland Metro Arts (PMA) is an exceptional venue that invites groups of friends and families to come together and share in a vibrant, creative experience. It offers a dynamic environment where everyone—regardless of their age or artistic background—can engage in arts education, workshops, and performances that spark imagination and foster community bonds. Whether you want to celebrate a birthday, host a casual meetup, or simply enjoy time together in an inspiring space, PMA caters to all with warmth and professionalism. The spacious, welcoming studios and well-equipped theater create the perfect ambiance for group activities that involve dance, theater, music, and visual arts, all under one roof. The location is easily accessible via public transit and freeways, making it a convenient choice for people coming from across Portland and surrounding areas. Choosing PMA for your gathering means immersing your group in an energetic, artistic atmosphere that encourages creativity and shared joy, making your meetup memorable and meaningful.
What activities can groups enjoy at Portland Metro Arts? PMA offers an array of activities perfect for social gatherings and group participation. One of the highlights is its diverse arts classes in dance, theater, visual arts, and music, suitable for all skill levels and ages. Groups can join performing arts workshops where they learn new skills together and even prepare for public performances in the PMA theatre. The visual arts studios offer hands-on art-making sessions, which are perfect for creative group projects or collaborative exhibitions. For those who prefer something more structured, PMA organizes themed events and special courses such as the Hammer & Nail/Needle & Thread Club, where participants can volunteer and engage in crafty activities that help support the center’s ongoing work. Additionally, PMA provides children’s birthday packages featuring thematic dance, theater, music, or art activities led by professional staff—ideal for family gatherings and celebrations. This variety ensures that every guest finds an activity they enjoy, creating shared experiences that reinforce bonds through creative expression.
Why is Portland Metro Arts the perfect place for a group meetup? The center’s thoughtfully designed facility caters exceptionally well to groups, providing spacious studios and a well-equipped theater that can accommodate intimate gatherings or larger celebrations. Beyond the physical space, PMA’s staff is experienced in event planning and execution, offering help and personalized attention to make hosting effortless and enjoyable. The venue is highly flexible, suitable for diverse occasions—from wedding celebrations and birthday parties to corporate holiday events or casual creative meetups—making it a multi-use artistic hub. Its location on SE Stark Street is accessible via TriMet’s No. 15 bus, which stops right at the corner, and there’s convenient parking nearby, easing logistics for attendees. The center also fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, buzzing with creative energy that is both inspiring and welcoming. This environment not only enhances the experience for attendees but also encourages ongoing connections within the arts community, making it ideal for groups wishing to deepen their social and cultural ties.
How does Portland Metro Arts support creativity and learning for groups? PMA has been an integral part of Portland’s arts education since 1952, operating with the mission to provide opportunities for everyone to learn, perform, and experience the arts. It offers structured programming that nurtures learning through hands-on practice, performance, and collaborative projects. Groups visiting PMA can participate in engaging workshops designed to build skills while encouraging creative risk-taking in a supportive environment. For example, the Metro Dancers program invites rehearsal and performance participation that could be perfect for friends interested in dance, while music and theatre classes promote group interaction through ensemble work and shared storytelling. Visual arts workshops enable collaborative creation, where groups work side by side on community murals, exhibitions, or craft projects. This commitment to learning is rooted in the belief that arts education contributes significantly to personal development and fosters social cohesion, making PMA an inspiring place to gather with friends to explore new artistic avenues together.
What amenities and event services does Portland Metro Arts offer for hosting your meetup? Portland Metro Arts provides a full-service experience to make group events seamless and enjoyable. Their facilities include several spacious studios tailored for dance, theatre, music, and visual arts, allowing groups to customize their meetup based on interests. The center’s theater is a highlight, equipped for performances, presentations, or screenings, ideal for groups wanting to showcase talents or just enjoy an artistic show together. PMA also offers event planning support to assist with logistics, scheduling, and setup, ensuring each gathering runs smoothly and fits your vision. For family-friendly parties, their birthday packages include themed activities led by experienced instructors, allowing everyone to participate and take home special mementos. The location benefits from easy access by public transit and ample parking, which simplifies attendance. Plus, PMA’s community-oriented atmosphere and volunteer opportunities provide additional ways to engage beyond just a single event, fostering a deeper connection to the arts community while enjoying time together.
How accessible and convenient is Portland Metro Arts for group gatherings? Accessibility is a key strength of Portland Metro Arts, making it an ideal meeting spot for friends and families from across the Portland metro area and even SW Washington. The center is located at 9003 SE Stark Street in Portland, with convenient entry points from major freeways. Public transit users have excellent options, with TriMet’s No. 15 bus stopping right at the corner of 90th & Stark, and another convenient stop one block away, ensuring ease of arrival for those without private transportation. Operating hours are extensive and accommodating, with weekdays open from early afternoon to evening and Saturdays offering longer availability, providing flexibility for scheduling meets at convenient times for groups with varied availability. The facility is designed to be welcoming and accessible for participants of all ages and abilities, with ample parking and thoughtful layout to maximize comfort. This strong emphasis on convenience and accessibility means that people can focus on enjoying their time and activities together without worrying about transportation hassles.
What community opportunities and ongoing programs enhance group experiences at PMA? Portland Metro Arts is more than just a venue—it’s a lively community hub enriched by ongoing events and volunteer opportunities that groups can choose to engage in before, during, or after their meetup. The center regularly hosts special events such as seasonal camps, themed workshops, and concerts which are open to the public but also perfect for groups seeking shared artistic experiences beyond classes. Groups can volunteer for programs like the Hammer & Nail/Needle & Thread Club, which supports the center’s operations while offering a creative and social outlet. Resident tenants and various art organizations also often present performances and exhibitions, adding layers of cultural engagement that groups can enjoy together. By participating in these programs, groups not only have fun but also contribute to and benefit from the thriving local arts community, deepening connections within Portland’s creative network. This sense of community involvement makes a visit to PMA both a cultural outing and a meaningful social activity.
What makes Portland Metro Arts a unique destination for special occasions? Portland Metro Arts stands out as a distinctive choice for special occasions because it effortlessly combines artistic enrichment with celebration. Beyond standard party venues, PMA offers themed artistic experiences led by professional instructors, turning celebrations into participatory creative adventures. Whether it’s a wedding celebration, bar or bat mitzvah, corporate party, or birthday, PMA tailors event packages so that guests not only celebrate together but also create lasting memories through the arts. The center’s environment, filled with natural light and vibrant energy, lends itself to both joyous socializing and creative exploration. Its long history and reputation as an arts education leader add gravitas and charm, appealing to those who want their event to transcend the ordinary. With ample space, professional support, and multifaceted artistic programming, PMA ensures your special occasion is immersive, engaging, and memorable for all who attend. This blend of art, community, and celebration makes it an excellent choice for friends and families seeking a meaningful way to come together.