When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub
Why Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub is a distinctive destination in Portland, Oregon, that beautifully blends the spirit of a local running store with the warm, social vibe of a cozy pub. Located at 2258 NW Raleigh St., just off NW 23rd Avenue, this establishment offers not only premium running gear but also a curated selection of Oregon’s top craft beers on tap. The Run Pub is more than a store; it’s a welcoming community hub for runners of all levels—from casual joggers aiming for two miles to ultramarathoners training for their next big race. Visitors can enjoy expert advice from knowledgeable staff who ensure each customer finds the perfect fit and gear tailored to their running needs. The store also hosts regular group runs, such as Monday Night Trails, a 5- to 9-mile run through scenic Forest Park, and Thirsty Thursdays, which culminate in social gatherings at The Run Pub itself. The unique loyalty program integrates technology and running motivation, allowing runners to earn discounts on pints through a Strava group that tracks miles run. Additionally, The Run Pub sells branded apparel and drinkware, extending the community spirit beyond just running and beer. This blend of quality gear, a vibrant running community, and a friendly pub atmosphere makes Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub an outstanding location to connect with friends, share a pint, and celebrate the joy of running.
Here's what people think of Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub
As of recent, Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub holds a 4.8-star rating based on 97 reviews.
User reviews of Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub consistently highlight its outstanding combination of a specialty running store coupled with a lively pub atmosphere, reflected in its impressive 4.8-star rating from 97 reviews. Positive feedback frequently praises the knowledgeable and friendly staff who provide expert fitting and gear recommendations, making both beginners and seasoned runners feel welcomed and supported. Reviewers also appreciate the quality and variety of Oregon craft beers available on tap, emphasizing how the pub’s relaxed ambiance creates a unique social space that complements the retail experience. Many enjoy the regular community runs and events hosted by the store, which foster a strong sense of belonging among local runners. Some customers mention the innovative Strava program that rewards running miles with beer discounts as a fun and motivating perk. On the negative side, a few reviews point out that the space can get crowded during popular events or peak hours, occasionally making it difficult to shop or relax comfortably. A small number note limited parking availability nearby. However, these minor drawbacks are generally overshadowed by the overwhelmingly positive impression. Overall, reviews convey that Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub successfully combines quality products, expert service, and a vibrant, inclusive community atmosphere that encourages fitness and social connection alike, making it a highly recommended destination for runners and beer enthusiasts in Portland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Adam Rojas
I went here to get new running shoes. I’m not an avid runner so I like to get help when picking new shoes. Upon walking in, I was greeted and welcomed by the staff. I believe the person who helped me was named Leo. He quickly came asking if I needed help and sat down with me to help me see what kind of shoes I needed. I was asked to do a small walk to see what kind of shoes might benefit me more. He brought out various shoes explaining what each one did and were transparent on the price and were more than helpful on staying within my price range. They spent a good time with me helping me make sure that my shoes were the right pair for me! Definitely recommend coming here as this was a great experience when it comes to shopping for running shoes!
Jacob Nokes
Adam and Emil went above and beyond. Very knowledgeable and made sure I got the shoes that were right for me. 100% recommend coming here for anything running related
Audra Jones
Justin was very patient and understanding of me needs and never rushed me. I ended duo buying Brooks that he recommended and they’re great. Thx again!
Kevin Xu
Adam was super helpful and cool, he helped me try on a million different sizes and colors, was totally patient and kind the whole way. Really glad I came here and got the 1 on 1 recommendations and help!
Ian Meyer
Cute running store with a solid selection of shoes. I wasn't shopping for shoes today (just getting a beer and saying hi) but 2 different team members politely offered me help while I browsed. Both staff members I spoke to had great recommendations for local runs and there is a little tap wall inside where you can grab a pint to sip inside or on the sidewalk at some tables outside--super cool vibes and helpful/friendly people!
How to reach Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub
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Website: None
Why Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub with your friends? Because it combines the perfect trifecta of community, activity, and relaxation in a vibe that’s unique to Portland’s vibrant running and social scene. Whether you and your friends are seasoned runners, casual joggers, or simply looking for a lively spot to gather, this place invites you to rally around shared passions—running and craft beer—in a welcoming, energetic atmosphere. The venue is more than just a running store; it’s a hub for connection where motivation meets celebration. You can lace up, hit the trails or streets alongside fellow runners, and then unwind together over pints of some of Oregon’s finest local brews in their cozy Run Pub. This blend of fitness and fun fosters camaraderie that makes group meetups memorable, fulfilling, and repeated. With a near-perfect rating of 4.8 from almost a hundred reviews, it’s evident that customers value the balanced but spirited environment. Rallying here means strengthening friendships while also embracing health, community interaction, and the joy of exploration—an ideal recipe for any group looking to experience Portland’s renowned running culture along with genuine social warmth.
What activities can you enjoy at Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub?
Portland Running Co. isn’t just a retail store; it’s the epicenter of Portland’s running community activities, offering an impressive lineup of group runs that cater to all skill levels and schedules. They host weekly group runs every day of the week, including Sunday long runs and easier runs Monday nights, as well as trail runs and track workouts during the week. These runs typically range from about 4 to 6 miles, providing a perfect distance for a social workout that’s accessible to many. You don’t need to sign up in advance—just show up, sign a waiver if it’s your first time, and join the pack. Running alongside others builds motivation, encourages friendships, and boosts accountability, all while exploring scenic locales like Forest Park, Terwilliger, Mount Tabor, and the Sellwood Bridge Loop. After the exercise, the group returns to The Run Pub to relax and socialize. Having after-run drinks together fosters deeper connections and rewards the day's effort with at least $5 pints on Thursdays. This cycle of run-then-refresh offers a seamless blend of physical activity and communal downtime, making it ideal for groups who enjoy being active together but also want to kick back and chat over great beer.
How does The Run Pub enhance your group meetup experience?
The Run Pub transforms the typical running store experience into a true destination by incorporating a lively public house inside the space. Unlike many bars or pubs that open only in the evenings, The Run Pub is available during normal business hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., allowing runners who finish morning workouts to immediately enjoy a refreshing local brew. The tap list features a rotating variety of Oregon beers with a special nod to Rogue, a brewery celebrated for its strong ties to running culture. This dedication to running-friendly libations means the atmosphere is tailored to those who appreciate both a quality workout and a well-crafted beer afterward. The pub is intentionally designed to feel welcoming for groups, offering a place to geek out over running gear, share stories from the day’s run, or simply kick back in a comfortable, social environment. This blend of world-class running gear and top-notch craft beers is rare, making it an ideal hangout for groups who want a well-rounded social experience that rewards their athletic lifestyle. The availability of branded Run Pub gear, from sweatshirts to growlers, further fosters a sense of community identity and pride.
Why is Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub perfect for hosting group events?
Planning a meetup for friends or family often means balancing diverse interests and finding a venue that offers a bit of something for everyone. Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub nails this balance by providing an inviting space that benefits from Portland’s renowned outdoor lifestyle and craft beer culture. Free weekly group runs eliminate the worry of organizing complicated plans or needing a wide variety of experience levels—all are welcome, and no obligation beyond showing up. The group runs promote inclusivity and interaction, allowing newcomers and veterans alike to connect in a natural, low-pressure setting. Once the run is over, The Run Pub becomes a shared social hub where your group can linger over specialty beers and share laughter, stories, or future running goals. It’s rare to find a place that so fluidly transitions between physical activity and socializing without losing energy or focus on either. For groups wanting an active, healthful experience that culminates in relaxation and rich social bonds, this location delivers consistently.
What makes the running community at Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub stand out?
The true essence of Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub is its reputation as a community cornerstone. The founders and hosts are deeply ingrained in the running world, with marathon coaches and experienced runners contributing to a knowledgeable and passionate staff. This means your group isn’t just joining a casual meetup—they’re plugging into a network of runners who value mental and physical strength, community support, and the joy of running as a lifestyle. The emphasis on connection extends beyond running events, with tech-savvy features like the Run Pub App and integration with Strava that allow group members to track miles and earn rewards like discounts on beer. These tools promote a continuous connection, even between organized runs, motivating group members to keep active together virtually. Weekly social runs also include unique themes such as trail runs and “Thirsty Thursday” events that keep the offerings fresh and engaging. This blend of expert-driven programming, lively social events, and interactive technology sets the community apart as extremely motivating and welcoming for anyone wanting to rally friends around fitness and fun.
How flexible is Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub for different group sizes and types?
The venue’s design and programming cater expertly to a wide spectrum of groups, whether you are organizing a small gathering of friends or a larger family outing. The shop and pub’s central Portland location at NW Raleigh Street offers easy accessibility to various running routes in beautiful urban and natural settings, perfect for groups seeking flexible options between casual jogs, trail runs, or more structured workouts. The open, relaxed layout of The Run Pub is also well-suited for different group sizes—larger parties can arrange to gather comfortably without feeling cramped, while smaller groups enjoy the cozy ambiance for intimate conversations. Since many group runs don’t require registration, spontaneous meetups are straightforward to pull off, making it ideal for those who prefer less formal organization. Furthermore, the staff’s expertise and welcoming nature mean the environment feels inclusive and safe for all ages and abilities, as long as participants are 21 or older for pub events. This adaptability ensures that any kind of group meetup — from casual friends’ runs to celebratory family gatherings — feels natural and enjoyable.
What are some insider tips for maximizing your visit to Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub?
To get the most out of your experience, consider timing your meetup around one of the many free weekly group runs. Participating not only builds group energy but also plugs you into the local running culture, making your visit more meaningful. Using the Run Pub App and joining their Strava group allows you and your friends to track progress and earn beer discounts, turning your physical activity into tangible rewards and an ongoing shared goal. Be sure to check out the latest in cutting-edge running gear during your visit—these demos often coincide with in-store events and bring the community together in a geeky, fun way. For those who appreciate craft beer culture, visiting on a Saturday morning can be particularly special since the pub experiences one of its peak beer-selling hours as runners finish their first workouts of the day. Lastly, if your group enjoys post-run discussions, the variety of seating options and warm atmosphere offer the perfect backdrop to relax and plan your next adventure, further reinforcing the sense of camaraderie that makes Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub so magnetic.
By combining dynamic group runs, expert-run community engagement, Oregon’s best beers, and a socially vibrant pub environment, Portland Running Co. + The Run Pub stands out as an exemplary venue for rallying friends and family. Its ability to simultaneously inspire movement, foster meaningful connections, and offer relaxation and refreshment creates an unrivaled meetup experience in Portland’s active scene.