When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Rich's Cigar Store
Why Rich's Cigar Store is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Rich's Cigar Store stands as a unique and cherished destination in Portland, Oregon, offering a warm, welcoming environment perfect for meeting up with friends and enjoying quality tobacco products. Established in 1894, this family-owned business is the longest operating retailer in the city, reflecting a deep heritage and dedication to tobacco culture. The store is known for its exceptional selection, boasting over 1,500 distinct cigars including prestigious brands like Davidoff, Padrón, and Opus X. Beyond cigars, Rich's also offers the largest variety of tobacco pipes west of the Mississippi, alongside an extensive inventory of pipe tobacco, with several blends crafted by their in-house master blender over the past three decades. Furthermore, the store is famed for carrying approximately 200 types of tobacco and an impressive collection of international magazines and newspapers, providing a cultured and relaxed atmosphere for visitors. Rich's lounge area invites patrons to engage in conversation, reflection, and friendship, emphasizing tobacco as a vehicle for social connection and relaxation. Their knowledgeable staff values respectful, kind, and informative interactions, ensuring every visitor feels appreciated. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or new to tobacco, Rich's Cigar Store offers a unique combination of tradition, selection, and a human experience that makes it an exceptional place to gather with friends.
Here's what people think of Rich's Cigar Store
As of recent, Rich's Cigar Store holds a 4.6-star rating based on 317 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight Rich's Cigar Store as a premier destination for tobacco enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, reflected in its strong 4.6-star rating from over 300 reviews. Positive feedback frequently praises the store’s vast and curated selection of fine cigars, excellent pipe tobacco blends, and the rare availability of exclusive brands like Davidoff. Reviewers often commend the knowledgeable, friendly, and courteous staff who provide personalized recommendations and foster a welcoming atmosphere. Many customers appreciate the well-maintained lounge space where they can relax and enjoy cigars with friends, reinforcing the store's reputation as a social hub. The thoughtful curation of international magazines and newspapers is another aspect guests value, adding an element of cultural richness to their visits. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews mention occasional issues such as the high price points for premium products, which is expected in a specialty retailer of this caliber, and limited parking options near downtown locations. A few customers also wished for longer operating hours or greater seating availability during peak times. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive reviews attest to Rich's enduring legacy and commitment to quality, personalized service, and a genuine community experience, making it a beloved fixture in Portland's tobacco retail scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Key
Best place in town to buy a pipe and cigars. The staff is helpful and they have a good selection to choose from. There's a lounge to sit and smoke. Downtown parking is challenging, but you already knew that.
Phillip
This place is my jam. They helped me find a fabulous stick that I’ve never seen before in my market. So happy I found this gem of a business. I’ll be back.
Brandon Quinn
I'm not an aficionado. I come here to buy cigars for a friend. These guys are attentive to my requests and give great suggestions. There are always people in there smoking and talking like a parlor of sorts. Really cool spot to visit.
Joseph Conrow
Wonderful group of people working there! Had a real nice time talking to Erin! Got my first Peterson and a great blend by Bill himself! Go check it out and talk to some great folks!
Nikolai Serban
I went in with a cigar enthusiast who's been guiding me into the vice. The guy behind the counter was incompetent. Couldn't figure out their own system, -and- didn't know anything about cigars. My friend was polite, but told me that every single thing he said as an answer to my questions was wrong. Disappointing.
How to reach Rich's Cigar Store
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Why Rich's Cigar Store may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Rich’s Cigar Store with your friends?
Gathering a group of friends or family for a memorable outing is about more than just the location—it’s about the atmosphere, the experience, and creating lasting memories together. Rich’s Cigar Store in Portland offers a unique blend of tradition, luxury, and social engagement making it an exceptional destination for group meetups. Established in 1894, this family-owned business has become a cherished institution, boasting Portland’s largest selection of cigars, pipes, and tobacco products. With a stellar rating of 4.6 from over 300 reviews, visitors consistently praise the store for its wide selection and welcoming ambiance. The store’s interior, especially the downtown Alder location, includes a 30-seat smoking lounge designed to provide a comfortable setting where groups can relax, converse, and enjoy premium cigars indoors—all year round, regardless of weather. The ambiance is sophisticated yet approachable, encouraging camaraderie in a cozy, refined environment. Whether you are a cigar aficionado or a beginner curious about fine tobaccos, Rich’s offers both an educational and leisure experience ideal for socializing with friends and family in an intimate, inviting space.
What activities does Rich’s Cigar Store offer for groups?
Rich’s Cigar Store goes beyond just selling cigars—they provide a full social experience that caters to group meetups through their well-appointed smoking lounges and an extensive inventory. The downtown headquarters at 820 SW Alder Street features a luxurious 30-seat smoking lounge where groups can gather comfortably to enjoy cigars together indoors. This lounge is an ideal spot to unwind, fostering a relaxed atmosphere where conversation flows easily. Beyond simply smoking, groups can explore Rich’s impressive inventory of thousands of cigar boxes and tobacco blends made from recipes developed by their in-house master blender, available exclusively at this store. This provides an opportunity for friends to sample and discover new flavors collectively, engaging in shared tastes and preferences that enrich the experience. The staff are knowledgeable and welcoming, happy to guide groups through the various options, helping to educate newcomers and seasoned smokers alike. Additionally, pipe tobacco enthusiasts will find one of the largest selections west of the Mississippi, including hundreds of pipe styles to browse and try, making it perfect for groups interested in exploring both cigars and pipes during their visit.
Why is Rich’s Cigar Store a perfect place for a group meetup?
Several key factors make Rich’s Cigar Store a standout venue for hosting social gatherings. Firstly, the balance of tradition and modernity creates an ambiance that appeals to diverse groups, from casual friends meeting for the first time to long-standing families sharing a pastime. The fact that the store has been family-owned and operated for over 130 years imbues the place with a warm, genuine character that chain stores often lack. The downtown lounge seating is spacious enough to accommodate intimate and moderately sized groups, enabling everyone to relax comfortably without feeling rushed or overcrowded. Furthermore, the store’s position as the only Davidoff appointed merchant in Oregon means it offers premium and exclusive cigar selections that lend a sense of prestige and special occasion to any meetup. Rich’s commitment to customer service, respect, and kindness ensures guests feel valued and welcomed, enhancing the overall experience. Groups can spend hours exploring rich tobacco flavors, discussing blends, and simply enjoying each other’s company in a refined yet friendly environment that encourages meaningful social interaction.
What types of cigars and tobacco products can groups explore at Rich’s?
Rich’s prides itself on carrying Portland’s largest and most diverse selection of cigars and tobacco products, making it a true haven for groups eager to explore premium tobacco together. Whether your group consists of seasoned cigar lovers or novices curious about cigars and pipes, Rich’s extensive inventory ensures there is something for everyone. The store stocks thousands of cigar boxes, including many hard-to-find and luxury brands, allowing groups to sample different styles at various price points. Rich’s is also renowned for its pipe tobacco blends, many created over 30 years ago by their master blender, offering complexity and high quality for discerning smokers. Tobacco pipes themselves come in a vast range of designs and materials, one of the largest selections west of the Mississippi, providing both a visual and sensory exploration opportunity for groups interested in pipe smoking. Moreover, the store offers other luxury accessories and tobacco-related products to complement the smoking experience, such as fine cutters, lighters, and humidors. This comprehensive product range supports a rich, shared experience as friends learn and try new things together, whether purchasing or just enjoying the ambiance.
What sets Rich’s Cigar Store’s lounge apart for group enjoyment?
The indoor smoking lounge at Rich’s downtown Alder location is a cornerstone of its appeal for hosting social gatherings. Unlike many cigar stores that lack seating, Rich’s offers a dedicated 30-seat lounge where groups can smoke comfortably and legally indoors, regardless of the season or weather. This dedicated space is thoughtfully designed to facilitate relaxed conversation and prolonged enjoyment of cigars in a refined setting. The lounge’s ambiance exudes a classic yet contemporary charm, with plush seating and tasteful decor that invites guests to settle in and savor not only their cigars but the atmosphere itself. Having such a space means groups can stay longer without feeling hurried, fostering better social interaction and shared appreciation of the craft of cigar smoking. The privacy and comfort of this lounge also make it suitable for events like casual reunions, celebrations, or informal business gatherings. Combined with expertly curated cigar selections and attentive staff guidance, the lounge creates an immersive and unforgettable group experience.
How can Rich’s staff enhance your group meetup?
One of the most valuable aspects of Rich’s Cigar Store is its knowledgeable and friendly staff, who play a crucial role in making group visits enjoyable and educational. With decades of combined experience in cigars, pipes, and tobacco blends, the team can expertly guide groups through the extensive inventory, tailoring recommendations to suit different tastes and expertise levels. They patiently answer questions, offer insights into cigar history and production, and provide tips on proper smoking technique, which is particularly valuable for novices in a group. This personalized assistance can transform a simple shopping trip into an engaging learning experience that everyone in the group appreciates. Additionally, the staff’s genuine passion for tobacco and respect toward customers create a warm atmosphere where guests feel comfortable asking anything. For groups, this means a more interactive and memorable outing where they not only share cigars but gain new knowledge and appreciation together. This level of service is especially important for groups wanting to create lasting social bonds around a shared interest.
What events or special experiences can groups enjoy at Rich’s?
While primarily a retail and lounge destination, Rich’s Cigar Store periodically hosts events and special offerings that can enhance group meetups. Their commitment to community and tobacco education means they sometimes organize master classes, blending workshops, or tasting events that invite groups to deepen their appreciation of tobacco as a craft. These events foster a sense of camaraderie and provide unique shared experiences beyond the ordinary shopping visit. Groups can take advantage of these opportunities to learn about the nuances of tobacco blends, the artistry of pipes, or the cigar-making process, enriching their bond through educational entertainment. Even if not attending a formal event, groups benefit from the atmosphere of expertise and passion during a normal visit, where spontaneous discussions and recommendations often lead to lively interaction. Specialty promotions and limited releases also offer a chance to try something exclusive together, turning an ordinary meetup into a memorable occasion.
How accessible and convenient is Rich’s Cigar Store for group visits?
Rich’s Cigar Store offers convenient locations in Portland that make it easy to plan group visits. The main downtown headquarters on SW Alder Street is centrally located, with ample lounge space and a significant inventory, perfect for a bigger meetup. Their other location in the Pearl District at NW Flanders Street provides a more boutique browsing experience for groups in a different vibrant neighborhood of Portland. Both locations are accessible via public transportation and provide comfortable spaces to gather. Regular operating hours, especially at the Alder store which is open six days a week from 10 AM to 6 PM and offers extended hours on some days, provide flexibility to accommodate different group schedules. The staff can also assist with phone or email orders to reserve items, making the planning process smoother for groups wanting to prepare ahead. This ease of access combined with attentive service and ample downtown parking options makes Rich’s a hassle-free, reliable venue for hosting friends, family, or colleagues.
Why does Rich’s Cigar Store stand out in the local community for social gatherings?
Rich’s Cigar Store is more than just a retail store; it is a Portland institution with a rich heritage that contributes significantly to the local community culture. Operating for over 130 years, it carries a legacy of craftsmanship, hospitality, and social connection that resonates deeply with residents and visitors alike. This long-standing presence underlines their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, creating a sense of trust and familiarity that nurtures repeat visits. The store’s philosophy that tobacco is a vehicle for relaxation, friendships, and contemplation aligns perfectly with the ethos of group meetups, where conversation and connection matter most. By providing a warm, respectful, and inclusive environment, Rich’s fosters not only smoking enjoyment but also genuine human interaction, a rarity in today’s fast-paced world. For groups looking for an authentic Portland experience that combines culture, history, and camaraderie, Rich’s Cigar Store naturally becomes the go-to destination.
In summary, Rich’s Cigar Store offers a unique, comfortable, and richly rewarding environment for groups seeking an enjoyable place to gather. Their spacious lounges, vast inventory, expert staff, and commitment to a welcoming atmosphere make them ideal for meetups with friends and family. Whether you are looking to explore premium cigars, delve into pipe tobacco, or simply enjoy a relaxed social outing in a historic setting, Rich’s has everything to make your group experience special and memorable.