When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Rose City Rollers
Why Rose City Rollers is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Rose City Rollers, based in Portland, Oregon, is a dynamic women's flat track roller derby league founded in 2004 and celebrated for its fierce competition and vibrant community spirit. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit and founding member of the Women's Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA), the league provides an inclusive space for women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals passionate about roller derby. Meeting at The Hangar at Oaks Amusement Park, the Rose City Rollers offer multiple teams, including four adult local home teams and two all-star travel teams that compete nationally and internationally. This makes it an outstanding venue for fans and friends to gather and enjoy exciting bouts year-round from January to June, plus travel seasons throughout the year. Beyond competition, the league fosters accessibility and camaraderie with community events such as the Skatemobile, which brings free public skating events and equipment to parks across Portland during summer. They also host camps and beginner-friendly programs that encourage confidence and athletic growth. For anyone looking to connect with a spirited, empowered community through the "Game of Brutal Beauty," the Rose City Rollers present a welcoming and thrilling environment for friends to meet, cheer, and celebrate the sport and each other.
Here's what people think of Rose City Rollers
As of recent, Rose City Rollers holds a 4.8-star rating based on 161 reviews.
Reviews of the Rose City Rollers are overwhelmingly positive, boasting an impressive 4.8-star rating from 161 reviews. Fans and participants alike praise the league for its passionate players, well-organized events, and the strong sense of community it nurtures both on and off the track. Many positive reviews highlight the excitement and energy of the games, the approachable and supportive atmosphere for newcomers, and the meaningful empowerment the league provides to women and gender-expansive athletes. The venue at The Hangar at Oaks Amusement Park receives commendations for being a great setting to watch the fast-paced bouts, alongside family-friendly events like the Skatemobile that make roller derby accessible to all ages. On the other hand, some critiques mention challenges such as occasional ticketing or seating constraints during larger events and the inherent intensity of roller derby that might not appeal to everyone. A few note the learning curve for understanding the sport's rules, which can affect spectator engagement initially. However, these minor issues are far outweighed by the overall enthusiasm and satisfaction expressed by the vast majority of visitors and skaters. In conclusion, the Rose City Rollers receive high marks for delivering thrilling roller derby action combined with an inclusive, community-driven experience that consistently earns them a treasured spot in Portland’s cultural and sporting landscape.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jeremy Blair
This place was so much fun. A friend asked me to go, I'm a roller skater, so I had to check it out. The culture is a lot different than my "norm" but it was incredible. Some people had signs and were family of the players. They taught us the rules and we screamed and cheered with them. It was a riot, we felt welcomed. These chicks are badass! Oh .... The names... The best!!! I'd suggest some ear plugs if you have sensitive ears and maybe bring a pillow for the bleachers, those things SUCK!
Bernadette O'Brien
What a great experience! I had never been to Roller Derby before and knew nothing about it but enjoyed it to the max. The ladies are incredible athletes and seemed to be enjoying themselves a lot. Everyone from the ticket takers to the fans were friendly and nice. I would recommend to anyone that this is an experience to try at least once.
Jacob Metcalf
I had an absolute blast. I'm so glad that I got a season pass
Anna Larson
Fantastic time! Roller derby is much more involved than I expected. Very impressed by the athleticism and enthusiasm of the whole event. Will definitely be going back!
Dye Dye My Darling Salon
So much fun! It's a screaming good time!
How to reach Rose City Rollers
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Website: None
Why Rose City Rollers may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Rose City Rollers with your friends? The Rose City Rollers in Portland, Oregon, offer a unique and exhilarating experience that combines high-energy sport with a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere. Whether you're an experienced roller derby fan or new to the scene, bringing your friends here promises an unforgettable time packed with thrill, teamwork, and lively entertainment. With a stellar 4.8 rating from over 160 reviews, the league not only delivers top-notch roller derby bouts featuring tough, skilled women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals but also fosters an inclusive environment that makes everyone feel part of the action. Hosting your group meetup here means you get to witness the groundbreaking sport of flat track roller derby at The Hangar at Oaks Amusement Park—an ideal venue that combines spectator comfort with close-up views of rapid, strategic skating battles. Beyond the electrifying games, Rose City Rollers is deeply embedded in Portland’s community fabric, offering activities that engage all ages and skill levels. It's a perfect place for friends and family to bond over an exciting sport, cheer on local champions, and even try skating themselves with rental gear provided. The vibrant energy and spirited crowd make Rose City Rollers not just a sporting event but a shared experience full of camaraderie and fun.
What activities can you enjoy at Rose City Rollers? The core activity at Rose City Rollers is, of course, watching or participating in roller derby bouts. The league boasts four adult home teams—the Break Neck Betties, Guns N Rollers, Heartless Heathers, and High Rollers—that compete in thrilling matches filled with fast-paced action and strategic gameplay. For visitors, attending these bouts is a perfect way to dive into the roller derby culture and cheer on your favorite team within an enthusiastic fan community. Additionally, for families and younger visitors, there are junior teams such as the Rosebuds and Rose Petals leagues, which nurture young athletes aged 7 to 17 in roller derby skills and leadership. If you and your friends are interested in more hands-on fun, Rose City Rollers offer camps and introductory programs during the summer, aimed at helping beginners gain confidence on skates. The league’s “Skatemobile” is another fantastic feature, bringing free roller skating sessions to Portland parks every summer with all the necessary gear, making it easy for groups to enjoy skating in a casual, outdoor setting. Whether you want to watch elite-level derby or get on skates yourselves, the activities here have something for everyone.
Why is Rose City Rollers perfect for a group meetup? The Rose City Rollers create an environment that is inherently social and inclusive, making it a prime location for group outings. The roller derby bouts are electrifying events with an atmosphere reminiscent of a lively concert or sports game, providing your group with a shared sense of excitement and energy. The venue, The Hangar at Oaks Amusement Park, is spacious and accessible, with good seating arrangements that allow groups to sit together comfortably and enjoy the spectacle. The diversity among the league’s members—from young kids to adults of all experience levels—means that people from all walks of life and all ages feel welcome, making it easy to include family and friends with different interests. Moreover, the league’s commitment to community and volunteerism adds a heartfelt dimension; visitors can often engage with the organization, discovering opportunities to volunteer or support local non-profits alongside the Rollers. This communal spirit makes attending or participating here more meaningful than a standard outing. Groups can also enjoy pre- or post-event socializing, creating lasting memories around the shared enthusiasm for this dynamic sport.
How accessible is Rose City Rollers for beginners or casual visitors? Rose City Rollers highly embrace accessibility and beginner-friendliness, which sets it apart as a welcoming destination for people who may not have prior roller derby knowledge or skating experience. The league operates a comprehensive rental and lending library stocked with well-known brands like Riedell skates, S1 helmets, and Triple 8 pads, allowing newcomers to “rent and roll” without needing their own equipment. This lowers the barrier to entry significantly for those interested in trying out skating or attending beginner clinics. The programs cater to all levels—from complete novices, including young children at age seven, to veteran derby athletes competing at an international level. Scholarships and community support are also provided to ensure that cost does not prevent participation, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to inclusivity and growth of the sport. For visitors just coming to watch, detailed insights and friendly staff members enhance understanding and appreciation of the game, making it easy to get involved on any level at Rose City Rollers.
What makes the Rose City Rollers a community-driven organization? Rose City Rollers is much more than a sports league; it is a vibrant, volunteer-driven nonprofit organization that prides itself on building a strong, supportive community in Portland and beyond. Founded in 2004, the league has grown into a family of over 400 members, including skaters, coaches, volunteers, and supporters who all contribute unique talents and time. The organization runs on passion and dedication, with volunteers assisting in media, event planning, marketing, and more, gaining professional skills while fostering a friendly environment. The league actively partners with local nonprofits each quarter to support causes aligned with its mission, reinforcing the deep community ties and social responsibility embraced by the Rollers. Furthermore, the junior leagues emphasize leadership and teamwork, providing youth with empowerment through sport. All these elements combine to make Rose City Rollers a hub of social engagement, personal growth, and shared accomplishment, making it a perfect meetup spot for groups wanting not just entertainment but also a sense of belonging.
What can groups expect at major Rose City Rollers events? Major events at Rose City Rollers, like their home team bouts and the prestigious Global Roller Derby Championship, offer unparalleled experiences for groups looking for an exciting way to spend time together. Bouts are fast-paced and intense, featuring powerful skating, daring tactics, and high physicality, often drawing packed crowds creating a festival-like vibe. The championship events bring together elite teams from around the world, turning the venue into the epicenter of international roller derby competition. These events often feature multiple games over several days, giving attendees plenty of time to socialize, cheer, and immerse themselves in derby culture. Off the track, attendees can enjoy food vendors, merchandise stands, and interactive fan zones, curated to enhance group engagement and fun. For friends and families, attending these events provides not only a thrilling spectacle but a full day or weekend of shared joy and community interaction that emphasizes teamwork and sportspersonship.
In summary, Rose City Rollers offers a dynamic venue and a welcoming community perfect for hosting a meetup with friends or family. Its combination of thrilling roller derby bouts, inclusive programs for all ages and skill levels, strong community involvement, and major events makes it a multifaceted destination where fun and camaraderie flourish. Whether cheering on the home teams, joining beginner skating sessions, or engaging in volunteer opportunities, groups will find Rose City Rollers an exceptional place to connect, celebrate sport, and create lasting memories together.