When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Hangar at Oaks Park
Why The Hangar at Oaks Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Hangar at Oaks Park is a dynamic event space located within Oaks Amusement Park in Portland, Oregon's charming Sellwood neighborhood. Known for its versatile offerings, The Hangar serves as a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy engaging activities, socialize, and experience unique entertainment. This venue often hosts exciting events such as roller derby matches, including games featuring the renowned Rose City Rollers, enhancing its reputation as a hub for lively community gatherings. The spacious indoor facility provides ample room for spectators and participants, making it an ideal meetup spot for groups of friends and families. Situated within the historic Oaks Amusement Park, visitors to The Hangar can also enjoy the surrounding park amenities, adding to the overall appeal as a place to meet up, relax, and have fun. With convenient parking, accessible restrooms, and services that accommodate various event types, The Hangar combines fun, convenience, and community spirit into one attractive venue in Portland.
Here's what people think of The Hangar at Oaks Park
As of recent, The Hangar at Oaks Park holds a 4.6-star rating based on 34 reviews.
User reviews consistently rate The Hangar at Oaks Park highly, as evidenced by its strong 4.6-star rating based on 34 reviews. Reviewers often praise the venue for its vibrant atmosphere and the quality of events it hosts, notably the action-packed roller derby matches that draw enthusiastic crowds. Positive feedback highlights the spaciousness and cleanliness of the facility, the friendly and welcoming staff, and the ease of parking, which together create a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Attendees also appreciate the historic charm of the setting within Oaks Amusement Park, finding that it adds to the unique character and nostalgia of visiting The Hangar. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as limited seating during busy events and the preference for enhanced food or beverage options on-site. A few visitors have noted that the acoustics can sometimes be a challenge during louder events, but these concerns remain relatively minor compared to the overall positive consumer sentiment. In conclusion, the reviews indicate that The Hangar at Oaks Park delivers an engaging and well-managed venue experience that appeals to people looking for social entertainment in Portland, with only small areas for improvement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
PappaJohn Floyd
Wonderful experience at a quintessential American sport. No air conditioning, so a little warm on hot afternoons. Beer/Cold drinks inside. Usually a food truck at the north door.
McKenna Burke
We had a great time watching roller derby! Parking was $4 and super easy. The games do get busy so definitely recommend getting there early so you can grab a seat!
Denise Bertinazzi
Been going here for 2+ years to see our friend play for The Break Neck Betties every game. There's tons of parking, but fills super quick. It's a big metal building so of course impossible to temperature control. They do a great job to try to alter opening and closing the huge sides and fans. They do try. You will either have no reception in there or take 10 minutes to upload a picture to Facebook. They have alcohol vendors and a food vendor inside. Booze is limited to a couple beers, a cider, and a couple of wines that I've noticed. Well it's all we've been interested in. No mixed drinks or anything like that. The food vendor has good food and a vegan wrap cause I took our vegan niece and was able to get her stuff, chips, candy, and a wrap. We usually get nachos and pulled pork sandwiches. They are both very good, the nachos use Doritos for chips, I was shocked but it's really tasty. I wish the hangar was bigger. Definitely need more space. Roller Derby is fun and seems to sell out most times we are there. The reason for not 5 🌟 is needs to be bigger for more people, phone connection, and I over heat there. They have bleachers seating but accommodate with folding chairs if needed for medical reasons.
Andrew Ryan
This is an amazing venue. The lighting is great for catching all the action by some literally world-class athletes! I was amazed as to how many people I talked to in Portland who had never watched a roller derby game there. If you get a chance, and it's derby season, check it out!
Jonathan Feist
Look, this is the home of the Rose City Rollers, which automatically makes it a 5-star location to visit. The facility itself is lacking, it's basically just a quonset - the league needs a new home! None of that matters when the whistle blows and the skaters start skating. These world-class athletes know how to entertain, and the sport is good fun for the family. The Hanger has one track and bleachers for close to 400 people, I think. This non-profit league is mostly run by volunteers, which means there is usually room for you to get involved. Plenty of opportunity to support these strong athletes and the inclusive community that is roller derby. As others have mentioned, there is plenty of parking normally, but if Oaks Amusement Park is open, that changes things.
How to reach The Hangar at Oaks Park
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Why The Hangar at Oaks Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Hangar at Oaks Park with your friends? Because it offers a vibrant blend of nostalgia, excitement, and community all in one iconic location that’s perfect for social gatherings. Whether you're looking to relive the classic charm of roller skating to a live Wurlitzer pipe organ or want to enjoy a lively arcade session, The Hangar presents a unique atmosphere that fosters connection and fun. Its spacious, well-maintained facilities and welcoming environment make it easy to host groups of friends or family members of all ages. The Hangar's location within Oaks Amusement Park adds an extra layer of convenience and adventure, with plenty of parking and easy access just minutes from downtown Portland. Gathering at The Hangar isn’t just about the activities; it’s about the shared experience of laughter, music, and movement in a place steeped in history and joy. This makes it more than just a venue—it’s a destination to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
What activities can you expect at The Hangar at Oaks Park? Primarily, the historic roller skating rink is the centerpiece of the experience here. It’s the oldest American roller rink still in operation, distinguished by its charming live performances on the vintage Wurlitzer pipe organ during certain skate sessions. Skating sessions occur nearly every day except Monday, with special themed events held monthly to keep the vibe fresh and exciting. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned skater, there's a welcoming atmosphere and equipment rentals available, making it easy for everyone to join in on the fun. Beyond skating, The Hangar features an adjoining arcade filled with classic and modern games that provide endless entertainment, especially great for mixed-age groups. This combination of skating, live music, and arcade games ensures a dynamic meetup experience that caters to diverse interests within your group.
Why is The Hangar at Oaks Park perfect for a group meetup? The venue’s layout and services are designed with social gatherings in mind. You’ll find ample parking for guests, restroom facilities, and accessibility features that make the entire facility accommodating and user-friendly. The spacious roller rink and arcade create an energetic yet comfortable environment to socialize without feeling cramped, which is ideal for both casual hangouts and planned celebrations like birthdays or team outings. Group skate rentals and private skating rentals available at reasonable rates make planning straightforward and budget-friendly. Additionally, the ability to combine roller skating with arcade games or even venture into the nearby amusement park rides allows groups to customize the day according to their preferences. The staff at The Hangar are known for their helpfulness and professionalism, ensuring that your meetup goes smoothly from start to finish, so your group can focus on enjoying each other’s company.
What makes roller skating at The Hangar a standout activity? Roller skating here is not just exercise— it’s a cultural experience. Unlike many modern rinks, The Hangar retains its vintage charm with live pipe organ music during select sessions, creating a distinctive ambiance that harks back to a bygone era of entertainment. The rink is open year-round, offering consistency no matter the season, and has special hours on holidays and school break days. This makes it an accessible option for regular meetups or special occasions alike. Rental skates are available, so you don’t need to bring your own gear, and skating lessons are offered for all skill levels—perfect for groups with mixed skating abilities. The rink's well-maintained, retro atmosphere is enhanced by tasteful concessions and a no outside food policy, keeping the focus on clean, safe fun. Participating in skating at The Hangar connects you and your friends to a passionate community of skaters ranging from casual rollers to members of the Oaks Park Skating Club, adding a social element that extends beyond the rink.
What additional experiences can enhance your visit to The Hangar? Adjacent to the skating rink, the arcade offers hours of engaging gameplay with a variety of games that appeal to all ages and interests, from nostalgic pinball machines to the latest in arcade technology. The arcade’s retro vibe pairs perfectly with the roller rink, giving groups a seamless transition from skating to gaming. Beyond that, Oaks Park itself is home to other attractions, including some amusement rides, picnic areas, and seasonal events, allowing for a full day of festivities if your group wishes to explore further. There are also themed escape room experiences nearby, such as those offered by Side Quest Escape Games, which provide a cooperative puzzle-solving challenge for groups seeking a different type of interaction. All of these amenities, combined under one roof or within walking distance, position The Hangar at Oaks Park not merely as a place to meet but as a multi-faceted entertainment hub that makes planning events hassle-free and always fun.
How accessible and convenient is The Hangar at Oaks Park for visitors? Located just 10 minutes from downtown Portland, The Hangar is easily reachable by car or bike, with designated bike racks close to the Ferris wheel. Parking costs are modest, generally ranging from $3 to $5 for the day, making it affordable for groups driving in together. The venue accepts credit cards, has restrooms on-site, and staff who accommodate large groups to streamline check-in and equipment rentals. Hours of operation are generous, with weekday hours from noon to 7 p.m., extending later on weekends, which is ideal for after-work, weekend, or extended afternoon meetups. The historical charm coupled with modern conveniences offers visitors the best of both worlds—a unique nostalgic setting without sacrificing comfort or ease of access. All these considerations make The Hangar a reliable and welcoming spot for any group gathering.
What makes The Hangar a community favorite with a high rating? The solid rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on over 30 reviews reflects a consistent level of satisfaction among visitors who appreciate the venue’s cleanliness, friendly staff, and overall atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the uniqueness of the skating experience, the charm of live organ music, and the quality of the arcade as reasons for repeat visits. The sense of community fostered at The Hangar—with volunteer opportunities and connections to local groups like the Rose City Rollers—adds depth and purpose to the leisure time spent there. Moreover, the venue’s commitment to maintaining historic features while integrating new attractions speaks to a balance of tradition and innovation that appeals to a broad demographic. These factors contribute to making The Hangar not just a venue, but a cherished Portland institution where groups feel welcomed and excited to return.
How can you plan your visit to ensure a smooth experience at The Hangar? The best way to guarantee entry, especially during busy periods or for special events, is to purchase tickets or skate session passes online in advance. This is particularly important for weekends and holidays when crowds are larger. The Hangar’s website provides up-to-date information on hours, special events, and any temporary closures, which helps in coordinating group schedules effectively. If your group is large or has specific needs, consider booking private room rentals or group skate times ahead of your visit. With clear policies regarding equipment rental, skate safety, and food, visitors can prepare accordingly to maximize enjoyment. Checking transportation options, parking fees, and the availability of concessions will also help streamline your day, so you can focus on fun and connection rather than logistics.
What unique traditions does The Hangar maintain that enrich your visit? One of the most captivating features of The Hangar is the live Wurlitzer pipe organ that plays during select skating sessions. This rare musical instrument adds an authentic vintage soundtrack to your skating experience, distinguishing The Hangar from typical roller rinks. The tradition of live organ music is preserved as a tribute to the park's long legacy, creating an ambiance that transports guests back to the golden age of roller skating. This cultural heritage aspect enriches your visit, making it a multi-sensory experience that combines physical activity, music, and history. Additionally, The Hangar supports competitive skating and community events, fostering both recreational and artistic roller skating disciplines, which encourages visitors to engage with and appreciate the sport in a deeper way.
Why is The Hangar at Oaks Park ideal for family and friend gatherings of all ages? The versatility of activities ensures that participants from young children to seniors can find something enjoyable and suitable. Children can enjoy skating lessons or the arcade games, while teens and adults alike can challenge themselves with speed skating or artistic skating exhibitions. The safe, inclusive environment encourages group members to try new activities together, reinforcing bonds and creating shared memories. The venue's ability to accommodate both casual drop-in visits and full-day events makes it perfect for planning various types of meetups, from birthday parties to casual hangouts. Additionally, the surrounding Oaks Park offers open spaces for picnics and relaxation, expanding options beyond indoor activities, which is particularly welcome for larger groups who appreciate a variety of settings within one location.
How does The Hangar maintain safety and inclusivity for all guests? The Hangar takes guest safety seriously, offering well-maintained rental skates with various sizes and protections. The staff are trained to assist beginners and handle any issues promptly. Rules about protective gear and skating etiquette help ensure that the rink remains a safe place for fun and recreation. The venue is also inclusive, welcoming guests of all skill levels and ages, with supervision recommended for younger skaters. Special events often include accommodations for varied abilities, and the staff are attentive to creating a positive environment where everyone feels welcome. This commitment to safety and inclusivity makes it a dependable choice for social outings where group members might have different levels of comfort with skating or arcade gaming activities.
What makes The Hangar at Oaks Park stand out compared to other meetup spots? Unlike typical entertainment venues, The Hangar combines historical significance, multiple activity types, and an engaged community to create a holistic group experience. Its vintage roller rink with live Wurlitzer organ music is one of the last of its kind in the United States, offering cultural value alongside entertainment. The presence of the arcade adds variety, while the nearby amusement park rides and escape games provide additional entertainment layers that few venues can match. Its Portland location makes it accessible yet feels like a special destination, away from the usual mundane meetup places. The combination of atmosphere, variety, and community make The Hangar at Oaks Park a unique and memorable place to gather with friends and family, ideal for creating moments that everyone will cherish.