When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Laurelhurst Club
Why The Laurelhurst Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Laurelhurst Club stands out as a premier event venue in Portland, blending historic charm with modern elegance. Established in 1912 and thoughtfully renovated in 2021, the club offers a light-filled, refreshed space that maintains its original Craftsman-style character. With an indoor area of 5,300 square feet featuring soaring cathedral ceilings, exposed beams, and a grand copper-hood fireplace, it can comfortably host up to 150 guests for weddings, corporate meetings, celebrations, and creative industry events. The mid-century mezzanine bar adds a vintage touch, providing an inviting space for cocktails or additional seating. Beyond its impressive interiors, the venue is surrounded by over one-third of an acre of manicured lawns and gardens, featuring a stone pathway, a stage, and a picturesque ivy-covered stone wall ideal for ceremonies or photo opportunities. Located in the historic Laurelhurst neighborhood across from a park, its scenic setting enhances event aesthetics naturally. The Laurelhurst Club also offers flexibility in vendor choice and rental times, allowing hosts to tailor their events without restrictive vendor lists. This combination of historic ambiance, modern amenities, spacious indoor and outdoor areas, and customizable rental options makes The Laurelhurst Club an excellent gathering place for friends and family.
Here's what people think of The Laurelhurst Club
As of recent, The Laurelhurst Club holds a 4.6-star rating based on 62 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise The Laurelhurst Club for its beautiful and character-rich interior, excellent location, and accommodating staff. Positive reviews highlight the venue’s aesthetic appeal, notably its hardwood floors, natural lighting, and vintage vibe, which lends warmth and elegance without the need for excessive decoration. Many guests appreciated the flexibility in bringing their own vendors and the ability to customize rental durations, making it an affordable option compared to venues with mandatory vendor lists. The grounds and lawn receive frequent commendation for being ideal spots for ceremonies and photos. Additionally, the staff’s professionalism, helpfulness, and upbeat attitude during planning and events have been a significant plus for guests. On the negative side, some reviewers mentioned restrictions such as early event end times (around 9 or 10 PM) and policies against hard alcohol, which required special appeals for certain exceptions. These constraints may impact some events depending on schedule or preferences. Overall, the positive aspects of the venue’s charm, staff support, and location outweigh these challenges, making The Laurelhurst Club a highly recommended destination for weddings and celebrations in Portland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sightglass Photography
The Laurelhurst Club is an absolute gem of a wedding venue. Its captivating setting, versatile spaces, and exceptional service make it a dream location for any couple's special day. As a wedding photographer, We couldn't have asked for a more picturesque and well-managed venue. We highly recommend The Laurelhurst Club to both couples and fellow photographers alike. It's truly a place where love and beauty intertwine, resulting in unforgettable memories and breathtaking images.
Melodi Ramquist
If you're looking for an affordable venue for a wedding, reception or any type of celebration, you should definitely check out The Laurelhurst Club in Portland. The rental includes seating for up to 150 which they set up and break down for you. If the weather is nice, there's a nice outdoor area for a wedding ceremony. Indoor events are held all year with a stage and plenty of room for chairs to be set up and then flip the space for your reception leaving a large dance floor! Inside is a mezzanine perfect for cocktail hour! Nice lighting and large windows! It's conveniently located right across the road from Laurelhurst Park which is a perfect backdrop for formal photos and creative shots too. The Laurelhurst Club is a historic venue and dance club. If this is what you've been dreaming of, then check them out. Once you meet the staff, you'll be sold. They are friendly, caring, and accommodating (although there are a few strict Club Rules). I think it's just a wonderful venue and I highly recommend The Laurelhurst Club!
Brenden Schild
We got married here September 2018, and it was great. We had about 80 people show up for our wedding. We did our ceremony outside and the reception indoors. Pros: They provide all the tables and chairs, and set them up for you. You can design the layout how you want your room set up Across the street from Laurelhurst Park, for beautiful wedding photos They have hookups to a great bartender if you don't have one yet. He was very friendly and affordable. They let us leave bring our decorations the night before when we did our rehearsal, which was VERY helpful. I believe they can only accommodate this as long as they don't have another group using the space in between those times. We had to pay for an additional 2 hours to use the space for our rehearsal, which was fine. The little outdoor ceremony area was so cute and perfect for us. So green! The venue was very good about getting back to us with anything we needed to communicate about. Very responsive. You can bring any catering food in you want. You do not have to use any of their preferred vendors for anything. Cons: If you plan to get ready there, the room is very small for the bride, and is also the only woman's restroom. No grooms room. We didn't need these anyways so it was fine. Since the location is in a neighborhood, they do not have a parking lot so it is street parking only. I don't think my guests had a problem though, at least I didn't hear of any issues. The venue can't be rented out too late, since it is in a neighborhood. They were able to push our wedding an hour later since it was on a Friday, which we were thankful for. I felt like the music was not loud enough for a dance party, but of course that is because the venue is in a neighborhood. No outdoor hanging out after the ceremony. Overall, I really could not complain. It was such a fun day!
Mark Chase
I am a member of Portland Heights Dance Club. We hold our dances here and have been doing so for many years. The place has a great dance floor. You can also put a dozen or more tables there if you are having a dinner or some such thing. There is a stage that's big enough for a 5 or 6 piece band. There is an upstairs bar and seating area to rest and enjoy cocktails. The kitchen is pretty big and useful. The staff are friendly and helpful. The building is clean and kept up nicely. The price varies by day of the week and time of year, but is comparable to other similar venues.
paul leuthold
Saw Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy tonight. Very good acting, this is an amazing place for Shows, weddings, partys. Close in NE.
How to reach The Laurelhurst Club
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Why The Laurelhurst Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Laurelhurst Club with your friends? Gatherings at The Laurelhurst Club promise a unique combination of historic charm and contemporary comfort, making it an ideal location to reconnect with friends or family. Founded in 1912 and recently renovated in 2021, this venue retains a warm Craftsman-style elegance blended harmoniously with modern updates, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both special and relaxed. Its light-filled spaces, majestic cathedral ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and a grand copper-hood fireplace offer a stunning backdrop for any social gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning a reunion, or simply wanting to spend quality time together, the atmosphere at The Laurelhurst Club encourages conversations and shared moments. The spacious indoor ballroom and the lush outdoor grounds provide versatility, accommodating various group sizes and activity preferences. Plus, the location's history and aesthetic add a sense of occasion to every meetup, making your time there memorable well beyond the event itself. For anyone seeking a warm, historic, yet fresh ambiance where friends and family can come together comfortably and stylishly, The Laurelhurst Club stands out as a top choice.
What activities are available at The Laurelhurst Club for a group meetup? The Laurelhurst Club offers a rich variety of activities designed with groups in mind, perfectly blending elegance and versatility to suit different tastes and event types. Inside, the grand ballroom can seat up to 150 guests, making it excellent for dinners, dance parties, or group meetings. The presence of hard-wood floors and open layout naturally invites dancing and social interaction, especially appealing for gatherings centered around music and celebration. Just upstairs, the mid-century mezzanine bar and reception area create an ideal space for cocktails and casual mingling, adding another layer of social ambiance to your event. Outdoors, the beautiful one-third-acre manicured lawn surrounded by towering evergreens and an ivy-covered stone wall offers plenty of charming spots for outdoor ceremonies, casual hangouts, or even games and group photo sessions. The stone pathways and garden stage can serve as a natural feature for performances or speeches. Together these spaces offer a flexible environment allowing a group to move between quieter conversations and lively social activities effortlessly.
Why is The Laurelhurst Club perfect for a group meetup? The venue’s size, design, and thoughtful amenities create a perfect setting for group events and make organizing meetups remarkably convenient. With an indoor space of over 5,300 square feet boasting soaring cathedral ceilings and a cozy fireplace, groups can comfortably gather without feeling crowded. Its seating capacity of up to 150 people means it easily accommodates family reunions, social clubs, or corporate gatherings. Additionally, the venue offers essential modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, lighting, and sound systems, ensuring practical needs for meetings, presentations, or dance events are met smoothly. Practical considerations like parking availability and included furniture—tables, chairs, even dance floors—simplify logistics, leaving hosts free to focus on enjoying the event with their guests. The venue’s balance of historical ambiance with contemporary conveniences means groups experience both a sense of occasion and maximum comfort. Moreover, being located in Portland’s scenic Laurelhurst neighborhood adds a layer of charm and accessibility, making it a convenient and attractive destination for your friends and family.
How does the indoor space enhance your group experience? The Laurelhurst Club’s indoor spaces offer an elegant, spacious environment designed to foster comfort and interaction. The grand ballroom’s high ceilings and exposed wooden rafters give a sense of openness and grandeur that can elevate any event from casual to exceptional. The stunning hardwood floors encourage dancing and movement, inviting guests to engage actively rather than just sit. The large fireplace adds a cozy, intimate touch, perfect for smaller group discussions or fireside chats during cooler evenings. Upstairs, the mezzanine bar creates a separate yet connected nook for guests who prefer a quieter space or want to enjoy cocktails away from the main ballroom floor. The flexibility in seating arrangements—ranging from banquet-style dinners to cocktail receptions—means a group can tailor their gathering to the exact vibe they want, whether it's formal or relaxed. The modernized lighting and sound ensure that any speeches, music, or presentations sound clear and impactful, adding to the event’s success.
What makes the outdoor grounds ideal for social gatherings? The outdoor setting at The Laurelhurst Club is equally impressive and complements its indoor offerings beautifully. Spanning over a third of an acre, the manicured lawns provide ample room for games, picnic-style gatherings, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings. A stone pathway weaves through the greenery, guiding guests through the garden, which features a fifteen-foot ivy-covered stone wall – a picturesque and private backdrop ideal for photo opportunities with friends and family. Tall evergreens surrounding the grounds offer a tranquil and semi-private atmosphere, making the space feel like a secret retreat within city limits. The outdoor stage adds a special element for live music, speeches, or performances, elevating any group event into a memorable occasion. Whether hosting a casual barbecue, a garden party, or a ceremony, the grounds provide an adaptable space for varied activities, bringing guests closer to nature while maintaining the elegance of a historic venue.
What types of events can The Laurelhurst Club host for groups? With its flexible spaces and comprehensive amenities, The Laurelhurst Club is well-suited to a wide range of group events. Popular activities include family celebrations like milestone birthdays, anniversaries, and reunions where the historic charm complements the emotional significance of such gatherings. The venue is also designed to accommodate weddings, from ceremonies on the lawn to receptions in the ballroom, all within a single historic property. Non-profit organizations frequently trust The Laurelhurst Club for fundraising dinners and meetings thanks to its stylish yet professional ambiance. Corporate retreats, team-building activities, and company parties benefit from the ample indoor and outdoor spaces combined with essential event technology such as Wi-Fi, sound, and lighting. Even creative industry events or film shoots can find a fitting backdrop here, thanks to the venue’s distinctive style and adaptable layout. The variety of uses highlights the venue’s versatility and its ability to make any group event feel special and well-executed.
How does The Laurelhurst Club foster community and connection? Beyond its physical attributes, The Laurelhurst Club cultivates a strong sense of camaraderie and friendship, making it a favored location for repeat events. As a member-supported organization with a history as a dance club, it has long been a place where people come together not just to gather but to connect through shared experiences. The ambiance encourages joyous interaction, whether through dancing in the ballroom or relaxing in the gardens. Monthly dances and social events held at the Club further strengthen ties among Portland’s local community and beyond, reinforcing the venue’s reputation as a welcoming social hub. This legacy of friendship and celebration permeates every event hosted, making attendees feel part of something special—a place where memories are created and friendships deepened.
What makes The Laurelhurst Club stand out among venues? Several distinctive features differentiate The Laurelhurst Club from other venues. Its status as a woman-owned organization adds to its community appeal and reflects a commitment to inclusive, personal service. The venue’s continuous evolution—from its 1912 origins to its 2021 refurbishment—ensures it blends historical authenticity with contemporary comfort and style. Its Craftsman-style architecture, combined with modern light-filled interiors, creates an aesthetic that is both unique and adaptable to many event themes. The extensive list of included amenities such as chairs, tables, altar arches, dance floors, lighting and sound dramatically simplifies event planning. Furthermore, the venue’s strategic location in Portland’s picturesque Laurelhurst neighborhood—known for its charm and accessibility—makes it easy for guests to attend. These attributes combined explain its high rating and the trust placed in it by many for hosting important social occasions.
Why do reviewers rate The Laurelhurst Club so highly? Feedback from guests consistently highlights the venue’s ambiance, service quality, and versatility. Reviewers often mention the beautiful mix of historic charm and modern updates as a key factor that made their events feel both elegant and comfortable. The large, flexible spaces were praised for allowing creative freedom in event layout, while the well-maintained grounds provided a serene outdoor retreat. Many appreciated the professionalism and responsiveness of the venue’s management and staff, who help ensure smooth event execution. The sense of warmth and hospitality often cited by guests makes The Laurelhurst Club not just a location but part of the event experience itself. With a 4.6-star rating from over 60 reviews, it is clear that groups find this venue both impressive and dependable, ideal for meaningful and enjoyable gatherings.
How easy is it to plan your event at The Laurelhurst Club? Planning a group meetup or event at The Laurelhurst Club is made straightforward by their dedicated team and comprehensive offerings. They provide site tours to help you visualize your event at the venue and offer customizable rental packages suited for different group sizes and occasions. The included amenities—such as Wi-Fi, lighting, sound, dance floors, and furniture—reduce the need for outside rentals, simplifying logistics. Clear pricing with a starting site fee and options for additional hours allows guests to budget efficiently. The venue’s experienced staff assists in coordinating aspects like seating arrangements, catering spaces, and technology, making event planning less stressful and more enjoyable. Their openness to various event types, from casual celebrations to formal functions, means you can tailor your gathering exactly as you envision it, supported by versatile spaces and professional assistance.
What makes The Laurelhurst Club an enduring choice for meetups? The Laurelhurst Club’s combination of history, beauty, versatility, and excellent service has earned it a lasting place in Portland’s social scene. Its ability to host everything from elegant weddings to lively dance parties to thoughtful corporate events means it appeals to a broad audience. The venue’s commitment to updating its spaces while preserving original architectural charm gives it a timeless quality. Additionally, the club’s ongoing programming, such as recurring dance nights and community events, keeps it vibrant and relevant beyond private rentals. This blend of tradition and contemporary engagement ensures that it remains a go-to destination for people wanting to gather meaningfully with friends and family. Simply put, The Laurelhurst Club delivers an experience that is rich, authentic, and inviting, encouraging groups to keep coming back year after year.