When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing - Portland
Why The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing - Portland is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Whetstone Bar, located within Blade & Timber Axe Throwing in Portland's vibrant Slabtown neighborhood, offers a unique blend of thrilling axe throwing and exceptional bar experiences. This lively venue features 12 axe-throwing lanes where guests—from beginners to seasoned pros—can enjoy a dynamic, interactive pastime paired with top-tier beverages. The bar is renowned for its killer craft cocktails mixed by some of Portland’s coolest bartenders, local craft brews that celebrate regional breweries, and an inviting atmosphere where the scent of freshly sharpened blades meets the aroma of hand-crafted drinks. Beyond drinks, The Whetstone offers a menu of shareable appetizers and seasonal bites that perfectly complement the energetic vibe and help fuel the fun. Whether visiting for a casual happy hour, a special outing with friends, or a spirited group event, The Whetstone Bar embodies a spirited community hub where great drinks and good times go hand in hand with exciting axe throwing.
Here's what people think of The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing - Portland
As of recent, The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing - Portland holds a 4.9-star rating based on 7 reviews.
Reviews of The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber overwhelmingly praise the venue’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere paired with its unique axe-throwing experience. Many visitors highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, along with the quality and creativity of the craft cocktails and local beers available. Positive reviews often emphasize the venue’s combination of skillful axe throwing with a social, relaxed bar setting, making it an ideal spot for both groups and individuals seeking entertainment with a twist. The diverse specialty cocktails like the Paul Bunyan and Hot Streak receive frequent acclaim for taste and presentation. On the other hand, some critiques touch on the pricing structure, noting the minimum charge per lane and booking fees, as well as occasional waits for lane availability during peak hours. A few guests mention that while the food menu is solid, some options could benefit from more variety. Overall, the reviews conclude that The Whetstone Bar offers a memorable and fun experience that stands out in Portland’s nightlife scene, especially for those interested in combining social drinking with a novel activity.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Stephanie Goodman
Great Bar with great service! Love the team here and great selection!
Daniel Shubin
Went for a bachelor party and had a great time. Drinks were great, and they had fun axe throwing games. Would definitely recommend for a fun evening
Carrie Clemens
This is a sweet place to have some fun. We joined the league and love it. Great people, cool staff and a dang good selection of drinks and snacks. It's a great place for a team building event or gathering of friends. All skill levels can do this!
Cody Goodman
The staff is always so kind and amazing. Great prices on drinks and cocktails on point!
James Maldonado
This place is fantastic! Great drinks and bar staff is the best.
How to reach The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing - Portland
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Why rally at The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing with your friends?
If you're looking for a unique, fun-filled escape where friendship, competition, and relaxation blend seamlessly, The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing in Portland is your go-to destination. It's a place where the excitement of axe throwing meets the comfort of a well-stocked bar, creating an atmosphere that's perfect for rallying your friends for a memorable outing. From the moment you enter, you’re met with an inviting vibe where the rustic charm of freshly sharpened axes harmonizes with the scent of craft cocktails and local brews. This combination fosters a sense of camaraderie, laughter, and friendly competition that strengthens bonds and sparks unforgettable memories. The Whetstone isn't just about throwing axes; it’s about sharing experiences over carefully crafted drinks and delicious snacks, making every visit a celebration in itself. Its 4.9 rating reflects the glowing reviews from patrons who appreciate the warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you want to let loose after a long week or celebrate a special occasion, this venue offers an energizing yet relaxed environment where you and your friends can rally, compete, cheer each other on, and share stories — all under one roof.
What activities can you enjoy at The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing?
At The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber, the main attraction is undoubtedly the axe throwing experience. With 12 axe throwing lanes spread across a spacious 4,400 square foot venue, groups can engage in friendly competition or instruction-led practice sessions regardless of skill level. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, the venue offers a safe and structured environment, guided by knowledgeable staff who ensure everyone has a blast. Besides axe throwing, The Whetstone features a full-service bar where guests can enjoy a wide range of craft cocktails and local beers. The cocktail menu is continually refreshed to tantalize your taste buds with both classic and innovative drink options, all expertly mixed by some of Portland’s coolest bartenders. Alongside beverages, guests can indulge in seasonal snacks and light bites crafted to keep energy levels high — because staying fueled is key when you’re throwing axes competitively. The combination of high-energy activity and quality food and drink options makes for a thoroughly immersive group meetup experience.
Why is The Whetstone Bar perfect for group meetups?
The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber is tailored for groups looking to enjoy a hands-on, social experience together. One of the biggest draws is its capacity and layout — with 12 lanes available, groups both large and small can enjoy private lanes for their own friendly battles without feeling crowded. The venue operates primarily on a first-come, first-serve or reservation basis, which allows for flexibility and ease of planning meetups. Its central Portland location also makes it easily accessible by car or streetcar, and parking options abound for convenience. The social nature of axe throwing provides natural opportunities for conversation, encouragement, and team-building, fostering a lively but inclusive atmosphere. Additionally, the full bar encourages post-competition relaxation where friends can unwind, share highlights of the competition, and plan their next rounds. With happy hours, weekly specials, and great prices on drinks, the venue is as budget-friendly as it is entertaining. Importantly, the staff is noted for their friendliness and attentiveness, ensuring that each group feels welcomed and well-cared-for throughout their visit.
What makes the atmosphere at The Whetstone Bar unique?
The Whetstone Bar strikes a perfect balance between rustic outdoorsy charm and urban cool. The venue's design carefully weaves the aesthetic of the forest—wooden accents, the warmth of natural materials—with the buzz of a lively bar experience. This blending creates an ambiance that is both cozy and energizing. You can smell the fresh wood of the axe throwing lanes while savoring expertly crafted cocktails, a fusion that elevates the experience beyond a typical night out. The bartenders add flair not just with their mixing skills but also with their approachable, fun demeanor that keeps the mood upbeat. Whether you're competing in an intense axe throwing round or relaxing on a barstool with a cold brew, the space feels welcoming to all. Events such as happy hours and special offers give even more reason to keep returning, and the ever-changing cocktail menu ensures you’ll never tire of the drink options. The overall vibe encourages guests to linger, chat, and celebrate together long after the games end.
How does The Whetstone Bar accommodate different skill levels and group types?
One of The Whetstone Bar’s standout qualities is how it welcomes everyone—from total beginners to axe throwing veterans. The knowledgeable and friendly staff provide clear instructions and safety briefings to ensure newcomers feel confident before stepping up to the lanes. For groups with mixed skill levels, this creates an inclusive environment where everyone can participate comfortably. The venue also lends itself well to corporate outings, birthday parties, and casual friend meetups, with private bookings available to cater to different group sizes and preferences. Whether you want a relaxed afternoon session or a lively evening with drinks and competition, The Whetstone accommodates various needs. This flexibility makes it ideal for events that blend socializing with an engaging activity, allowing groups to customize their visit in ways that maximize enjoyment.
Why do guests rate The Whetstone Bar so highly?
The Whetstone Bar holds an impressive 4.9-star rating based on multiple positive reviews that highlight key strengths: excellent service, fun activities, and a welcoming environment. Patrons consistently praise the staff for being friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating, enhancing the overall experience. The quality of the cocktails, along with the great prices, also receives frequent commendations, ensuring that guests feel they’re getting value alongside enjoyment. Reviewers also recognize the venue’s clean, well-maintained facilities and the smooth running of opening nights and busy sessions alike. This kind of feedback indicates a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence. Many guests note that they would happily return or recommend The Whetstone to other groups seeking a unique and entertaining hangout spot, especially those interested in activities beyond typical bars or restaurants.
What practical details should you know before visiting The Whetstone Bar?
Planning your meetup at The Whetstone Bar is straightforward thanks to its accommodating policies and convenient location. The venue is situated at 1150 NW 17th Ave. in Portland’s Slabtown neighborhood, close to public transportation options including the streetcar running just a block away. Street parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and paid lots nearby support app payments and offer free parking after 7 PM, making evening visits especially convenient. Regular hours extend well into the evening on weekends, and private event hours are flexible by request — ideal for tailored group experiences. The cost is $35 per person with a minimum of two per lane, plus a small non-refundable booking fee. Guests should note a 3% facility fee added to checks, distinct from tips or service charges. Booking in advance is advised, especially for larger groups or peak times, but walk-ins are welcomed when lanes are available. Overall, the experience is well-organized and customer-friendly, ensuring your outing runs smoothly from start to finish.
With all these features combined, The Whetstone Bar at Blade & Timber Axe Throwing makes for an ideal place to host your next gathering, blending active entertainment with top-tier drinks and an inviting atmosphere that your friends and family will love.