When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Voodoo Doughnut
Why Voodoo Doughnut is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Voodoo Doughnut is a unique and vibrant doughnut shop originating from Portland, Oregon, renowned for its creative and unconventional doughnut flavors and designs. Founded in 2003 by Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon, this shop has grown from a midnight dessert haunt to a cultural landmark with locations spanning seven states. The flagship store in Old Town Portland still attracts both locals and tourists with its eclectic atmosphere, distinctive pink box packaging, and a menu featuring over 40 artisan flavors, including vegan options. Known for its fun and offbeat doughnut creations like the infamous Voodoo Doll and Bacon Maple Bar, the shop pairs these treats with its exclusive Magic Roast coffee, offering a lively setting perfect for meeting friends and enjoying a sweet treat. Whether popping in after a night out or visiting during the day, Voodoo Doughnut combines quirky charm with a welcoming vibe, ensuring it remains a memorable and exciting spot for gatherings.
Here's what people think of Voodoo Doughnut
As of recent, Voodoo Doughnut holds a 4.2-star rating based on 590 reviews.
Reviews of Voodoo Doughnut highlight a generally positive experience with many patrons praising the shop for its distinctive and inventive doughnut flavors, friendly staff, and unique atmosphere. Positive reviews often mention the fun, memorable doughnut shapes and combinations such as the Bacon Maple Bar and the Voodoo Doll, as well as appreciating the availability of vegan choices. Customers also enjoy the vibrant, countercultural vibe and the late-night availability, making it a great spot to unwind. On the other hand, some negative reviews note that the doughnuts might be overrated with a few finding the texture or taste not quite up to expectations compared to high-end doughnut shops elsewhere. Others remark on the sometimes long lines and wait times especially in busy hours. Yet, despite these critiques, the general consensus remains that Voodoo Doughnut offers excellent value for money with prices affordable enough to encourage sharing and gathering. Altogether, the reviews reflect a strong affection for the brand's originality and welcoming spirit as a local cultural icon and fun culinary experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sbpb
If you love Donuts, this place is a must-visit! It’s spacious and comfortable, so you can sit and enjoy your treat without rushing. What stood out to me was the variety – from simple ones to filled options and different types of dough. There’s something for everyone! My husband tried the banana pie, while I went for the glazed, the most traditional one – and my favorite. It was simply perfect! The dough is super soft and fluffy, without that sticky feeling in your mouth. It’s light and just the right amount of tasty. The banana filling isn’t overly sweet; it has a natural, balanced flavor. Absolutely delicious! It’s not always easy to find a good donuts, and although they tend to be expensive, the prices here are quite reasonable and fair for the quality. Plus, the place has a super creative name, and the ambiance is really charming. If you’re in the area, live nearby, or just want to try a different donut at a good price, I highly recommend this place. I loved it and will definitely be back!
Trair Wise
If you see a bright pink building you’re at the right place! I’m always kindly greeted upon arrival by their attentive staff. Most of my orders are made online (make sure I get what I want). Even when I walk in there’s still a nice variety of choices in vegan donuts to purchase. Depending on your travel distance and location traffic/parking can be challenging.
Travis (Doughboy_Food_Reviews)
Maple Blazer Blunt: Voodoo Doughnut has been on my list of gourmet doughnut shops to visit for years. Although I believe it now qualifies as a chain, the original location was founded by Portlanders Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon in 2003. I finally had the opportunity to visit a location as they opened one just south of MKE in Chicago. I wanted to try more doughnuts than I had room in my stomach for, so I prioritized my selection based on what I thought was most exclusive to Voodoo Doughnut and my tastes. The Maple Blazer Blunt is a raised blunt (doughnut) dusted in cinnamon sugar and topped at one end with maple frosting and red sprinkles (embers). Funny enough, it could also easily pass as an ice cream cone doughnut if you are visiting with young kids and they want it. While we're focusing on the design, it is unfortunately not easy to eat. I started consuming it at the head/cap, which proved to be a mistake. With each bite working towards the foot, the maple icing would crack and falloff. I adjusted to eating from the "fiery" foot, but not before losing a large chunk of maple frosting/sprinkles that conveniently fell into my open (was trying to cool it) coffee cup. The texture was average and the small amount of maple icing that I did get in my mouth was delicious, but I wouldn't get this one again. Fun for the novelty, but really, it's just okay 😐. This was a 3 star doughnut but 4 stars overall since the atmosphere was cool and the Banana Cream was a 5 star doughnut. Doughboy_Food_Reviews My top doughnut shops: 1. Donut Bar (San Diego) 2. Pinkbox Doughnuts (Las Vegas) 3. Everglazed (Disney Springs) 4. Cranky Al’s (MKE) 5. Krispy Kreme (various locations in different states)
Natalie T
Good tasting donuts, flavors and consistencies worked well together. I know it would’ve been 10x better if they were fresh. The location was a bit odd, the cashier wouldn’t stop talking to let his order and made the experience awkward as well.
Jess McGuire
Is it doughnut, or donut? - what’s the difference? lol We were looking for something sweet for our drive home and decided to try this joint, and so glad we did! The donuts here were the perfect combination of soft and gooey and not crumbly and everything a donut is supposed to be. We were a bit upset that some of the flavors we wanted were sold out, but it’s understandable. The cashier didn’t seem as happy to be there as we were.
How to reach Voodoo Doughnut
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Why Voodoo Doughnut may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Voodoo Doughnut with your friends? Because it is not just a doughnut shop—it’s a wildly distinctive experience that brings together bold flavors, quirky vibes, and a sense of communal fun that few places can match. Gathering your friends here means stepping into a slice of Portland’s countercultural spirit, where the menu is as creative as the crowd it attracts. From the moment you enter, you and your group will be immersed in the electric atmosphere of Old Town, surrounded by the bright pink boxes and irreverent doughnut names that have become legendary. This is a place where the ordinary is left at the door; instead, expect adventure in every bite and contagious laughter as you share the wildly imaginative treats, from the Bacon Maple Bar to the iconic Voodoo Doll doughnut. Plus, with locations open 24 hours, it provides the perfect late-night hangout for after-hours friends seeking both comfort and novelty. Whether you are craving a sugary breakfast, an afternoon sugar rush, or a late-night indulgence, Voodoo Doughnut offers a welcoming, fun, and distinctive setting that turns a simple meetup into a memorable social event.
What activities make Voodoo Doughnut ideal for a group meetup? First and foremost, the act of sharing their mind-bogglingly creative doughnuts creates instant bonding. The menu itself is a carnival of eccentric flavors and decorations, encouraging friends to try a variety pack and discuss their favorites. The shop’s quirky atmosphere—with its pop culture references, playful décor, and even occasional live music nearby—stimulates conversation and laughter, strengthening connections. Moreover, the original flagship store sits right next to Ankeny Alley, a lively pedestrian-only zone filled with picnic tables and surrounded by bars, clubs, and venues, making it easy to extend your meetup beyond doughnuts alone. You can grab your pink boxes and enjoy your treats outside in the fresh air, which is especially great for larger groups or families who want a casual, shared space to mingle. For groups keen on a more private or quieter experience, there is the second Portland location with generally shorter lines and the same joyful vibe. Voodoo Doughnut also supports unique events like legal weddings inside the shop, which speaks volumes about its fun, offbeat spirit—imagine celebrating milestones here with your favorite people, wrapped in sugar, creativity, and possibility.
Why is Voodoo Doughnut perfect for diverse group sizes? Whether you have a pair of close friends or a sizeable family gathering, Voodoo Doughnut’s layout and operational style accommodate both intimate and boisterous meetups. The original location’s long countertops and efficient service mean your group can place orders simultaneously without long waits breaking up your time together. Their 24-hour availability means you can meet whenever it suits—early morning coffee and doughnuts before a day of exploring Portland’s sights or late-night treats after a concert or club visit. The variety of doughnut sizes—from minis to jumbo—offers flexible options to suit everyone’s appetite. Plus, their unconventional flavors and creative use of toppings—like peanut butter, bacon, or even Tang—spark conversations and happy surprises, making your group’s shared tasting adventure an event in itself. Although known for its vibrant energy, the shops are also welcoming to families with children, who will marvel at the visual spectacle of the doughnuts and can enjoy friendly staff eager to help with selections. The welcoming, energetic ambiance combined with thoughtful service creates an inclusive space where every member of your group feels engaged and delighted.
What makes the doughnuts at Voodoo Doughnut so special for group sharing? Beyond their delicious taste, each doughnut at Voodoo is a story and a conversation starter—whether it’s the bizarre "Old Dirty Bastard" topped with Oreos and peanut butter or the delightfully spooky "Voodoo Doll" complete with a candy “pin.” These extravagant creations are designed to be visually striking and packed with unexpected flavors, provoking smiles and curious explorations among friends. Ordering a mixed box of different kinds invites your group to sample, compare, and debate, making the shared experience interactive and joyful. The doughnuts’ unique ingredients and combinations set them apart from ordinary bakery fare, appealing to adventurous eaters who want to try something new or nostalgic fans of creative sweets. This playful innovation in food encourages social media sharing and group photos, giving friends a reason to remember and talk about their hangout long after they leave. On top of that, Voodoo’s pink boxes have become iconic souvenirs, creating a tangible memento for your gathering that reflects the shop’s quirky personality and the fun you had together.
How does the atmosphere at Voodoo Doughnut enhance group meetups? The essence of Voodoo Doughnut is its unapologetic individuality and the lively energy that fills its spaces. Originally founded in Portland’s eclectic Old Town district amid music venues and nightlife, the shop retains a vibrant edge that resonates with groups looking for a unique place to relax and recharge. The décor reflects its roots in the local music and counterculture scene, creating an environment filled with character and whimsy. Inside, customers experience quick, friendly, and efficient service, designed to keep a steady flow without sacrificing personal touches, so groups never feel rushed but remain efficiently served. Outside, Ankeny Alley transforms the doughnut experience into a communal affair, where groups of friends can linger under the open sky, share stories, and enjoy their sugary treats surrounded by the buzz of the city’s nightlife. Whether you’re making spontaneous plans or celebrating a special occasion, the energy of Voodoo Doughnut’s atmosphere invites enthusiasm, connection, and delight in equal measure.
What other features at Voodoo Doughnut make it a memorable meetup place? Aside from the doughnuts and atmosphere, Voodoo Doughnut offers several unique features that set it apart from standard dessert shops. One standout is its legal wedding service, allowing couples to exchange vows beneath a giant “holy” doughnut inside the original shop—a whimsical, unexpected experience that adds another layer to the venue’s sense of fun and community celebration. This makes it an unusual place not only for casual meetups but for creating lifelong memories. Additionally, Voodoo’s expansion across various cities demonstrates its broad appeal, but the flagship and original locations retain a charm rooted in Portland’s local spirit, making them pilgrimage sites for doughnut enthusiasts and travelers. The shop also stocks themed merchandise—t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags—which can be purchased as souvenirs or gifts to commemorate your group’s fun outing. Lastly, the staff’s friendly and enthusiastic engagement ensures every guest feels recognized and appreciated, which adds warmth to your gathering.
How does Voodoo Doughnut cater to different tastes and preferences within groups? Voodoo Doughnut’s menu is designed to accommodate a broad range of palates, making it easy for groups to find something everyone enjoys. From classic flavors like glazed and chocolate to more daring options infused with bacon, peanut butter, or cereal toppings, there is something for every taste preference. The shop also offers vegan and seasonal varieties, catering to dietary needs and preferences, allowing everyone in the group to indulge without compromise. Coffee and other drinks complement the doughnuts, rounding out the experience for those who may want a less sweet option or a caffeine boost. This variety encourages collaborative ordering, where group members can suggest favorites and discover new creations together. Voodoo’s commitment to inclusivity and adventurous spirit ensures that your group’s diverse tastes are all met with enthusiasm and originality.
Why is Voodoo Doughnut an ideal spot for creating lasting social memories? Hosting a meetup at Voodoo Doughnut is about more than just eating doughnuts—it’s about sharing an experience rich in history, creativity, and local culture through a joyful lens. The setting fosters laughter, spontaneity, and a sense of collective delight that brings friends and families closer. The shop’s unusual doughnut artistry acts as a catalyst for storytelling and playful competition, while the vibrant neighborhood adds layers of urban charm. The openness to late-night crowds and the welcoming vibe ensure your gathering can flow naturally without time pressure or formality. By choosing Voodoo Doughnut as a meeting spot, your group enters a space known for celebrating the unusual and the fun, building memories that blend delicious flavors with Portland’s eclectic spirit—making every visit a story worth telling.