When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver 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, established in 2003 in Portland, Oregon, stands out as a legendary spot to meet up with friends thanks to its unique combination of quirky charm, creative doughnut flavors, and round-the-clock accessibility. The original shop, located in Old Town Portland, is more than just a bakery; it’s a cultural experience marked by a countercultural spirit and a famously eclectic lineup of artisanal doughnuts. Visitors flock here not only for the classic offerings like the famous Bacon Maple Bar—voted America’s Greatest Doughnut three years in a row—but also for imaginative treats such as the Voodoo Doll doughnut and other inventive creations featuring unexpected ingredients like breakfast cereal or peanut butter. The vibrant pink boxes and intriguing thaumaturgic logo add to the shop’s distinctive identity. Open late into the night, Voodoo Doughnut has long been a go-to spot for bar-goers and night owls, making it a lively social hub. Its reputation has grown steadily through media appearances and notable events like becoming Portland’s Official City Doughnut with its Portland Crème donut. Beyond its flagship location, Voodoo Doughnut has expanded nationally with numerous stores, yet it retains its original charm and commitment to unique flavors and community spirit. This makes it a great destination for friends looking to enjoy a memorable and fun donut experience in Portland.
Here's what people think of Voodoo Doughnut
As of recent, Voodoo Doughnut holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1649 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight Voodoo Doughnut’s unique appeal, emphasizing the entertaining and unexpected flavor combinations as key attractions. Many patrons appreciate the creative and playful atmosphere, along with the vibrant and eclectic decor, which enhances the overall experience. Positive reviews often mention the quality of signature doughnuts such as the Bacon Maple Bar and the Voodoo Doll, praising the freshness and distinctiveness of the offerings. Friendly staff and the novelty of legal weddings on-site at some locations also receive favorable comments, contributing to the shop’s welcoming vibe. However, some reviewers note that the doughnuts themselves can be somewhat overrated, suggesting that while the experience and presentation are excellent, the taste might not surpass that of more traditional or boutique doughnut shops. Occasional criticism includes long wait times due to the shop’s popularity and the perception that novelty sometimes overshadows the product quality. Despite these mixed views, the overwhelming majority of reviews are positive, reflecting the strong brand loyalty and cultural status Voodoo Doughnut commands. In conclusion, Voodoo Doughnut is celebrated not just for its doughnuts but for delivering a distinctive, lively, and memorable destination where friends can enjoy creative treats and quirky fun together.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Carter W.
This is my new favorite donut place! I ordered delivery and it was fast, accurate, and super tasty. The donuts here are one of a kind! Their selection of great donuts seems to be always growing every time I order, and whenever I order it always tastes great! The staff are so nice! I ordered chocolate sprinkles on one of my donuts, which they didn’t have - but they made it up by giving regular sprinkles and an extra donut on the house! That was so kind!
Rob VanSuilichem
BIG DONUT LOVER HERE! VooDoo Doughnuts is the place to go! I would give more stars if I could. the storefront sign caught my eye while on vacation in the area, so we stopped in to check it out. So glad we did! The service was awesome, the store was clean and the selection was incredible! We grabbed a half dozen of random choices and I was super impressed with the freshness and the tastyness. I thought the prices were fair, considering the high quality of their baked goods. If you love donuts like me, it's definitely worth a try!
Honey Sharp
Whether you are just visiting or live here, this place is a must! It is an entire experience, the staff is amazing, and they have such a unique and fun variety of donuts. We have not had one that was anything short of amazing. Highly recommended and going into the shop is a whole experience. Not to mention a bargain for the custom selections and they have all of the regular donut options as well as vegan. Highly recommended!
Diane Clements
This was our first stop in Denver and it started the trip perfectly. All the donuts were delicious. We got a vegan half dozen. Flavors went crazy and they were so cute.
Lauren Clark
Josh was our cashier/host this time and he was super patient and answered all of my questions. They are big donuts and they offer a variety from super sweet to sweet and savory! They're unique and that's definitely why I came back.
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 this wildly unique doughnut haven is more than just a place to grab a sweet snack — it's an experience that brings people together through creativity, fun, and a vibrant local culture. Founded in Portland in 2003, Voodoo Doughnut has earned a cult following thanks to its quirky, offbeat doughnuts bursting with unexpected flavors and toppings, making every visit an adventure for the taste buds. Gathering your friends here means sharing laughs over doughnuts shaped like voodoo dolls, topped with bacon, or covered in colorful cereals — all set within an environment that proudly blends counterculture art with warm hospitality. The lively atmosphere, round-the-clock hours, and its location in Portland’s bustling Old Town make it ideal for spontaneous meetups or planned celebrations. Whether you’re night owls craving a post-bar stop or daytime explorers looking for an iconic local treat, Voodoo Doughnut’s eccentric charm and welcoming vibe create the perfect recipe for memorable moments together.
What activities can you do at Voodoo Doughnut? Beyond eating incredible doughnuts, this spot offers a broad range of engaging experiences ideal for groups. The original Portland store, nestled in Old Town Chinatown, invites you to soak in the colorful, eclectic surroundings — from vibrant artwork to the iconic pink boxes, making photo ops a must. You and your friends can browse the quirky merchandise including fun apparel and souvenir mugs that reflect the shop’s playful spirit. For those who want to mark a milestone, Voodoo Doughnut even offers legal wedding and commitment ceremonies beneath a giant “holy” doughnut inside the store, turning a pastry stop into an unforgettable event. After grabbing your doughnuts, head just outside to Ankeny Alley, a lively open-air pedestrian zone adjacent to the shop, perfect for group hangouts. Here, you can enjoy your treats at picnic tables amid the eclectic buzz of nearby bars and music venues, making it easy to extend your gathering into the evening. The dynamic mix of food, roaming performers, and street art creates a social, casual backdrop for group fun.
Why is Voodoo Doughnut perfect for a group meetup? The atmosphere is vibrant and inclusive, blending Portland’s alternative spirit with a welcoming community feel. The quirky menu features over-the-top doughnuts with names and decorations that spark conversation and laughter among friends. Ordering from the extensive selection — including staples like the Portland Cream (officially named the city’s doughnut), the Old Dirty Bastard, or the Voodoo Doll with a pretzel stake — gives your group a chance to share tastes and debate favorite flavors. Being open 24 hours at some locations means flexibility; whether you’re planning an early morning treat or a late-night indulgence, Voodoo Doughnut accommodates your schedule. Plus, the presence of multiple locations across Portland and beyond ensures accessibility no matter where your group is coming from. The social and lively setting lends itself perfectly to casual meetups, celebrations, or even spontaneous outings, making it a versatile hotspot for many kinds of get-togethers.
How did Voodoo Doughnut become such a cultural icon? Its founders, Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Richard “Tres” Shannon, originally came from Portland’s alternative music and nightlife scenes and infused those countercultural roots into the doughnut shop. Opening initially in 2003 on Southwest Third Avenue in Portland’s Old Town area, their vision was to offer an alternative to the mundane doughnut experience. They experimented with unusual ingredients like bacon, peanut butter, and even Tang, crafting doughnuts with surprising flavor profiles and playful names. Their shops drew a cult following, attracting a mix of bar-goers, locals, and tourists who lined up for the shop’s all-night hours and whimsical, sometimes outlandish doughnuts. This bold blend of irreverence, brash creativity, and quality snacks cemented Voodoo Doughnut as a Portland institution and cultural landmark. Its impact has since spread, with nineteen locations across seven states, yet none capture quite the same magic as the original flagship venue.
What makes the doughnuts at Voodoo Doughnut so special? Unlike typical doughnut shops, Voodoo Doughnut combines artistic presentation with unconventional ingredients and flavors that surprise and delight. Their doughnuts, often handcrafted fresh daily, range from whimsical — like the “Cock ‘n’ Balls” donut topped with cereal and candy — to savory twists such as the Bacon Maple Bar. The doughnuts are visually striking, perfect for social media sharing, but it’s the taste and texture that keep customers coming back. Many flavors have become so popular they’ve even been recognized by the city of Portland, including the Portland Cream doughnut, which was declared the official city doughnut in 2008. The company’s willingness to push boundaries in doughnut-making translates to a menu that’s constantly evolving, keeping every visit fresh and exciting for groups who love variety and novelty. For friends gathering, sharing a box of these quirky creations sparks joy, conversation, and a unique sense of togetherness.
How accessible is Voodoo Doughnut for groups? Exceptionally so. The two main Portland locations both operate 24 hours a day, ensuring your group can find a convenient time to visit regardless of different schedules or plans. Lines may be long at peak times, especially at the original Old Town location, but the energy of waiting in line together becomes part of the adventure. For groups preferring a less crowded environment, the Northeast Davis Street location offers a similar menu and experience with often shorter wait times. The shop’s layout supports quick service, so even larger groups don’t have to wait long to fill their boxes. Additionally, ample seating outside in Ankeny Alley and space within the stores allows groups to sit comfortably and enjoy their treats. Whether your meetup is intense and brief or laid-back and lingering, Voodoo Doughnut’s operational flexibility and ample facilities make it convenient and welcoming for all group sizes.
What local culture can you experience while visiting Voodoo Doughnut? Visiting Voodoo Doughnut is like stepping into the heart of Portland’s vibrant, eclectic culture. Located in neighborhoods alive with music venues, bars, and art, the shop and its surroundings reflect a celebration of alternative lifestyles and creativity. The founders’ history in Portland’s music and counterculture scene permeates the atmosphere, making the establishment a hub for artistic expression and social connection. Voodoo’s doughnut designs often draw on pop culture, occult motifs, and Portland’s quirky personality, reinforcing a unique local vibe. Outside, Ankeny Alley hosts year-round events, street performers, and art installations, providing dynamic entertainment that elevates your group outing from ordinary to lively. For visitors eager to experience authentic Portland culture with friends or family, Voodoo Doughnut offers a genuine taste — literally and figuratively — of the city’s soul.
What opportunities for celebration does Voodoo Doughnut offer? Beyond casual meetups, Voodoo Doughnut stands out as a creative venue for special celebrations. The original Portland store not only serves food but also functions as a charming wedding venue with legally recognized wedding and commitment ceremonies performed under the shop’s famous giant “holy” doughnut. This quirky yet heartfelt space allows couples to combine their love of donuts with their vows, making for memorable and unique celebrations. Groups can also plan birthday parties, reunions, or any special gathering around the fun and festive environment of doughnut tasting and socializing. The shop’s playful spirit encourages guests to indulge in joy and silliness, ideal for creating lasting memories. Whether you’re marking a milestone or just taking a moment to celebrate friendship, Voodoo Doughnut elevates the occasion with its whimsical charm and warm hospitality.
How can Voodoo Doughnut enhance a group’s social experience? Sharing doughnuts at Voodoo is as much about connection as it is about the food. The array of unusual flavors and playful presentations makes ordering a group activity, inviting everyone to pick favorites and trade bites. The fun environment and friendly service encourage laughter and conversation, fostering a relaxed and joyful social setting. For groups who enjoy photography and social media, the colorful doughnuts and iconic pink boxes provide endless content to document your outing. The open-air seating in Ankeny Alley creates a casual, festive atmosphere where groups can linger, chat, and soak in the city’s nightlife and street culture. Whether friends are reconnecting or families are enjoying a sweet outing, Voodoo Doughnut provides an engaging and memorable backdrop that enhances togetherness.
What should groups know before visiting Voodoo Doughnut? It's useful to arrive with some expectations and a plan due to the shop’s popularity. Peak times especially weekends and evenings can bring long lines, so patience and a sense of humor are key. Consider visiting the Northeast Davis location if your group prefers a quieter experience. Voodoo Doughnut accepts most payment methods, and the menu is very accommodating for groups with diverse tastes, including vegetarian options. Bringing cash might speed up your order but cards are widely accepted. Lastly, plan to share and sample various doughnuts — Voodoo’s menu shines brightest when experienced as a group tasting adventure. Leaving room for a walk to explore the vibrant Old Town area or stopping into nearby bars or music venues can extend your meetup into a full day or night of fun and discovery. This preparation helps your group make the most of the singular Voodoo Doughnut experience.
Voodoo Doughnut is a one-of-a-kind destination that blends deliciously eccentric doughnuts, a celebratory atmosphere, and Portland’s rich local culture to create the perfect setting for any gathering. Whether you're rallying for a casual hangout, a meaningful celebration, or a memorable night out, this beloved doughnut shop offers something fresh and fun for everyone in your group. From its bold flavors and artistic creations to its historic roots and welcoming spaces, Voodoo Doughnut makes group meetups extraordinary and deliciously unforgettable. With a 4.7 rating from over 1600 reviews, it’s clear that both locals and visitors find this the ultimate spot to come together, share laughs, and celebrate life’s sweetness.