 The historic Crystal Ballroom in Portland Oregon stands out as one of the premiere and unique Portland attractions for those looking for something fun to do with their evenings. If you're a fan of live music, this is the place to come. From the outside of the building, you wouldn't think that you'd be experiencing anything cool inside. Boy, does that ever bring to mind the saying, "don't judge a book by it's cover!" The dance hall actually opened it's doors in 1914 (when it was not only shameful, but illegal to dance the Tango! hehe) and in the 1960s, it hosted the likes of Jimi Hendrix, the Grateful Dead, Ike and Tina Turner, and others. Need I say more? It's was obviously a draw for some of the biggest names in the music industry. In 1968, the dance hall (then called the Cotillion Hall) was shut down to all public events. Like Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, it silent for the most part for 30 years. Then, in 1997, it was brought back to life by the McMenamins, who did a major over-haul and finally re-opened it as the now-famous Chrystal Ballroom. Since then, you would have been able to come and see Billy Idol, Michael McDonald, James Brown, George Clinton and more. 
The interior is really wonderful. The Crystal Ballroom Portland consists of 3 floors: Ringlers Pub on the first, a brand new dance floor on the second and, finally, the main ballroom up on top. You will find a lot of different art covering the walls of the place. The high ceilings, balcony and large arched windows create a combined feeling of class and raw excitement (speaking of class, on Sundays, you can come for Ballroom dance lessons!).  Local bands light up the night every day of the week, as guests cut a rug on the very cool main ballroom's floating dance floor. The floor is actually on rockers and ball bearings which provides a feeling of dancing on a cloud. The floor has a capacity of 1500 people so there is nary a problem getting a really rocking party going with your close neighbors. On the first floor, you can sit out a few sets and grab something to eat and drink at Ringlers Pub. Play a couple rounds of pool, chat or just relax. Don't let the "Pub" part discourage you, though; it's a great place for the entire family to come and grab a bite. The Crystal Ballroom also has free Wifi access, so you can send out those important emails to your buddies, telling them that they need to come join you. ;) Ticket prices for events and concerts are pretty reasonable and some of them are even free to the public. You can check the Crystal Ballroom events calendar for what's coming up. The Crystal Ballroom in Portland is a kickin' place for some nighttime activity. Bring your friends to a great night of local music and dance the night away. It's time to eat, drink and be merry. ;) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Crystal Ballroom
1332 West Burnside Street
(503) 225-0047
 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ << From Crystal Ballroom Portland back to Portland Attractions
<< Go back home to Uniquely Portland Oregon | 
