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The 10 Best Waterfront Bars in Portland That Make Waves with Great Vibes
Portland’s bar scene is seriously awesome, but let’s be real—sometimes, those hotspots get way too crowded. When you’re in the mood to sip something tasty while soaking up a killer view, it’s a whole different vibe!
Getting tipsy is fun, but getting tipsy by the water? Now that’s the next level. Luckily, Portland has some incredible waterfront bars, and my friends and I have hit up a few that are total gems.
Let me share the best spots where you can kick back, enjoy a drink, and soak in those stunning views!
1. The Deck
Media credits: thedeck.pdx
Website: https://www.thedeckpdx.com/
Address: 2901 NE Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97211, United States
Contact details: +1 503-283-6444
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11 AM – 7 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 7 PM
Price: $$$
The Deck is a chill floating spot that’s perfect for kicking back with friends or family while enjoying the scenic river views. The vibe is super relaxed, making it easy to unwind.
The drink menu really shines here, with a vibrant selection of tropical cocktails that are as fun to look at as they are to sip. Their signature bucket drinks, like margaritas and Coronitas, are perfect for sharing and definitely amp up the fun factor.
Plus, there’s a great lineup of local and craft draft beers to choose from. With seasonal cocktails that highlight local flavors, this place is the ultimate spot to relax by the Columbia River, whether you’re soaking up the sun or enjoying a cozy evening.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their daily happy hour from 11 AM to 6 PM. You can snag drink specials alongside tasty bar snacks for lower prices.
2. Dockside Saloon and Restaurant
Media credits: docksidepdx
Website: http://www.docksidesaloon.com/
Address: 2047 NW Front Ave, Portland, OR 97209, United States
Contact details: +1 503-241-6433
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7 AM – 9 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 7 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM – 9 PM
Price: $
Since opening its doors in 1986, Dockside Saloon and Restaurant has carved out a reputation as a go-to for casual dining mixed with that classic dive bar feel. The place has a cozy, rustic vibe, decked out in nautical decor and sports memorabilia that gives it a fun atmosphere.
Inside, Dockside offers both indoor seating and outdoor tables for enjoying the view of the Willamette River. The drink menu features a rotating selection of domestic and imported craft beers.
Margaritas are often a standout, with various flavors like classic lime or seasonal fruit variations. Bloody Marys are also a popular brunch choice and can be customized with different garnishes.
Pro tip:
Be sure to try Terry’s Famous Scramble, which is served all day! Accompanied by crispy hash browns, this hearty option is not only delicious but also visually enticing. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate a classic breakfast with a twist.
3. Frank Wine Bar
Media credits: frankwinebar
Website: https://www.frankwinebar.com/
Address: 3712 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR 97239, United States
Contact details: +1 503-206-7317
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 3 PM – 9 PM
- Sunday to Monday: Closed
Price: $$
Frank Wine Bar is the perfect blend of chic and relaxed, making it a go-to destination for both everyday hangouts and special moments with the Willamette River as a view.
The extensive wine selection is a real highlight. With a rotating list of wines available by the glass, you can always explore something different, whether you’re in the mood for a crisp white or a bold red.
Every Thursday, their live music also adds to the vibrant atmosphere. Plus, with local beers and ciders on tap, there’s something for everyone.
For non-alcoholic options, Nicole Alvarez offers unique barNA ZeroProof Cocktails every Saturday for tastings and to-go.
Pro tip:
If you’re into collecting, don’t miss the bottle shop’s cool selection—it has some rare finds that let you take home a little piece of the experience.
4. The Growler Guys
Media credits: thegrowlerguys
Website: https://thegrowlerguys.com/locations/portland-oregon-south-waterfront/
Address: 3739 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR 97239, United States
Contact details: +1 503-208-2523
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Price: $$
With over 55 taps, The Growler Guys highlights a fantastic range of craft beers. Whether you love bold IPAs, refreshing sour ales, or sweet fruit-infused brews, there’s always something new to try. The rotating selection makes each visit a fresh experience.
But it’s not just about the Willamette River view or the beer; they also offer a diverse drink menu for everyone. Their crisp hard ciders provide gluten-free options, while their kombucha serves as a refreshing non-alcoholic choice.
Their community vibe is vibrant, with regular events like Trivia Tuesdays and Saturday Comedy Nights. They also have beer tastings featuring local breweries that let patrons sample new releases which add a fun experience when visiting them.
Pro tip:
If you’re up for some friendly competition, check out Golf On Tap! You can swing away at virtual golf while sipping a drink. They’ve also got foot golf and disc golf, so there’s something fun for everyone, whether you’re a pro or just chilling.
5. Kelly’s Olympian
Media credits: kimberlynn.pdx
Website: https://kellysolympian.com/
Address: 426 SW Washington St, Portland, OR 97204, United States
Contact details: +1 503-228-3669
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 5 PM – 2 AM
- Thursday to Sunday: 1 PM – 2 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $
As soon as you step into Kelly’s Olympian, you’re greeted by a colorful mix of antique motorcycles and vintage decor that sets a fun, laid-back vibe. The retro neon signs create a warm glow, making it a place where you can easily lose track of time.
Their drink selection is impressive, with over 20 rotating taps featuring everything from local craft brews to popular national brands. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, their menu includes inventive house specials that highlight local flavors.
Don’t miss the “Olympian Mule”! It’s a tasty twist on the classic Moscow Mule, made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice that’s served in a cool copper mug. This drink showcases the bar’s flair for unique cocktails and is a refreshing favorite among locals.
Pro tip:
Aside from the stunning views of the Willamette River, you can enjoy a night of laughter with drinks every Thursday at 5:00 PM during comedy night. It’s an open mic event where both new and experienced comedians take the stage.
6. Riverside Taproom
Media credits: riversidetaproompdx
Website: https://www.riversidetaprooms.com/
Address: 315 S Montgomery St Suite 360, Portland, OR 97201, United States
Contact details: +1 971-302-6691
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 4 PM – 9 PM
Price: $$
Riverside Taproom is a chill waterfront bar right by the Willamette River. With both indoor and outdoor seating, you can enjoy your time regardless of the weather.
The drink menu is where Riverside really shines, featuring a fantastic selection of local craft beers on draft. If you’re in the mood for something different, they also have a variety of bottled and canned options, along with crafted cocktails that add a nice twist to classic favorites.
One standout is their Riverside Old Fashioned—a unique twist on the classic with high-quality bourbon or rye. It has a touch of sweetness, aromatic bitters, and a refreshing twist of orange peel.
Pro tip:
We suggest you try their White Truffle Mac & Cheese if you’re hungry. It has a creamy blend of cheeses, enhanced by the luxurious flavor of white truffle oil.
7. Portland Sports Bar & Grill
Media credits: vikkslickster
Website: https://portlandsportsbarandgrill.com/
Address: 1811 S River Dr #200, Portland, OR 97201, United States
Contact details: +1 503-222-2027
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 11: 30 AM – 9 PM
Price: $$
Family-owned since 2009, Portland Sports Bar & Grill has become a beloved part of the community. It’s kown for its delicious gourmet pub fare and a drink menu that caters to all tastes. The location is hard to beat, with beautiful views of the Willamette River.
Inside, the vibe is modern and fun. The bar’s complete with multiple TVs so you can catch all the big games in a lively atmosphere.
For cocktail lovers, you can try their Bikini Martini—a refreshing blend of vodka and fruit flavors known for its light, fruity taste that’s perfect for sipping. For the fans of sweet and spicy flavor, their Spicy Mango Cocktail combines sweet mango with a spicy kick.
Pro tip:
If you’re planning to visit during peak times, arriving early can help you secure a good seat, as the bar can get busy, particularly on weekends.
8. Raven’s Manor
Media credits: ravensmanor
Website: https://www.ravensmanorexperience.com/
Address: 235 SW 1st Ave, Portland, OR 97204, United States
Contact details: +1 971-319-6182
Operating hours:
- Monday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Thursday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 5 PM – 11 PM
Price: $$
Located near the Willamette River, Raven’s Manor in Portland is a one-of-a-kind cocktail lounge that immerses you in a spooky and theatrical atmosphere. The dimly lit space is filled with vintage and quirky decor, like creepy dolls and dusty shelves, giving it that haunted vibe.
The cocktail crafting process itself is an art. Bartenders who are also on their costumes mix ingredients with flair, creating stunning presentations that often include elements like smoke or glowing effects.
The Dr. Raven’s Reserve is a fan favorite. It’s a glowing green concoction served in an Erlenmeyer flask over dry ice. It combines rum, pineapple juice, Midori, and a spritzer for a visually stunning and refreshing sip.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their “elixir experiences,” where you can sample several cocktails in a captivating, theatrical atmosphere.
9. Island Cafe
Media credits: islandcafepdx
Website: https://islandcafepdx.com/
Address: 250 NE Tomahawk Island Dr #22, Portland, OR 97217, United States
Contact details: +1 503-283-0362
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 3 PM – 6 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: 11 AM – 8 PM
Price: $$
With its picturesque views of Casco Bay, Island Cafe is the perfect backdrop for a laid-back meal or a refreshing drink.
When it comes to food, Island Cafe shines with a menu packed full of local seafood and seasonal delights. You can’t go wrong with their lobster rolls—fresh, buttery, and bursting with flavor.
As for drinks, their cocktail game is strong. Their specialty cocktail Coconut Mojito is a unique twist on the classic. It combines fresh mint with coconut for a refreshing sip that transports you straight to paradise.
Pro tip:
Island Cafe is a fantastic option for family outings, welcoming kids with open arms. It’s also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along and ensure everyone has a great time together!
10. Flying Elephants at South Waterfront
Media credits: elephantsdeli
Website: https://www.elephantsdeli.com/
Address: 2730 S Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97201, United States
Contact details: +1 503-937-1095
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8 AM – 3 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Price: $$
Located right at the head of the Tilikum Crossing bridge, Flying Elephants at South Waterfront boasts stunning views of Mt. Hood and the tranquil waterfront. It has the perfect backdrop for any gathering.
The menu offers a delightful mix of flavors. A personal favorite is their Korean fried chicken sandwich, which features a tasty gochujang aioli (a creamy blend made with Korean chili paste). This adds a rich, spicy kick and a hint of sweetness to the chicken.
When it comes to drinks, the bar has a well-curated selection of wines, local beers, and refreshing cocktails. Plus, the cocktail menu rotates seasonally, so you can always find something fresh and exciting to sip on throughout the year.
Pro tip:
Check out their party punches. These batch cocktails are perfect for sharing and bring a nostalgic vibe while making service smoother during busy events.
