About 680 SE 6th Ave
680 SE 6th Avenue is a historic event building in Southeast Portland that today houses the Melody Event Center upstairs and the Get Down PDX music venue in the basement. Originally built in 1925 as the Woodmen of the World lodge, the stone-and-brick building retains its vintage grandeur – complete with two ballrooms, soaring timber beams and even a restored steam room with soaking tub (www.travelportland.com ) (oregonbusiness.com ). Its ornate 30-foot ceilings, maple floors and brass chandeliers lend old-Portland charm to concerts and gatherings. The basement stage has its own legend: local media note that “the stage once hosted legendary bands such as Nirvana and Alice in Chains” back in the 1990s (oregonbusiness.com ). After decades of various uses, new owners in 2018–2021 poured nearly $2 million into modernizing the space (new lighting, sound, elevator and more) while preserving those roaring-Twenties details (oregonbusiness.com ). Today the Get Down is known as a 400-capacity live-music hall (an intimate mid-size venue) that brings a high-quality production to Portland’s indie-rock, jazz, reggae, EDM and dance scenes, making it a distinctive hotspot in the city’s nightlife/network.
Events and Programming
The Get Down hosts an eclectic mix of events year-round. Its calendar includes live bands (rock, funk, world music, Latin, jazz and more), tribute shows (e.g. Pink Talking Fish – a Phish tribute), DJ dance parties, comedy nights, and special themed events. According to venue listings, you’ll find anything from queer-friendly dance nights and yacht-rock remix parties to PDX Jazz festival performances or reggae/funk tours. Promoters like Soul’d Out regularly present funk, reggae and jam concerts there, and the venue itself features recurring “Euphoria” LGBTQ dance nights. Past lineups have ranged from Malian guitarist Habib Koité to indie rock (Ulrika Spacek) to funk legends (Alo). Music bloggers note that “the venue offers an eclectic lineup of shows featuring a diverse range of genres, from tribute bands to electronic acts and jazz performances” (www.mapquest.com ). Ticket prices typically start in the teens for local dance nights or comedy shows and can climb to $40–$50+ for headliners. In fact, current events listed on ticket sites show base prices as low as $11–$15 (e.g. a Yacht Rock party for $11+ (www.tixr.com )) up to the $40s for bigger acts (e.g. funk legend George Porter Jr. for $46+ (www.tixr.com )). Many shows are promoted regionally, with doors often opening 90–120 minutes before showtime. Because ticket supply is limited (400 capacity) popular shows can sell out quickly, so it’s wise to buy early. Nightlife guides recommend checking the Get Down’s website or social pages regularly, as new concerts and parties are announced weekly.
Tickets and Booking
All tickets for events at 680 SE 6th Avenue are sold through authorized online outlets. The venue uses ticket platforms such as Tixr (and sometimes AXS or ticketing partners) rather than a traditional box office. To buy tickets, visit thegetdownpdx.com or trusted ticket sites and search for the event of interest. Ticket prices vary by show: budget dance nights can be around $10–$15, while multi-act concerts or touring bands may charge $30–$50 or more (www.tixr.com ). VIP or reserved-table options (with guaranteed seating) are available for some events at higher cost. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance since many shows are small-capacity and sell out; you will usually need to print or download your ticket for entry. However, the Get Down does offer limited walk-up sales: according to their FAQ, “we are now offering low fee tickets to future events during the 30 minute period before doors open” (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). In practice, that means you can pay at the door (cash or credit) roughly half an hour before the show, at only a small convenience fee. If you see an event advertised and haven’t got a ticket yet, arriving early to buy one on-site is often possible. There is no retail box office or phone line; contact must be by email. (The venue explicitly notes there is no phone number, so questions about tickets or the venue are handled by email staff.)
Seating and Layout
The Get Down is configured for general-admission standing concerts. Inside, the stage stretches across one end of a wide warehouse-style room with about 20–25’ high ceilings. A friendly review describes it as having “an open floor right up to the stage” with a large lounge area alongside (www.mapquest.com ). In practice, most attendees gather on the main floor for dancing and viewing. Along the sides and back of the room there are a few peripheral seating options: bar stools, ledges, and lounge tables. This layout means there are no fixed rows blocking sightlines – the sound and lighting rigs project over an unobstructed crowd. Indeed, reviewers praise the sound system: the recent renovation installed “top-notch” speakers and full-color stage lighting (wanderlog.com ). The result is a club-like atmosphere where even at the back you have a clear view of performers, and the dance floor feels roomy. (Aspiring front-row fans should note it can get crowded near the stage – earplugs are a good idea if you plan to stand right under the speakers.) There is also a small raised section reserved for ADA seating for those who need to sit. Overall, the site feels energetic and open – plenty of standing space up to the stage, with chairs and booths only along the perimeter by the bar.
Getting There and Parking
680 SE 6th Ave is just south of the East Burnside/Hawthorne Bridge in inner Southeast Portland. The official address is listed as 680 SE 6th Ave, Portland OR 97214 (www.mapquest.com ), and the entrance is on SE 6th between Alder and Ankeny. If coming by car, there is a paid lot at the corner of 6th and Alder, plus metered curb parking on the surrounding blocks. Street parking in the area is generally limited to two-hour meters (except some free 2-hour zones) – note that all street parking becomes free after 6PM on weekends (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). In practice, many guests use a nearby paid garage or try their luck at free 2-hour spots on side streets. For transit, the venue is extremely accessible: it sits only two blocks from the nearby streetcar and bus stops (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). The Portland Streetcar A and B Loop lines stop on SE Grand at Belmont and on MLK/Grand at Morrison, about a three-block walk west of the venue (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Bus lines #6, #15 and #70 also stop within a short walk (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). For those driving via GPS, plugging in “680 SE 6th Ave” or “The Get Down” works. Rideshare drivers (Uber/Lyft) can drop off and pick up right on 6th Ave by the entrance. Because traffic can back up near Burnside and Hawthorne, plan extra time on shows nights – or factor a bit of walking from a safer parking spot or transit station.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, expect a quick ID and ticket check at the door (all events default to 21+ (www.thegetdownpdx.com )). Security may glance inside small bags. The decor is dark-industrial chic: black-painted walls, dim mood lighting and graffiti-style murals in places, with the retro-chandelier centerpiece above the dance floor. The large bar runs along one side wall: it serves craft beers, cocktails and mixers. (Drink prices are comparable to other Portland clubs – plan on $6–8 for beer, $9–12 for cocktails). Outside food is not served inside, but there is plentiful seating at the bar if you want to order drinks or snacks. The venue does not have its own kitchen, so many patrons grab a meal beforehand; however, you can usually ask security or staff if any food trucks or strolling concessions are set up for a particular show. Restroom facilities (halves for men and women) are located near the stage wings or up a short flight of stairs – signposted once inside. All areas of the basement are connected by ramps, so families or wheelchair users can access the whole space via the elevator. By venue policy, no weapons, outside alcohol or glass bottles are allowed (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). You may bring an empty water bottle inside, but it must remain empty while on site (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Photography is generally limited to phones and casual snapshots – pro cameras are prohibited without permission (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). The Get Down’s sound and lighting crews are professionally trained, and the club features modern speakers and programmable LED lights, so performances look and sound quality are a highlight. If you need help or accommodations, the staff are known to be helpful and attentive, reflecting the venue’s reputation for “accommodating” service and friendly bartenders (wanderlog.com ). In short, inside you’ll find a clean, safe party space: small lounge areas aside, it’s all about the music and crowd.
Nearby Amenities
The Get Down sits at the edge of Portland’s Hawthorne district, so dining and drinks are steps away. A few blocks north (SE Taylor and Washington) are highly rated spots: for example, Olympia Provisions (107 SE Washington) is a popular charcuterie-style European restaurant just 0.2 miles away (www.concerthotels.com ). Another is Kachka (960 SE 11th, 0.3 mi) – famous for authentic Eastern European fare (www.concerthotels.com ). A quick walk south on SE 6th brings you to Shalom Y’all (117 SE Taylor, 0.3 mi) for Mediterranean-inspired small plates (www.concerthotels.com ). For Southern comfort food or Creole, the famous Screen Door is about 0.6 mi east on E Burnside, and East Burnside itself has bars like the 4-Star with views. There are also casual pubs (Lucky Labrador brewpub, pubs on SE Hawthorne), coffee shops and taquerias on nearby Grand and Hawthorne. In general, you’ll find dozens of pre- or post-show restaurants and cafés within a half-mile: options range from sit-down dinner to late-night food carts and pubs. Several boutique hotels and short-term rentals are nearby if you need to stay; a full list is usually provided on Portland travel guides. If you’re driving, you may want to dine 1–2 hours before and allow time to park; public transportation is often an easy way to get a quick meal at a Belmont St. taco truck or brewpub before the show. Late on weekends, taxis and rideshare lines can be long, so plan accordingly.
What Makes This Venue Special
What sets 680 SE 6th apart is the blend of historic character and modern energy. Few Portland venues can claim both a vintage grand ballroom heritage and a cutting-edge concert feel. Jeffrey Peters, the owner, describes the restored building as “vastly improved” with state-of-the-art lighting and mechanics atop its 1925 architecture (oregonbusiness.com ). Local reviews often highlight the intimate size (400 capacity) and excellent sound mix – you really feel close to the performers. Concert-goers enjoy that special “club” vibe: a spacious dance hall wrapped in classic brick walls and timber trusses, yet with pro-quality audio and an LED light show. Patrons say it’s “clean and classy” (www.mapquest.com ) and love the freedom to dance. The venue has become a throwback to Portland’s past music scene (Nirvana, Alice in Chains on this floor decades ago (oregonbusiness.com )) while remaining on the cutting edge – for example it even hosted a live-streamed “first post-COVID concert” trial. It also includes a trendy members-only whiskey lounge (The Keep) downstairs, which nods to the building’s speakeasy-era history in the 1920s (oregonbusiness.com ). In sum, for both bands and audiences this place feels unique: it has a lived-in, old-building soul and action-packed professional production. Artists appreciate the quality PA and vibe, and fans say attending shows here is as much about the experience (vintage aesthetics, dance-floor community, local flair) as the music. (oregonbusiness.com ) (wanderlog.com )
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to arrive early. Doors typically open 60–90 minutes before showtime, so getting there at least 30–60 minutes ahead of the performance is wise (this gives time to find parking or a train). The venue enforces a strict 21-and-over age policy for almost all events (www.thegetdownpdx.com ) – bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport). Check online if any “all-ages” show is advertised (rarely happens, e.g. charity events). Dress is casual; many people come in “night out” attire or themed costumes for dance parties, but there’s no formal code. Footwear should be comfortable for standing and dancing on the hardwood floor. Security will generally allow small personal items, but avoid large backpacks or long umbrellas since bags over 12″ are prohibited (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Cameras: typical point-and-shoot cameras and phones are fine, but professional DSLRs or video rigs are not allowed without special permission (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Outside bottles or cans (including alcohol) are not allowed – empty bottles can be brought in if sealed. Smoking is prohibited indoors (per Oregon law); if needed smoke outside on the sidewalk. If you require ADA accommodation, the venue has an elevator and a special seating area of chairs (www.thegetdownpdx.com ) (www.thegetdownpdx.com ); purchase an ADA-designated ticket if possible so staff can set this up for you. If you forget, just ask staff at the door and they will assist with seating. Wireless cell coverage is generally okay, but venue offers no public Wi-Fi. Typical mistake: arriving too late – once the show starts the doors are locked and late arrivals may have to wait until an appropriate break to enter. Finally, budget time after the show: lines for rideshares or parking can swell, so sit back and enjoy the post-show crowd or music for a few minutes before leaving. With ID, an online ticket, and good shoes, you’ll be all set to enjoy the lively, distinctive experience that is 680 SE 6th Ave.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for events at 680 SE 6th Ave?
Tickets are sold online through authorized vendors. Visit thegetdownpdx.com or ticketing platforms like Tixr/AXS to purchase in advance. Ticket prices vary by event ($10–$50+). There is no traditional box office, but the venue does allow limited door sales: low-fee tickets are available about 30 minutes before showtime (www.thegetdownpdx.com ).
Can I buy tickets at the venue on the day of the show?
Yes, the Get Down offers on-site ticket sales shortly before events. Starting about 30 minutes before doors open, you can purchase remaining tickets at the door for a small fee (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). This window closes when the show begins. It’s safer, however, to buy online in advance to guarantee entry especially for popular shows.
What is the capacity and seating configuration?
The venue holds about 400 people. It is mostly general-admission standing room. There are no fixed seats in the main hall, but there is limited seating along the raised perimeter and at the bar (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). For accessible needs, there is an ADA seating area with chairs near the back (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). VIP ticket holders may have reserved tables if offered. Overall, expect an open floor leading up to the stage.
Do I need to be 21 to attend events at The Get Down?
Yes, all standard shows at The Get Down are 21 and over, unless explicitly stated otherwise (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Make sure to bring valid photo ID (driver’s license, etc.) for age verification. If a particular event is advertised as all-ages, the venue notes this on its site. Otherwise, assume 21+ and plan accordingly.
What items are not allowed in the venue?
The Get Down has a strict no-weapons policy (no firearms or knives) and no illegal drugs or marijuana. Bags larger than 12 inches are prohibited. You cannot bring any liquids (except an empty water bottle). Hula hoops, sticks, posters or stickers, and any unapproved promotional materials are banned. Professional photo/video equipment is not allowed without prior approval, and stage-diving or crowd-surfing is not permitted (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Also note: outside alcohol or open beverages are not allowed (you may bring an empty bottle for water, to refill inside) (www.thegetdownpdx.com ).
Are there accessibility features at 680 SE 6th Ave?
Yes. The venue is wheelchair-accessible via an elevator and internal ramps (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). There is a designated ADA seating area with chairs for guests who cannot stand for long periods (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Staff will assist mobility-impaired patrons to their seats. When booking tickets online, you can select an ADA ticket to notify staff of the need. Restrooms and all sections of the space can be reached without stairs.
What public transit serves 680 SE 6th Ave?
Multiple transit options are nearby. The Portland Streetcar A and B Loops stop a couple blocks away (SE MLK & Morrison, and SE Grand & Belmont) (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Bus lines #6, #15 and #70 also have stops near SE 6th and Alder (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). These make it easy to reach the venue without driving. The address “680 SE 6th Ave” can be used for transit trip planners.
Where can I park around The Get Down, and how much does it cost?
There are limited paid parking options. A parking lot at SE 6th & Alder is reserved for pay parking. Street parking along SE 6th and neighboring blocks is metered (2-hour limit in most spots) (www.thegetdownpdx.com ). Outside of metered hours, some free 2-hour visitor zones (marked “G” or “N”) exist. On weekends after 6PM, street parking becomes free. Because parking is tight, many guests use short-term paid lots nearby or plan to arrive early. Rideshare drop-off on 6th Ave is convenient to avoid parking hassles.
Are there any nearby restaurants or bars for dining before or after a show?
Yes. The venue is within walking distance of popular Southeast Portland eateries. For example, Olympia Provisions (charcuterie/French kitchen, 107 SE Washington) is only ~0.2 miles away (www.concerthotels.com ), Kachka (Russian fare, 960 SE 11th) ~0.3 mi (www.concerthotels.com ), and Shalom Y’all (Mediterranean tacos, 117 SE Taylor) ~0.3 mi (www.concerthotels.com ). The Hawthorne area is adjacent, offering pubs, barbecue trucks and late-night bites. Customers often dine on Belmont Street or Burnside beforehand. There are also nearby breweries and wine bars (e.g. Normandie Wine Pub at SE Ankeny (www.concerthotels.com )) and casual bars like Bar Casa Vale (Spanish tapas, 215 SE 9th) for after-show drinks. Always check hours – some kitchens close by 10pm, so plan accordingly.
Is there a dress code for attending The Get Down?
The dress code is casual night-life attire. Most guests wear jeans, t-shirts, dresses or clubwear, depending on the event. There is no strict policy against sneakers or casual clothing. For themed nights (such as retro-dance or costume parties), attendees often dress up in costume or colorful outfits to match the theme. Wearing comfortable shoes is advised since you’ll likely stand or dance the whole night.
Are there idols or celebrity appearances related to Nirvana or Alice in Chains at this venue?
No, the Nirvana and Alice in Chains references are historical highlights, not ongoing features. Those bands played here decades ago. Today The Get Down does not host original members of those bands as anything scheduled, though it does bring in both local acts and touring tribute or cover bands. It's a live music venue, so expect contemporary performers rather than the original 90’s artists.
Is there an on-site coat check or lockers?
The venue does not advertise a coat check service, so plan to keep personal items with you. It’s best to bring only what you need (wallet, phone, keys) since space is limited. Large bags are not allowed. For outerwear, the sensational crowd makes coat-check impractical; just wear light layers, as concerts can warm up once the dance floor is full.
How early should I arrive for a show at The Get Down?
We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before doors open, especially for popular events. Doors often open 60–90 minutes before showtime. Arriving early gives you time to buy or pick up tickets, get in line, and find a good spot. It also helps avoid last-minute parking or transit rush. If you’re dining or parking, you may want to plan even earlier.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed inside?
Non-professional cameras and phones are generally allowed. Smartphone snapshots and casual photography are fine, as long as you’re not obstructing anyone. However, professional cameras (large DSLRs or video cameras) and recording gear are not permitted unless you have special permission. If shooting press photos for an event, you should contact the venue in advance. Otherwise, expect only personal phone pics/videos during shows.
Is smoking allowed inside or near The Get Down?
No smoking is allowed inside the venue. Oregon law prohibits indoor smoking in bars and music venues. If someone needs a smoke break, it must be on the sidewalk or outside area. The staff will typically allow a short break outside for smoking and then let you back in if it’s within a reasonable time before the next act.
