About McMenamins Crystal Ballroom
McMenamins Crystal Ballroom is a historic live-music venue in Portland’s Pearl District. Originally opened as “Ringler’s Cotillion Hall” in 1914, it has over a century of musical legacy and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (vintageportland.wordpress.com) (fohonline.com). The space features ornate early-20th-century stone-and-brick architecture and an Art Deco–colored interior. Its standout feature is the grand floating dance floor (a hardwood floor over mechanical springs)—guests often say it feels like “dancing on clouds” (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Decorated with elaborate murals, soaring arched windows, dramatic wall sconces, chandeliers and Moorish-style detailing (www.crystalballroompdx.com) (gallery.multcolib.org), the Crystal Ballroom is known as one of Portland’s most beautiful and storied venues. McMenamins bought and restored the building in 1997 (fohonline.com), preserving its historic character while modernizing sound and safety systems. Today it retains a joyful, timeless atmosphere; bartenders and locals talk about the venue’s palpable “power of place,” a magnetic energy that has drawn crowds since the Jazz Age (www.crystalballroompdx.com).
Events and Programming
The Crystal Ballroom hosts live music almost nightly, plus occasional dance or themed events. Genres range widely: everything from rock ’n’ roll and indie bands to country, hip-hop, big-band swing and more (www.crystalballroompdx.com). It also has memorable specialty nights — for example, classic rock tributes (one recent headliner was the band Steely Dead, a fusion of the Grateful Dead and Steely Dan) and even comedy or spoken-word shows downstairs at neighboring Lola’s Room (www.crystalballroompdx.com) (www.axios.com). In recent years Portland mainstays and touring acts regularly play here. For example, indie rock icons Sleater-Kinney sold out a 2024 Crystal Ballroom show at around $45 a ticket (www.axios.com). Smaller local or genre acts often play for $20–35. (Ticket prices vary by artist, venue occupancy and day of week.) McMenamins often promotes tours by well-known bands and up-and-coming artists alike: past headliners include George Clinton, Billy Idol, Nick Cave and local favorites the Wailers and Ween. The venue also sometimes hosts all-ages dance nights or special-vibe events — but most of its calendar is live music. Check the official schedule to see what’s coming; big shows often drop tickets weeks or months in advance.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Crystal Ballroom shows can be purchased in advance or at the venue’s box office. Official tickets are sold through McMenamins (via a ticketing vendor) and at the on-site box office (under the Crystal’s front awning). Buying in person at the box office (cash or credit card) only adds a small convenience fee (about $2) (www.crystalballroompdx.com). The box office only opens on event nights — it opens about 1 hour before the advertised door time (www.crystalballroompdx.com). If you have tickets to pick up at will call, the same box office is where they’ll be held (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Many concerts also have online sales; if you buy online, expect additional service fees, while door sales (at the box office) are cheaper. Because major shows can sell out, the best strategy is to buy early if you really want specific seats or standing spots. Watch local listings or McMenamins’ announcements for presales, and sign up for email updates if you can. If a show is canceled or rescheduled, ticketholders are notified by email about refund options (handled by the ticket vendor) (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Otherwise tickets are nonrefundable, so check the date/times carefully.
Seating and Layout
The Crystal Ballroom is primarily a general admission standing-room venue. The main floor is a large open space where audiences stand or dance. There are only a few fixed benches or chairs along the edges; all real “seating” at the Crystal is limited and usually goes to the elderly or disabled. Seated-arrangement shows are very rare — when they do happen, the website notes them explicitly (www.crystalballroompdx.com). In nearly all regular concerts, attendees stand on the dance floor facing the stage. The balcony level is an upper mezzanine with extra room and side benches, but note: it is generally restricted to age 21 and over (the venue often checks IDs for the balcony) (www.tripadvisor.com). Because of this, many under-21 fans stay on the ground floor. Acoustically, the room is trapezoidal and flares toward the back bar area, and it has a top-of-house PA system with specially tuned Bose line-arrays (fohonline.com) (fohonline.com). In practical terms there’s no truly bad spot, but for best sound and views try to stand near the center-front of the floor. If you like a bit of elevation (and you're old enough), the balcony gives a clear overlook of the action. (Tip: arrive early for standing spots, as people fill the room quickly and the balcony can "fill up as soon as doors open" (www.tripadvisor.com).)
Getting There and Parking
The Crystal Ballroom is at NW 14th & Burnside in the heart of Portland. Street-wise, nearly all travel is on W Burnside Street. If driving, there’s no dedicated “venue parking” lot, but there are several pay-to-park lots just around the corner. For instance, there are at least three private parking garages or surface lots within one block of the front door (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Standard downtown metered street parking is also nearby (though limited, and often enforced), so leave extra time on busy nights. Rideshares and taxis typically drop off along NW Burnside; the entrance is obvious under the awning. For transit riders, multiple TriMet lines serve the area: city buses #12, #15, #20, #44 and #58 all stop within three blocks of NW 14th & Burnside (moovitapp.com). The Portland Streetcar A/B (North-South) line stops at NW 13th & Burnside (about a two-minute walk), and the MAX Blue/Red Line’s City Hall station is about a 5–10 minute walk east. These options make arriving by transit convenient. Ideally plan your trip in advance or use a mapping app from your location—NW Burnside is also well-served by pedestrian-friendly bike lanes and scooters (there is bike parking nearby).
Inside the Venue
On arrival, show your printed or mobile ticket (the box-office staff will scan it) and go through a quick check. Small personal items (wallets, small purses, phones) are fine, but large backpacks or clear plastic bags are not allowed (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Expect staff to enforce the house rules: no outside alcohol (only beverages bought on-site may be consumed) (www.crystalballroompdx.com); no weapons or illicit items; and generally friendly behavior. If you purchased tickets in advance, the Will-Call desk is at the box office under Burnside. Once inside, you’ll find two bars (one on the main floor near the rear, and one up on the balcony level) serving McMenamins’ craft beers, cocktails, wine and soft drinks. They also sell classic bar snacks (popcorn, pretzels, some pub food like pizza or burgers) for light eating. There is often a merchandise table or corner selling t-shirts, posters and souvenirs (look for the page mentioning “Crystal Merch” and the famous jester icon (www.crystalballroompdx.com)). Restrooms (men’s and women’s) are located on each floor and typically have McMenamins artwork and the usual coin-operated towel machines. The vibe inside is festive and lively: even early in the night you’ll hear classic rock, disco or big-band music playing in the background. McMenamins is known for a casual, comfortable atmosphere – you’ll see people in jeans, vintage tees, dresses or even costume hats, depending on the show -- with no formal dress code enforced. Note that the venue tends to run warm (especially if it’s packed), so dress in layers if you’re dancing. Cell signal inside can be patchy during big shows, and no free Wi-Fi is provided, so don’t count on streaming. Plan in advance if you need digital tickets or meet friends on arrival.
Nearby Amenities
The Pearl District around NW Burnside is loaded with options. For dining before the show, there are many spots nearby: casual diner breakfasts (e.g. Cheryl’s on 12th), artisanal pizza (Paley’s Pizza a block away), and sit-down restaurants (Mediterranean Exploration Company on NW Glisan, Elephants Deli for sandwiches). A few minutes’ walk toward the river (east) brings you to upscale restaurants like Andina (Peruvian cuisine on NW 9th) or brunch favorites like Mother's Bistro. If you prefer quick bites, food carts and coffee shops are close by, as well as the food hall at Block 216 (with McMenamins branches). Nearby bars include local pubs like Kells Irish Pub on NW 13th, or late-night casual spots. The connected McMenamins Crystal Hotel (directly across Burnside (www.crystalballroompdx.com)) houses additional bars and restaurants (Hal’s Café is famous for burgers and late brekkies). Hotels: McMenamins’ own Crystal Hotel is right across the street (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Alternately, the JW Marriott/Crowne Plaza, Hotel Deluxe and Ace Hotel are all within a 3-5 block walk; downtown Pearl boutique hotels are plentiful. If you plan to stay late, note that area traffic is quiet after hours, but you may want to pre-arrange a ride back or know the MAX train schedule (the last trains are around midnight to 1am). Overall, many visitors arrive 1–2 hours early to grab dinner or drinks so they’re all set well before showtime, especially on sold-out nights.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Crystal Ballroom stands out for its mix of rich history and unique architecture. For one, the “floating” spring dance floor (rare in modern venues) is genuinely one-of-a-kind (www.crystalballroompdx.com). It, and the ornate period fixtures, transport many into a bygone era. Artists who perform here often mention feeling “in the room” with history: legends like Jimi Hendrix (fired from Little Richard’s band here), the Grateful Dead, Ike & Tina Turner and Buffalo Springfield all rolled through this hall in the 1960s (www.crystalballroompdx.com). McMenamins kept that legacy alive by maintaining the century-old vibe — as the Portland Mercury noted, even modern seismic retrofitting was done to protect the floor and interior so “the bouncy floor remains] intact” ([djcoregon.com). Many locals cherish the Crystal for its deep roots: it opened in an era when dancing the tango was still illegal in Portland (www.crystalballroompdx.com), and it later played a part in revived swing-dance culture decades later. Today the Crystal is often called the beating heart of Portland’s live music scene. It consistently appears on lists of top nightlife spots and receives a Travelers’ Choice nod on TripAdvisor for its lively atmosphere (rated around 4/5) (www.tripadvisor.com). McMenamins itself highlights the venue as a cultural touchstone — they host a “History & Art” tour pointing out the murals and heritage of the space. In practice, what keeps fans coming back is the energy: it’s a place “any night, anything can happen,” where audiences and performers feed off each other under its vintage chandeliers (www.crystalballroompdx.com). In short, the Crystal Ballroom isn’t just a concert hall; it’s a beloved Portland institution that fuses the city’s past and present cultural life.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Crystal Ballroom is ADA-accessible. An elevator provides entry to the third-floor ballroom. Limited wheelchair-accessible seating is offered for each event (best to reserve these tickets early) (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Strollers may not be practical in the crowded dance-floor area.
What to Bring: Bring a valid ID if you plan to drink (21+ to consume alcohol, and 21+ to use the balcony (www.tripadvisor.com)). Dress comfortably: most people wear casual or festive attire. It can get warm from dancing, so light layers are wise. Cellphones and point-and-shoots are fine for photos – note, however, that flash photography is discouraged (it can spoil the show for others). A small purse or pocket wallet is good for holding essentials; large bags or backpacks are prohibited (www.crystalballroompdx.com).
Prohibited Items: Don’t bring outside food, drink, or alcohol (www.crystalballroompdx.com); no weapons (even items like marking pens or glow sticks) (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Smoking is allowed only in designated exterior areas. There’s coat storage but no formal check – hanging your jacket on the back of a seat or near a wall is usually the only option.
Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before showtime (especially for popular bands). Early arrival lets you pick a front spot, grab merch, and use the bar without rushing. Also, sidewalk lines may form; dress appropriately for the weather if you must queue outside.
Restroom Access: Restrooms are on the main level (and also upstairs). Lines can be long between sets, so go early if you need to.
Sibilance: Concerts here can be very loud. If you have sensitive hearing, consider earplugs. For filming, friendly reminder: audio recordings of performances are often not allowed.
Age & Suitability: Many shows are all-ages or 18+ (with under-21s often welcome on the floor). However, some events, especially later Comedies or Lola’s Room sets, may be strictly 21+. Always check the event’s age policy on your ticket or the venue’s website.
Local Climate: Portland’s weather can be drizzly or cold in winter, so bring an umbrella or jacket to wear before and after the show. Inside is heated, but a light jacket or sweater is helpful for lining up outside.
Final Note: The Crystal Ballroom’s charm is in its quirks. Enjoy the dance floor, soak in the historic art-covered walls, and remember to tip your bartenders. It’s a special place with rules meant for comfort and safety, so follow staff directions and house policies. If you stay courteous to fellow concertgoers, you’re in for a memorable experience where the building and its audience truly make the magic.
What is the seating arrangement at the Crystal Ballroom?
The Crystal Ballroom is primarily standing-room. Most concerts are open-floor General Admission, meaning fans stand or dance on the main level. There are only a few benches or seats along the walls. Special "seated" shows are rare and explicitly advertised. The balcony is an upper-level standing area (age 21+) (www.crystalballroompdx.com) (www.tripadvisor.com).
How many people can the Crystal Ballroom hold?
The venue’s capacity is about 1,400–1,500 people (standing room) (fohonline.com). Because events are usually GA standing, expect crowds to fill the floor and balcony up to roughly that number. (Any seated capacity depends on the limited seats at very few shows.)
How much do tickets typically cost?
Ticket prices vary by event and performer. Indie or local acts often charge around $15–30, while bigger international or headlining bands can range higher, often $40–60+ (www.axios.com). For example, Sleater-Kinney tickets were $45 for their 2024 show (www.axios.com). Keep in mind service fees apply online; in-person box office purchases add only a nominal fee (about $2) (www.crystalballroompdx.com).
How can I buy tickets for a show?
Tickets are sold through the venue’s official channels. You can buy tickets online via authorized outlets or directly at the Crystal Ballroom box office. The box office (under the Burnside awning) opens about one hour before each show’s “doors” time (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Buying in person is convenient (only a small additional fee applies (www.crystalballroompdx.com)). If you bought tickets in advance, you can pick them up at the box office Will-Call window on the day of the show (www.crystalballroompdx.com).
Are tickets available at the door or do I need to reserve in advance?
If a show isn’t sold out, tickets can be purchased at the door (box office) when it opens (usually one hour before doors). However, popular shows often sell out in advance. For guaranteed entry, it’s best to buy ahead online or from the box office. Check the event listing; many shows list “sold out” status in advance.
Does the Crystal Ballroom have assigned seating?
No, it’s mostly general admission. The Crystal is known for open-floor, standing-room concerts (www.crystalballroompdx.com). There are only a handful of fixed benches along the edges for those who need to sit. Any event with reserved seats would be specially noted as a “seated” performance on the ticket or schedule. Otherwise, arriving early is the way to get a good spot on the floor.
Is the balcony reserved for 21 and over?
Yes. The upper balcony level is typically reserved for patrons age 21 and older (www.tripadvisor.com). If you plan to use the balcony area, be prepared to show ID. The main floor is generally open to younger attendees (often 18+ on show nights), but check event age policies. Because the balcony fills up fast, under-21s mainly watch from the ground floor.
Can I bring a camera or record the show?
Small personal cameras or smartphones (for casual photos/videos) are usually allowed, as long as you don’t use flash or cause obstruction. Professional camera gear (interchangeable lenses, tripods) and audio/video recording devices are not permitted. Always respect the performers’ rules, and don’t use flash photography as it is disruptive to the show.
What items are not allowed inside the venue?
The Crystal’s house rules prohibit large backpacks and bags (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Also, no outside alcohol (only drinks purchased inside) (www.crystalballroompdx.com), no illegal drugs, no weapons, and no smoking except in designated spots. Do not bring markers or graffiti tools. Basically, carry only essentials like ID, phone, and wallet. If in doubt, another suggestion is to leave coats or large items with a friend before entering, since checked storage is very limited.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Crystal Ballroom has elevator access to reach the concert floor and balcony. A limited number of wheelchair-accessible spots are available for each show, which can sell out early (www.crystalballroompdx.com). These tickets must be specifically reserved through the ticket vendor (they’re usually labeled as “ADA” or “accessible seating”). It’s best to call ahead or plan online to ensure availability, as the accessible section is small.
What time do doors open for shows?
Typically, doors open one hour before the show’s listed start time. For example, if a show is scheduled for 8:00 PM, doors usually open at 7:00 PM. The box office will open around that same time (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Check your ticket or event listing for exact “doors” time, as occasionally it can vary depending on the night’s schedule.
Where can I park, and how much does parking cost?
Parking downtown can be pricey. There are three paid parking lots/garages just steps from the Crystal Ballroom (www.crystalballroompdx.com); fees are typically in the range of $3–$5 per hour (varies by lot and event time). Metered street parking is also nearby (Portland meters are free after 6pm but check signage). A practical tip: arrive early for easy street parking, or consider transit/ride-share to avoid the hassle of finding a spot on busy nights (www.crystalballroompdx.com).
Which public transportation stops near the venue?
The Crystal is well-served by transit. TriMet bus lines 12, 15, 20, 44 and 58 all stop within a few blocks on NW Burnside (moovitapp.com). The Portland Streetcar’s A/B (North-South) loop stops at NW 13th & Burnside, just a 2–3 minute walk. The MAX Red Line (to City Hall station) is about a 10-minute walk away. So whether you’re coming from the airport, suburbs or nearby neighborhoods, there are options.
What are the age restrictions for attending a show?
Most concerts allow guests of all ages on the main floor (sometimes 18+ due to late hours or content, so check the gig listing). However, as noted, the balcony is 21+ (you must be ID’d to go upstairs) (www.tripadvisor.com). If under 18, plan to stay on the ground floor. Some events, especially ones promoted by external partners in Lola’s Room, may even be 21+ only. The safest bet is to verify the specific event’s age policy before buying tickets.
Can I leave the building and come back in during a show?
Typically, re-entry is not guaranteed. The house rules state that once you leave, coming back depends on the show day’s policy (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Often, if you go outside, you may need to stand in line or even buy a new ticket. If you think you might want to step out (for air, a smoke break, etc.), it’s safer to wait until intermission or after the show, or get wristband/hand stamp from staff at exit if they allow it. Always plan to stay for the entire show unless it’s an emergency.
Is there a coat check area at the Crystal Ballroom?
Unlike some theaters, the Crystal Ballroom doesn’t have a formal staffed coat-check desk. In practice, coat and bag storage is very limited. For safety and space, avoid bringing large coats or luggage. If you have a coat, many people simply hang it on the back of a chair or lean it against a wall. The key tip is: travel light (since backpacks are also not allowed (www.crystalballroompdx.com)) and wear layers to stay warm outside before and after the show.
Are outside food and drinks allowed inside?
No. You may not bring any outside alcoholic beverages or open containers into the Ballroom (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Only food or drink purchased at the venue is allowed. (Small snacks or bottled water carried in by concertgoers are generally tolerated, but no imported alcohol.) The venue has a full bar and snack options, so it’s easy to buy what you need on site.
What are some nearby restaurants or hotels to use before or after a show?
The Pearl District is packed with food and lodging. For quick eats, gap to and Cheryl’s on 12th (comfort breakfasts/late-lunch), or grab a slice at Paley’s Pizza next door. NW Glisan has spots like the Mediterranean Exploration Company. Downtown restaurants (Italian, sushi, American) are also just a few blocks away. Afterward, you'll find bars like Kells Irish Pub on NW 13th or first-floor lounges at McMenamins Crystal Hotel across the street (www.crystalballroompdx.com). Hotels within a short walk include McMenamins’ own Crystal Hotel (www.crystalballroompdx.com), Hotel Deluxe, Ace Hotel, Hotel Lucia and the JW Marriott/Crowne Plaza — all convenient if you want to stay nearby.
Why is the Crystal Ballroom's floor special?
Its dance floor is famous for being a “floating” or spring-loaded floor. When built, mechanical springs were installed under the hardwood so the whole floor gives a subtle bounce as people dance. It’s often described as “dancing on clouds” (www.crystalballroompdx.com). This unique feature (thought to be one of the last of its kind on the Pacific Coast) survived modern updates; even a 2007 seismic retrofit left the spring system intact (djcoregon.com). Many performers and dancers consider it part of the venue’s allure.
What are the Crystal Ballroom’s policies on smoking and alcohol consumption?
Smoking is prohibited inside – only outside in designated areas (with break times, be ready). Importantly, don’t bring your own liquor. All alcoholic drinks consumed must be purchased at the venue (www.crystalballroompdx.com). If you have a wine or beer in hand from off-site, staff will ask you to finish it or dispose of it before entering. Follow these rules to stay compliant and respectful.
