Funhouse Lounge
The Funhouse Lounge, as the name implies, is indeed a ton of fun. Every night the lounge is open there an event or performance happening. You can pay at the door or even reserve a slot ahead of time, usually at a reduced price. Most shows are for ages 21 and up, both because of alcohol being present and the actual content of the performances. There are shows that run on weekly or monthly schedules, as well as programs that run more irregularly or on a wider schedule, such as bi-monthly, making it a great place for multiple visits. With many shows being improvisational and/or audience participation, expect a high level of interaction. The performances are comedic in nature, so be ready for hours worth of drinks, cheer and laughing whenever you spend a night at the Funhouse Lounge!
Ground Kontrol
Have you ever simultaneously wanted to act like a child with all the benefits of being an adult? Well you’re not the only one! Located on NW 5th Ave in Portland is Ground Kontrol: an arcade that turns into a barcade after 5pm. You can sip on your favorite beer or geeky themed mixed drink while having free reign to explore over 100 classic video games and 40 pinball machines. Each month, Ground Kontrol hosts a variety of events including pinball tournaments, indie game nights, and local DJs (as if the games themselves weren’t cool enough!) to keep things interesting and fresh. If you’re headed that way, be sure to stop by for a night of nonstop fun and try your shot at getting a high score posted on the leaderboard.
Caldera Brewery & Restaurant
Caldera Brewing Company is located in Ashland, Oregon, and is committed to producing uncompromised quality ales, lagers, sodas and cuisine. In 2005, Caldera became the first craft brewery on the West Coast to brew and can its own beer. In 2010, due to the huge increase in demand for Caldera’s internationally award-winning craft beers, they broke ground on their new 28,000 sq ft facility, a 30 bbl capacity brewhouse and restaurant. Caldera is also dedicated to creating a sustainable experience within the restaurant. The cooking oil used on sight is turned into biofuel. They source local and organic ingredients whenever possible. Caldera’s tap handles are made from scrap ash hardwood from Sawyer Paddles & Oars, locally made in Talent, Oregon. Caldera is a staple in Ashland with some of the best food and beer in town.
McMenamins Old St. Francis School
If you like saying, “Wow, there’s almost too much to do here”, then you’ll love McMenamins Old St. Francis school in Bend, OR. You know we couldn’t get through this list without mentioning a McMenamins. This former Catholic school has now been repurposed to entertain just about anyone. You can go lounge in a comfy chair or couch in their movie theatre and watch a recent movie or sporting event on the big screen. After the movie, you can get changed into your bathing suit and have a soak in their soaking pool. Of course you can also just drink at one of their 5 bars, including one called the “Broom Closet”, which sounds like you have to see it to believe it. And let’s not forget their delicious menu at their restaurant. Basically, you should go here ASAP, cause there is a lot of stuff you’re going to want to do here.
Grizzly Peak Winery
Located in Southern Oregon, the Grizzly Peak Winery is not something you want to miss! Husband and wife, Al and Virginia Silbowitz, moved to the area to raise a family, not necessarily open a winery, but their passion for wine slowly lead them to open their own winery. At Grizzly Peak Winery, there is certainly no shortage of things to do — there are plenty of concerts during the summer, various types of fundraising events, and even weddings! Oh, and wine tasting, too, of course. Plan your visit right now, as the winery is open during weekends from noon to four until March, and then opens up in to Thursday through Sunday, noon to four, in April.
Oregon Obscura 