The Moda Center in Portland is a place I’ve visited many times. It’s where the NBA’s Trail Blazers play and where big concerts happen. The arena feels cozy and dedicated to the Blazers, with team colors everywhere you look.
I like how the Moda Center is all about Portland. It’s not just a plain arena. When you’re inside, you really feel the city’s spirit. The seats are comfy, and you can see the court or stage well from most spots.
Going to an event at the Moda Center is fun. There’s lots to eat and drink. The staff is nice and helpful. If you’re planning a visit, I’d say it’s worth it. Just be ready for some crowds if it’s a big game or show.
Key Takeaways
- The Moda Center is home to the NBA Portland Trail Blazers and hosts many concerts
- The arena has a strong Trail Blazers theme throughout
- Club seats and suites are available for a more upscale experience
History and Significance
The Moda Center has been a cornerstone of Portland’s sports and entertainment scene since 1995. I’ve seen it host countless memorable events and become a true icon of the city.
Home of the Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers have called the Moda Center home since it opened. I love how the arena’s design provides great sightlines for NBA games. The passionate Blazers fans create an electric atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
The team has enjoyed many thrilling moments here. I remember the epic playoff runs and buzzer-beaters that had us all on our feet.
The Moda Center has helped the Blazers build a strong home-court advantage. Its intimate feel keeps fans close to the action.
Iconic Concerts and Events
Beyond basketball, I’ve seen the Moda Center host amazing concerts and shows. Some of the biggest names in music have graced its stage.
The arena’s versatile setup allows for different types of events. I’ve enjoyed everything from rock concerts to family shows here.
Some standout performances I recall include:
- U2’s 360° Tour
- Beyoncé’s Formation World Tour
- Cirque du Soleil productions
The Moda Center has truly become Portland’s premier entertainment venue. Its central location makes it easy for fans from all over PDX to attend events.
Location and Accessibility
The Moda Center is easy to get to and offers plenty of options for parking and public transport. I found it simple to plan my visit and access the venue.
Getting There
The Moda Center sits in a great spot near the Willamette River in Portland’s Rose Quarter. I like that it’s close to Old Town and easy to reach from major highways. You can get there quickly from I-5 and I-84. The arena is between N. Interstate Ave and N.E. Wheeler Ave.
When I visited, I noticed clear signs leading to the venue. It made finding my way a breeze, even as a first-timer. The area around the center felt lively and safe.
Parking and Public Transport
I had no trouble finding a place to park at the Moda Center. There are lots of parking options nearby. If you need wheelchair access, I’d suggest using the garage on the I-84 side. It has elevators that lead right to the ADA entrance.
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Public transport is also a great choice. I’ve used the MAX Light Rail to get there before. The yellow, red, blue, and green lines all stop at the Rose Quarter. Several bus routes serve the area too.
For big events, I recommend arriving early. It gives you time to park or find your way from the transit stop without stress.
Seating and Comfort
The Moda Center offers various seating options with different views and comfort levels. I found the arena to be quite accommodating, with accessible features for guests with special needs.
Seat Options and Views
I was impressed by the range of seating choices at Moda Center. The lower level seats (sections 101-122) give a close-up view of the action. I loved the Club Level on the east and west sides – it’s a top pick for any event.
For basketball games, the Courtside Club seats are amazing. They’re within five rows of the court! If you’re on a budget, the upper level still offers decent views. I sat in section 333 once and could see everything clearly.
The arena has a “Theater of the Clouds” setup for some events. This splits the space in half, giving a more intimate feel. I think it’s a clever use of the space!
Accessibility for Guests
I’m happy to report that Moda Center is quite accessible. There are special seating areas for guests with mobility needs. These spots offer great views and easy access.
For those who are height challenged like me, I suggest avoiding the very back rows of the upper level. The angle can make it hard to see over taller folks in front.
The aisles are wide enough for easy movement. I noticed elevators and ramps throughout the arena, making it simple to get around. Staff members were always ready to help if I needed assistance finding my seat or navigating the venue.
Amenities and Services
The Moda Center offers a wide range of amenities to make my visit enjoyable. I found plenty of food options, cool merchandise, and clean facilities throughout the arena.
Food and Drinks
I was impressed by the variety of eats available at Moda Center. From classic arena fare to local Portland favorites, there’s something for every taste. I spotted numerous concession stands and vendors around the concourse.
The pizza is a popular choice. I saw several people munching on big, cheesy slices. For drinks, there are bars serving beer, wine, and cocktails. I also noticed some healthier options like salads and wraps.
One thing I liked was the local touch. Some stands feature Portland-area restaurants and food carts. It’s a nice way to get a taste of the city while enjoying an event.
Prices are typical for an arena – not cheap, but not outrageous. I’d recommend eating beforehand if you’re on a budget. But treating yourself to a snack or drink during the event can be fun!
Merchandise and Shopping
I found plenty of opportunities to grab some cool merch at Moda Center. The main team store is pretty big and well-stocked. It’s a great spot to pick up Trail Blazers gear or souvenirs.
Here’s what I saw for sale:
- Jerseys and t-shirts
- Hats and accessories
- Collectibles and novelty items
- Event-specific merchandise
There are also smaller kiosks around the arena for quick purchases. I noticed they had a good selection of items, even if not as extensive as the main store.
Prices are what you’d expect at an arena – a bit high, but not shocking. I’d suggest checking out the clearance section if you’re looking for a deal. Overall, it’s easy to find something to remember your visit by.
Restrooms and Facilities
I found the restrooms and facilities at Moda Center to be clean and well-maintained. There are plenty of restrooms spread throughout the arena, which helps keep lines manageable during busy times.
The facilities include:
- Men’s and women’s restrooms
- Family restrooms
- Accessible restrooms
I noticed that most restrooms had multiple sinks and hand dryers, which helps with crowd flow. The family restrooms are a nice touch for those with young kids or who need extra space.
One thing I appreciated was how clean everything was kept, even during busy events. Staff seemed to be on top of maintenance and restocking.
As for other facilities, I saw water fountains and charging stations in various spots around the arena. It’s nice to have those conveniences available.
Entertainment Experience
The Moda Center offers amazing entertainment options. I love the energy during games and concerts. The venue has great sound, awesome screens, and fun extras.
Live Event Acoustics
I’m always impressed by the sound quality at Moda Center events. The acoustics are top-notch for both sports and concerts. During Blazers games, I can clearly hear the squeak of sneakers and the swish of the net.
At concerts, the music fills the arena without being too loud or distorted. I’ve enjoyed shows from different spots in the venue, and the sound is consistently good. The arena seems designed to distribute audio evenly.
One time, I saw a rock concert here and was blown away by how crisp the guitars sounded. Even when the crowd got loud, I could still make out every word the singer belted out.
Jumbotron and Scoreboards
The massive center-hung jumbotron is a highlight of the Moda Center. It’s huge and super clear. I love watching replays and close-ups during games. The stats and graphics are easy to read from any seat.
There are also scoreboards in each corner of the arena. These show game info, player stats, and out-of-town scores. As a stats geek, I appreciate having all this data at my fingertips.
During concerts, the screens display cool visuals and close-ups of the performers. It really adds to the experience, especially if I’m sitting far from the stage. The whole setup makes me feel more connected to the action.
Halftime Shows and Entertainment
Moda Center knows how to keep fans engaged between plays. The halftime shows are always a treat. I’ve seen everything from acrobats to dog shows to local dance troupes. They put real effort into making these entertaining.
During game breaks, there are fun contests and crowd games on the court. I once got picked to try a half-court shot! Even though I missed by a mile, it was a blast. The Blazers’ mascot, Blaze the Trail Cat, is also great at pumping up the crowd.
For concerts, some acts bring their own pre-show entertainment. I saw a circus-themed warm-up before a pop concert once. It really set the mood for an amazing night of music and spectacle.
Fan Experience
Going to a Moda Center event is always a blast. The energy is electric, and there’s always something fun happening. I love how they make each game feel special.
Crowd Energy and Engagement
The crowd at Moda Center is amazing. When I’m there for a Trail Blazers game, I can feel the excitement in the air. Everyone’s decked out in red and black, chanting “RipCity!” It’s so loud when the Blazers score.
The arena has a great setup for getting fans involved. There’s a huge video screen that shows cool replays and stats. During timeouts, they have fun games and contests. I’ve seen dance-offs and T-shirt cannons that get everyone pumped up.
One of my favorite things is the player intros. The lights go down, and the crowd goes wild. It always gives me goosebumps!
Special Events and Theme Nights
Moda Center knows how to make each game feel unique. They have awesome theme nights that add extra fun to the NBA experience.
I’ve been to ’90s Night where everyone dressed up in old-school gear. They played throwback music and had special guest appearances from former Blazers stars.
There are also family-friendly events. I took my kids to a superhero night once. We all wore capes, and the mascot was dressed as Batman. It was a hit!
They do a great job with holidays too. For Christmas games, they deck out the arena with lights and decorations. It feels so festive and special.
Operational Aspects
The Moda Center runs like a well-oiled machine. I’ve noticed how smoothly things go, from getting into the arena to enjoying events. Let me share what I’ve seen about their safety measures and customer service.
Safety and Security Measures
When I visit the Moda Center, I feel safe. There are metal detectors at all entrances. Security guards check bags carefully. I’ve spotted cameras all around, keeping an eye on things.
During events, I see staff patrolling the aisles. They’re quick to handle any issues that pop up. Emergency exits are clearly marked. I’ve noticed regular safety drills too.
The arena has a clear bag policy. It speeds up entry and boosts security. I like how they post safety rules on big screens before shows. It’s a good reminder for everyone.
Customer Service and Staff
The staff at Moda Center always greet me with a smile. They’re easy to spot in their uniforms. I find them helpful when I need directions or have questions.
At concession stands, the workers are quick and friendly. They handle long lines well. I’ve seen them solve problems fast, like when a card reader acted up.
Guest services desks are in handy spots. Once, I lost my ticket, and they sorted it out in no time. The ushers are great too. They’ve helped me find my seat more than once.
I appreciate how staff keep the place clean. During events, I see them tidying up often. It makes for a nicer experience all around.
Tips and Recommendations
Planning your visit to the Moda Center can make a big difference. I’ve got some helpful advice to share about timing and general tips for a great experience.
Best Time to Visit
I recommend arriving at the Moda Center about an hour before the event starts. This gives plenty of time to find parking, go through security, and find your seat. For Portland Trail Blazers games, weeknight games tend to be less crowded than weekend games.
If you’re looking to avoid long lines, try entering through less busy gates. I’ve found the southwest entrance often has shorter wait times.
During halftime or between periods, concession lines get very long. I suggest grabbing snacks earlier if possible.
General Tips for a Great Visit
Bring cash for parking if you plan to use the on-site lots. It’s usually $15-20 depending on the event.
I always check the Moda Center website before going to see if there are any special rules or promotions for that day’s event.
Public transit is a great option to avoid parking hassles. The MAX light rail stops right at the Moda Center.
For the best views, I prefer seats in the 200 level. They offer a good balance of proximity and overall perspective of the action.
Don’t forget to bring a light jacket. The arena can get chilly, especially if you’re sitting higher up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Attending events at the Moda Center can be exciting, but it’s normal to have questions. I’ve compiled answers to some common queries to help make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.
How can I find the best parking options when visiting the Moda Center?
I’ve found that parking at the Moda Center can be a bit tricky. There are on-site parking garages, but they fill up fast. I recommend arriving early or using public transit. The MAX light rail stops right at the arena, which is super convenient.
What is the Theater of the Clouds in relation to the Moda Center?
The Theater of the Clouds is a cool feature inside the Moda Center. It’s a smaller configuration used for more intimate shows. I love how it transforms the space for concerts and comedy acts.
Are visitors allowed to bring purses and bags into the Moda Center?
The Moda Center has strict rules about what you can bring inside. I always check their website before going. Small purses are usually okay, but larger bags might not be allowed. It’s best to travel light.
Is the Veterans Memorial Coliseum located within the Moda Center complex?
The Veterans Memorial Coliseum is separate from the Moda Center, but they’re close to each other. I’ve been to both venues. The Coliseum is older and hosts different events, like hockey games.
Can guests expect climate-controlled comfort when attending an event at the Moda Center?
Yes, I’m always comfortable at the Moda Center. The arena is fully climate-controlled. Whether it’s hot or cold outside, the temperature inside is just right for enjoying the event.
What are the upcoming events scheduled at the Moda Center?
I love checking the Moda Center’s website for upcoming events. They host a wide variety, from NBA games to concerts. The schedule changes often, so I make sure to look it up before planning a visit.
