Lloyd District Portland Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction to the Lloyd District: History and Cultural Significance
Nestled just east of downtown Portland across the Willamette River, the Lloyd District is a vibrant urban neighborhood where historic roots blend seamlessly with contemporary development. Conceptualized in the early 20th century by developer Ralph Lloyd, the area has grown from a modest commercial enclave into a bustling hub for business, entertainment, culture, and sustainability. Visitors to the Lloyd District encounter a tapestry of attractions, including the iconic Lloyd Center Mall, the architecturally significant Oregon Convention Center with its distinctive twin glass spires, and the Moda Center—home to the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers and a leading venue for concerts and events. The district’s unparalleled accessibility, served by multiple MAX Light Rail lines, the Portland Streetcar, and ample parking, ensures easy exploration for all.
The Lloyd Center Mall, once the Pacific Northwest’s largest shopping mall, has transformed into an incubator for local businesses, unique shops, and nostalgic attractions like its renowned ice rink. The Oregon Convention Center serves as a leader in sustainable design and a focal point for major events, while the Moda Center stands as a premier entertainment destination. This comprehensive guide details visiting hours, ticketing, transportation, attractions, dining, and upcoming events to help you make the most of your time in the Lloyd District. For additional resources and planning, consult the official sites of the Lloyd Center, Oregon Convention Center, and Moda Center.
Table of Contents
- Welcome to the Lloyd District: Portland’s Vibrant Urban Hub
- A Brief History of the Lloyd District
- Visiting Hours and Tickets
- How to Get to the Lloyd District
- Attractions and Amenities
- Special Events, Guided Tours & Photographic Spots
- Sustainable Urbanism: The Lloyd EcoDistrict
- Lloyd Center: A Revitalized Urban Landmark
- Discover the Oregon Convention Center: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions
- Visiting the Moda Center: History, Accessibility, and Events
- Summary & Recommendations
- References
Welcome to the Lloyd District: Portland’s Vibrant Urban Hub
Just across the Willamette River from downtown, the Lloyd District is a dynamic area that fuses history, urban growth, and a diversity of attractions. Whether you’re drawn to historic sites, major events, shopping, or dining, the Lloyd District offers something for every kind of visitor.
A Brief History of the Lloyd District
Ralph Lloyd’s vision in 1908 transformed a modest neighborhood into a thriving commercial and civic center, inspired by the 1905 Lewis and Clark Exposition. Landmark developments include the Lloyd Center Mall’s 1960 opening—then the region’s largest mall—and the creation of the Oregon Convention Center and Moda Center. Over the decades, the district evolved into a mixed-use neighborhood noted for its commitment to sustainability, exemplified by the Lloyd EcoDistrict initiative (Missoula Current).
Visiting Hours and Tickets
The Lloyd District is a public urban area open year-round, 24/7. Individual attractions have specific hours:
- Lloyd Center Mall: Typically open Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM (hours may vary).
- Oregon Convention Center: Hours depend on scheduled events; check the official website for details.
- Moda Center: Open during scheduled ticketed events; consult the events calendar.
General exploration of the district is free; tickets are required for venue-specific events or attractions.
Getting to the Lloyd District
The Lloyd District is highly accessible:
- MAX Light Rail: Blue, Red, and Green lines serve the Lloyd Center/NE 11th Ave station.
- Portland Streetcar: Connects the district to downtown and other neighborhoods.
- By Car: Easily accessed via I-5 and I-84, with parking garages at the Lloyd Center.
- Bike & Pedestrian: The Eastbank Esplanade offers scenic riverfront access.
For transit schedules and parking, consult TriMet and local resources.
Attractions and Amenities
- Lloyd Center Mall: Home to shopping, dining, and the iconic ice rink where Olympian Tonya Harding once trained (Missoula Current).
- Oregon Convention Center: The Pacific Northwest’s largest convention facility, hosting major events and conferences (Oregon Convention Center).
- Moda Center: Premier venue for NBA games, concerts, and events (Moda Center).
- Holladay Park: A relaxing green space for community gatherings.
- Broadway-Weidler Corridor: Features a lively mix of shops, eateries, breweries, and cafes.
Nearby neighborhoods, such as the Alberta Arts District, offer additional cultural and culinary experiences.
Special Events, Guided Tours & Photographic Spots
- Guided Tours: Walking and biking tours are available, focusing on the district’s history and sustainable design.
- Events: Check the Oregon Convention Center and Moda Center calendars for sports, concerts, and festivals.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture views along the Eastbank Esplanade, the Oregon Convention Center’s architecture, and bustling scenes at Lloyd Center Mall.
Sustainable Urbanism: The Lloyd EcoDistrict
The Lloyd District is recognized nationally for its sustainable urban development. The Lloyd EcoDistrict implements green roofs, advanced stormwater management, and energy-efficient building practices. Informational signage and occasional tours provide insights for visitors interested in urban sustainability.
Lloyd Center: A Revitalized Urban Landmark
From Retail Giant to Cultural Incubator
Opened in 1960 as the largest shopping mall in the US, the Lloyd Center was initially a symbol of economic optimism (Missoula Current). After facing retail decline in the 2010s, the mall reinvented itself as a haven for independent businesses—ranging from vintage shops to a pinball museum and specialty retailers, such as Floating World Comics and Brickdiculous (Missoula Current).
The iconic ice rink remains a beloved attraction, and long-standing favorites like Joe Brown’s Carmel Corn continue to operate. Affordable rents and supportive management have fostered a vibrant community for small businesses (Missoula Current).
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Hours: Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM; Sunday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM (may vary seasonally).
- Admission: Free; attractions like the ice rink charge a fee (about $10 for skate rental and admission).
- Accessibility: Fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Served by public transit (Portland Creative Realtors).
Rose Quarter: Sports and Entertainment
Adjacent to the Lloyd Center, the Rose Quarter includes the Moda Center and Veterans Memorial Coliseum. It hosts concerts, sporting events, and conventions, with easy access to shopping and dining (Portland Creative Realtors).
The Oregon Convention Center, nearby, is the largest venue of its kind in the region and a leader in sustainable design (Oregon Convention Center).
Independent Retail and Creative Spaces
The Lloyd District supports a thriving ecosystem of independent businesses:
- Floating World Comics: A destination for comic enthusiasts (Missoula Current).
- Brickdiculous: Specializes in unique and collectible toys (Missoula Current).
- ZRE Music Studio: Offers music lessons and showcases high-end equipment (Missoula Current).
- Keia and Martyn’s Coffee: Exemplifies the district’s entrepreneurial spirit (Missoula Current).
Parks, Public Art, and Green Spaces
The neighborhood features public art, such as the “Constellation” bronze sculptures, and green spaces, including Holladay Park. Future redevelopment plans envision more open-air plazas, green areas, and potential venues for sports and music (Missoula Current).
Dining, Nightlife, and Entertainment
The Lloyd District offers diverse dining—from local cafes and pubs to specialty eateries—reflecting Portland’s culinary culture (Portland Creative Realtors). Nightlife centers around Rose Quarter events, but smaller venues provide live music and community gatherings.
Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The district is easily navigable by MAX Light Rail, the streetcar, and buses. Ample free parking is available at Lloyd Center. The area’s boundaries—Broadway to the north, Lloyd Blvd to the south, Willamette River to the west, NE 16th Ave to the east—mark its central position in Portland’s urban life (Portland Creative Realtors).
Future Developments and Cultural Vision
Plans are underway to transform the Lloyd Center into a mixed-use “five-minute neighborhood” with expanded housing, retail, green space, and cultural amenities (Missoula Current). The mall remains open throughout redevelopment, ensuring continued access to its evolving attractions.
Oregon Convention Center: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions
About the Oregon Convention Center
Opened in 1990, the Oregon Convention Center is a landmark venue with iconic twin spires and the first platinum LEED certification for a US convention center. It hosts a broad range of international and local events (Oregon Convention Center).
Visiting Hours and Tickets
- Hours: Open during scheduled events; check the Oregon Convention Center website for details.
- Tickets: Many events require advance purchase or registration; some community events are free to the public.
Accessibility and Transportation
The center is fully ADA-compliant, with accessible entrances, restrooms, and ample parking. It is served by all MAX Light Rail lines, the Portland Streetcar, and several bus routes.
Dining and Shopping Nearby
Enjoy a selection of nearby restaurants, such as Milo’s City Cafe, Cadillac Café, Spirit of 77, Eem, Laurelhurst Market, and Ox Restaurant. Shopping options include the Lloyd Center Mall and independent boutiques like Broadway Books and Kitchen Kaboodle.
Special Events and Photographic Spots
The Convention Center is a focal point for major Portland events like the Portland Rose Festival and Pedalpalooza. The plaza and spires are popular for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Moda Center: History, Accessibility, and Events
Overview
Opened in 1995 as the Rose Garden Arena, the Moda Center is the home of the Portland Trail Blazers and a top venue for concerts and conventions (Moda Center).
Visiting and Tickets
- Hours: Open for scheduled events; doors typically open 90 minutes prior.
- Tickets: Purchase via the official website or authorized vendors. Advance purchase is recommended.
Accessibility
The Moda Center offers full accessibility for wheelchair users, with accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, and parking. Assistive listening devices and service animal accommodations are available.
Transportation
Access the arena via MAX Light Rail, Portland Streetcar, TriMet buses, Biketown bike-sharing, and ride-sharing services. Parking is limited during major events; public transit is recommended.
Upcoming Events
- Bloc Party & Metric: June 16, 2025
- Wu-Tang Clan: July 1, 2025
- Barry Manilow: July 16, 2025
- Hozier: August 12, 2025
- NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament: March 19 & 21, 2026
For a complete schedule, visit the Moda Center events page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the Lloyd District visiting hours?
A: The district is open 24/7. Individual venues have specific operating hours.
Q: Are tickets required?
A: No tickets are needed to explore the district, but tickets are required for events at venues such as the Moda Center and Oregon Convention Center.
Q: How do I access the Lloyd District by transit?
A: Use MAX Light Rail (Blue, Red, Green lines), Portland Streetcar, or TriMet buses.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, local companies offer walking and biking tours focused on history and sustainability.
Q: Is the area accessible?
A: Yes, all major venues provide ADA-compliant facilities.
Summary & Recommendations
The Lloyd District is a dynamic destination where history, culture, commerce, and sustainability intersect. From the revitalized Lloyd Center Mall to the eco-forward Oregon Convention Center and the energetic Moda Center, the district offers attractions for all interests. Take advantage of the excellent public transit, enjoy independent retail and dining, and explore green spaces and public art. For current visiting hours, event details, and travel tips, consult the official sites: Lloyd Center, Oregon Convention Center, and Moda Center.
Download the Audiala app and follow local social media for real-time updates and insider tips. Whether you’re planning a shopping spree, attending a concert or game, or exploring Portland’s sustainable urban landscape, the Lloyd District promises a memorable experience that reflects Portland’s vibrant spirit and progressive vision.
References
- Visiting the Lloyd District Portland: History, Attractions & Tips, 2025 (Missoula Current)
- Lloyd Center Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Must-See Attractions, 2025 (Missoula Current)
- Discover the Oregon Convention Center: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions, 2025 (Oregon Convention Center)
- Visiting the Moda Center: History, Accessibility, and Events, 2025 (Moda Center)
- Portland Creative Realtors, 2025 (Portland Creative Realtors)
