
Moda Center Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Portland Historical Sites Guide
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction to Moda Center and Its Significance
Located in Portland’s energetic Rose Quarter, the Moda Center is a premier venue for sports, concerts, and cultural events, drawing close to 1.5 million visitors annually. Originally the Rose Garden Arena (opened in 1995), it was renamed Moda Center in 2013, reflecting a strong partnership with the local community. As the home of the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers and a diverse array of other teams and performers, the arena is a landmark of architectural innovation and regional pride, featuring distinctive elements like the “Clouds” acoustical system.
With its central location and accessibility features, the Moda Center offers a seamless visitor experience—whether you’re attending a high-energy basketball game, a renowned concert, or a community event. Recent public acquisition by the City of Portland signals major upcoming renovations and renewed investment in the visitor experience, ensuring the venue’s continued role as a cultural and economic anchor for the region.
For up-to-date event schedules, ticketing, and venue details, refer to the official Moda Center website, or explore additional resources such as ModaPortland.com and SportsFanFocus.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Significance of the Moda Center
- Visiting Hours
- Moda Center Tickets: How to Buy
- Accessibility and Visitor Services
- Getting There: Travel and Parking Tips
- Nearby Attractions and Amenities
- Special Events and Guided Tours
- Photographic Spots and Best Viewing Experiences
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Ownership and Future Plans
- Plan Your Visit
- References
History and Significance of the Moda Center
The Moda Center has been central to Portland’s sports and entertainment scene since 1995, replacing the Memorial Coliseum as the city’s primary arena. Renamed in 2013 after a partnership with Moda Health, the arena has hosted the Trail Blazers, Portland Thunder, and Portland Winterhawks, among others.
Beyond its function as a sports venue, the Moda Center is a cultural and economic powerhouse, generating over $600 million annually and supporting thousands of jobs (KGW, KPTV). Its recent transition to city ownership paves the way for significant renovations and community engagement initiatives, preserving its role as an essential hub for Portland and the Pacific Northwest (OregonLive).
Visiting Hours
- Events: The Moda Center opens to the public primarily during scheduled events, with doors typically opening 90 minutes before start time.
- Box Office: Open Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, and earlier/later on event days.
- Offices: Administrative offices operate Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Tour Availability: Public tours are generally limited; special guided experiences may be available during select events (ModaPortland.com).
Always confirm hours on the official event calendar before your visit.
Moda Center Tickets: How to Buy
- Official Website: Purchase tickets for Trail Blazers games, concerts, and other events directly via the Moda Center website or ticketsmodacenter.com.
- Authorized Vendors: Ticketmaster and Live Nation are official platforms.
- Box Office: Buy in person during box office hours or on event days.
- Group & Season Tickets: Available for select events; check the ticketing page for details.
- Payment: The arena is cashless, but cash-to-card kiosks are available on site (SportsFanFocus).
Early purchase is advised for high-demand events.
Accessibility and Visitor Services
- Wheelchair Access: Accessible seating and entrances throughout the arena.
- Parking: ADA-accessible spaces, elevators, and direct access from the I-84 garage.
- Assistance: Elevators, ramps, assistive listening devices, and clear signage available.
- Service Animals: Permitted in all public areas.
- Guest Services: Staff can assist with special needs; contact guest services ahead of your visit for accommodations.
Getting There: Travel and Parking Tips
- Location: 1 N Center Court St, Portland, OR 97227; easily reached via Interstates 5 & 84.
- Public Transit: The Rose Quarter Transit Center is adjacent, with MAX Light Rail (Blue, Red, Green, Yellow lines) and Portland Streetcar service.
- Parking: Over 2,500 spaces across garages and surface lots. Pre-book parking when possible, as fees and availability vary by event.
- Bike Parking: Dedicated area near the south entrance.
- Arrival Tip: Arrive at least one hour before events to ease entry and avoid congestion.
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
- Rose Quarter: Includes Veterans Memorial Coliseum and the outdoor Rose Quarter Commons.
- Pearl District & Downtown: Enjoy top dining, shopping, and culture within walking or short transit distance.
- Cultural Destinations: Explore the Oregon Historical Society, Portland Art Museum, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
- Dining: One Center Court offers a brewery, Italian restaurant, and the Trail Blazers team store.
For more on historical and cultural sites, see our related Portland guides.
Special Events and Guided Tours
The Moda Center hosts NBA games, concerts, family shows, conventions, and community events. While regular public tours are not offered, special guided tours may be available during select events or through partnerships with local programs (PDX Jazz).
Check the official website and social media for announcements.
Photographic Spots and Best Viewing Experiences
- Plaza Views: Capture the downtown skyline and Willamette River from the arena plaza.
- “Rip City” Sign: Iconic photo opportunity at the south entrance.
- Inside the Arena: Modern architecture, event energy, and themed decor offer great backdrops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the Moda Center’s visiting hours?
A: Primarily open during event days, with doors typically opening 90 minutes before events. Box office hours are 10 AM–6 PM on weekdays.
Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Through the official Moda Center website, ticketsmodacenter.com, and authorized platforms like Ticketmaster.
Q: Is the Moda Center accessible?
A: Yes, with ADA seating, elevators, ramps, accessible parking, and staff support.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Public tours are limited, but special opportunities may be announced during select events.
Q: Where can I park?
A: Multiple garages and lots are available; public transit is a convenient alternative.
Ownership and Future Plans
Following acquisition by the City of Portland, the Moda Center is set for modernization and expanded community programming, supported by continued tenancy from the Trail Blazers through at least 2030. This public ownership model supports investment in infrastructure and paves the way for future sports franchise expansion (KGW, KPTV).
Plan Your Visit
- Check Event Schedules: Review the Moda Center calendar.
- Buy Tickets Early: Secure your spot, especially for high-demand events.
- Consider Transit: Use MAX Light Rail or streetcar for convenience.
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy the Rose Quarter.
- Explore Nearby Attractions: Make the most of your trip by visiting local historical and cultural sites.
References
- ModaPortland.com
- Moda Center official website
- OregonLive
- KGW
- KPTV
- TicketsModaCenter.com
- SportsFanFocus
- PDX Jazz
- Prosper Portland