Exploring the Past and Present of Sports in Portland, OR

If youre a sports fan looking for a destination that can offer more than just games, Portland may be the perfect place to explore. From basketball and soccer to cycling and skateboarding, this city has always had an active relationship with athleticism and movement.

To start your historical journey into Portlands sporting past, head straight to the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame (4848 SW Loop Rd #104). Here youll find exhibits dedicated to some of the most notable names in Oregon sports history including Bill Walton, Terry Baker, Jackie Winters and Danny Ainge. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits covering everything from womens athletics to high school football rivalries.

Next on your list should be the Memorial Coliseum (300 N Winning Way), which was built back in 1960. This iconic arena hosted several bigname events like Elvis Presley concerts as well as NBA finals games. It remains open today and is home to various sporting events ranging from basketball games played by local colleges teams or indoor track meets.

Another historic venue worth checking out is Multnomah Stadium (1844 SW Morrison St) known now as Providence Park home of Portland Timbers Major League Soccer team. Founded over one hundred years ago by timber baron Simon Benson (who personally financed its construction), it was originally named after shipbuilder John Ruddy who donated $1000 towards stadium lights for nighttime competitions.

Finally dont miss Powells City of Books (1005 W Burnside St) which while not directly related to sport itself does have one very important connection local author Brian Doyle wrote The Quotable Atheist book there before passing away recently. With over a million books displayed throughout many floors packed with hidden gems amongst bizarre titles waiting for someone adventurous enough to search them out Powells will keep you entertained all day long after exploring other venues showcasing Portlands love of sport, history and literary culture.

As you travel through Portland, keep an eye out for other events that showcase the citys unique quirks. From ecofriendly food trucks serving locally sourced cuisine to street artists painting murals in public spaces, there is no shortage of cultural delights to explore here.

Websites:

https://www.oregonsportshall.org/

https://www.rosequarter.com/memorialcoliseum

https://seatgeek.com/venues/providencepark/tickets

Twitter:

@OregonSportsHof

@RoseQuarter

@PTFCteam