Whether you’re a rabid Portland basketball fan who can recite all of the lyrics to “Bust a Bucket,” or a newbie looking for entertaining ways to acclimate to the Rose City, a Blazers game at the Moda Center is an experience you won’t want to miss. Playing in Kid City, getting a first game souvenir and cheering on Damian and the rest of our boys is the perfect way to spend an evening with the family. Read on to get our inside scoop on how to navigate a Portland Trail Blazer game with kids in tow.
photo: Sheena Portrait
Pre-Game Fun
Before you even step foot in the Moda Center there is plenty to explore around the facility. First, make sure to hit up the main entrance to see the fountains and Rip City sign. The sign is the perfect photo opp for your little one—the “i” in city is missing to encourage fans to stand in its place to complete the iconic Trail Blazer slogan. After you get that perfect picture, walk about ten feet to Dr. Jack’s, named after our beloved coach, Jack Ramsay, who lead the Blazers to their 1977 NBA title. Dr. Jack’s offers easy picnic table seating and a classic kids’ menu with flatbreads, hot dogs and pasta. For the grownups, we recommend an order (or 3!) of the famous smoked wings along with a local craft beer or a selection from the specialty cocktail list.
photo: Sheena Portrait
Kid City
Once entering the Moda Center, head straight to Kid City on the 300 level. This is our favorite new addition to the Blazer game experience. Here you will find plenty of free activities for young fans to enjoy. The Rose City Tattoo Parlor for fake tatts, sign-making station and arcade basketball hoop games are just a few of the must-see booths that will get your squad in the rip city spirit. There is also an old-school candy cart and a children’s merchandise shop. Kids will be ecstatic when the spy Blaze, the Blazers mascot, who you can often find roaming around the 300 level with his silly moves and high energy.
For those with younger children in tow, Kid City is a perfect way to break up the game and get wiggles out. The area is lined with TVs so if they need a movement break from sitting in seats, you won’t miss any game action. Bringing binoculars adds that extra little something to keep kids engaged during the game!
photo: Sheena Portrait
Dine Like a Foodie
As Portlanders, we take pride in our food scene and don’t have to sacrifice our love for flavorful local eats when at a game. Sizzle Pie, Bunk Bar, Killer Burger, Salt and Straw, and Cha Cha Cha are just a few on the long list of vendors who now call the Moda Center home. Concessions offer vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, to boot, so no matter what your dietary preferences are, having ample delicious options in one location is a true Portland treat.
My 1st Game Souvenir
Before leaving the stadium, make sure to swing by the “My 1st Game” booth with your kids where they will receive a button along with a certificate which highlights their name, game details and with whom they attended the game. It’s free and a special keepsake that is sure to land a prized spot at home.
photo: Sheena Portrait
Tickets & Contact
Ticket prices vary depending on location in the stadium and the opposing team being played. With a little less than three months left in the season, now is the time to get tickets and start planning your proper Portland outing with a Blazer game. For tickets and pricing visit online: www.ticketmaster.com
Fred Meyer offers a Family Game Night package, which includes 4 game tickets, 10% off food, beverage (non-alcoholic) and select merchandise at the Fan Shop when you show your Fred Meyer rewards card. For more details visit online: nba.com/blazers/tickets/fred-meyer-family-games
Most home games have a 7 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. start time. Plan on game lasting about 2.5-3 hrs. There is only one early game left in the season, with a 6 p.m. start time, on February 21st against the Utah Jazz.
1 N Center Ct.
Tickets: 800-745-3000
Online: rosequarter.com
Do you have a memorable experience from a Blazer game? Share the highlights with us in the comment section below!
—Sheena Portrait
