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First Street Dining Commons

4.4
·13 reviews·Beaverton, United States

A vibrant outdoor commons where you can grab food from surrounding eateries and enjoy a communal dining experience. Perfect for families, groups, and ...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday evenings

Lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding

CrowdHigh
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First Street Dining Commons - Image 1

First Street Dining Commons

Best Time

Friday evenings

Lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant outdoor commons where you can grab food from surrounding eateries and enjoy a communal dining experience. Perfect for families, groups, and pets!

4.4
(13 reviews)

"This space is fantastic! Grab food and beverages from anywhere and sit in the commons to enjoy!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Mind the Parking!

Avoid the adjacent lot; it's notorious for expensive tickets. Look for street parking or alternative nearby spots.

🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun

Bring your well-behaved dogs along! The commons is a welcoming space for pets to enjoy the outdoors with you.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Communal Outdoor Seating

Communal Outdoor Seating

The entire commons area

Spacious, open-air seating perfect for groups, families, and pets. A lively atmosphere for enjoying diverse food options.

Kid-Friendly Play Zone

Kid-Friendly Play Zone

Designated area within the commons

A dedicated space with new additions, making it a hit for children. Plenty of room for them to play while you relax.

Heated Lamp Dining

Heated Lamp Dining

Various seating areas

Enjoy al fresco dining even on cooler evenings with the availability of heated lamps throughout the commons.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Commons Vibe

This vibrant outdoor space is perfect for groups, families, and even your furry friends! Grab food and drinks from surrounding eateries and enjoy them in this communal area. It's a fantastic spot for a relaxed evening out.

Parking Pointers

Be mindful of parking! While the commons is a great spot, the adjacent lot is known for hefty tickets. Opt for street parking or other nearby options to avoid unexpected fees.

Best Times

When
Friday evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding
Crowd
High
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Great for families and casual outings
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
More relaxed, good for COVID-conscious guests
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Restaurants with outdoor dining and heated lamps?

🚗 Mind the Parking!

Avoid the adjacent lot; it's notorious for expensive tickets. Look for street parking or alternative nearby spots. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun

Bring your well-behaved dogs along! The commons is a welcoming space for pets to enjoy the outdoors with you. Reddit

reddit.com

Restaurants with outdoor seating?

reddit.com

Food Recommendations in Beaverton

🪑 Comfort Check

Chairs can be basic. If you have hip issues or prefer more comfort, consider bringing a cushion. Reddit

🍔 Foodie Paradise

Explore the diverse food options from surrounding restaurants. Mix and match to create your perfect meal! Reddit

reddit.com

Day drinking Downtown

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Mind the Parking!

Avoid the adjacent lot; it's notorious for expensive tickets. Look for street parking or alternative nearby spots. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun

Bring your well-behaved dogs along! The commons is a welcoming space for pets to enjoy the outdoors with you. Reddit

🪑 Comfort Check

Chairs can be basic. If you have hip issues or prefer more comfort, consider bringing a cushion. Reddit

🍔 Foodie Paradise

Explore the diverse food options from surrounding restaurants. Mix and match to create your perfect meal! Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for Groups

This space is ideal for larger gatherings and families, offering ample room for everyone to spread out. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(13 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the First Street Dining Commons as a fantastic communal space that revitalizes the downtown area. It's highly praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, pet-friendliness, and the ability to enjoy diverse food options in a lively outdoor setting. However, a significant drawback mentioned is the problematic parking situation, with many warning about expensive tickets.

"This space is fantastic! We are downtowners and are so happy this exists. Grab food and beverages from anywhere and sit in the commons to enjoy! It's great for bigger groups and for groups with kids. Dogs also enjoy the commons!"

Monika Piazza

"We love the commons one of the best things to come out of the pandemic. Has a kids zone and plenty of outdoor seating. Only downside is the horrible parking lot next door that gives you $50+ tickets for even driving into the lot or picking up Togo orders"

Devon McMaster

"Awesome concept! I liked the closed off street with the outdoor seating. I wish the chairs had been a little more comfortable. I was on a folding chair on a slanted street, not ideal for someone with hip issues. All the food options nearby were great. It was a really lovely way to spend a Friday evening."

Trish Pruis

What People Like

Vibrant communal atmosphere
Great for families and pets
Diverse food options nearby

What People Dislike

Expensive parking tickets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The commons is located at the corner of SW Watson and SW 1st St in Beaverton. You can search '1st Street Dining Commons' on Google Maps for precise directions. Reddit

Information on specific public transport routes is limited, but it's generally accessible within Beaverton. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.

The commons is an outdoor, open space. While generally accessible, some areas might have slight inclines. It's recommended to assess the specific area you plan to sit in.

Yes, you can arrange for drop-offs. Just be mindful of traffic flow and designated no-parking zones to avoid any issues.

The commons is situated near SW Watson and SW 1st Street, making it easily accessible from major local thoroughfares in Beaverton.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the First Street Dining Commons is free. It's a public space designed for community gathering. Reddit

As an outdoor public space, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific vendor hours will vary. It's best to visit during established business hours of surrounding restaurants.

The kids' play area within the commons is free to use for all visitors. Reddit

No, seating in the commons is on a first-come, first-served basis. It's an open public space.

Generally, you can bring food and drinks purchased from nearby establishments. Large personal coolers or outside catering might not be permitted. Always check local guidelines if unsure.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The commons offers a variety of outdoor seating, including tables and chairs. Some reviews mention the chairs can be basic, so consider bringing a cushion for extra comfort. Reddit

Absolutely! It features a dedicated kids' zone with new additions, making it a fantastic spot for families. Reddit

Yes, the commons is pet-friendly, so your dogs can join you for an outdoor meal. Reddit

Restroom availability can vary. It's advisable to check with nearby businesses or plan accordingly. Often, nearby restaurants may allow access for their patrons.

The atmosphere is lively and communal, especially on evenings and weekends. It's a great place to socialize and enjoy the outdoors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The commons itself doesn't have vendors, but it's surrounded by numerous restaurants offering diverse cuisines. You can grab food from anywhere nearby and enjoy it in the commons. Reddit

Yes, that's the primary concept! Grab takeout from any of the surrounding eateries and bring it to the commons to enjoy. Reddit

Given the variety of surrounding restaurants, you'll likely find numerous vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to explore the menus of nearby establishments.

While you can bring food and drinks purchased from nearby establishments, bringing large coolers or outside catering might be restricted. It's designed to support local businesses.

Yes, the area surrounding the commons is home to various restaurants and bars where you can purchase beverages to enjoy in the commons. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the communal seating, the lively kids' play area, and the general ambiance of people enjoying their meals outdoors. The open-air setting offers good natural light. Reddit

Golden hour, just before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for photos. Evenings also provide a lively atmosphere with people dining. Reddit

The unique setup of the closed-off street with diverse seating and the dedicated kids' zone are key visual elements. Focus on capturing the community feel.

Drone usage in public spaces is often regulated. It's advisable to check local ordinances and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the commons.

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wider shots of the commons and closer details. A smartphone camera is also excellent for candid shots of the lively atmosphere.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

First Street Dining Commons is a dream for families! The dedicated kids' play zone is a huge hit, offering plenty of fun and new additions to keep children entertained. Reddit The open space allows kids to move freely, and the communal seating means parents can easily supervise while enjoying their meals. It's a relaxed environment where everyone can have a good time. Reddit

Combine the play area with the vast array of food options from surrounding restaurants, and you have a perfect family outing. You can cater to picky eaters and enjoy a diverse meal without the fuss of a traditional restaurant setting. Just remember to be mindful of parking to avoid any ticket troubles!

🐶 Pet Owners

Bring your furry friends along to First Street Dining Commons! This spot is explicitly pet-friendly, allowing your dogs to join in on the outdoor dining fun. Reddit It's a great way to include your pets in your social outings and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere together. Just ensure your pets are well-behaved and on a leash.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Groups and Social Gatherings

The commons excels as a venue for larger groups and social gatherings. Its expansive outdoor seating can accommodate many people, making it ideal for meeting up with friends or family. Reddit The communal nature of the space encourages interaction and a shared experience. Grab a variety of foods from different vendors and create a communal feast.

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers and Tourists

For those exploring Beaverton, First Street Dining Commons offers a taste of local life and a relaxed dining experience. It's a great place to refuel after sightseeing or to simply soak in the atmosphere. Reddit Remember the parking advice to ensure your visit is smooth. The variety of food options means you can sample different local flavors all in one convenient location.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Concept of the Commons

First Street Dining Commons is a brilliant example of urban revitalization, transforming a street into a vibrant communal space. The concept encourages visitors to grab food and beverages from any of the surrounding eateries and enjoy them in this shared outdoor area. This not only supports local businesses but also fosters a sense of community and provides a much-needed gathering spot. It's a testament to how public spaces can be reimagined to enhance the urban experience. Reddit

This initiative has been particularly praised for its positive impact, with one reviewer noting it's 'one of the very few places in Beaverton that was recovered from being ruined by cars.' The focus is on creating a pedestrian-friendly environment that prioritizes people over vehicles, a trend many hope to see more of in the future. Reddit

The commons is designed to be inclusive, welcoming families, groups, and even pets. The open-air setting, often enhanced with heated lamps, makes it a comfortable spot for dining throughout the year, especially for those seeking outdoor options. Reddit

Family Fun at the Commons

For families, First Street Dining Commons is a true gem. The dedicated kids' zone is a major draw, featuring new additions that keep children entertained for hours. Parents can relax knowing their kids have a safe and engaging space to play while they enjoy their meals. Reddit

The spacious layout of the commons means there's plenty of room for little ones to move around, and the communal atmosphere makes it easy to keep an eye on them. It’s a stress-free environment where families can enjoy a meal together without the usual constraints of a traditional restaurant. Reddit

Pairing the play area with the diverse food options from nearby restaurants allows for a customizable family dining experience. Whether it's pizza, tacos, or something else, there's likely something to please every palate, making it a convenient and enjoyable outing for all.

Navigating Parking and Access

A crucial piece of advice for visitors to First Street Dining Commons revolves around parking. While the commons itself is a fantastic amenity, the adjacent parking lot is known for issuing expensive tickets, even for brief stops. Travelers are strongly advised to avoid this lot to prevent unexpected financial penalties. Reddit

Instead, visitors should plan to utilize street parking or explore other nearby parking facilities. This requires a bit more foresight but is essential for a hassle-free experience. The commons is located at the intersection of SW Watson and SW 1st St, making it accessible via various routes within Beaverton. Reddit

For those concerned about COVID-19 or seeking a more relaxed dining experience, the commons' outdoor setup and the availability of heated lamps make it an excellent choice. It offers a comfortable and safe environment to enjoy meals from local eateries, provided parking is managed wisely.

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