If you’ve spent any time in Old Town Chinatown, you’ve likely seen the neon glow of CC Slaughters Portland Oregon beckoning from the corner of NW Davis Street. It’s a landmark. A survivor. Honestly, for a minute there in 2025, we all thought the party was finally over. The rumors were flying, the "closing forever" posts were racking up shares, and then—poof—a last-minute save.
It’s been around since 1981. Think about that for a second. That is over four decades of history packed into one dance floor.
People come here for the martinis, sure, but they stay because it’s one of the few places left that feels like "Old Portland" queer culture. It isn't just a bar. It’s a community anchor that has dodged more bullets than a Hollywood action hero. From the COVID-19 lockdowns that shuttered it "indefinitely" in 2020 to the near-miss closure in the summer of 2025, CC's just refuses to quit.
The 2025 Close-Call and the New Era
Back in June 2025, the news hit like a ton of bricks: long-time owner Bruce Rice was retiring. The plan was to close the doors for good on August 3rd. The community went into a bit of a tailspin. You’ve probably seen the emotional tributes on social media. But then, literally days before the lights were supposed to go out, a group of investors (including current owners Jonathan Lo and Christopher Lovern) stepped in with a bid.
They saved it.
Why does that matter? Because losing CC's would have left a massive hole in the Old Town nightlife. It’s tucked right next to the legendary Darcelle XV Showplace, creating a sort of "drag row" that defines that block.
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What the Nightlife Scene Actually Looks Like Inside
If you walk in expecting a quiet lounge, you're in the wrong place. CC Slaughters is split into two distinct vibes: the Rainbow Room and the main dance floor.
The Rainbow Room is where the talking happens. It’s the lounge side. You can actually hear your friends speak here, and it’s famous for a martini menu that doesn't mess around. If you want something "dirty and strong," this is your spot.
Then there’s the dance floor.
It’s known for a massive light show and lasers that feel a little bit like a throwback to 90s club culture, but in the best way possible. On Friday nights, you've got "The Queen’s Keys," which is a live musical drag show in the lounge that’s way more intimate than your standard lip-sync.
The Sunday Tradition: Superstar Divas
You can't talk about CC Slaughters Portland Oregon without mentioning Sunday nights.
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Bolivia Carmichaels has been a staple here for something like 20 years. Her "Superstar Divas" show is basically a Portland institution. It’s high-energy, it’s campy, and it usually draws a massive, mixed crowd. One thing about CC’s—it’s very "come as you are." You’ll see young club kids in mesh, older regulars who have been coming since the 80s, and, yes, the occasional bachelorette party.
The Bachelorette Controversy (And the Truth)
There’s this long-standing piece of Portland lore regarding CC’s and bachelorette parties. Back in 2012, they actually banned "bridal gear"—no tiaras, no veils, no penis straws. The reasoning was pretty solid: a lot of the patrons at the time couldn't legally get married, so seeing a group of straight women celebrating their upcoming nuptials felt a bit like rubbing it in.
Things have loosened up a bit since then, but the "vibe check" is still real.
The bar expects you to respect the space. It is a gay bar first. If you’re coming in to "watch" the queer community like it’s a zoo exhibit, the bartenders—who are known for being fiercely protective of their regulars—will probably give you the cold shoulder. But if you’re there to dance and be part of the energy? You're golden.
Why Old Town Still Matters
Let's be real: Old Town has had a rough few years.
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Between the pandemic and the shifting landscape of downtown Portland, a lot of businesses didn't make it. The fact that CC Slaughters is still standing at 219 NW Davis St is a testament to its staying power. It acts as a lighthouse for the neighborhood.
There’s a specific grit to this part of town. It’s not the polished Pearl District or the trendy Division Street. It’s raw. But that’s also why the LGBTQ+ community has held onto it so tightly. It’s a space where you don't have to be "curated."
How to Do CC Slaughters Right
If you're planning a visit, don't just show up at midnight on a Saturday and expect a front-row seat for a show.
- Check the Schedule: Shows usually start around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, but the "Queen's Keys" on Fridays starts earlier, often around 7:00 PM.
- Bring Cash: Yes, we live in a digital world, but drag queens work hard for those singles. Don't be that person who just stares. Tip your performers.
- The Wristband Trick: On some nights, if you get there early (usually before 8:00 PM), you can snag a wristband to avoid the cover charge later in the night.
- Try the Martini: Seriously. They are the house specialty for a reason.
The Practical Reality of the Future
With new ownership comes change, but the core of CC Slaughters Portland Oregon seems safe for now. The new team has been vocal about maintaining the "safe space" aspect of the club while modernizing some of the behind-the-scenes stuff.
Expect more themed nights and potentially more collaboration with local artists. They’ve already started hosting things like live music karaoke on Sundays (with a live piano and drums!), which adds a layer of talent you don't find in your average "hit play on the iPad" karaoke bar.
The club survived the 80s, the 90s, a global pandemic, and a 2025 retirement crisis. It's safe to say it’s not going anywhere soon.
To make the most of your next night out, check their social media for the specific "Cast of the Week" for the Superstar Divas show, as the lineup of queens rotates frequently and often features guests from RuPaul's Drag Race. If you’re heading there on a weekend, try arriving by 9:00 PM to secure a spot near the stage before the floor fills up.