Welcome to Under The White Big Top in Portland, the temporary outdoor tent venue housed at Zidell Yards in the South Waterfront. Known for hosting touring productions like Cavalia Odysseo and Cirque du Soleil shows, this distinctive setup brings world-class performances to a striking waterfront setting. The Big Top accommodates approximately 2,000 guests in an intimate yet expansive space, with a focus on safe, enjoyable experiences for all ages. Whether you’re here for a dazzling show or an outdoor gathering, you’ll find practical details below to help you plan your visit.

Key details at a glance: location on the Portland riverfront, accessible transit options, on-site and nearby parking, and a curated selection of nearby hotels and dining to enhance your trip. We’ve included affiliate-friendly hotel and restaurant recommendations to simplify planning—secure your seats and reserve your pre- or post-show meals with confidence.

Venue overview

Venue name: Under The White Big Top – Portland
Location: Zidell Yards, 3030 SW Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97239 (South Waterfront)
Venue type: Temporary outdoor Big Top tent for touring shows
Seating capacity: approximately 2,000 seats inside the Big Top
Nearest transit: Portland TriMet services with South Waterfront MAX Station (Moody) and streetcar access
Parking: On-site parking arrangements administered at the event site with nearby lots; parking passes are typically sold or managed at the venue

What to expect at the venue

Outdoor, tented performance space with curated stage productions
Designed for touring shows like Cavalia Odysseo and Cirque du Soleil performances
Unique waterfront ambiance with the modern Zidell Yards backdrop

Seating and accessibility

Approximate seating capacity: 2,000
Seating layout tailored to performance type; standard seating options align with event-specific configurations
Accessible seating options typically available; best to confirm with event promoter at time of ticket purchase

Parking

On-site parking options provided for events, with passes sold/managed at the venue
Nearby lots in the Zidell Yards / South Waterfront area offer additional parking options
Plan ahead for peak-show times; consider transit or rideshare if convenient

Transit and getting there

Public transit: Portland TriMet services the South Waterfront with the MAX (Moody Ave) and streetcar lines
Walking or biking from nearby districts is practical for many visitors
Rideshare and taxi options readily available around Zidell Yards during events

Nearby hotels and restaurants (affiliate-friendly recommendations)

River’s Edge Hotel Portland (South Waterfront) — a short walk or ride from Zidell Yards; check partner deals and packages for event nights. https://www.riversedgeportland.com/
Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel (Downtown Portland) — convenient distance, great access to dining and services. https://www.hotelmonacoportland.com/
Hotel Delux (Downtown Portland) — boutique option with easy transit access. https://www.hoteldeluxportland.com/
Hotels combined for South Waterfront stays: consider nearby options like Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown or similar properties
Dining near Zidell Yards: waterfront eateries and casual dining within the South Waterfront and downtown core; reserve ahead when possible

Tips for a smooth visit

Secure your seats early—the Big Top’s limited capacity makes popular shows quick to sell out
Check event-specific details for seating arrangements and accessibility options
Arrive with time to park or navigate transit; use official parking passes if offered
Plan dining before or after your show with affiliate partners to optimize your visit

Note: The Lot at Zidell Yards operated as a social-distanced outdoor venue with pods during 2021 and ceased reproduction in 2022. Zidell Yards continues as a redevelopment site, hosting events and shows periodically, including The One Moto Show in 2026. For current happenings, check the venue page or local event calendars.

We’ve built this guide to help you navigate Under The White Big Top in Portland with practical details, trusted transit routes, parking cues, and nearby hotel and dining options. If you’re planning a night at the South Waterfront, you’ll find it’s a straightforward, approachable experience—like having a friend in the business who can help you lock in the right tickets and plans.

Under The White Big Top - Portland Tickets

Upcoming Events at Under The White Big Top - Portland