Sprinting into the Mysteries of Fathom by Roboto Octopodo

Living in the Willamette Valley, I don’t make it up to Portland as often as I’d like. So, when I do, I make the most of it by trying to spend the whole day exploring. Portland is packed with great running spots and an ever-changing lineup of unique events and activities that keep the Rose City buzzing with energy.

During a recent visit to PDX, I managed to squeeze in a few miles on the run and then dove into something completely different—a family-friendly and unforgettable immersive art experience called Fathom by Roboto Octopodo.

Read all our Make a Day of It Features here!

The Running:

Before diving into the experience, let’s talk about running in Portland. Chances are, many of you have are constantly logging miles here—it’s a city that practically invites runners to explore. Fathom is situated downtown on 4th, conveniently close to the river, making it easy to pair a scenic run with this extraordinary art experience.

For those planning to lace up before or after the exhibit, there’s one obvious choice – the Waterfront Loop. This Portland running staple is mere blocks from Fathom and offering stunning views of the Willamette River and iconic Portland bridges. Depending on your mileage for the day – extend it south to Sellwood or northwest on the Willamette River Greenway. The distance possibilities are endless.

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The Experience:

I won’t dive too deep into the details of the dozen or so rooms and experiences at Fathom—honestly, pictures and descriptions only scratch the surface. To really get a feel for it, you need to experience it for yourself.

Here’s the gist: You’re stepping onto the grounds of Roboto Octopodo, a mysterious global organization that studies strange phenomena. Recently, a temporal and spatial anomaly—or as they call it, a “ripple”—has surfaced right here in Portland, making the city ground zero for their latest research.

As an attendee, you’re recruited to assist with the investigation into this underwater anomaly. Whether you’re a scientist or a test subject (you’ll wonder that more than once), you’ll explore a surreal, immersive world that’s part aquatic mystery, part science-fiction adventure. From glowing sea creatures to secret labs, this is an experience you won’t forget—and one that’s worth diving into yourself to truly appreciate.

Pro Tip: Don’t approach this as just an art experience—think of it as an exhibit crossed with an escape room! During check-in, we were offered small clipboards with checkboxes of things to look for. At first, I assumed it was just a fun way to slow down and engage with the exhibits. But about 20 minutes in, it hit me: this place is a riddle wrapped inside an exhibit! I really wish I’d realized that from the start.

My daughters (15, 12, and 8) were surprisingly engaged as we began piecing the riddles together—a rare feat! You know you’ve hit gold when a pre-teen announces, “Ok, this place is actually legit!” High praise, indeed.

I won’t spoil the escape-room vibe for you; navigating it for yourself is half the fun. But once I understood what we were doing, it completely changed my perspective on the experience. With three difficulty levels, this place truly challenges your brain in the best way.

Go in ready to embrace the weird and wonderful. You might uncover something unexpected about the exhibit—or even yourself. And while these pictures are decent (if I do say so myself), they don’t come close to capturing the magic of being there in person.

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The Dates:

Fathom is here in Portland for a limited run, now extended through the end of February. They’re open on weekends during the following hours:

• Friday: 3 PM – 10 PM
• Saturday: 1 PM – 10 PM
• Sunday: 1 PM – 8 PM

Important to Know:

• Friday and Saturday Nights After 7 PM: The experience shifts to a 16+ only option, offering a more mature and atmospheric vibe.
• Limited Capacity: Sessions are kept intentionally small to ensure every visitor gets a personalized and intimate encounter.

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Make a Day of It:

Kick off your day with a scenic run along one of Portland’s iconic routes, then step into the mind-bending world of Roboto Octopodo—a place where art, technology, and adventure merge to create something truly extraordinary.

This isn’t just an art exhibit; it’s an immersive experience that feels part escape room, part riddle, and all adventure. Whether you’re navigating the riddles with family or diving into the more challenging levels solo, it’s an unforgettable journey that shifts your perspective and sparks your imagination.

So, grab your tickets, clear your schedule, and get ready to embrace the weird and wonderful. Don’t wait—secure your spot and explore Portland’s ripple into another dimension!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!