I visited Portland, Oregon last summer and fell in love with the city. I went there not really knowing what to expect, and was pleasantly surprised. There were a lot of fun, family-friendly activities. Some are right in the city, but there are many that could be a fun day trip that are right outside of Portland. If you’re looking for a day trip from Portland or something fun right in the city, then these are perfect for you.
1) Oregon Coast – You simply must make the short hour and a half trip to visit the Oregon Coast. The public coastline is breathtaking, and filled with sandy beaches, lighthouses, and lush greenery. It stretches almost 363 miles, and has plenty of fun stops. My favorite is The Oregon Coast Aquarium, which contains an underwater tunnel that brings you up close and personal to sharks and other sea creatures. Tickets range from $9.95 – $15.95, depending on age, and children under 2 are free. It’s open 9:00am – 6:00pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and 10:00am – 5:00pm from Labor Day to Memorial Day. Stay to watch the unbelievable sunset before you head back to Portland.
2) Portland Saturday Market – The Portland Saturday Market is an experience you can’t get anywhere else, and it’s free to walk around the market. There are food stands that specialize in all different types of cuisine, ranging from Greek to Polish to Asian and the All-American classics. To really experience all its fun, go around and buy a little something from each stand and sample them all. My favorites are My Brothers BBQ and the Beirut Café. There are often bands and musicians who play live music, so you can sit and watch or listen as you walk around. The Market is open Saturdays from 10:00am – 5:00pm, and Sundays from 11:00am – 4:30pm, and is located at Southwest Ankeny St. and Naito Parkway. You can visit starting the 1st weekend of March through December 24th.
3) Oregon Wine Country – The Oregon Wine Country is only about one hour outside of Portland. It contains over 300 wineries, so you’re sure to find a new favorite wine out of their 72 varieties of wine. You can check out the tasting rooms that many of the wineries house, and many don’t require reservations. They allow tourists who might just be driving through to stop and sample some wine. One of my favorite wineries is Sokol Blosser, which is situated in the Dundee Hills and is completely organic. Their tasting room is open every day from 10:00am – 4:00pm, and they have delicious Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. The tasting fee runs in between $5-$15, and you can even pack your own lunch and eat in their picnic area.
4) World Forestry Center Discovery Museum – The World Forestry Center is a nature oasis. Children and adults of all ages can enjoy themselves all day, since there is so much for everyone to do. An indoors, interactive museum lets you have fun while learning about forests in the Pacific Northwest, art from all over the world, and all types of nature. The best part is you don’t have to stay inside; there are outdoor trails, cabins, and even a train. This museum is very hands on, so you learn by playing with things and seeing how they work. It’s open from 10:00am – 5:00pm daily, and costs between $5-$8 per person, depending on age.
5) Washington Park – Washington Park is the perfect place for families with small children to spend the whole day together. The park is free and full of activities, like a large playground, sprinkled with slides and monkey bars. If you’re looking for something athletic, there are tennis courts and soccer fields. Pack a picnic lunch and eat in the grassy fields or on one of the picnic tables. The hiking trails are lit up at night, and artwork is scattered throughout the park. Your family is sure to keep themselves busy all day long, and the best part is that you don’t have to spend a dime. Washington Park is open from 5:00am – 10:00pm.
