Portland, Oregon is a fantastic city that has really been growing in popularity over the past few years.
Tucked between other West Coast metropolitan areas like Seattle and San Francisco, it offers all the benefits of a big city but with a small town feel.
While Portland has been a favorite destination for foodies, it’s also really great for families too. There are tons of family-friendly activities you can enjoy with the kids.
In this post, we’ll share some of our favorites.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
Do your kids love boats? Would they like to explore a real submarine? If so, you’ve got to visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. The museum features a full calendar of events, exhibits and attractions year round. Plus, you can tour USS Blueback the submarine featured in the movie The Hunt for Red October.
Portland Timbers
Portland is home to one of the most popular MLS teams in the country. The season runs from early March to late October each year, and the stadium is right in the heart of the city. Spend a few hours with the family cheering for the local team (or your visiting favorites).
Lumberyard Bike Park
For the family that loves taking their BMX bikes out for a few jumps and ramps, the Lumberyard Bike Park is an excellent choice. It’s open to people of all ages, kids included and has some bike rental options if you aren’t traveling with your gear. And, as an added bonus, there’s a pizza and pub restaurant right on the premises.
Portland Children’s Museum
Most cities across the country have children’s museums, and Portland is no exception. Visitors who go to the Portland Children’s Museum can take in all sorts of exhibits from cultural celebrations to getting creative with the maker studio and the clay studio (plus lots more).
Glowing Greens
Here’s a fact about Portland: it can get pretty rainy. When the clouds are threatening, you’ll want some good family friendly indoor options, and Glowing Greens is one of them. This is an indoor mini golf course that features things kids love like black lights, 3D, and all sorts of pirate themes and skeletons.
Oregon Rail Heritage Center
The Oregon Rail Heritage Center is all about trains. Its mission and purpose are to celebrate and educate visitors on everything about local locomotives. You can learn about the history of rails on the West Coast and has three different engines to explore up close and personal.
Punch Bowl Social
Few full-service restaurants in the world are also chock full of family-friendly activities. Thankfully, Punch Bowl Social is one of them. Bring the kids here to not only get a good meal but explore the dozens of different gaming options. Choices range from ping pong to arcade games, karaoke and bowling.
This was just a few family-friendly Portland activities. The city has plenty more so be sure to check them out on your next visit! (Don’t miss the Sea Lion Caves!)
