Portland, Oregon is an extraordinary destination for an epic family vacation. At the heart of a family getaway should be a safe, welcoming locale with abundant accommodation and cuisine options — and Portland ticks all these boxes. Our family’s recent adventure to this stunning city exceeded all our expectations.
So, what can families enjoy in Portland? Let’s delve into potential activities, meals, and places to stay.
When it comes to fun-filled family activities in Portland, the International Rose Test Garden at Washington Park indisputably tops the list. This meticuous garden, at no cost to visit, houses over 10,000 rose bushes, making for an awe-inspiring, picturesque backdrop. Especially on a clear day, it offers stellar views of the city. Other family-friendly options encompass an assortment of attractions, such as Architectural Heritage Center, Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, Oregon Jewish Museum, and the Center for Holocaust Education. We recommend the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, where check out the planetarium and the submarine tour, and the playful experience at Oregon Zoo. Don’t miss the visit to Portland Japanese Garden and Pittock Mansion. If your family enjoys cruises, Portland Spirit Cruises offer a refreshing river sightseeing experience.
Our children adored the zoo visits and the engaging experiences at the science center. The scavenger hunt held at the Japanese Garden enthralled every member of our family. In terms of transport, renting a car could be your best bet — unless your children are a bit older or you plan to stay in more walkable zones.
A morning or afternoon drive to Multnomah Falls is a must. The stunning scenery enveloping the waterfall would render an unforgettable family memory. Don’t overlook the QuarterWorld Arcade with its 30+ pinball machines and 60+ arcade games. With a mere $2 admission fee, it provides a classic family entertainment option.
When it comes to munching, the city presents a plethora of dining options. A diverse and delicious food scene is alive and well in Portland, with a growing number of food carts around town providing adventurers with a multitude of places to satiate their palate. Find the perfect pizza, taco, or sushi and much more at food cart pods such as Cartopia, Wonderlove, and Hinterlands. If you love potatoes, don’t miss the Potato Champion at Cartopia! For other recommendations, Por Que No for tacos, Grassa for pasta, and Slappy Cakes for pancakes, also Apizza Scholls is a classic pizza spot. For beer lovers, Portland’s burgeoning brewery scene has plenty to offer. We felt at home at Hopworks Brewery, featuring an indoor setup of diverse beverages, delectable food and multiple play stations for kids.
When it comes to accommodation, Violet Suites PDX is a recent, family-friendly addition to the scene. Situated in the Buckman neighborhood, this boutique hotel feels like a luxurious apartment. The establishment offers a secure parking area and building, ensuring guests’ comfort and safety. Ranging from two and three-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens to smaller studio-style rooms, it caters to the needs of every family. With a fantastic playground at Colonel Summers Park just a few blocks away, young kids will surely have a blast.
In summary, Portland, Oregon is a city that offers a rich array of experiences, catered for every family member — grand vistas to bask in, delectable delicacies to savor, captivating activities to engage in, and comfortable accommodation to rest in. With friendly locals sharing their favorite in-town secrets and suggestions, there’s so much more to unearth beyond what we were able to explore. So, pack your bags, fuel up the car, and make your way to Portland for the next unforgettable family adventure.
