Family-Friendly Adventures in Portland, Oregon!

Portland Pearl District

Why Visit?

Welcome to Portland"s Pearl District, a vibrant neighborhood perfect for a family day out! Here"s a fun-filled itinerary to explore the best it has to offer.

Morning: Breakfast and Powell"s City of Books

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at "Lovejoy Bakers" where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. Just a short 5-minute walk away is Powell"s City of Books, the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world. Spend an hour wandering through the colorful rows of books. Don"t miss the Rare Book Room, which houses an array of antique and collectible books.

Directions: From Lovejoy Bakers, head south on NW 10th Ave, then turn right onto W Burnside St. Powell"s is located on the corner of NW 10th Ave and W Burnside St.

Midday: Exploration and Lunch at Jamison Square

A 10-minute walk from Powell’s, Jamison Square is perfect for relaxation and play. The park features a unique fountain that mimics a shallow tidal pool—ideal for kids to splash around in. Enjoy a picnic lunch here; you can grab takeaway from nearby delis.

Directions: Walk north on NW 10th Ave to NW Johnson St, then turn right and walk to NW 11th Ave.

Afternoon: Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education

Post lunch, head to the Oregon Jewish Museum, just a 5-minute walk from Jamison Square. It offers insightful exhibits on Jewish culture and Oregon"s Jewish history, as well as impactful stories from the Holocaust.

Directions: Head north on NW 11th Ave and turn left on NW Kearney St.

Evening: Dinner and Ice Cream

Conclude your day with dinner at "Andina Restaurant" for some delightful Peruvian cuisine, then treat the family to artisanal ice cream at "Cool Moon Ice Cream," which is just a block away.

Directions: From the museum, walk south on NW 11th Ave until you reach Andina. Cool Moon is located on NW Johnson St, near NW 11th Ave.

Enjoy exploring the cultural richness and family-friendly atmosphere of Portland"s Pearl District!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Pioneer Square

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Pioneer Square, Seattle

Morning: Start with the Underground Tour

Begin your day with the famous Underground Tour at Pioneer Square. This intriguing tour starts at 608 1st Ave, easily accessible by bus (stop Pioneer Square Station) or by the Light Rail (Pioneer Square Station). Dive beneath the city’s streets to explore the fascinating subterranean pathways that were once the main roadways and storefronts of old downtown Seattle. Tours are engaging for kids and full of amusing stories that bring the history alive. Ensure to wear comfortable shoes!

Midday: Bill Speidel"s Underground Tour

After resurfacing, grab a quick lunch at one of the nearby family-friendly eateries like the London Plane, known for its hearty sandwiches and fresh salads. Just a short walk from the tour"s end point, it’s located at 300 Occidental Ave S.

Afternoon: Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Post-lunch, head to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park at 319 2nd Ave S, just a 5-minute walk from the London Plane. Here, kids can enjoy interactive displays and learn about the wild days of the gold rush. Admission is free, and the park offers a Junior Ranger program, which could be a fun and educational activity for children to learn about history hands-on.

Late Afternoon: Waterfall Garden Park

Conclude your day with a relaxing visit to the Waterfall Garden Park at 219 2nd Ave S. This hidden gem features a 22-foot waterfall and is perfect for a peaceful break. Just sit back and enjoy the soothing sounds of water, a wonderful end to your day exploring Pioneer Square.

This entire itinerary is walkable, making it easy to navigate with children, and each step is packed with both education and excitement, ensuring a memorable family day out!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Lan Su Chinese Garden

Morning Arrival

Start your day at Lan Su Chinese Garden, a hidden gem located in the Old Town Chinatown district of Portland, Oregon. Easily accessible by public transport, families can take the MAX Light Rail or bus to the NW 5th & Couch stop, just a short walk to the garden. If you"re driving, parking is available at nearby lots.

Explore the Garden

Enter through the traditional Chinese gate which introduces you to a world of tranquility and beauty. The garden is perfect for families, offering a stunning representation of Chinese landscape design and architecture rarely found outside China. Notably, every plant, stone, and structure in the garden was brought from China, adding authenticity to your experience.

Tea House Visit

Around mid-morning, head to the on-site Tea House where you can enjoy traditional Chinese teas and snacks. It"s a delightful way to immerse yourself in Chinese culture while overlooking the scenic pond and garden. The Tea House also provides an opportunity for kids to learn about the different teas and their importance in Chinese culture.

Guided Tour

Opt for a guided tour available at no additional cost beyond admission. These tours are great for families as they delve into the stories behind the garden"s creation and the symbolism embedded in its features. It"s not only educational but also fascinating for all ages.

Participate in Cultural Activities

Check the garden"s calendar for special events and activities which may include Chinese calligraphy, martial arts demonstrations, or traditional Chinese music performances, enhancing your visit.

Reflective Closure

Conclude your visit by relaxing by the lake, letting the kids feed the koi, and reflecting on the serene environment and the cultural insights gained. It"s a peaceful way to wrap up your journey through this splendid slice of Chinese culture.

Enjoy your family day out at the Lan Su Chinese Garden, where education and relaxation are beautifully intertwined!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

South Park Blocks

Why Visit?

Welcome to the charming South Park Blocks in Portland, Oregon – a verdant stretch that invites families for a delightful day out. This linear park, spanning 12 blocks in the city’s cultural district, offers an enriching combination of nature, art, and history, making it perfect for a family-friendly tour.

### Morning

Start at the North End (Park Avenue & Salmon Street):

Begin your adventure at the northernmost tip of the South Park Blocks. There’s typically ample street parking around the area or you can use the nearby parking garages. Alternatively, arrive by public transit (MAX Light Rail or city buses) and disembark at the Pioneer Courthouse Square, followed by a short walk.

Portland Art Museum:

Just a couple of blocks from the starting point, visit the Portland Art Museum early to avoid crowds. Engage with the museum"s family programs which offer interactive art-making sessions and child-friendly guided tours that explain the exhibits in an accessible way.

### Midday

Lunch and Playground Time:

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas or at designated picnic tables along the Park Blocks. After lunch, let the kids burn off some energy at the playground located midway through the park, equipped with safe, fun installations suitable for children.

### Afternoon

Historical Walking Tour:

Continue your stroll southward, and you’ll encounter statues and memorials that pepper the pathway, including ones dedicated to Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. Use the interpretive signs to learn about the historical significance of these figures and the park itself.

Oregon Historical Society:

End your day at the Oregon Historical Society, located at the park’s southern end. The museum is a treasure trove of local history with interactive exhibits that fascinate both adults and children alike.

Throughout your visit, keep an eye out for public art installations and seasonal flower displays that enrich the aesthetic of the South Park Blocks, making it a memorable visit for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Portland Art Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating cultural adventure at the Portland Art Museum in Portland, Oregon, perfect for families looking to immerse themselves in art and history.

Start Your Visit

- Getting There: Located in downtown Portland at 1219 SW Park Avenue, the museum is easily accessible by public transportation. Take the MAX Light Rail to the Pioneer Square Station, followed by a short walk. If you"re driving, parking can be found at nearby lots or metered street parking.

- Tickets: Purchase tickets online on the museum"s website to avoid waiting in line. Family passes and discounts for children and students are available.

Explore the Museum

1. Native American Art Collection: Begin your tour in the Native American galleries. Engage with the vibrant cultures of the indigenous peoples of North America through artifacts, regalia, and contemporary art. It"s a great opportunity for children to learn about the diverse histories and artistic expressions.

2. Northwest Art Collection: Next, explore the local flair by visiting the Northwest Art collection. This section showcases works by artists from the Pacific Northwest. Discuss with your kids how the natural landscapes and city scenes in the art pieces compare to what you"ve seen around Portland.

3. Family Programs and Activities: Check the museum"s calendar for family-friendly workshops or interactive tours. These programs are designed to make art accessible and exciting for young minds.

4. Outdoor Sculpture Garden: Take a breather and wander through the outdoor sculpture garden. It"s a wonderful spot for kids to explore and for parents to enjoy some outdoor art.

Wrap Up Your Visit

- Enjoy a meal or a snack at the museum café, offering kid-friendly menu options and a chance for the family to discuss their favorite pieces.

- Don’t forget to stop by the museum shop for unique souvenirs, like art kits or books, which can help continue the artistic inspiration at home.

This visit to the Portland Art Museum promises an enriching experience for the whole family, blending educational content with interactive fun.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.