Portland is famed for its vibrant breweries, extensive cycling paths, and lush parks, but there’s more to explore, especially with kids in tow. From interactive museums to picturesque hiking trails, our city offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure that makes for memorable family outings. Whether you’re a local or just venturing beyond your neighborhood, the City of Roses accommodates all ages and tastes.
When you find yourself stumped on what to do with your kids, this list promises to spark new family adventures. From whimsical theme parks to serene natural wonders, there’s something for everyone.
Get ready to explore the best of what Portland has to offer and create lasting memories with your family!
Here are the 10 Fun Summer Day Trips For Portland Families:
10. Enchanted Forest Theme Park
This is probably the oddest location on the list, but your kids will love it.
Opened in 1971, the whimsical Enchanted Forest Theme Park features storybook-theme attractions and rides.
Imagine a miniature Renaissance Faire tailored toward the much younger crowd.
Families can stroll through Storybook Lane, the Western Town, and the English village, riding roller coasters, bumper cars, and kiddy attractions along the way.
9. Washington Park
Many consider Washington Park as the crown jewel of our city. Besides the location of the Oregon Zoo (see next entry), its also home to the World Forestry Center, International Rose Test Garden, Hoyt Arboretum, and the Portland Japanese Garden.
In total, 3.5 million visitors annually flock to this public urban park.
Although portions of the park will be closed this summer for renovations and improvements, locations throughout highlight stories acknowledging its 150 year anniversary.
8. Oregon Zoo
For your kid’s entertainment, there’s no better bet than a visit to the Oregon Zoo. Over in Washington Park are 64 forested acres that 1,800 animals—including 19 endangered species and nine threatened one—call home.
An estimated 40% of the zoo has been renovated over the last couple years, making room for rhinos, primates, and a new expanse for elephants.
Families can also check out an education center, a collection of exotic plants, and a historic railway.
7. Mount Hood
Towering over the border between Clackamas and Hood River counties, Mount Hood is one of the loftiest peaks in our country based on its prominence, standing roughly 11,250 feet above sea level.
There is plenty to do on the mountain, depending on the season:
In the summer, visitors can traverse the 41-mile Timberline National Historic Trails—which encircles Mount Hood—and take in sights from Trillium Lake and Timothy Lake.
In the winter months, Mount Hood transforms into a winter wonderland; skiers flock to the fresh powders at five ski areas, with special night skiing terrain.
6. Multnomah Falls
An estimated two million visitors frequent the tallest waterfall in the Pacific Northwest. With waters fed by underground springs flowing from Larch Mountain, Multnomah Falls is usually highest during both winter and spring seasons.
Our state maintains a trails that ascends to nearly 100 feet above the falls, leading to an observation deck positioned at the falls’ edge.
Multnomah Falls is replete with locations honored as National Register of Historic Places. Honored are both the Mulnomah Creek Bridge (built in 1914) and the Multnomah Falls Lodge (built in 1981).
5. Tillamook Creamery
Everyone is familiar with one of the best tasting cheeses you can find at your local supermarket. For true cheeseheads, the Tillamook Creamery is a dairy enthusiast’s dream destination.
Tours include a guided tour about cheese and ice cream making, concluding in a specialty taste testing.
The tour is guaranteed to make you hungry. For some eats, the Creamery’s dining hall offers eats created by Tillamook’s Executive Chef, Josh Archibald. For a complete dining menu, head over here.
4. Seaside
One of Oregon Coast’s favorite coastal destinations, everything in Seaside is walkable or bike-able. Across Seaside’s 1.5 mile oceanfront Promenade, beachgoers can visit the Seaside Aquarium, the forested Tillamook Head, or simply take in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Attractions also include a skate park, heli-tours, and numerous amusement park attractions.
3. Sauvie Island
The largest island along the Columbia River, Sauvie Island sits at 26,000 acres; it is one of the biggest in the United States.
Approximately 10 miles north of Portland, Sauvie Island can only be accessed by the Wapato Bridge on Highway 30. The northern side is preserved as a wildlife refuge and the southern portion is rural farmland and small residential enclaves.
Public beaches on the island are North Unit Beach, Walton Beach, and (hide your children’s eyes) the clothing-optional Collins Beach.
2. Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum
Over in McMinnville, is a hangar turned aerial museum for all aviation enthusiasts. Featuring 150 aircraft, spacecraft, and exhibits, the museum focuses on the stories of innovative flight. Historic artifacts include the Hughes Flying Boat Spruce Goose, SR-71 Blackbird, and the Titan II Space Launch Vehicle.
The museum was acknowledged as a Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2024.
1. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
This science and technology museum located locally is a delight for the whole family. The location contains three auditoriums: a large-screen theatre, planetarium, and temporary exhibits created by the museum or brought in from museums around the world.
Currently, through September, the feature exhibit is “Tyrannosaurs—Meet the Family”, where your aspiring paleontology kiddos can see three life-sized T. rex skeletons and a 30-foot tunnel where you can watch these prehistoric predators exploring modern-day Portland.
Embrace Family Adventures in Portland
From theme parks to renowned museums, and every Seaside attraction in between, Portland offers endless opportunities for family fun. These day trips promise engaging experiences for both kids and adults, making it easy to create lasting memories together.
Next time your kids complain they’re bored, just pull up this list and point to a random location. Every suggestion offers unique adventures and learning experiences that will keep your family entertained and excited. Enjoy exploring the best of what Portland and its surroundings have to offer!
