It’s rainy season here in our favorite Puddle Town, but fear not—we’ve got more than 25 spots to have fun and stay dry
Rain goes with Portland the way peanut butter goes with jelly. From December through April, you can count on lots of wet weather (140 days, on average, to be exact). The simplest way to enjoy the rain with little ones is to put on boots and Muddy Buddies and head out for puddle-jumping through neighborhoods and forests. But if you’re looking for indoor fun, take your pick from our ultimate list of rainy-day activities below. Splash on, Portland!
1. Grab Coffee & Treats around Portland
We’re a caffeinated, food-obsessed city, with artisan coffee shops and bakeries on every corner. Kick things off with an early start at one of these kid-approved breakfast and coffee spots. You’ll want to fuel up for the full day ahead!
Slappy Cakes: Start the day at a Portland standby where breakfast is the main attraction and the entertainment. Let your kids make the meal, with griddles set into the table and customizable pancake batters to pour, flip, and top just the way they like.
Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai Tucked into a bustling section of shops on NE Fremont, this gem turns out perfectly crisp mini donuts in tantalizing, constantly-evolving flavors. Pick up a dozen and order a chai for yourself (in a variety of homemade blends), then choose a table near the window to watch the rain fall. There are high chairs for the littlest foodies and kids’ books near the counter to keep ‘em busy while you wait. Be prepared for a line on weekends!
Posie’s Bakery& Cafe: Looking for a mix of bagels, baked goods, and heartier fare? This homey coffee shop, bakery, and cafe has got the goods, plus a play area in back. If your kid’s been up since 5 a.m. and is ready for lunch by 9, not to worry: the kids’ menu offers grilled cheese, PB&J, and cinnamon toast, with a side of chips or cucumbers.
Reading is a classic rainy-day activity. Maybe that’s why the rainy City of Roses has one of the most well-used libraries in the country, and a plethora of excellent independent bookstores. Cuddle up with your kids with a pile of books and get lost in a completely different world, through the power of story.
Storytime at the Library: The Multnomah County Library is a national leader among libraries. Besides its large collection of circulating items, it’s well-known for storytimes, with daily offerings geared toward different age groups and in a range of languages. It’s free, fun, and a great way to make new friends– for kids and grown-ups alike. Afterward, stick around to load up your book bag with more books to take home.
Days, times, and age ranges vary by branch Online:multcolib.org
Powell’s Books: Head downtown to the City of Books—a whole city block with room after room of both used and new volumes. You can snuggle up in the pink room downstairs, where children’s books are organized around a reading area with cozy rugs and low tables with small chairs. A cafe near the yellow room serves up hot drinks and treats. Or, visit one of the smaller (but still impressive) Powell’s branches to get your book fix.
Green Bean Books: This children’s bookstore offers weekly storytimes and musical events in multiple languages, in addition to a well-curated selection of kids’ books, all in a bright and cozy red house. Check out their bank of vintage vending machines and bring a stack of books to the green couch to read together.
Fort Vancouver Community Library: Our neighbors to the north have a great library, too! Hop on the freeway and spend an afternoon exploring the top floor of the Ft. Vancouver Community Library. It’s entirely dedicated to kiddos, with a hands-on learning area, dress-up bins, interactive literacy-focused tech stations, and daily storytimes. You could easily spend hours here. Pop down to the first floor to refuel at the coffee cart. And psst! Multnomah and Washington County residents can get a free Reciprocal Library card to check out materials from the FVRL system.
Rainy day blues got you down? Studies show that even 10 minutes of petting an animal can significantly improve mood and reduce stress. Head to one of these fun spots to get cozy with bunnies and kitties.
The Pixie Project: A no-kill animal rescue and adoption center, The Pixie Project fosters both dogs and cats for adoption. You must make an appointment to visit with the dogs and cats. Consider making a donation with your visit to support this non-profit’s good work.
510 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
Portland Online:pixieproject.org
4. Make & Create Art around Portland
Get creative at one of Portland’s many kid-centric art studios. Check our favorites below.
Vibe Studio: At their locations on both SE Division and in St John’s, Vibe Studio offers a wide range of drop-in creative arts classes for toddlers all the way through the teen years. Check their website for a full list of offerings. (Choosing preschool or youth classes will send you to an online schedule, then click the “drop-in” tab to sort by location.) Most drop-in classes for toddlers are on Friday and Saturday mornings, while older kids can select a class during after-school hours almost every day of the week.
Live Laugh Love Art: Guided art classes for makers of all ages, Live Laugh Love Art offers canvas painting, wood signs, pottery, or glass arts. Check out the family pass to make art time a regular thing for you and your kids.
Soro Soro Coffee & Dessert: Kitten cheesecakes, rainbow cakes, animal-themed latte art, and matcha tiramisu? Sign us up! This recently-opened Korean coffee shop serves up seriously cute desserts alongside Stumptown Coffee and Steven Smith Tea. Perfect for a quick sugar rush before you hit the indoor playground.
Laughing Planet: Dinosaurs at every table, an extensive menu with kid favorites like quesadillas, smoothies, and the “trifecta” of three side dishes served in separate (not touching!) bowls, it’s no surprise that there are 10 Laughing Planet locations in the Portland area. Find one near you and stop in for quick, friendly service and happy kid bellies.
Two Sisters Play Cafe: This Milwaukie bakery and cafe serves up healthy fare (including gluten-free and vegan options) alongside a play room with a play structure, toys, games, and puzzles. Choose from paninis, sandwiches, salads, and a simple kids’ menu, then let the kids loose.
The Nest: Drop in for open play or take a class at this multi-purpose indoor playground and cafe. A large play structure, soft play area, and a rock-climbing wall are all available during open play hours, recommended for kids 12 and under. Try out yoga or an art class and get free admission to open play. Bring socks to play in, and enjoy treats from the cafe (outside food and drink not allowed.)
The Wiggle Room: Tucked into a corner of the Hollywood neighborhood, and within walking distance of the library and Laughing Planet, the Wiggle Room is a thoughtfully-designed playspace for kids from 0-7. Everyone can find their groove, with a larger structure for big kids, a padded play area for kids under 2, and a coffee bar for grown-ups. Natural light and a low-key color scheme keep things simple for people with sensory sensitivities.
Hammer + Jack’s: We love this toy shop and play space in the rapidly-changing Foster-Powell neighborhood. Stop by to check out the toys, then drop-in for open play. Spend $10 for free play time, or get a punch card and become a regular. Check the website for open play hours and special events like kindie musicians, art classes, and storytimes.
Playdate PDX: This is the ultimate indoor playground, with a three-level playstructure for kids up to age 12, a selection of beverages for grown-ups, and a separate play area for toddlers. Make sure you have socks for playing inside the playstructure! Work up an appetite? Hit the cafe for lunch and snack items.
On days when the weather promises to pour nonstop, a visit to the museum is the perfect way to stay active, happy, and dry. Portland’s got ten museums within city limits! Here are our top three for families.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): At this waterfront museum, hands-on science displays, motion simulators, and a planetarium supply a whole day’s worth of exploration. You can even tour a submarine! For kids 6 and under, check out the Science Playland. Plan your visit on the first Sunday of the month to get in for just $2.
Portland Art Museum: If you think an art museum is too refined for little kids, think again! With family tours and Baby Mornings, the Portland Art Museum welcomes and encourages even the littlest citizens to become patrons of the arts. Bags and large backpacks must be checked upon entry, so pare down to the essentials. Strollers are allowed, but littler ones might do better in a carrier.
8. Where to Swim, Splash, and Skate Indoors in Portland
For especially energetic kids, there’s nothing like a pool or skating session, and a rainy day is the perfect excuse to head indoors for some active fun. Portland’s got several indoor pools and skating rinks to choose from.
Oaks Bottom Roller Rink: In addition to afternoon and evening open skate sessions, Oaks Park has a preschool skate on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m. just for kids 6 and younger. The session includes skates, cookies and milk, a group lesson and games. Adults are free with one child admission, and shoes and strollers are welcome on the rink. There’s also a Saturday morning Kids Skate for ages 10 and under that includes skates, fun games and a visit with Chipper. (
7805 SE Oaks Park Way
Portland Online:oakspark.com
Lloyd Center Ice Rink: Take to the ice at the Lloyd Center Ice Rink, open daily in the mall. Rent skates and join public open skates during the day, or enjoy live DJ music during Rock n’ Skates on Friday and Saturday evenings.
McMenamin’s Kennedy School Soaking Pool: This ceramic, heated outdoor soaking pool is filled with chlorinated saltwater, in a private outdoor courtyard surrounded by gardens, on the spectacular Kennedy School grounds. Yes, we said outdoor, but hear us out: on a day when light rain or showers are predicted, it can feel pleasant and cozy to be outdoors in a warm pool. After soaking, grab a bite at the restaurant or catch a flick in the theater in this elementary-school-turned-hotel. Supervised minors welcome; bring your own towel! Note that during the rainy season, the pool is closed every 1st and 3rd Tuesday for cleaning.
Portland Parks & Recreation Indoor Pools: You know what they say when kids get cranky: put them in water! Portland’s public indoor pools are open year-round for open swim, family swim, and preschool swim. Check the website for the closest pool to your neighborhood. Swim times vary by location.
After a long rainy day full of adventure, let someone else do the cooking while you unwind with the family. Here are our top picks for easy, delicious meals in a family-friendly setting.
McMenamin’s Kennedy School: Wander the halls of this former elementary school, now turned into a playland—McMenamin’s style—with a hotel, bars, movie theater, soaking pool (see above!), and restaurant. Your little ones can choose from a range of kid-approved favorites like pizza, tater-tots, and french fries, while the grown-ups enjoy a well-deserved pint.
Mississippi Pizza Pub: With fantastic pizza and a family-friendly atmosphere, this neighborhood fave could have had us at “Hello.” But add in performances from favorite local kids’ bands on Friday nights? Next-level. Let your kids get out any last wiggles with a dance party while you kick back.
Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB): There’s a reason why this brew-pub is packed around 5 pm: it has several fully stocked play areas where kids can entertain themselves with toys while you enjoy your brew. Kids can chow down on mac n’ cheese or a Little Brewer’s Burger, and grown-ups can take their pick from a range of burgers, salads, pizza, and more. (Psst: There’s even organic baby food available for $2 a jar.)
Looking to burn off some energy with the kids during our rainy months? Take a trip to one of our favorite indoor playgrounds Portland kids love
Kids need to run, jump, explore, and play even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Turns out winter weather doesn’t have to keep your crew indoors. In fact, the city has a bunch of awesome indoor play spaces for your family to frequent when the weather is less than ideal…or you just want to give them a reason to squeal! The next time your wiggles worms need to move, take them to an indoor playground Portland kids love.
PlayDate PDX
Bring a date of your own, and catch up on some much-needed grown-up time as your kids jump in the foam pit. There’s Stumptown Coffee (or wine) for you, Wi-Fi, and plenty to keep the kids busy (climbing a castle, shooting foam balls) long enough to catch up with a friend or some work. It can get crowded, especially on weekends, so head there first thing in the morning for more peaceful play.
When it come to indoor playgrounds Portland families come back to again and again, Play Boutique is one of them. Upscale, without being too fancy, it's a great play spot no matter what the weather's doing. Sure, kids can enjoy “fruity fondue,” but there are also whole wheat corn dogs on the menu. The wide-open, safe, indoor playspace gives children the freedom to run, play at a discovery station, or venture wherever their imaginations take them. Check the schedule for “stay and play” times, which offer open play on a drop-in basis. They also offer “drop and shop” services, where you can leave the kids in their hands for a few hours if you need to get some errands done.
Note: the Play Boutique is currently closed, but has plans to reopen. Check the website for more information.
Sometimes parents want a playground of their own, and the MJCC has amenities that appeal to everyone from infants to seniors. Enjoy the indoor soccer field, pool, gym and a lot more. Club J offers supervised play time for ages 6-12, while mom and dad go do their own thing. Three times weekly, parents and kids up to 5 can drop in for indoor playground play.
Portland is home to a wealth of community centers, and each one has several indoor play options for children. From baby gym and family park to indoor parks geared toward homeschooling families, there is truly something for everyone. Check the catalog of your neighborhood center for hours and themes, and don't be afraid to try out a new location a bit further from home. All community centers are accessible by public transit. Portland Parks & Recreation community centers are open for limited activities. Schedules are subject to change to meet public health guidelines, so make sure to check websites or call in advance.
The appeal of indoor skating rinks did not die off in the 90s. Let your kids skate out their wiggles and one of Portland families most beloved parks . Oaks Park has brought the fun since 1905 and it is the the oldest skating facility in the US with the largest skating floor in the west! You can rent your skates on site and then let the kids roll away their wiggles all afternoon long. There are even classes available if you need some regular entertainment for your busy bodies.
Spring break will be here before you know it, and booking a trip in advance will not only afford you the best rates and availability but also, you’ll have something to look forward to as you make your way through the chilly winter months. From beach vacations to urban escapes to mountain top romps in the sunshine, we’ve got you covered. Read on for vacation inspiration as well as for trends in travel for the new year.
Splurge on a Brand-New Resort in the Northern Maldives
courtesy Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa
A splurge-worthy island adventure awaits you at the brand-new all-inclusive resort, which is also home to the largest kid’s club in the Maldives.
Play: The wraparound reef at the Emerald makes it easy for families to enjoy water sports like kayaking and kite surfing, and scuba enthusiasts can take advantage of the on-site Diving Centre, which is staffed by PADI-certified instructors. Kids ages 3-12 can spend time in the Dolphin Club. Spread out over 1500 square meters, there’s an outdoor playground with mini pool, a splash park, slides, climbing structures and even a kid-sized zip wire. Indoor activities are diverse and plentiful: cupcake making, movie nights, Zumba lessons, fruit cocktail mixology and more.
Sleep:
Eat: This is an all-inclusive resort, so there’s plenty of food and treats to be had at the signature buffet restaurantAqua, which offers menu items from all over the world including Mediterranean, Japanese, Italian, Chinese, vegetarian and even plant-based options. There are two concept restaurants worth sampling as well. The rainforest-inspired Amazònico is a fun dining experience for the whole family,Le Asiatique offers live cooking shows on a teppanyaki grill. If you’re down at the beach, theBeach Club Grill and Pool Bar has kid-friendly, to-go pizza and pasta, and for parents, be sure to try the grilled lobster and seafood platters.
Good to know: If you book now, you’ll receive 20% off the best available rate for a minimum of 7 night’s stay for a maximum of two adults and two children, applicable for all bookings received before 20th December 2020. Offer includes deluxe all-inclusive package, complimentary 60 minutes massage for two adults and 1 x in-room family breakfast. Terms and conditions apply.
The largest of the four Aspen-area ski mountains, Snowmass is one of the most family-friendly mountains with all kids skiing free up to age seven.
Play: This resort comes in at over 3,300 acres of terrain with 91 trails of groomies, halfpipes, terrain parks and more. Families flock here for their state-of-the-art Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center, a gigantic childcare facility for kids ages eight weeks to four years old. With a nurse on staff and themed rooms, this is where your kids will get introduced to skiing. And, once your kids turn two, they’re welcome to enroll in Snowmass’ Cubs on Skis program, a mix of early childhood education and skiing based out of this nature-themed adventure center.
There's also the brand-new Snowmass Base Village Plaza, which opened in December 2018. Families will be able to ice skate, enjoy fire pits, pop-up activities and casual dining. Kids of all ages can also try their skills on the rock climbing wall that adorns the front of the new Limelight hotel built across from the plaza.
Good to Know: The Treehouse at Snowmass isn’t the only spot your kid will love. Pay a visit to nearby Buttermilk Mountain to experience The Hideout, a 7,500 square foot facility just for kids. Don’t blame your kids if they forget they’re in the mountains and get lost in The Hideout’s custom-designed play features like a lookout tower and interactive play room.
Take your brood to Northwest Costa Rica to revel in the warm weather and lush landscape, full of animals, markets, and family-friendly beach parties.
Play: Consider volunteering for one of the select Service Days while visiting Peninsula Papagayo, with an outreach program that benefits local school children. Visit Costa Rica, and you’ll be rewarded with big adventures that your family will remember and talk about for years to come.
Sleep:Peninsula Papagayo, home to the luxury Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica and Andaz Costa Rica Resort, is a private community spanning over 1,400 acres. Surrounded by Area de Conservacion Guanacaste, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll see thousands of protected plant species and hundreds of multi-hued bird and butterfly types.
Wander the Windy City - Chicago, IL
Wendy Altschuler
Play: Spring in Chicago is a lovely time to visit. From museums with activities designed with littles in mind to spring break kids’ camps at Lincoln Park Zoo and The Second City to baseball season to children’s theatre, the Windy City has much to offer families. Eat your way through Chicago’s neighborhoods, sampling diverse cuisine and fan favorites like Chicago-style hot dogs and deep dish pizza.
Sleep: Hotel Zachary, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is right across from the famous Wrigley Field as well as within walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Run around Gallagher Way, across the street from the hotel, go to a Chicago Cubs game, and hit some balls in Sluggers World Class Sports Bar’s batting cages.
Root for Your Home Team at Spring Training — FL or AZ
Daydreaming of hot dogs and Crackerjacks? Take your baseball-loving family on a memorable (and thematic) trip to see spring training in action. Catching a game at Arizona's Cactus League or Florida's Grapefruit League means you can root, root, root for your home team at smaller stadiums before Opening Day. To figure out which teams play where — and when — check out the Cactus League and Grapefruit League websites.
Play: Make sure all of your kiddos are baseball fans because Spring Training is all about the game. The major advantage to seeing teams play pre-season is that you get see games on a much smaller scale. In other words, better seats, cheaper tickets, and the opportunity to see your favorite players up close and personal.
Tip: Get there early, and be sure little ones bring their gloves and/or clean baseballs for scoring autographs
Sleep: Where you shack up depends on your favorite teams. Florida's spring training is spread across the state, with teams playing in four regions: Tampa, Fort Myers, Orlando, and the east coast between Jupiter and Port St. Lucie. If you’re Cactus League-bound, keep in mind that most games are played within a 40-mile radius of the Phoenix-Scottsdale area.
Eat: Pack a picnic! Most Spring Training stadiums offer (cheap!) lawn seats, so the whole family can spread out on the grass while keeping score of the game. The view isn't as good, but you may catch a glimpse of your favorite players as they head in and out of the stadium.
There’s more to these islands than bright azure water and fine white sand—travel here, and you’ll be rewarded with rich cultural experiences that come with the conveniences of the U.S. dollar and English language. When the kids return to school, they can tell their teachers that they traveled to where Christopher Columbus first hit land in the Americas and where pirates used to hide out within the 40 small islands and cays.
Play: Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay are the best for kids because of the calm waves and shallow water. Go snorkeling for an afternoon at Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef and see an array of colorful little fish and coral. Visit Little Water Cay, also called Iguana Island, and see loads of Rock Iguanas basking in the hot sand. Long Bay Beach is where you’ll see kiteboarders, a shipwreck marooned in the shallow water and beaches full of huge spiny conch shells. For a truly unique island experience, that you can’t find anywhere else, visit Potcake Place, a charity in Providenciales that rescues dogs and finds them forever homes. Volunteers can take a puppy for a walk in the morning and give them love and socialization—not to mention, fresh air and sunshine. Everything will be provided for your day out, and if you fall in love, you can adopt the puppy and bring her home.
Sleep: Ocean Club Resorts (Ocean Club and Ocean Club West), located on Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales, are perfect for families that want an affordable option with lots of choices. Plus, the pink umbrellas that line the beaches will be great backdrops for your family photos. The two properties are located 15 minutes from each other along the sand, and if you stay at one, you can play at both. Kids can take part in the interactive exploration game, Seafari Kids, where at check-in they’ll be given a kit that encourages them to find and identify indigenous plants and species that are located around the resorts—prizes are awarded for completing the adventure. Tip: Check out the Mangrove Tour.
Eat: Pop into Crackpot Kitchen, where Chef Nik will serve up authentic local Caribbean dishes, passed down from his father, Aulden “Smokey” Smith. Order family style and try a selection of favorites like the Salt Cay Fully Loaded Stew Conch or Smokey’s Loaded Peas and Grits and dine on the rooftop full of locals doing the same.
Island Serenity - Captiva and Sanibel Islands, FL
Wendy Altschuler
Sometimes less is more, and on Captiva and Sanibel Islands, where nothing is built higher than a palm tree and tchotchke shops are few and far between, your family will easily settle into a schedule that revolves around sunsets and searching for seashells. These islands are the sort of places where people laugh easily, wave at each other freely and collectively gasp at dolphin and manatee sightings.
Play: When you’ve explored your home-base beach enough, take a boat excursion with Captiva Cruises to Cayo Costa Island, a state park that is known for excellent shelling. In Sanibel, visit Gene’s Books, a fabulous store full of so many titles that they don’t all fit on the shelves. Kids can get lost in the children’s section, with stacks of books in every direction, which will make finding the perfect book an absolute adventure.
Sleep: Rest your head at the historic Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva Island, which is located between the Gulf of Mexico and the Pine Island Sound. You’ll have access to the beach as well as the marina while staying in one of the brightly colored cottages, named after the resort’s famous past visitors—Anne Morrow Lindbergh, J.N. “Ding” Darling, and Theodore Roosevelt have all stayed here. Borrow a free bicycle and take a ride into town, or paddle in a free kayak around the mangroves.
Eat: T2 Traders, located at The Village Shops on Periwinkle Way in Sanibel, has great sandwiches, flatbreads and salads. The location is ideal because you can do a little shopping afterward. On Captiva Island, be sure to visit the Bubble Room, where kitsch reigns supreme. Order a slice of their famous orange cake, try their bubble bread and bring your camera—you’ll want to walk around and take pictures of the interior. Tween Waters also has great restaurants, namely Old Captiva House, Crow’s Nest and the Oasis Pool Bar.
Enjoy Big Views at Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Kate Loweth
In 2019,Grand Canyon National Park celebrated the centennial. This park, full of colorful layers of geological wonders, cliff dwellings, animals, and even waterfalls, is something every family should see together.
Play: The folks at Austin Adventures appreciate history and geology and they will educate travelers about the natural history of the Grand Canyon while also acknowledging the cultural history of the native tribes that call this national park home. Adventuresome kids can hike around with an Austin Adventures’ day pack, which is full of national park keepsakes and treasures, inspiring kids to learn more and explore the park. The trip includes rafting, hiking and biking around the South Rim, Flagstaff, Williams, Prescott, Sedona and Coconino National Forest—what fun!
Sleep: Select trip dates are available for families for this six-day Grand Canyon Family Vacation Package with the expert guides at Austin Adventures. Accommodations include a wide variety of lodges and hotels over the week, including a stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, located next to the train depot, one block from downtown Williams and historic Route 66.
Eat: Dining ranges from high-quality restaurants to picnic lunches to dinner made at a campfire—you’ll enjoy healthy food and snacks all along the way.
Sail the High Seas with the Disney Dream - Port Canaveral, FL
Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
Play, Sleep & Eat: Disney is synonymous with the feeling of wonder and treating your family to a Disney Cruise, aboard the Disney Dream, is an experience that your children will always remember. From live shows to thematic restaurants to luxe accommodations to swimming pools and waterslides, Disney goes big when it comes to magical fun. You’ll also notice the high quality of service, which is the bread and butter of the whole adventure. The ship will drop anchor in Castaway Cay, a private island reserved for guests to enjoy, and the Bahamas, creating extra opportunities for exploration. Find out more from our insider's guide here.
Denver sits one mile above sea level, giving the city its moniker. There is no shortage of things to do here for families and you can expect to have a panoramic view of the mountain ranges while exploring the parks, museums, and attractions.
Play: Visit the Denver Zoo, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Downtown Aquarium and take a ride on the Denver Trolley to learn about Denver’s gold rush history. Of course, there’s also the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, the Denver Art Museum and the Children’s Museum of Denver. Take a trip just outside of the city, and hike around Dinosaur Ridge at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre—you can see Allosaurus and Stegosaurus bones and touch real dinosaur footprints preserved in the sandstone. If a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is on your travel wish-list, and it should be, make sure you spend some time in Estes Park, the gateway to RMNP.
Sleep: One of the best places to stay is AC Hotel Denver Downtown, a stylish boutique hotel with top-notch staff that will help your family with anything you may need. The property is well-located, making it easy to get where you need to go on foot and, bonus, you’ll earn Marriott points with your stay. If you have Fido with you, the hotel is pet-friendly as well.
Eat: Enjoy outdoor dining at Corinne Restaurant and be sure to check out the views from the 54thirty alfresco rooftop, the highest one in the city. The AC Kitchen is a great breakfast option. Union Station has James Beard award-winning chefs, Jennifer Jasinski and Alex Seidel, at the helm of Stoic & Genuine, Ultreia and Mercantile (grab and go options also exist).
There’s so much to do in the consistently warm country of Panama, and with Panama City—the capital and largest city in the country—as your takeoff point, you’ll have access to popular landmarks and attractions.
Play: Don't miss a visit to the Panama Canal, a 50-mile waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean, a feat that is one of the most difficult engineering projects ever completed. Kids will love watching the ships raise up in the canal and pass through Miraflores locks, bringing their cargo with them. Visit Casco Viejo “new Panama”, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Spanish colonial architecture, historic churches and plazas with boutiques, restaurants and colorful markets. Make time for a visit to the Sloth Sanctuary and the Gamboa Rainforest. Ride above the tree canopy in an aerial tram, where you may spot a white-faced capuchin monkey or hear the deep guttural sounds of a howler monkey.
Sleep: The Westin Playa Bonita, located only twenty minutes from Panama City and thirty minutes from the Miraflores Locks, is a great place to start your adventure. Romp around on Bonita Beach and cool off in the Pacific Ocean, hike in the nearby rainforests and swim in one of the three infinity pools. Free activities for kids are available every day. Kids can splash around in the Children’s Pool or parents can take kids out on a complimentary kayak.
Eat: Ocho y Media is a garden-style restaurant that serves global cuisine. Sit outside and enjoy the strung lights overhead while noshing on a slice of warm baked apple pie with vanilla ice cream. Karimar Restaurant serves up traditional Panamanian fare, by the symphonic sea—you won’t want to leave. Take advantage of The Westin Playa Bonita’s restaurants as well—there are six to choose from. For authentic Panamanian cuisine with kid-friendly entertainment, try Diablicos in the Casco Viejo district.
Resort Road Trip: If it's an all-inclusive experience you seek, head for the Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort, which lies about two hours outside the city limits and is accessible by boat and car/shuttle service. With 12 pools (eight of them are for everyone), a kids' club with activities like overnight campouts and cookie making, this 400-acre resort has something for everyone. There's a playground, free bike rentals, a climbing wall, zip line and wildlife zoo, stables, a sports club that have both private lessons and camps like an aquatic camp or a soccer camp, two beach clubs, 10 restaurants and even a world-famous 18-hole golf course that is the crown jewel of PGA Latin America. Rooms are ample size, the smallest being 527 sq. feet, and there are five suits with connecting rooms and a half-bath in the living room. For multi-gen travel, consider one of the four-bedroom villas that line the pond.
Play: Numero uno on the list of best places to play in St. Louis no doubt goes to City Museum. It’s an all-ages, city-inspired fun house that will inspire you and get the creative juices flowing as you climb, burrow and snake your way through passageways and shafts. With no maps or any real sense of direction, you’re forced to explore, touch and interact with everything . . . and you’ll be glad you did. Plus, St. Louis boasts more free chief visitor attractions than anywhere else in America, outside of the nation’s capital that is. The Saint Louis Art Museum, Zoo, History Museum, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Laumeier Sculpture Park, Citygarden and more are free of charge and perfect for families that want to see a lot, but not spend a lot.
Sleep: Located in the heart of all St. Louis has to offer, the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis makes a perfect home base for your family getaway. Mini road trippers will be greeted with a Radio Flyer wagon full of toys and a plate with their names written in chocolate and handmade solid chocolate arches standing tall alongside sprinkle-covered marshmallow treats.
Eat: University City and Delmar Loop is about 20 minutes northwest of St. Louis. Here, in this old streetcar suburb, you’ll find Blueberry Hill Pub and Restaurant for American cuisine and pop culture memorabilia, Fitz’s Restaurant and Bottling Company known for their delicious pub grub and house-made soda that churns out on a visible bottling line (a bottle a second!) and Blueprint Coffee with in-house roasted beans when you’re ready for a little caffeine jolt (don’t leave without grabbing a jar of their canned jelly for home).
Nestled between the world’s second-largest barrier reef and an expansive nature preserve lies the tiny fishing village of Puerto Morelos.
Play: Home to just 1,200 year-round residents, this quaint spot is merely 11 miles away from downtown Cancun. Fresh seafood restaurants line the beaches, and there’s live music on the weekends. Stroll down the dock over clear waters to view catamaran sailboats, wander and shop the charming avenues, burn off steam at the playground in the center square and admire the leaning lighthouse that has survived nearly one-hundred years of coastal storms. Book a snorkeling adventure with Lighthouse Tours. Their two-hour guided tour is easy even for young kids. A highlight for families is nearby Crococun, a local wildlife center filled with crocodiles, parrots, turtles, iguanas, spider monkeys and more. Each tour is guided by a biologist; kids will be able to hold a baby crocodile, feed deer and turtles, plus there’s picnic/playground area that’s perfect for fueling up after seeing all the animals.
Sleep:Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is a five-star resort that feels more like a home than a hotel. If you want a truly relaxing location for your mid-winter break, spring break or beyond, this is your answer. The resort is made up of all suite-style rooms, which means you have choices: You can book anything from a one-to three-bedroom suite that comes equipped with everything from a small kitchenette to a full kitchen/laundry with extra murphy beds in the living room. There’s even a four-bedroom presidential suite that sleeps up to 13 (ahem, multi-gen vacation). You can book your stay as an all-inclusive or as an a la carte, and here’s a huge perk: kids ages 12 and under stay for free. It doesn’t take much to keep yourself entertained here, and there’s a definite wellness vibe for those who like to be active. The Grand Residences has four pools (one is a lap pool), tennis courts with thrice-weekly clinics, bike rentals, and even the option to charter a sailboat for an extra charge.
Eat: When you tire of El Faro Grill and Flor de Canela at the Grand Residences, head for downtown Puerto Morelos. For an early lunch with access to docks, try Pelicanos for excellent nachos and ceviche. For dinner, we recommend Boquinete, one of the newest restaurants to line the beachfront of Puerto Morelos. The tacos are plentiful and fresh, as is the ceviche and reef fish. They have a beachfront, which can be helpful for parents with wiggly kids or be a memorable dining spot for an adults-only night.
Looking for a healthy dose of outdoor adventure on your spring break trip? Anakeetsa, an activity and nature center in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the perfect destination for your family. Not only will you be able to take in the beauty of the nation’s most visited national park, but Anakeetsa is jam-packed with activities for visitors of all ages.
Play: You’ll have a hard time deciding what to tackle first at Anakeetsa, as the outdoor opportunities are endless. In addition to hiking and ziplining, kids will have a blast walking across connecting bridges, exploring treehouses, and trying their hand at gem mining. If you’re looking to get out and explore the area, there’s world-class skiing in nearby Ober, Ripley’s Aquarium, and a variety of entertainment shows.
Sleep: If you want to stay nearby, the Greystone Lodge offers spacious rooms (and free hot breakfast) on the river in downtown Gatlinburg. Cottages are also available at the Greystone for families who are looking for a little more space and privacy.
Eat: Stroll around and stop for a bite to eat in Firefly Village, which is nestled among the treetops in the heart of the Smokies. Depending on what you’re in the mood for—a quick bite or a hearty southern meal—there’s Pearl’s Pie in the Sky, which offers baked goods, ice cream, and (of course) pie; and the Anakeetsa Summit Smokehouse, where you’ll get a dose of mouth-watering barbecue.
Bring Your Brood to Bimini
Resorts World Bimini
One of the hottest destinations for 2020 is Bimini, a family-friendly island off of the Bahamas. You won’t have to travel far, as this island is only 50 miles off of the coast of Florida, but you’ll feel like you’re in a far-flung destination as soon as you poke your toes into the hot white sand and peer out onto the azure horizon.
Play: Taste Bimini Bread, made fresh in the colorful town; fill up on conch salad from one of the shacks along the beach, and learn about the culture from local Biminites. Chanel Ernest Hemingway, a resident of the island in the '30s, and go fishing or spend the day in the sea.
Sleep: The Hilton at Resorts World Bimini, a luxury beachfront resort that caters to families. All guest rooms, designed with a contemporary aesthetic, have either a terrace or balcony. Suites are large in size and complete with high-quality amenities. You’ll have many choices for dining as the resort: The Tides, The Sushi Bar or the Oasis swim-up bar. Resorts World Bimini also has multiple swimming pools and access to Paradise Beach. For fun, take a golf cart to any of the island’s other beaches to explore a different landscape. Shop at Fisherman’s Village, a market along the marina. You’ll find that for your family, there’s plenty to do, see, and eat in Bimini.
For Great Scenery & Small Town Charm - Mammoth, CA
If you're not looking for warm weather just yet, Mammoth Mountain is the ultimate spring break destination for families who want to hit the slopes. And for those times when you just want to kick back and relax, Mammoth is packed with tons of restaurants, kids' activities, and even incredible natural hot springs in the Eastern Sierra.
Play: When you go to Mammoth, you go for the skiing. But even if your kids aren't up to speed on the slopes just yet, with the help of the lessons offered, they just might be by the time you leave. Here, patient pros will help guide the most novice of skiers in small group lessons, as well as kids and adults with disabilities in their Adaptive Ski School. In addition to the skiing, Mammoth has a ton more to offer in terms of winter sports, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and letting loose at Wooly's Tube Park and Snow Play, where kids of all ages will have a blast.
Sleep: For cozy accommodations after a day on the slopes, look to the splurge-worthy Sierra Nevada Resort, which has been a longtime local favorite. The 149-room hotel has a super rustic feel and almost all rooms are appointed for families (with heated bathroom floors and fireplaces!). There's also a shuttle that regularly runs from the hotel to the mountain lodges, as well as to the airport.
Eat: For nights when everyone is exhausted from playing in the snow, Sierra Nevada Resort's Rafters—and all of their local, organic produce—is a fantastic option. When you want to venture out, there are tons of restaurants featuring all sorts of fare to choose from, including Jimmy's Taverna for seafood lovers, Campo to satisfy your hankering for Italian, and The Stove for an unforgettable home-style breakfast.
Check Maui Off Your Bucket List
courtesy Hyatt Regency Maui
Maui offers many adventures for families, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or you want to toss in some intrepid experiences for good measure.
Play: Begin your trip at one of the world’s best aquariums, Maui Ocean Center, to get an idea of what you might see while snorkeling or during a boat cruise. Arrange for a luau experience to learn about the Hawaiian culture—most hotels can assist with planning. Take a family-friendly surfing lesson. Make time for a hike in Iao State Park, which is rich with history. Visit Maui Tropical Plantation and see a lush landscape full of fruits, produce, and flowers.
After touring the working farm, dine at The Mill House for a culinary experience like no other. Plan early, and see the sunrise at Haleakala National Park. Drive the Road to Hana to see rainforests, lava tubes, caves, waterfalls, and all of that jaw-dropping scenery that Maui is known for. Take lots of photographs—likely, one will make your holiday card for next year.
Sleep: The Hyatt Regency Maui's stunning oceanfront property has something for everyone. From swimming pools with water slides to penguin tours at the local wildlife center and even stargazing to the Regency Club, where for an added fee there are snacks, food and amenities all day long, this resort is ideal for your dream vacation.
Waterslide Heaven — Wisconsin Dells, WI
Wendy Altschuler
No sun? No problem. At Wisconsin Dells, every day is waterpark weather. A buzzing Midwestern tourist's destination that's located midway between Chicago and Minneapolis, Wisconsin Dells is the self-proclaimed "Waterpark Capital of the World" (21 waterparks and counting!)—and it's got a slew of indoor parks for when the weather isn't exactly bathing suit friendly.
Play: Families with wee ones will want to hit the Great Wolf Lodge or the Wilderness Resort, both of which cater to smaller visitors.
Note: You'll have to stay at these resorts to use their water parks.
Family tapped out on water? There are plenty of other options. Hop on the saddle for a trail ride at the Canyon Creek Riding Stable, speed across 6,000 feet of cables with Big Foot Ziplines (kids must be above 43 inches to zip), or give the kids a fun glimpse at the history of the circus at Circus World.
Sleep: There are so many choices when it comes to kid-centered lodging that it's hard to find a place that won't blow your kids’ minds. But the Great Wolf Lodge, the Kalahari Resort, and the Wilderness Resort top our list because of their sheer number of kid-friendly attractions (think arcades, mini-golf, kids crafts, theatrical shows, etc.) and the special attention both resorts pay to little ones.
Eat: Want your dinner delivered by miniature train? Head to Buffalo Phils, which serves up burgers and BBQ in a bustling Wild West-themed atmosphere. It's also under the same roof as Knuckleheads Bowling & Trampoline Park and right next door to the Outlets at the Dells (with over 75 shops!). It sounds like a play date to us.
Google "ranch vacations" and you’ll find a whole heap of ‘em. But the rustic-yet-luxe Tanque Verde Ranch in Arizona tops our list because it’s open year-round and has loads of fun activities for little cowboys. Like horses? Your kids can spend all day at the kids club (activities for kids under four are available by request), where they’ll enjoy riding lessons, trail rides, arts and crafts and more. For folks who aren’t keen on giddying up in the saddle, there are other activities including yoga, swimming, fishing, hiking, and a spa.
Play: Besides the plethora of activities at the ranch, you can also venture out into the Tucson area and enjoy downhill skiing, golfing, cave exploring, shopping, and more.
Sleep: After a long day of activities on the ranch, you and your kids will be happy to nestle down in Tanque Verde's modern adobe casitas, all of which boast stretching views of the surrounding desert and mountains.
Note: In keeping with the rustic theme, there aren’t TVs in any of the rooms and the WiFi can be a bit spotty.
Eat: All-inclusive means you and your kids will get three meals a day of award-winning Southwestern cuisine. Want to dine in the Great Wide Open? Sign up for a breakfast ride and feast on blueberry pancakes and ranch-style eggs amid the cacti and tumbleweeds. On Wednesdays and Sundays, the ranch has “cowboy cookouts” that include a tasty barbecue buffet and live entertainment.
Take the Kids to Tuscany
Gabby Cullen
Italy, and more specifically, Tuscany, is famous not only for the Italian Renaissance but also for the countryside. Families can explore at their own pace, traveling from Siena, known for its medieval streets, to San Gimignano, where you can stroll cobblestone streets and order gelato in one of the squares. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is also fun to see, and kids will recognize it right away.
Play: Of course, Tuscany has kid-centered activities that any major city has: zoos, theme parks (Pinocchio Park is one), waterparks, and museums, but there is so much more to experience here with your family in tow. UNESCO has declared seven World Heritage Sites in Tuscany, there are amazing underground cave and grotto systems, 120 protected nature reserves, and families can learn how to make pecorino cheese in Cugusi, the area between Pienza and Montepulciano.
Sleep: Snuggled in the Serchio Valley, between the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan Emilian Apennines, conveniently about an hour from Lucca, Florence, and Pisa, sits Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa. A stay here rewards families with easy access to medieval towns, market tours, onsite cooking lessons, an outdoor pool with mountain views.
Eat: It’s no surprise that Italians like to eat well and spending time with family is a big part of the culture. Dining out is part of the experience and kids are welcome—and celebrated—in eateries all over Tuscany. Further, many restaurants have gardens or lovely piazzas where it’s entirely appropriate for kids to run around and play while waiting for dinner to arrive. Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa has a wide variety of dining options as well—La Veranda has traditional favorites available or, better yet, arrange for a day with the chef. Shop in the local market and indulge in a private cooking lesson—you will eat your meal with pride having made it yourself. Kids can also join a cupcake making class and provide the dessert for your family table
The parent-baby playdate is an opportunity to get out of the house, play with your little one and meet other new parents that are just like you! Find friends that are going through the same triumphs, challenges and memorable moments as you are by checking out these eight playdate spots in Portland. Read on to find out more!
This national franchise has several chapters in Portland and offers new and expecting moms and their families different ways of getting fit while playing with their children. Classes meet outdoors in local parks when the weather is warm, and indoors at churches and community centers during the colder months. Choose from Stroller Strides, a full-body group workout moms can do with children of all ages in strollers or carriers; Body Back, an 8-week HIIT postpartum group fitness program; and Fit4Baby, a prenatal group fitness class. Outside of fitness classes, you can take part in a range of Village events on the calendar, including free family fitness days, playdates and moms night out events.
Missing adult company and culture during the all-consuming first year of your baby’s life? Join other arts-minded caregivers and their children under one on the first Thursday of every month at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. for a slow, guided tour of exhibits that will appeal to baby too. Each tour is followed by playtime, conversation and coffee. Sign up ahead of time and check the website for current schedule and fees.
Though the word preschooler is in the title, this faith-based group is geared toward moms with children of all ages: from birth through school age. Groups meet on a weekly, bimonthly or monthly basis in a wide range of settings, from churches and homes to coffee shops and hospitals. This group has a specifically Christian orientation, but mothers from all faiths are welcome. Each meeting includes refreshments and a discussion topic, and some chapters provide childcare.
If you’re the outdoorsy type (and even if you’re not), Hike it Baby is the perfect way to combine a good workout and adult conversation with a kid-centered activity. HIB members gather in parks, at trailheads, and in neighborhoods all over Portland to walk with their children while connecting with each other. Whether you want a casual stroll at a toddler’s pace, or several miles of trail with baby nestled in the Ergo, there’s bound to be something right for you. For a sliding-scale fee (including scholarship options), you get access to the calendar of events and the Facebook page— a fantastic resource for questions about choosing the right gear for baby-wearing, camping, and hiking. Don’t see a hike that meets your needs, location, or schedule? You can sign up to host one yourself.
Portland is home to a huge range of indoor park options, thanks to our long rainy season. That means your chances of making new parenting friends just got a little better. Check the schedule for your local community center for low-commitment, affordable weekly options. Or check out these other drop-in options for under $5.
Several locations of this popular health food store offer free, drop-in support circles for new parents. Whether you’re breastfeeding or not, join other parents for an informal circle where you can share resources and get advice on everything from bottles and carriers to back-to-work strategies. These groups are often facilitated by experienced doulas and lactation specialists. Check the calendar at your local store.
Moms Offering Moms Support is a national group with several local chapters, open to all moms and offering a monthly calendar chock-full of playgroups, outings and monthly new member meet-ups. They even organize meal deliveries for parents of new babies and moms night out events.
If you are looking for options, you can find a full list of Portland moms groups here.
Dads’ Groups
Though the vast majority of parent/baby playgroups are oriented toward mothers, fathers’ groups are becoming more and more popular, and Portland is at the head of the pack. Check out the events calendar at Seahorses, a retailer-turned-nonprofit community center, which hosts a New Dads Group as well as Dads After Hours, both monthly. The community just at the start of the year is expanding to include caregivers of all kinds as well as kids of all ages. Meetup is another great option for finding likeminded fathers through father-child playgroups.
Check Meet-up for even more playdate options, or start your own! Get the numbers for a few moms or dads you meet at library storytime or the park, and invite them to a playdate at your house. Set out snacks and beverages for the parents, a few blankets and toys for the babes. Then settle in for a few hours to connect while you play with your babies. Who knows? You might just make a friend for life.
Here in the Pacific Northwest we’ve never let rain stop us from playing outside, but sometimes it’s a lot easier (and a lot less mess) to find an indoor space to let the kids get the wiggles out. With all the rain ahead, we found low-cost options that won’t break the bank but still get your clan out of the house. Scroll down to learn more.
Southeast Indoor Park Since 1978, this membership-based co-op has been providing Portland families with a casual, friendly environment for kids to play together. Ride-on toys, climbing structures, and tumbling mats give active toddlers and preschoolers plenty to do, with quieter corners set aside for baby swings, reading, and art-making. Everyone pitches in to set up and break down the play areas, and someone always brews a pot of coffee for parents to sip while chatting and keeping an eye on their little ones.
Southeast Indoor Park
Daylight basement of Trinity Methodist Church
3915 SE Steele St.
Portland, Or Ages: 0-5
Hours: Mon. & Thu. 9–11 a.m., Oct.-May
Fee: $5/drop-in; family memberships $60 full-season, $35 half-season, (plus prorated monthly options if you join late in the year)
Online: playinside.org
Northeast Indoor Park This play space is a great choice for extra wiggly kids, with plenty of slides, playhouses, riding toys, cars, and trucks– and even a climbing dome. Open to all families of children up to age eight, it’s also a friendly, welcoming environment for parents and caregivers to connect while their children play.
Basement of Central Lutheran Church
1820 NE 21st Ave.
Portland, Or
503-284-2331
Ages: 0-8
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m.-noon., year-round
Fee: Drop-in $3/child; $5 for 2 or more children; or $12/ month
Online: facebook.com/pg/NorthEastIndoorPark
Play Park at Piedmont Presbyterian Church An indoor play space for children and their parents and caregivers. Enter through the side door on Cleveland Avenue. Store strollers on indoor landings, in the Fellowship Hall, or inside Play Park.
Piedmont Presbyterian Church 5760 NE Cleveland Ave. Portland, Or 503-285-5348
Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-noon
Ages: 0-5
Fee: .50/child suggested donation; space is limited to 25 children.
Online: piedmontpresbyterian.org
Oak Grove Indoor Play This play space features several different “studios” with ball pits, ride-on toys, climbing structures, large foam stacking blocks, and smaller toys. It’s also a popular choice for party rentals. Be sure to bring cash for drop-in play!
16101 SE McLoughlin Blvd.
Milwaukie, Or
503-560-5860
Mittleman Jewish Community Center Indoor Park This thrice-weekly indoor park uses a portion of the side turf on an indoor soccer field inside the JCC’s “sportsplex,” a big green dome held up by air. Caregivers and kids can build forts in the gymnastics area, practice crawling and walking on the spring floor, play on the trampoline, and use a number of toddler cars and slides. Once a month, both members and non-members can enjoy a special FREE indoor park called Chai Baby (pronounced like “high,”) which includes a story time and snacks.
6651 SW Capitol Hwy.
Portland, Or
503-244-0111
Ages: 6 months-5 years (but a babe-in-arms is okay if you have an older kid)
Hours: Mon., Wed. & Fri. 10 a.m.-noon., Sep.-Jun.
Fee: $5 drop-in; free to members (available for people of all faiths)
Online: oregonjcc.org/camps-childcare/indoor-playground
Upper Westside Play Gym An affordable drop-in option for westside families, this play gym has drop-in family play hours focusing on different ages and stages. Choose from baby & toddler open play as well as drop-in hours for kids under 5. With a wide range of additional classes and activities, this location has a lot to offer every week.
1509 SW Sunset Blvd.
Portland, Or
503-246-2292
Ages: 0-5
Hours: Varies by age group and activity; check calendar online
Fee: $5 drop in/ child; $2.50/ each additional child (bring cash or check to avoid a $1 card fee)
Online: upperwestsideplaygym.com
St John’s Swap n Play This award-winning membership-based swap-n-play features several distinct play areas, including use of the popular Imagination Playground, a mobile play system of blue blocks in different shapes and sizes. Members have access to both indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as classes and events, while non-members can drop in on Monday mornings during open play to see what membership is all about.
Woodlawn Swap n Play Located below the popular Village Ballroom (which hosts regular performances from well-known Portland “kindie” musicians and mother-oriented exercise classes), the Woodlawn Swap n Play has use of two indoor play areas. During regular swap hours, members have access to the main facility downstairs, while twice a week the ballroom space opens up for ride on toys and other gross motor play options. Members also enjoy the benefits of the honor-based goods-exchange model that makes swap-n-plays a popular choice for eco-conscious and budget-wise families.
Hammer + Jack’s Small but mighty. At 680 square feet, this is the smallest play space on our list, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in warmth and a focus on community. The indoor play space– located at the back of an impressively-curated toy store– features a large, whimsical wooden slide and climbing tunnel, with plenty of smaller toys below. A row of picnic tables is available for enjoying snacks from home or Henry Higgins Bagels next door. Be sure to check out the calendar for a list of upcoming performances, classes, and events.
6416 SE Foster
Portland, Or
503-894-9150
Ages: 0-5 (plus drop-in play for non-walkers on Fridays)
Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m – 6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Fee: $4 drop-in; $6 all-day pass; call ahead as space is limited
Online: hammerandjacks.com
Portland Parks & Recreation Indoor Parks Portland is home to a wealth of community centers, and each one has several indoor play options for children. From baby gym and family park to indoor parks geared toward homeschooling families, there is truly something for everyone. Check the catalog of your neighborhood center for hours and themes, and don’t be afraid to try out a new location a bit further from home. All community centers are accessible by public transit.
Creative and Mostly Free Alternatives to Organized Indoor Parks Set up a play date at the Lloyd Center or Clackamas Mall, which open at 7 & 6 a.m., respectively, for mall walkers (stores open at 10 a.m.) There are play areas, elevators and escalators, and plenty of room for your new runner to, well, run. Or take the kids to Ikea, where you can enjoy $1 coffee in the café and watch planes take off from the airport. Cruise the kids’ section nearby and let them explore the nylon tents, big kid beds, and rocking chairs—all their size.
Libraries are another good option, with free story times for kids of all ages and many branches to choose from. In addition to Portland’s Central Branch, the Central Vancouver Libraryhas a huge kids’ floor with sensory exhibits and multimedia center, all for free. Or take advantage of a Discovery Pass from your county library system to attend local museums and cultural events for free. Passes may not be immediately available, and you can only check them out twice per calendar year, so plan ahead for this one.
What are your go-to spots during Portland’s rainy season? Join the conversation by adding your ideas in the comments!
Did the weekend sneak up on you again? We hear ya. The following spots have you covered with drop-in classes for yoga, art and rock walls that need no advance reservations. Just drop in to play, create, or learn something new.
Art ala Carte
This self-described “art bar” lets kids loose on an array of materials and mediums to create in. Open studios on Saturdays from noon-5 p.m. require a care giver on site. For kids 1-4, the cost is $9. For ages 5 & up, it’s $11. Grownups, it’s your choice if you’d like to just watch, or pay your own fee and do some creating, too. Get $2 off your admission for donating a paper bag of recycled goods or art supplies. Insider’s note: the Portland location has recently moved to a new building.
Yoga Shala
Every fourth Saturday from 3-4 p.m., Yoga Shala invites families to enjoy music and story as part of an all-ages accessible yoga class. Cost is on a donation basis, so anyone can join classes that are normally $14 each.
If you like that class, keep in mind that Yoga Shala also offers other kids’ classes and had child care on site for adult classes.
Oregon Gymnastics Academy Indoor Park
When they say all ages, they mean all ages! If your little one can roll over, they can roll on a mat at the Indoor Park at Oregon Gymnastics Academy on Saturdays. Kids up to 17 can enjoy the facilities from noon-1:30 p.m. on Saturdays. On Sunday from 9 – 11 a.m., families can enjoy Sensory Sundays, “exclusively for families of children affected by Sensory Processing Disorders, Autism Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorder, or any other disabilities.” Indoor Parks are sometimes cancelled for camps, so check the online calendar ahead of time.
Playground Gym Open Play
Run, jump, and get some energy out! Playground Gym is small enough for your little tumblers to stay in view if you want to have a seat for a moment, but you can join in the fun as well. Sometimes the staff creates special obstacle courses for weekend open players to balance, hop, and feel more confident in their little bodies, but kids are encouraged to create their own courses as well. $8 admits one child aged 1-12. Open play runs on Saturday from 9-11:30 a.m., but be sure to double-check the schedule before packing the kids in the car.
Saturday Craft Days
Saturday craft sessions take place every Saturday from 2-3 p.m. at the lovely Ledding Library. Ages 5 & up can work on the seasonal craft project of the week, and locals can pick up a book or two while they’re there.