Chop-Chop! 10 Christmas Tree Farms near Boston

by Allison SutcliffeOctober 27, 2022

The winter holidays are on their way. Get a jumpstart on the season at these Boston-area Christmas tree farms that are opening soon

For many families heading out to cut your own Christmas tree they day after Thanksgiving is as much of a tradition as driving around to see holiday light displays is. So if Thanksgiving Day leaves you itching to get out into the tree fields, we feel you. Nothing says “the holidays are almost here!” better than a trip to one of these Boston-area Christmas tree farms. With cut-your-own and pre-cut options, the perfect Christmas tree is waiting for you at one of these local farms. Bundle up the kids and head out on a holiday adventure!

a mom and son put an ornament on a snowy christmas tree at a nearby christmas tree farm — iStock

1. Smolak Farms

Smolak Farms is your destination for everything merry and bright this holiday season. They will offer pre-cut and cut-your-own trees on their picturesque farm complete with fallow deer. They will have cut Balsam and Fraser Firs from five feet and to a soaring sixteen feet for sale. If you want to cut your own tree, head there early in the season as they often run out. They usually open the day after Thanksgiving for U-cut and sell the "marriage saver" tree stand to anyone who needs it.

Good to Know: Smolak usually has tons of fun Christmas activities for families like Santa visits, a tree lighting, and Elf storytime. They're currently coordinating with Santa to plan the 2022 events.

315 South Bradford St.
North Andover, MA
Online: smolakfarms.com

2. Maple Crest Farm

After they finish the pumpkin season, the folks at Maple Crest Farm roll right into Christmas trees, offering four fields to families looking to cut their own down. Find just the right Douglas, Canaan, Concolor, Fraiser, or Balsam tree to grace your living room. They've got sizes for everyone (some are even over 10 feet tall!). Trees are $75 and they provide everything you need (saws, sleds, and twine). All you need is room in or on your car. They'll even wrap your tree for you so you can get it home easily.

102 Moulton St.
West Newbury, MA
Online: maplecrestfarm.biz

3. The Christmas Tree Farm

Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned Christmas tree hunter, you'll find the right tree for your fam at the Christmas Tree Farm in Pembroke. This working farm has been selling both U-cut and pre-cut trees for four generations. After you've found your tree, they'll shake, cut, bail, and net it for you (psst...they'll even cut it for you if you're not confident in your lumberjack skills). Don't forget to wave to the miniature horses and goats when you're there. And if you've got a pooch, they're welcome to tag along with as long as they're leashed and you clean up after them.

254 Taylor St.
Pembroke, MA
Online: thechristmastreefarm.net

a young girl with her parents points to a small tree at a Christmas tree farm near Boston — iStock

4. Pakeen Farm

Each Christmas season Pakeen Farm invites you to head to the barn and in the fields to pick out your perfect Christmas tree, while you sip hot cocoa, munch on mini donutes, and take in the brisk New England air. They offer u-cut trees, as well as pre-cut trees, wreaths, roping, and other holiday decorations. They typically have Balsam Fir, Fraser Fir, Concolor Fir, Norway Spruce, and a few Blue Spruce as well.

109 Elm St.
Canton, MA
Online: pakeenfarm.com

5. Holiday Tree Farm

Find a just-right sized Christmas tree to display your ornaments and watch over your presents all season long at this farm just north of downtown. Having been hit hard by the July's rain and the drought, they've lost lots of mature trees. But they are still excited to welcome families to the fields to find that perfect tree to bring home. The tentative dates for 2022 are December 11 and 12. Be sure to check their Facebook page for updates coming soon.

132 Salem Rd.
Topsfield, MA
Online: facebook.com/holidaytreefarmtopsfield

6. Indian Rock Farm

Choose and cut your own tree from the field full of Balsam, Fraser, and Concolor firs. You'll also find award winning, handmade wreaths, swags, and mistletoe that are accented with hand-crafted bows. This year Indian Rock Farm will only be open three days for the whole season—November 26 & 27 and December 3, with a reservation. Remember that they are cash only and leashed dogs are welcome to join you in your hunt for the perfect tree.

120 Granite St.
Foxborough, MA
Online: indianrockfarm.com

7. Greenwood Tree Farm

This spot has pre-cut trees as well as U-cut trees for sale so you can find the tannenbaum of your dreams. Fraser Fir and Balsam Fir are the dominant varieties sold here, and they only accept cash or check (ATM available on site). New this year is a chance to visit with the resident goats and chickens. Don't miss out on the free apple cider and purchase some honey to take home with you.

96 Dudley Rd
Billerica, MA
Online: greenwoodtreefarm.com

8. Tree-Berry Farm

This spot offers blueberry picking in the warmer months and Christmas trees in the colder months. Stroll through the field to find the perfect tree then flag down a cutter who will measure and cut your tree for you (you can also cut it yourself, if you prefer). Choose from a handful of Spruce and fir varieties (think: Balsam, Frasier, Cannan, and White Spruce). You might get lucky enough to catch a hayride around the farm too. Delivery is available.

Route 123 / Neal Gate St.
Scituate, MA
Online: treeberryfarm.com

kids warm their hands on cups of hot cocoa in front of trees at a christmas tree farm — iStock

9. Turkey Hill Farm

This beautiful hilltop farm has loads of Christmas trees ready for you to cut down. Open on weekends from Thanksgiving until they are sold out (they've actually sold out in a weekend before, so get there early), it's the place to find Blue Spruce, Fraser Fir, and Douglas Firs in beautiful surroundings. The max price you'll pay for any tree is just $120 and some are as low as $10 (think: Charlie Brown style). Cash or check only please, and leave your pups at home.

380 Middle Rd.
Haverhill, MA
Online: turkeyhillfarm.com

10. Crane Neck Christmas Tree Farm

As soon as you're done cleaning up the turkey, you can head to this Christmas tree farm near Boston—it opens the day after Thanksgiving (Nov. 25). Choose your family's fresh tree for their selection of Douglas or Balsam Fir ($89 for any height). Bring your own hand saw if you can, and be prepared to secure your tree to your car (no need to pull a Griswold this season). Cash or check is required.

Good to Know: They also have a Groveland location (17R Wood Street) if that's more convenient for your family. It also opens the day after Thanksgiving.

120 Crane Neck St.
West Newbury, MA
Online: cranenecktree.com

Portland-Inspired Halloween Costumes Your Kids Will Love

by Levi RogersOctober 3, 2021

Halloween is almost here! While things are not quite back to normal regarding large gatherings and trick-or-treating, costumes and (especially one with masks!) are still a great way to have some fun with all your fall activities. Have a fun time dressing up around the house or wherever your Halloween and Fall adventures take you with these Portland, Oregon-themed costumes. Remember to practice social distancing but stay together as a pod, you never know what kind of donuts or lumberjacks you might find lurking around these October PDX streets!

Lumberjack or Timber Joey

The modern state of Oregon was in many ways built on sawmills, timber, and the logging industry. While the industry was perhaps rightly criticized for its clear cutting of old growth forests in the past, the myth of the lumberjack and our abundance of trees remains one of the enduring symbols of the state of Oregon. The lumberjack was the mythical cowboy-esque persona of this era and personified in years past by the likes of Paul Bunyan and today by people like Timber Joey, the Portland Timbers “Mascot” who saws off a ring of wood from a tree every time the Timbers score a goal. Conversely, if you’re against the very idea of this, consider going as a tree hugger. The spirit of protest and demonstration is still alive and well in Oregon.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Motherhood | Decor | DIY (@beingkiyana)

Rain Cloud & Rainbow

This could possibly be the most Portland costume of all time, and it’s a classic that will never go out of style. Get the whole family in on it with individual cloud or raindrop costumes and then designate someone to carry or be a rainbow! You can buy costumes online or get crafty and creative. With a little cotton, colored paper and glue, you’ll have the cutest rainstorm in town.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Karla 😘 (@kartastrophe)

Blazers or Timbers Fan

Portland loves its Blazers and Timbers. Any real Timbers fan has enough gear to outfit the entire army, so put it to good use! You can make it interactive with pretend axe-chopping your way up and down the street. Or just get your brand new babe an adorable onesie and you’ll have all of the ghosts and ghouls gathered to get a peak.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jollity & Co Party Boutique (@jollityandco)

Little Hippie

Portland may be known for some of its hipster qualities. But there was a time when weirdoes and hippies filled our streets. Evoke the classic Portland hippie in the days of flower power, jam bands, and bell bottoms. Our local Good Will and classic vintage stores are packed with everything that you need. There is no shortage of vintage needs here in Portland! Online shops are also a COVID-safe go-to if you can’t pull some pieces out of the back of your own closet.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ahnah Han 한아나 | Japan • Korea • USA (@ahjoomahan)

Donut or Biscuit

Portlanders love their donuts! There are plenty of donut outfits you can purchase online. You could even DIY this one at home with some felt. Go all VooDoo and stick real cereal to the costume! Or, if you’re more of a savory person, celebrate your love for Portland’s own Pine State Biscuits. Bonus points for some gravy and fried chicken on top.

Food Truck or Chef

Dress up as an ode to your favorite food cart–if your little one is in a stroller, you’ve got a rolling costume! DIY some local favorites like Khao Man Gai, The Grilled Cheese Bus, or others. Or, if you’re a foodie family who watched Top Chef Portland, dress up like your favorite Top chef judge or contestant.

Sasquatch

The mythical Sasquatch usually stays out of view, but this Halloween he just might make an appearance. After 2020, who knows what could happen! Get ready to greet him with your very own sasquatch costume to welcome him to the neighborhood. Or perhaps all the isolation has finally goteen to Sasquatch and he found himself trapped in the world’s only Sasquatch trap, located in Siskiyou National Forest.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by FinickyFoodie (@finickyfoodie)

Pizza

Portlanders love their pizza. According to one author, Portland even has the best pizza in the country! Dress up like your favorite slice or restaurant and watch out for those who try to eat you!

Put A Bird On It

This might be the easiest idea for a Portland costume ever! Throw it back to 2011 with a Portlandia-inspired costume—just put a bird on it! Other ideas might include goths, street punks, butchers, and picklers!

—Levi Rogers

featured image via pexels

Related Stories

Portland Halloween Activities

Best Portland Candy Shops

Portland Haunted Spots

Kick Cabin Fever with These Odd Roadside Stops Near Portland

by Annette BenedettiMay 31, 2020

Portland is known for being “weird,” but let’s be honest…the whole great state of Oregon has some interesting oddities about it. With COVID-19 restrictions limiting travel and outdoor options, families are looking for innovative ways to kick cabin fever. Fortunately, road trip season upon us so why not hop in the car for a treasure hunt-like adventure? These neat road-side attractions will clear away COVID duldrums and give your kids unique quests to look forward to. Scroll down to find out where you can witness these strange attractions.

Cave Man Statue

Find It:1995 NW Vine St., Grant’s Pass, Oregon

Since 1971, a 17-ft. caveman statue has been guarding the entrance to Grant’s Pass. The Neanderthal was constructed by International Fiberglass to celebrate both the Oregon Caves National Monument and a unique local men's group called the Oregon Cavemen. Members of this club, which officially formed in 1922, would ceremoniously march down Main Street sporting wigs, fake teeth, animal furs, and spiked clubs--all in the name of promoting the nearby caverns. While this wild procession is long gone, kids can still get a kick out of the giant statue and its lingering influence. (The local high school football team? The Cavemen, of course.)

Prehistoric Gardens

Find It: 36848 Highway 101, Port Orford, Oregon

Prehistoric Gardens opened in 1955 and was created by E.V. “Ernie” Nelson, an artist, sculptor, entrepreneur, and dinosaur fan. He put in three years of research (including a trip to NYC’s Smithsonian) before making each of the 23 life-size creatures—including the 86 feet long and 46 feet tall Brachiosaurs. The park is located in the middle of the Oregon rainforest and while it may not have the flash of the blockbuster Jurassic Park, it does have a nice stroller-accessible path and a lot of dino-charm. Admission varies but tykes 2 & under are free.

Online: prehistoricgardens.com/

Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery

Find It: 4303 Sardine Creek Rd., Gold Hill, Oregon

Open from March-October, the Oregon Vortex is a spherical field of force (half above the ground and half below) that causes a lot of wackiness: balls roll uphill, brooms stand on end, and people appear to shrink. Located on the same property, The House of Mystery was built in 1904, slid off its foundation at an angle in 1911, and has been at a tilt ever since. Thanks to the late John Lister, a geologist, mining engineer and physicist, both sites are open to the public. Skeptics are welcome but prepare for a lot of kid curiosity!

Online: oregonvortex.com/

Bobbie the Wonder Dog

Find It: 200 S. Water St., Silverton, Oregon

Dogs have always been a favorite family pet. In 1923 when the Braizer family lost Bobbie the family collie during a cross-country summer road trip they were Broken-hearted. The family headed home to Silverton, OR certain they would never see him again. Six months later, on February 15, 1924, a tired and bedraggled Bobbie arrived on their doorstep. He traveled 2,551 miles on foot, across mountains and rivers to return to his clan and instantly became a celebrity. He even received the keys to the city, a jewel studded collar, and a feature in Ripley’s Believe It or Not. His statue, replica dog house and 70-ft. mural can be found in downtown Silverton.

Harvey, the Giant Rabbit

FInd It: 21250 SW Tualatin Valley Hwy., Aloha, Oregon

In October of 1962 a storm blew through the Pacific Northwest and toppled and damaged a fiberglass Texaco Big Friend statue in Aloha. The owner brought it to a man named Ed Harvey who was skilled at fiberglass repair. The owner never returned for it and after years of laying abandoned Harvey had an idea. One of his favorite Jimmy Stewart films had a giant invisible rabbit named Harvey in it and rabbits bring good luck, so he decided to put a rabbit head on Big Friend's body and installed it in front of his shop. It's been drawing attention ever since!

Mill Ends Park

This tiny park was created in 1946 by WWII vet Dick Fagan. The weed-riddled hole in the ground was initially intended it to hold a light pole, but when the pole never showed up Fagan, who was a columnist for the Oregon Journal, planted flowers it and named it Mills Ends: the name of his column in the paper. It is located in the median strip of SW Naito Parkway and is two feet wide and takes up 452 square inches. In 1971 the Guiness Book of Records granted it the grand status of "the smallest park in the world." In 1948 Mill Ends Park was dedicated as a park for leprechauns on St. Patrick’s Day. Fagan wrote stories about the events that supposedly took take place at the park until his death in 1969.

Paul Bunyan

Find It: Intersection of N. Interstate Ave. and N. Denver Ave., Portland, Oregon

This 31-foot tall man is made of concrete, plaster and steel and evokes squeals of excitement from tiny tots who need to crane their necks to take the whole wonder in. The statue is listed on the national Register of Historic Places and is a fine tribute to the storybook logger, Paul Bunyan. Built by father and sun team Victor R. and Victor A. Nelson in in 1959 for Oregon's Centennial Exposition and International Trade Fair, this creation is almost as infamous to locals as the legend it represents. While some may wonder how the story of Paul Bunyan, which originated in Minnesota, fits into the story of Oregon, locals agree that the monstrous lumberjack was a clear tip-of-the-hat to the timber industry and it's influence in Oregon.

—Annette Benedetti

Buy Local: Curbside Pick-Up & Delivery from These PDX Spots

Tacoma’s New Trampoline & Air Sports Park Is Defying the Odds

by Allison SutcliffeApril 29, 2019

Seasoned Seattle parents know that tulips and sunshine aren’t signs of spring; they’re harbingers of the rainy season ahead. That’s why we’re super excited Defy Tacoma, the Seattle area’s newest indoor trampoline and air sports park, just opened its doors. It’s the energy burning, indoor activity parents and kids crave on rainy days. Scroll down to learn more!

Jump In!

The newest indoor aerial arts park, Defy Tacoma, makes the most of its expansive 30,000 square foot warehouse space. Attraction density was the goal when the park was designed, and it shows. Everywhere you look, there’s something new and engaging for kids to try. Plus, close together features mean parents can easily keep an eye on kids when one sprints off toward the dodge ball court and another makes a beeline for the battle beam. If trampoline parks are your jam, you’ll recognize some favorites here. Defy Tacoma has the requisite open jump space where kids can bounce from one tramp to the next, until they can’t bounce anymore. There’s also a netted dodge ball court, complete with a referee who not only keeps a watchful eye on things, but also establishes some rules so players can make the most of game time. The basketball court is great for kid dunks and the adjacent ninja warrior course is challenging no matter what your age. Other familiar attractions include circus favorites like the slack line, cloud swings and trapeze bar.

Try Something New

If Defy Tacoma’s familiarity gets you through the door, it’s the not-found-anywhere-else features that will keep you coming back. The most noticeably new feature is Wipeout. The attraction is mechanized, pitting a staff-controlled machine against kids of all ages, as they try to avoid getting knocked off base into the foam pit. It’s sure to attract your kids the moment they walk through the door. Next up are the Zip Lines. There are two that kids can swing on during flight time. We’re particularly taken with the booty ball zip line, which makes the typical traverse a little more challenging than kids are used to. Families can also battle it out on the Battle Beam, a suspended balance beam where players use padded bats to try and knock each other off balance and into the pit below. And finally, the Log Roll for lumberjack wannabes, although this one is padded and the landing is soft and dry.

A Much-Needed Break

When flight time’s over, your kids are sure to be hungry. Defy Tacoma has a café and seating area guests can use whenever they need a break. Families will find the typical snack bar fare (think: pizza, sodas, slushies). Pricing is reasonable (between $5-$15) and there are offerings to feed one or many, so you can get your fill no matter your group size. You can also bring your own food from home, if you prefer. This summer, Defy Tacoma’s outdoor patio will open, so you can take a sun break before heading back in for more off-the-wall antics.

Host the Perfect Party

Busy parents are always on the lookout for great birthday party spots. When the venue does all the work for you? It’s even better. That’s what you can expect from Defy Tacoma’s party packages. Book one of their four party rooms for your next shindig and you can rest easy. They take care of everything, from decorations, to food and drink, to all the paper goods. The only thing you bring is the cake! But if planning is your thing and you want to throw a coordinated or themed bash, they can help you do that too. Reach out to the Event Coordination Team to bring your perfect party vision to life. Weekday packages for 10 jumpers start at $275 ($325 on Fridays and weekends) and include all the party fixings. It’s an easy party win!

Know Before You Go:

1. Be sure to book flight time and sign the online waiver before you make the trek.

2. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled flight time so you have plenty of time to get checked in, get your wristband and store your shoes before it’s time for take off!

3. Grippy socks are a must. If you’ve got a pair, great! If not, you can buy them at Defy Tacoma for $3.

4. Special flight times are set aside for the youngest bouncers (6 & under) every weekday from 9 a.m.-10 a.m. They get the run of the place, without any of those pesky big kids around.

5. Looking for special pricing and events, like Family Night or Parents Night Out? Follow Defy Tacoma on Facebook to stay up to date and in the know.

Defy Tacoma
1680 S. Mildred St.
Tacoma, WA 98465
253-300-3499
Online: defytacoma.com

Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 9 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Cost: $15/1 hr. flight, $20/1 ½ hr. flight or $23/2 hr. flight (7 & older) weekdays; $11/1 hr. flight, $15/ 1/12 hr. flight or $19/2 hr. flight (6 & under) weekdays; $15/1 hr. flight, $23/1 ½ hr. flight or $28/2 hr. flight (7 & older) weekends & holidays; $11/1 hr. flight, $17/ 1/12 hr. flight or $22/2 hr. flight (6 & under) weekends & holidays.

—Allison Sutcliffe (all photos courtesy of the writer)

75 Activities to Check Off Your Summer Bucket List

Your Ultimate Guide to Wild Waves Theme & Water Park

10 Free (or Super Cheap) Things to Do with Kids Under 5

12 Easy Waterfall Hikes to Take This Summer

Go Play at the City’s Best Parks & Playgrounds

As Easy as Falling Off a Log: 3 Lumberjack Games for Kids

by Amber GuetebierJune 19, 2016

National Paul Bunyan Day comes just once a year so get the log-party rolling by playing games inspired by America’s most legendary lumberjack. Read on for 3 simple, lively and low-cost ideas.

Caber Toss for Tots
The Scottish sport of essentially chucking a massive log can be safely replicated at home with a little space and some sticks or bamboo poles. Scoring is not based on distance thrown but rather balance. The thrower must first balance the log on end in their hands (it’s okay to use your body for support) and then pushes it out trying to get the caber to land end over end. The more upright the toss the better (you’ll be surprised how often the stick or logs lean to one side before, during and after a throw). The straightest throw scores the highest.

Pole Climb
Head to your local playground for this replica of the infamous lumberjack game. It’s pretty basic: find a pole and see who can climb it the highest/fastest.

Log Rolling
If you don’t have some personal-sized logs on hand, you can do this one with pool noodles. This kid-friendly version of traditional log rolling requires no balancing on the top of logs in a river. You’ll also need a timer of some kind. Mark out a “finish” line and then see who can make it to the finish line first. You can also have each participant “roll” their log one at a time and use the clock to see who has the best time. The log has to stay on the ground and cannot be carried.

What’s your favorite log-centric game? Tell us about it in the comments below.

—Amber Guetebier

photo: Dave Mathis via flickr

Today Is National Paul Bunyan Day

by rtstephenApril 28, 2016

Daily

Today Is National Paul Bunyan Day

He’s a lumberjack and he’s okay.

Start your day with a meal fit for a lumberjack.
Here are some ideas to fill your belly.

We’ve rounded up 3 Bunyan-inspired games
that are as easy as falling off a log.

Get your little logger looking the part with a simple DIY beard
and an old plaid shirt.

{ Today’s ideas brought to you by Axes }

5 Low-Key Activities Kids Can Do With Grandparents

by Marianne WaltersAugust 26, 2015

Grandparents Day is Sunday, September 13th, and we know that there’s nothing quite like the experience of grandparents joining their grandchildren in a learning adventure. We’ve found some of the best opportunities for the multi-generational family members to enjoy in Portland in September. Read on for five fun and low-key activities for all ages.

photo: Woodworking with Grandpa by Ms. Schreiber via Creative Commons

Build a Football Toss Game
Select Home Depot locations offer free monthly workshops for kids with an adult that includes all the supplies and instructions needed. On Saturday, Sept. 5, the project is building a Football Toss Game. The child takes home the project, receives a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron and a commemorative pin. Six locations around town are offering this workshop. Register online in advance. Sat., 9 a.m.-noon, ages 5-12, free.

E Portland Mall, 10120 SE Washington St., Portland, 503-261-8543
S Beaverton, 4401 SW 110th Ave., Beaverton, 503-469-4242
Beaverton, 13700 NW Science Pk Dr., Portland, 503-646-1525
Clackamas, 9300 SE 82nd Ave., Happy Valley, 503-774-6342
Jantzen Beach, 1728 N Tomahawk Island Dr., Portland, 503-289-9200
NE Portland, 11633 NE Glen Widing Dr., Portland, 503-252-0188
Online: homedepot.com

Learn to be a Lumberjack
Lumberjacks and lumberjills of all ages can enjoy the World Forestry Center. Head into the Discovery Museum to learn about Oregon’s forest industry, logging and sustainability. Fun rides and photo ops will make it a day to remember, and it tends to be the least crowded option of the Washington Park attractions (not to mention inexpensive). Open 7 days/week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $5 admission for all ages over 2.

4033 SW Canyon Rd.
503-228-1367
Online: worldforestry.org

photo: My Masterpiece Art Studio by Kristy R. via Yelp

Paint Like Van Gogh
My Masterpiece Art Studio offers kids and adults the opportunity to create mini masterpieces in the style of famous artists using non-toxic materials. On Friday, Sept. 11, get inspired by artist Vincent van Gogh as you paint a terracotta bowl with sunflowers. Classes are kept small and reservations via phone are required. Other art classes (including Open Studio for all ages) are available if Friday doesn’t work or if your mini master is a bit older. Fri., Sept. 11, 10:30- 11:10 a.m., ages 2-5, $10.

7905 SW Cirrus Dr.
Beaverton
503-453-3700
Online: mymasterpieceartstudio.com

See a Play
Grandparents can sit down, take a load off and enjoy the magic of theater with their favorite little ones. Once Upon a Time Family Theatre performs familiar tales with an exciting twist to keep things interesting. This month’s performance is a Grimm’s Fairy Tale classic, Jorinda’s Song. After the play, the audience is invited to play in an engaging arts and crafts class called Art In the Wings. Tickets are available at the door, by phone or online. Sat., Sept. 5, noon-2 p.m., all ages, $1/child and $2/adult (performance), additional $1/child and $2/adult (Art In the Wings).

Portland Metro Arts
9003 SE Stark St.
503-408-0604
Online: pdxmetroarts.com

photo: Oregon Rail Heritage Center by Sam Churchill via Creative Commons

Ride a Train
Grandparents and their choo-choo-loving grandbabies can take a leisurely and scenic Saturday train ride along the Willamette River, next to the busy Springwater Trail and through Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. Riders can climb aboard at either the station nearest Oaks Amusement Park or the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC). Each ride lasts about 40 minutes and travels between the two stations, with a 10-minute layover. Riders can choose to come right back or catch a later train. Trains depart hourly 12-5 p.m. from Oaks Park and from the ORHC every hour from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Tickets are sold onsite at boarding time. Sat., noon-5 p.m., all ages, $5/person, children under two years ride for free.

Oaks Amusement Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way
Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave.
Online: portlandtrainrides.com

What do you like to do when the grandparents are visiting? Let us know in the comments below!

— Marianne Walters

Zip Over To The New And Improved Griffith Park Playground

by rtelenawfMarch 11, 2015

The only thing better than a good playground is one that just got a shiny new makeover to become a great playground. Griffith Park Rec Center Playground in Los Feliz has always been a fantastic place for fenced-in-fun, but your little guys will go nuts for the refurb that includes a zip-line, climbing rocks with hidden friends and shade. Next time you’re in the neighborhood (on the way to the Zoo?) check out this new and improved kids stomping ground.

photo credit: Nicole Castanada

Zippity Zip-Line
This place is bursting with awesome park entertainment, but the big draw is the brand-new zip-line. Kids can hop on and swing across like Spider Man swishing between sky-scrapers. It’s sure to be a hit with mini adrenaline junkies. And with soft sand underneath, newbies are cushioned from any tumbles. There are two long zip-lines, so waiting time is never long. Kids get to practice their run and jump at the starting side and zoom their way across. Be prepared to help out younger kids at the other end, since it can be tricky for smaller ones to shimmy their way back.