Portland is a weird place, but no matter how odd things may get one thing never changes: how family friendly the city is. We’ve partnered with Meagan Shamy, family travel blogger at Mommy Travels and Portland local, to get the scoop on the top places for families in Portland, Oregon.

Portland is an excellent destination for families to vacation, because of the multitude of family-friendly activities and attractions. From an elaborate zoo, fountains you can jump in, and amazing food, there’s something for everyone. Here are just a handful of the things your family can experience in Portland.

Jamison Square

Play in a Fountain

Have you ever come across a fountain on a hot day and had the urge to jump in? In Portland, you can! Almost every fountain in the city allows wading. Some fountains, like the one at Jamison Square in the Pearl District, were purposely designed for kids to play in them. The Jamison Square fountain pours water over steps and creates a shallow pool. Then, before the water gets too deep for younger kids, the water drains, is filtered, and the process starts all over again. Another fun fountain downtown is Keller Fountain, but only go if you have older kids. The water is a little deeper and it has some substantial drop offs.

donuts in Portland

Eat Donuts

Portland has become a go-to city for food, and your family will want to be sure to try some of the donut options found here. Now, chances are you have already heard about Portland’s most famous donut spot, Voodoo Doughnuts. Voodoo Doughnuts easily lives up to the hype and it’s worth waiting in line for. Your kids will get a kick out of their over-the-top donut creations, like one of their little voodoo men. Also worth waiting in line for is Pip’s Original Donuts. These savory mini donuts topped with all kinds of goodness are incredible, but be warned once they sell out they close for the day. Pip’s tends to have 5 or 6 daily selections, but they have a secret menu too with choices like the Tropical Wu topped with cinnamon, sugar, Nutella, honey, and toasted coconut! Another spot worth a visit is Blue Star Doughnuts. Their gourmet delicacies are a little pricey, but worth the extra buck or two.

Oregon Zoo

Meet Hundreds of Animals

The Oregon Zoo is located in downtown Portland’s Washington Park. Over 1,800 animals call this zoo home. The zoo is spread out over 64 acres and includes kid favorites like lions, bears, penguins and elephants. Here, you and your kids will be able to see almost any animal your heart desires. They offer live feedings throughout the day, which kids tend to love, along with educational animal talks. Check their website before you go to find out when and where all the action will be. During the summer the zoo offers concerts, and in the winter they have holiday lights. Food is available throughout the zoo, or you are allowed to bring in your own food. Many visitors pack a picnic to enjoy on the main lawn during the live bird show featuring a bald eagle. Be sure everyone wears comfortable walking shoes, you will do a lot of walking while you are here.

OMSI

Learn Something New

Take the kids over to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, where they can experience one hands-on activity after another. Throughout this massive science museum, your kids will find over 200 interactive exhibits, plus a submarine they can tour. While you are here make sure to spend some time in the chemistry lab, where your kids can try various science experiments. If your children are age 6 or under, there is a science playground upstairs just for them. Here they can dig through sand, play in water, pretend to be an animal, build and so much more. Keep in mind that this is a perfect rainy day activity and plan to visit on a day that calls for rain.

Wahclella falls

Go Hiking

You cannot visit Portland without taking a driving out to the Scenic Columbia Gorge, where you will find one waterfall after another. Multnomah Falls is a must see, but not necessarily the best one to hike with kids. After seeing this famous waterfall, head further out east and hike Wachlella Falls. Wachlella Falls is a beautiful 2-mile hike that is easy enough for children age 5 and older. Once you hike down closer to the falls, there are a few places where you can get into the water and cool off. If you are comfortable, you can even swim. Afterward, you can take your kids by Bonneville Fish Hatchery to see thousands of fish.

With so much to do in Portland with kids, you are sure to have a fantastic trip no matter what you decide to do. Hopefully with these suggestions you can see some of Portland’s most popular attractions, while still experiencing some unique moments that can only be had here.

Travelocity compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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