Portland Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Portland
This itinerary balances engaging free outdoor and indoor activities with popular ticketed attractions, ensuring a fun-filled and cost-effective weekend for families with young children in Portland. Transportation notes provide general advice, and specific parking details should be checked closer to the dates.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Washington Park Play
Enjoy one of Portland's most expansive and popular playgrounds, featuring large play structures, swings, and a sandpit, perfect for kids to burn off energy after school.
Ideal for all ages, especially 3-12. Restrooms available. Allow for 1.5-2 hours of play.
Paid parking is available within Washington Park. Consider using the Washington Park Free Shuttle if available or TriMet for public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Dumpling Week Dinner
Participate in Portland's annual Dumpling Week, where various restaurants across the city offer special dumpling creations.
This is a fantastic opportunity to explore diverse culinary delights.
Suitable for all ages. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly options. Duration depends on the chosen restaurant.
Check specific restaurant locations for parking or public transit options.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Powell's Storytime Fun
Engage young readers with interactive storytelling sessions at Powell's City of Books, a beloved cultural hub in Portland.
Best for younger children (ages 3-8). Storytime typically lasts 30-45 minutes. Kids' section is extensive for browsing.
Street parking or nearby parking garages are available. Easily accessible by TriMet bus and streetcar.
Lunch at HUB
Enjoy a family-friendly meal at Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB), known for its delicious food, organic brews for adults, and dedicated play areas for kids.
Features a solid kids' menu and multiple play spaces with toys and books. Great for all ages.
On-site parking available. Accessible by TriMet bus lines.
OMSI Science Fun
Explore the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) with its engaging hands-on exhibits, labs, and dedicated Science Playground for younger children.
Exhibits are designed for all ages, with specific areas for children aged 6 and younger. Allow 2-3 hours for exploration.
On-site paid parking is available ($5 for 2 hours, $8 all day). Accessible by MAX, bus, and Portland Streetcar.
Indoor Playtime PDX
Let the kids climb, slide, and explore at PlayDate PDX, a massive three-story indoor playground with interactive dance floors and a ball cannon area.
Great for mixed-age groups (designated toddler space available). Adults play free. Socks are required for everyone.
Street parking might be limited; consider nearby parking garages. Check for bus routes.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Nature Playground Fun
Discover Westmoreland Park's Nature Playground, a unique space where kids can climb logs and boulders, enjoy a large sandpit, and explore natural elements.
Excellent for all ages (3-12+). Expect kids to get a bit dirty. Restrooms available. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Free street parking is usually available. Accessible by TriMet bus and MAX lines.
Oregon Zoo Exploration
Visit the Oregon Zoo and connect with wildlife.
Explore various habitats and enjoy keeper talks and animal activities.
Great for all ages. Opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4 PM during this season (last entry 3 PM). Plan for 2-3 hours.
Paid parking is available at Washington Park. Consider taking the MAX light rail directly to the Zoo station.
Library Storytime
Wind down the weekend with a family storytime session at a local library branch, enjoying books, songs, and movement activities designed to build literacy skills.
Suitable for children from birth to age 6. Check the specific branch's schedule for family-friendly events.
The Downtown Branch is centrally located, accessible by TriMet bus and MAX lines. Street parking may be limited.
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