I promised to post some of the kid friendly places that we visited while we were in the Portland area. Of course, there are literally endless possibilities, but with the time that we had, here are some places I definitely recommend you visit if you get the chance:
Jamison Fountain (in the Pearl district)- My kids absolutely *loved* this fountain. With the “waterfalls” and the shallow “tidal pool”, it was perfect for both my 6 year old and 16 month old. Children of all ages were there enjoying cooling off (for free btw) at this cute fountain in the middle of the city.
Cafe Sip-n-Play (Vancouver)- My husband and I were looking for a good place to take the kids to play and have lunch. This is the perfect place. The food was surprisingly really good, and the play area for the kids was *very* clean. There was even a smaller area for non-walking babies as well. Oh, and they have free wifi as well. It’s set up so that you can sit, have coffee, use your computer, etc while the kids go play and you can see them from where you are sitting. Very convenient. All the other children there were really well behaved as well (we have been to play areas where things get crazy and the little ones get trampled on, but here was surprisingly peaceful). The staff was super friendly as well.
Old Wives’ Tales Restaurant (Portland)- We weren’t expecting the amazing food that we had at this place. Maybe because we had had a long day, and the kids were restless, but when we got here, we were pleasantly surprised at the neat children’s play area, and fresh, natural foods. The kids had a blast playing in the play area (there are apparently three dining areas, so you have the option of sitting near the play area, or in another area for a more relaxing meal (if you don’t have kids of course
). The food was *so* good. Definitely stop by if you get the chance, even without the kids. They are super vegetarian friendly as well.
New Renaissance Bookstore (Portland)- Conveniently located on NW 23rd in Portland (which is fun to walk around there also), this bookstore has so many neat books and other goodies. The children’s area is great. There is a little (very little, actually, but it kept the kids busy for a while!) area they can play in next to the children’s books. It had books, toys, etc they could play with. They have all sorts of books ranging from religious, values, different perspectives on life, etc. Definitely worth going to if you’re in the area. And Powell’s isn’t too far either.
Whole Foods (Tigard)- Yes, that’s right. Whole Foods. The one in Tigard is seriously the coolest Whole Foods I’ve ever been to in my life (Although the one in Vancouver, WA had the friendliest people I’ve ever met in my life!).
Multnomah Falls- Beautiful. Gorgeous. Even just the drive there. Words can not describe how beautiful the Columbia River Gorge area is. The kids loved exploring and both thought the waterfalls (we saw several on the Historic Columbia River Highway) were just the coolest things ever.
Dutch Bros Coffee- Seriously *the* best coffee my husband and I have ever tasted. Ever. If anyone knows of a coffee place that beats out Dutch Bros PLEASE let me know, because I have never tasted coffee so good! WHY are there not any down here in southern California? Even northern California has some. They have kid friendly drinks there as well
That is my short list. There is a lot more. There are so many cool parks, nature trails, etc that we went to and I am bummed out I didn’t catch the names of them. Hope this list is helpful, and don’t forget to check these places out if you live or are ever in the area!






