Discover family-friendly places to live, eat and play across the Portland area in our spotlight of six neighborhoods. Plus, housing costs, transit accessibility, walk and bike scores, and more. By Denise Castañon, Kate Hagan Gallup and Beth Peters.
Six Types of Private Schools
in Portland
Organized by academic interest, this list showcases excellent private education options for kiddos from pre-K through high school. By Tiffany Hill.
Mark Your Calendar! 44
Find a year of fun for your family with our handy list. By Denise Castañon and Tiffany Hill.
Family-friendly Performing Arts Companies
From dance to music to theater, you’ll find an engaging kid-friendly show with one of these local companies. By Denise Castañon.
PDX Parent Reader Favorites 58
Our readers know best! Here are some of this year’s winners from our readers’ poll. Find the best family hiking and biking trails, sweet treats, playgrounds, pediatricians, pediatric urgent cares and more.
One Day Getaways
Explore Fun City
Portland ranked in the top 15 for “most fun cities” in America. See how we got here at these family-friendly spots. By Bethany Marcel.
The PDX Parent Dining Guide
The Portland area is renowned for its vibrant, creative and downright delicious food and dining scene. And even better, kids are welcome at these establishments. By Meg Asby, Denise Castañon and Bethany Marcel.
With Portland as your home base, your family can day trip to a volcano, stunning waterfalls, a majestic mountain or sandy beaches. By Bethany Marcel.
ortland’s status as a media darling for its food, quirkiness and culture has taken a bit of a hit in recent years, but it’s far from the grim wasteland portrayed by a certain cable news station. Yes, Portland is facing challenges. But as someone who is raising two kids here, I can say that it is a genuinely kid-friendly place to call home or visit. Our city is full of beautiful green spaces, extraordinary performing arts companies that cater to families, great public and private schools, superb restaurants and food carts, and fabulous art attractions. (Find out how we ranked in the top 15 of Most Fun Cities in America on page 10!) And when your family is out experiencing all that Portland has to offer, you’ll find that kids are not merely tolerated — they are truly welcomed. And our readers love to support their favorite spots in our annual Readers Favorites poll; head to page 58 for parent-approved spots for your family to check out — whether you need a slice of pizza or a pediatric urgent care. Add to that mix walkable neighborhoods, each with its own vibe, where neighbors seek to build community and say they look out for each other. Of course all these pluses mean that many neighborhoods come with steep housing costs. (Though these price tags may seem like a steal when compared to other West Coast cities!) Our Neighborhood Guide on page 26 gives you information not only on housing prices, but also on walkability, parks, kid-friendly events, and family-friendly restaurant gems — and can help you weigh the pros and cons of various places you can envision settling.
And once you do settle in, we hope you join in the effort to make Portland a great place to raise a family. Welcome to the neighborhood!
On Our Cover: Thanks to Kimberly Kimble of Rushes and Waves Photography for this lovely image taken at Tanner Springs Park in the Pearl District. Kimble, a mother of three, started getting paid photography gigs as a teenager and officially started her business in 2017. She loves documenting a family’s special moments in time. “I aim to capture authentic moments as they are happening,” says Kimble. See more of Kimble’s captivating work at rushesandwaves.com and on Instagram @rushesandwaves
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Explore Fun City
Find out why Portland recently ranked in the top 15 “Most Fun Cities in America.”
BY BETHANY MARCEL
e all know Portland is a fun city — but now it’s official. According to WalletHub’s 2023 report on the Most Fun Cities in America, Portland ranked 13th in the country overall, and it’s no surprise given the abundance of attractions, festivals, restaurants, playgrounds and so much more this incredible city has to offer. WalletHub based their rankings on 65 different metrics. Here are our family-friendly picks for seven of their categories.
PLAYGROUNDS PER CAPITA
You could spend all year attempting to explore all the playgrounds Portland has to offer and you still may not hit them all (though we have no doubt your kids will want to try!). From the popular inclusive playground at Gabriel Park to the nature-inspired Westmoreland Park, it’s clear our city is dedicated to unique, fun and accessible parks for everyone. And right now, we’re excited about the improvements coming soon to George Park in North Portland. Portland Parks & Recreation is partnering with both the advocacy group The Kidz Outside and the Portland Parks Foundation to develop a concept plan for the park’s redevelopment, which will include improving the play structure, adding better lighting and making the park more accessible. The work is expected to begin late 2024, once the plan is finalized. We’re also excited about the newly opened Errol Heights Park in Southeast Portland, where families can explore 16-acres of restored natural areas, as well as enjoy the splash pad, skateboard area and brand-new playground with natural features and increased accessibility, including an ADA-accessible boardwalk.
RESTAURANTS PER CAPITA
It’s true that you can’t travel far in Portland without stumbling upon an excellent restaurant. And we can’t get enough of Oven and Shaker, where the wood-fired pizzas are enjoyed by the whole family, and their artisan cocktails hit the spot for grown-ups. They don’t have an official kids’ menu, but they say their “servers are happy to suggest child-friendly dishes (everybody loves pizza!).” Kids also love the fried mozzarella and crispy chickpeas on the snack list. And they have plenty of high-chairs and a changing table available. There’s also a location in Lake Oswego. Ovenandshaker.com.
We also love Produce Row Cafe on the eastside for their relaxed vibe, and delicious burgers and bowls. Their kids’ menu is great and features plenty of choices like grilled cheese and fries, a quesadilla, mini corn dogs and fries, and more all for $9 each. Don’t miss their flourless chocolate torte or gelato sando for dessert. Their covered patio is a pleasant place to sit year-round. 204 SE Oak St. Producerowcafe.com.
15
NUMBER OF ATTRACTIONS
From the well-known Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) to the newer interactive art exhibit Hopscotch, Portland offers so many appealing options for family fun.
In the summertime, Oaks Amusement Park can’t be beat. This park located in Sellwood features so many attractions
BAR ACCESSIBILITY
In Portland, bars aren’t only for parents staying out past their bedtime. At Pips & Bounce, minors are permitted until 7 pm from Wednesday through Sunday. And that’s a good thing for kids who love ping pong. With plenty of ping pong tables and unlimited balls, the whole family will want to stay and play. Their drinks are good and their food menu is straightforward, with bar classics like nachos, sandwiches and pizza. Pro tip: They’re also available to rent for parties.
Open 4-10 pm Wednesday and Thursday, 4 pm to midnight Friday, noon to midnight Saturday and noon to 10 pm Sunday. 833 SE Belmont St. Pipsandbounce.com.
Next check out Level Beer, where kids will live their best life at the Level 2 Multnomah
your family will want to spend all day hopping from ride to ride. From the heartpounding Adrenaline Peak rollercoaster to the classic “Big Pink Slide” and gentle carousel, there is something for everyone at the park. There’s also a fun, classic, indoor roller skating rink open yearround. The amusement park is open Saturdays and Sundays in the spring, then six days a week in the summer (closed Mondays). Pro tip: Reserve one of their picnic areas in advance for birthday parties or other summer gatherings. 7805 SE Oaks Park Way. Oakspark.com.
Village location. Not only do they have an outside area for gorgeous summer days, they also have a great selection of pinball. The beer is fantastic, but be advised they don’t serve food. However, you’re welcome to bring in food from any of the other Multnomah Village restaurants, so your family won’t go hungry as they crush new high scores. Open 3-10 pm Monday through Thursday and noon to 10 pm Friday through Sunday. 7840 SW Capitol Hwy. Levelbeer.com/level2.
PIPS & BOUNCE
28
PARKLAND ACRES PER CAPITA
It’s no secret that Portlanders of all ages cherish our time outdoors. We love Columbia Children’s Arboretum, where you can find peace among the trees as you search for wildlife, have a picnic, or use their shrub and flower guide for nature scavenger hunts. The 28-acre site used to be nothing more than blackberry brambles — until 1970, when local families and students planted over 8,000 trees. Now it’s a great place for family nature walks. And since it reopened last June after a major renovation, it’s even better. We love the ADA-accessible pathway, which is also great for strollers. There’s also portable, ADA restrooms and ADA parking. 10040 NE 6th Dr. Portland.gov/ parks/columbia-childrens-arboretum.
Next head over to the westside, where Tryon Creek State Natural Area is deemed the “oasis in the city” with its 8 miles of hiking trails, eight bridges and a boardwalk over a wetland. There’s no better place for exploring the forest and keeping an eye out for local wildlife. You may even spot a horse, as the park features
3.5 miles of equestrian trails. We love that Tryon also hosts tons of familyfriendly programming, including the Tryon Forest Adventures Camp, a summer camp where kids can learn about science, explore the forest and more.
22 ND
FITNESS CENTERS PER CAPITA
That’s right, fitness really can be fun for the entire family. Enter Eastside Athletic Club, where your kiddos can play while you work out or even enjoy fun games and sports of their own. As Eastide Athletic says on their website, “We pride ourselves on being a family fitness facility and have various programs to encourage families to stay healthy together.” Their child care is excellent, but they also have fun programming for kids, such as KidFit, an hour of active games that encourage teamwork and sportsmanship. KidFit is for ages 5 to 10 and is held from 6-7 pm, Monday through Thursday. Eastside Athletic also offers karate, private swim lessons and even summer camps with fun programming like “Super Hero’’ or “Video Games Unplugged.” Child care is for ages 6 months to 10 years. Child care hours are 8:45-11:15 am, Monday through Friday, 5-7:30 pm, Monday through Thursday, and 9-11 am on Saturday. 4606 SE Boardman, Milwaukie. (They also have a second location in Clackamas.) Eastsideathleticclub.com.
And if your kid is seeking an outlet for their boundless energy, you can’t miss KidStrong in Lake Oswego. With their fun, active 45-minute classes, kids will be healthy and more confident than ever. The coaches are friendly and encouraging, the equipment is top-notch, and their programs encourage physical, mental and social development. Pro tip: They also offer birthday parties and camps! Ages 14 months to 11 years old. Monroe Pkwy #407B, Lake Oswego. Kidstrong.com/locations/lake-oswego.
ND
FESTIVALS PER CAPITA
There’s no better way to celebrate summer than at one of our many local festivals. (There are so many options to choose from that we’re surprised we didn’t place higher than 22nd!)
If you’ve got a kiddo who loves music, the Waterfront Blues Festival, typically held over the July 4 weekend, is sure to entertain. As Portland’s largest music festival, they’ve featured over 2,000 acts since 1988, so you can sing and dance along to your favorites while your kids enjoy all the festival has to offer. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Waterfrontbluesfest.com. And our lively street fairs
are perfect for families — we especially love the Mississippi Street Fair in July, which features live music and typically includes several kid-friendly performers. Mississippiave.org/streetfair
For a true Nordic experience, check out the Oregon Midsummer Festival, (usually held in June) where there will be plenty of fun activities, including rousing games of tug-of-war and adorable face painting. Don’t miss out on the raising of the Midsummer Pole, where kids and adults will delight in dancing and singing to celebrate the arrival of summer. There’s also live entertainment and delicious Nordic cuisine from local favorites like Broder Söder. 8800 SW Oleson Rd. Oregonmidsummer.com.
Bethany Marcel is a writer and editor who lives in Southwest Portland with her husband and daughter. Find her online at bethanymarcel.com.
ONE DAY
From waterfalls to volcanoes, make unforgettable family memories with these incredible day trips.
BY BETHANY MARCEL
GETAWAYS
MT. HOOD
The highest peak in Oregon is an impressive sight even from a distance. But thankfully, you don’t have to summit the mountain to enjoy all it has to offer. Approximately 1 ½ hours from Portland, your day trip to the Mt. Hood area will have your kids begging to go back to “the mountain.”
First stop, the popular Skibowl. Sure, it’s a great place for your kiddo to learn to ski or snowboard in the winter, but when the weather warms up the fun doesn’t stop. At Skibowl’s Mt. Hood Adventure Park (pictured above left), families will enjoy over 20 funfilled activities. The alpine slide is one of the most popular attractions, with a half-mile, adrenaline-pumping track your kids will want to ride over and over. There’s also an aerial park, a raceway, disc golf, batting cages and so much more.
If there’s any time left after all that fun, head up to Timberline Lodge, where you can grab a quick bite to eat at one of their many restaurants then head out on the easy trails accessible from the lodge. For more hiking options, check out the Sandy River Trail, with an approximately 3-mile one way hike partially along the gorgeous Sandy River.
Any energy left after a busy day? Stop by Little Zigzag Falls on the way home. It’s a less than a mile-round trip hike and features stunning waterfall views. And in the summer, it’s the ideal place for kids to dip their toes in the water.
WHERE TO EAT
Skyway Bar and Grill This kidfriendly restaurant in Zigzag (pictured above right) serves up delicious barbecue, as well as tasty mac ’n’ cheese, chicken strips and grilled cheese. 71545 E US-26, Zigzag. Skywaybarandgrill.com. Check website for hours.
Huckleberry Inn With large portions of comfort food and a relaxed atmosphere, families will feel at home here. Their breakfast menu has classics like giant pancakes as well as other basic kid-friendly options, like cinnamon toast and cold cereal. Don’t leave without trying a slice of their huckleberry pie. 88611 Government Camp Loop. Huckleberry-inn.com/dining. Check website for hours.
SEASIDE
Located 1 ½ hours from Portland, there’s so much to do in Seaside that you may be tempted to stay longer! From the beach to the arcade, everyone will find something to love in this classic beach town. While kids will spend hours digging in the sand and running from waves, they’ll also be stoked to find swing sets on the beach.
And when you’re done with all that sandy swinging, check out the Seaside Aquarium. While the aquarium is small, it packs a punch. The highlight is feeding the adorable seals — and know that you may get splashed in the process. Tickets are $11 for adults, $5.50 for kids 6-13, and free for 5 and under. Seasideaquarium.com.
Next explore the Seaside Carousel Mall, which features more than just your average carousel horse. That’s right, kids can choose to ride a cat, giraffe, pig — or even an ostrich. Pro tip: Adults stand next to their kiddos for free; admission is $4 per rider. When your ostrich ride is done, don’t forget to stop by the Seaside Laser Tag & Arcade, where classic arcade games and endless rounds of laser tag are sure to tire everyone out after a long day of fun. The mall is also host to many stores, including the Under the Big Top Toy Shop. For even more fun arcade games, you can also explore Funland Arcade, which features other fun attractions, like bumper cars. Seasidecarouselmall.com.
And if your kids prefer more daring adventures, you might opt for the High Life Adventure Park, where thrill-seekers will enjoy navigating the aerial course. With 30 platforms at 20- to 40-feet off the ground, the whole family will enjoy challenging themselves to see what they can do. Participants in the main course must be at least 7 years old, but younger kids 4 to 8 years old may enjoy the junior course, which remains low to the ground. Reservations recommended. Call 503-717-544 or email info@highlifeadventurepark.com.
Lastly, no trip to Seaside is complete without searching for taffy at one of the many candy shops. Or check out Sea Star Gelato for some of the best dessert in town. Pro tip: Lines can get long on the weekend, so arrive early!
SILVER FALLS
Featuring the popular Trail of Ten Falls, Silver Falls is a little over an hour drive from Portland — depending on traffic and the number of urgent potty breaks. The Trail of Ten Falls is a 7.1-mile loop, but you don’t have to go far down the path to find stunning waterfalls among the mossy green forest. For a shorter hike, explore the 2.6-mile Maple Ridge Loop. The iconic South Falls is a quick hike in and kids will be beyond thrilled to walk behind this giant cascading waterfall. Pro tip: Wear sturdy shoes!
Don’t forget to check out the South Falls Day Use Area, where there’s not only a fun playground but also horseshoe pits, places to barbecue or picnic, and a swimming area perfect for summertime splashing. And if you’re looking to buy some fun mementos made by local artists, check out the South Falls Nature Store, located in the quaint log cabin near South Falls. Day use permits for Silver Falls are $5 and may be purchased at trailheads. You can also purchase an annual or biannual pass at stateparks.oregon.gov
WHERE TO EAT
Ruby’s Roadside Grill This fun spot is the perfect place to grab a burger, hot dog or milkshake. They offer simple and affordable dishes on the kids’ menu, such as Kraft mac ’n’ cheese for $3.95. They have plenty of outdoor seating, cornhole games set up outside, as well as a welcoming fire pit for chillier days. 2323 S Roosevelt Dr., Seaside. Rubysroadsidegrill.com. Check website for hours.
Grizzly Tuna For a quick to-go lunch, Grizzly Tuna is the perfect choice. With a simple menu featuring large ($11) or small ($9) tuna fish and chips, it’s a great option for day trips. We love the casual walk-up window and think the fish and chips are some of the best in town — even our picky daughter agrees! Open daily 11 am-7 pm. 850 N Roosevelt Dr., Seaside. Facebook.com/grizzlytuna.
WHERE TO EAT
South Falls Lodge and Cafe
Conveniently located in the lodge at Silver Falls, this is the perfect place to rest and refuel after a fun day of hiking. We especially love their reasonably priced kids menu, with options like grilled cheese ($4.95), no-fuss PB&J ($4.95) and more. They also have a top-tier snack list, including trail mix, beef jerky, protein bars and more. 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity. Southfallscafe.square.site. Check website for hours.
PanezaNellie Breadstick Shoppe
Located 15 minutes from Silver Falls, this family-friendly spot serves tasty pizza and deliciously cheesy (and giant!) breadsticks. Don’t miss their case of baked goods, where you can often find sticky rolls, brownies and more. Open 9 am-2 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. 111 NE Starr St., Sublimity. Facebook.com/p/Panezanellie-BreadstickShoppe-100063630757162.
BETHANY
MOUNT ST. HELENS
Approximately two hours from Portland, Mount St. Helens will delight young volcano enthusiasts interested in learning about the history of the area. Head to the Mount St. Helens Forest Learning Center and learn all about the historic 1980 eruption. First, check out the “Eruption Chamber,” where you can experience the eruption through multimedia storytelling, including news footage from the event. Then explore the virtual helicopter tour and other interactive exhibits that teach about forest management, ecology and more. There’s also a great view of Mount St. Helens from the center, as well as a kid-friendly 1-mile hike. Free admission. 17000 Spirit Lake Hwy., Toutle, Wash. And don’t miss the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center for more educational exhibits plus great movies to learn all about the eruption. Free for 6 and under; $2.50 for ages 7 to 17; and $5 for ages 18 and up. Parks.wa.gov/ mount-st-helens-visitor-center.
For more hiking, the Trail of Two Forests is a quick ¼-mile accessible trail on a boardwalk, featuring a forest where lava once flowed, leaving imprints of trees known as “lava casts.” Make sure you take the time to stop to read the signs along the route — they’ll teach you all about the impact the lava had on the forest. Next, explore the Ape Cave. Located near the Trail of Two Forests, the Ape Cave is the
third longest lava tube in North America. This dark, cold journey will be an unforgettable one. For the family-friendly route, explore the ¾-mile lower cave (the upper one is more challenging and includes scrambling up a rock wall). The cave is dark and the forest service recommends bringing two sources of light per person as well as wearing layers, even in the summer. The Ape Cave is open from May 18 through October 31. Reservations are required and can be made at recreation.gov.
WHERE TO EAT
Parker’s Steakhouse and Brewery Enjoy everything from steak and seafood to casual burgers and pasta in a relaxed environment perfect for the whole family. Adults will also appreciate their variety of microbrews. 1300 Mt St. Helens Way NE, Castle Rock. Parkerssteakhouse.com. Check website for hours.
Lone Fir Cafe About 30 minutes from Mount St. Helens at the Lone Fir Resort, this cozy spot features burgers, chicken tenders and more. Don’t miss out on their chocolate chip cookies served straight from the oven. 16806 Lewis River Rd., Cougar, Wash. Lonefirresort.com/mtst-helens-restaurant. Check website for hours.
Bethany Marcel is a writer and editor who lives in Southwest Portland with her husband and daughter. Find her online at bethanymarcel.com.
THE NeighborhoodGuide
BEAUMONT-WILSHIRE NE
With a name that means “beautiful mountain” in French, the Beaumont-Wilshire neighborhood offers unsurprisingly lovely views of downtown Portland. That’s because the area, which was originally platted in 1910, sits atop the Alameda Ridge, a large gravel bar that runs above much of North and Southeast Portland.
Locals have long admired the beauty of the area. One of the focal points of the neighborhood is the nearly 12,000-square-foot, seven-bedroom Barnes Mansion at 3533 NE Klickitat St.
Originally built in 1913 for Isabelle and Frank Barnes, the home was added to the National Register for Historic Places in 1983 after standing empty for many years. It also served as author Beverly Cleary’s inspiration for the haunted mansion in the Ramona Quimby series. (Fun fact: The Barneses also gave their name to main thoroughfare Barnes Road, which connects Portland with the Tualatin Valley.)
The Barnes Mansion isn’t the only lovely home in the area, which has a medium home price of more than $795,000. Take it all in as you stroll the streets on your way to the equally lovely — and free to access — Wilshire Park.
eat here
Beaumont-Wilshire’s main drag is Fremont Street, where you can find any number of eateries and boutiques. A few notable stops: Tacovore (pictured right), breakfast hotspot Little Griddle and the always tasty Grand Central Bakery
If you venture a little farther east down Fremont (and into the borderlands of Beaumont-Wilshire and Roseway), you’ll also find iconic Portland hot wings destination Fire on the Mountain’s flagship brewery and the flagship location of the must-visit Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai. (Go on your birthday to get a free dozen.)
play here
At 14.4 acres, Wilshire Park offers a spacious retreat amid the residential streets of Beaumont-Wilshire. The play structure recently got a refresh in summer 2023; all of the wood was replaced and a new, stainless-steel slide installed. Kids also enjoy the multiple sports fields for soccer, softball and volleyball, not to mention the nature patch featuring flowering native plants to support pollinators.
live here
$795,000 Median home price
$1,556
Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment
SOURCE: REALTOR.COM AND RENTCAFE.COM
what neighbors say
And the physical education teacher at Alameda Elementary, Sam Balto, has received nationwide attention for organizing a “bike bus” for his students (pictured above). He and a large group of students, sometimes even parents, ride their bikes together to school. Not only does it reduce pollution, increase a sense of community, and help kids get more physical activity — it’s pretty darn fun.
Todd and Cindy Greene raised their three boys in Beaumont-Wilshire. And while two of the three are now away at college, they say it still is a great family neighborhood.
“We moved in when (I was) five months pregnant with our youngest,” says Cindy. That youngest, Miles, is now in high school, while brothers Walker and Sam study in Virginia and California, respectively. But the holidays bring them back together. Every year, the family has a multi-generational Thanksgiving Day football game at Wilshire Park. “We love the park,” says Cindy. “When the kids were younger, we spent a lot of time in the playground, at the baseball field and on the soccer field.” The only thing that the Greene family would change? Stopping cars from going straight through Prescott Street on 37th Avenue. “Prescott takes a bend there and people traveling up or down 37th frequently don’t recognize what a blind corner that is.”
Foster-Powell, the triangle-shaped neighborhood tucked between Southeast Powell Boulevard and Southeast Foster Road, combines the best of new and old Portland: delicious dining options, a strong community feel and that Keep Portland Weird quirkiness. Foster-Powell has added more retail shops and restaurants along Foster Road in the last eight years, including the popular Portland Mercado, but has not completely gentrified. A perfect example? Some years in April, the Rose Festival’s 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade marches on the same day that scores of motorcycles rev through the neighborhood’s alleys in the annual Alley Sweeper ride.
$421,500
Median home price
$1,385
Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment
SOURCE: REALTOR.COM AND ZUMPER.COM
play here
Essex Park is a year-round destination for FoPo families. In summer, kids cool off in the splash pad, and in spring and fall, Little League teams play on the baseball diamond. Farther west, Kern Park offers a play structure perfectly suited to toddlers, while their older siblings can shoot hoops on the basketball court. And in October, a kids’ Halloween Parade marches down Center Street between those two parks. For indoor fun, Hammer and Jacks toy store boasts a rainbowcovered indoor play space: The Happy Place. It also offers weekly music shows from Olive & Dingo and other kids’ performers in the Rec Room. Also consider Red Castle Games, a spot for board-game-loving kids and families. It’s right across the street from the Portland Mercado food cart pod,
FOSTER AREA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
eat here
Dining options keep expanding in this southeast neighborhood. Family favorites include breakfast joint Midpoint Food & Drink, Siri Thai, Atlas Pizza, Pieper Café, Henry Higgins Boiled Bagels and the food carts at Portland Mercado. And families have been thrilled to have a new ice cream shop in the neighborhood with the opening of St. Francis Ice Cream. It’s from the same owners of neighborhood hang Thunderbird bar (pictured right), which slings mouthwatering burgers (both beef and vegan) and welcomes kids until 8 pm.
which hosts family-friendly events that focus on Latin American culture and food, such as a Día de Los Muertos celebration in November.
The newly rebuilt Holgate Library (rendering pictured below right) just opened in July 2024. The two-story building is triple the size of the old library, making it one of the largest libraries in Multnomah County. The interior boasts a large play and learning space for children and families; a teen room with space for technology, homework and creative expression; and updated technology and internet.
what neighbors say
Chelsea and Blake Doré have lived in Foster-Powell for almost 16 years. They have two children ages 14 and 11, and love their neighborhood so much that the family had an addition built onto their house instead of looking for a larger home outside of FoPo. “We wanted a bigger home, but felt rooted in and happy with the community,” says Chelsea. “My husband’s business is here, we’ve made many good friends here, and [we] didn’t want to move our kids to different schools.”
The Dorés would definitely recommend the neighborhood to friends. “We really love our neighbors and the community we live in,” says Chelsea. “It’s been really rewarding to see all of the energy and improvements put into the business area along Foster. There are so many great things to do within walking distance. We’ve been here a long time and have seen many changes in the neighborhood, and the overall effect has been positive.” Chelsea does acknowledge a con of the neighborhood: “I hate it that our city’s inability to provide real resources for our houseless crisis is on full display in our neighborhood. I don’t feel unsafe, but it does have an impact.”
— Denise Castañon
CHELSEA DORÉ
N ARBOR LODGE
If you’ve ever ridden the MAX Yellow Line, there’s a chance you’ve visited Arbor Lodge. This north Portland neighborhood saw the light rail arrive in 2004, a development that also brought about new local additions like the 2005 opening of a New Seasons Market on North Interstate Avenue.
The area is also well-known for its western neighbor: University Park, home to the University of Portland. Easy access to the campus (a mere five-minute drive or 15-minute transit ride) from most spots in Arbor Lodge
make it a popular area for teachers and students alike.
You may spot a few at Arbor Lodge’s best-known feature: the iconic Arbor Lodge Park that sits almost exactly at the heart of the neighborhood. The nearly 9-acre park boasts a popular playground that makes it a hit with families near and far. Don’t miss the park’s bronze statue Alligator and Otter, featuring the two animals taking a dip, or the nearby sea turtles, both commissions by Portland artist Pete Helzer. It’s also the site of the Neighborhood Association’s Jazz in the Park free concert (pictured above).
While it can be easy to miss this hidden gem on your way to destinations like St. Johns and Mississippi, we assure you, Arbor Lodge has plenty to offer the Portlander looking to stray off the beaten path (or pop off the MAX line).
PEGGY SHANNON
eat here
A mix of coffee shops and dive-y diners, Arbor Lodge offers an eclectic menu of options for the discerning foodie fam with most restaurants located on the outskirts of the neighborhood. There are a couple shining stars, however. Family-owned and queer-owned vegan restaurant Hail Snail (pictured above) offers out-of-this-world cinnamon rolls as well as gluten-free and soy-free options on the east side of 99W; across the street is the Arbor Lodge location of Futura Coffee Roasters. For even more breakfast, give Nite Hawk a spin (they serve it all day!). This old-school diner was founded in 1931 and retains much of its period charm and menu. Might we suggest the pie?
play here
Built in 2012, Harper’s Playground (pictured below) in Arbor Lodge Park came about thanks to a partnership between Portland Parks & Recreation and the Goldberg family, who named the park after their daughter, Harper. It was the first universally accessible playground in the city.
Expect an elevated sand table with water pump, climbing walls of various challenge levels, an accessible hill with slide and climbing net, xylophone, adaptive swings and much more. A nearby off-leash dog park and lighted tennis courts make the park a must-see destination no matter where you live.
live here
$452,000
$1,795
neighbors say
Ashley Gale and her husband, Kyle Eveland-DeWan, have lived in Arbor Lodge since they bought their first home in October 2020. A huge highlight to the area? The easy access to the great outdoors. Daughters Avery, 8, and Isla, 6, particularly enjoy going to Arbor Lodge Park and Gammans Park. “I love that we have nice spaces to be active, and safe streets,” says Ashley. “My kids can walk and ride bikes in our community and play with their friends. … It feels like people look out for each other and support each other.” Ashley would know; she’s a member of the local neighborhood association, helping out at park clean-ups, de-litter events and other Arbor Lodge happenings. If anything, she wishes more people understood the promise of the area.
“We don’t have a central downtown like Kenton or St. Johns, so our retail and restaurant space is more spread out,” she says. “I continue to hope for more businesses and restaurants to establish in our community.”
— Beth Peters
HARPER’S PLAYGROUND
AMY BOOKER PHOTOGRAPHY
Washington ’burbs: FELIDA SW
Felida is a pocket neighborhood in northwest Vancouver, Washington located a quick hop off the I-5 and a 20-minute jump across the bridge to Portland’s MODA Center. Technically part of Clark County, rather than Vancouver proper, this highly soughtafter neighborhood is home to just over 10,000 residents.
Felida is that perfect junction of rural and urban; the community has a small-town feel and is nestled between lengthy nature trails and rural farms in one direction and city amenities the opposite way. Most Felida homes are single-family including ranch, craftsman and contemporary styles. And there are newer construction townhomes and duplexes available. Niche.com considers Felida one of the top neighborhoods in Washington, with some of the most highly rated schools in the area. In more unofficial metrics, Felida is a top suggestion on any parenting forum when asking for favorite areas to purchase a home in Southwest Washington.
More highlights of Felida include access to both health care and higher education at the Washington State University Extension, and its proximity to both the award-winning waterfronts in Vancouver and Portland. Felida’s cons include its hot home market and competitive pricing, limited rentals, and a population lacking diversity.
play here
“It’s impossible to stay inside with the scenery around us. We love going to Felida Park for the awesome play structure and biking on the beautiful Salmon Creek trail, rain or shine!” says Rachel Ellingson. Felida Community Park (pictured left) is a community staple with ample green space, and the playground got an upgrade in 2023 with a new, inclusive rainbow theme. The 3-mile, paved Salmon Creek Greenway Trail (pictured above) winds through a 368-acre, undeveloped watershed area known for its scenic views and wildlifeviewing opportunities — especially at Turtle Pond, where you can spy herons, ducks, otters and, on sunny days, turtles.
KATE HAGAN GALLUP
live here
$694,000 Median home price
$3,400
Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment
SOURCE: REALTOR.COM
eat here
There isn’t a huge selection of dining destinations in Felida, but you’ll struggle to find a bad option from what the area provides. “One of our favorite spots to enjoy a casual meal with the kids is Mahoney’s Public House,” says Rachel Ellingson. “They have a great patio and kid-friendly options — we love their pretzels! We also really enjoy Mar’s Cuisine next to the Country Store for an easy dinner take-out option. The owner goes above and beyond.” Portland residents may also find appeal in family-friendly Mt. Tabor Brewing’s nearby Vancouver location (pictured above). Mt. Tabor has the brews you already know and love, with high-end pizza options worth the indulgence.
what neighbors say
The Ellingson family, Rachel and Drew and kids Rylan, 8, and Owen, 5, are proud Felida residents.
“We are from Vancouver originally and chose to call Felida home because of the sense of community, our regular neighborhood parties, and the amazing schools,” says Rachel. “Our neighbors support each other and our kids have already made forever friends — we couldn’t ask for more!”
Rachel also applauds the incredible sense of community she’s found in local parent groups, but perhaps the youngest residents describe it best.
“I love having fabulous neighbors,” says Rylan, and Owen adds, “I like going to my school.”
— Kate Hagan Gallup
KATE HAGAN GALLUP
Burbs: TROUTDALE
The City of Troutdale, 16 miles east of downtown Portland along I-84, bills itself as the Gateway to the Columbia River Gorge. And in this Southeast suburb you are indeed closer to outdoor adventures in the Gorge and on Mount Hood. You can also find plenty of family-friendly arts and culture opportunities at museums including the Rail Depot Museum; the beautiful, German Art Nouveau Vista House with its wonderfully scenic views; art galleries dotting the main drag of Columbia River Highway; summertime outdoor movies and concerts; and monthly art walks during the summer months.
Troutdale also offers more bang for your housing bucks with larger homes and bigger lots at a more affordable price tag than you can find in Portland proper. For example, a 4-bedroom, 3-bath, 2,300-square-foot house on an 8,300-square-foot lot recently sold for $465,000.
play here
The Imagination Station at Columbia City Park draws families from all over the Portland-metro area (pictured below). The playground rebuilt in 2018 offers a dizzying array of play features and is an excellent spot for a summer birthday party. Pro tip: Reserve the tables in the covered picnic area. And in addition to the usual park amenities, Glen Otto Park on the Sandy River also offers a swimming beach and riverfront access. (Life jackets are highly recommended if you enter the water!) It’s the most used park in the Troutdale system and also the site of a summer arts festival. And, of course, McMenamins Edgefield is a well-known destination for summer concerts on the lawn (pictured above right); its soaking pool; family-friendly Oktoberfest and other festivals; and brews and pub food.
CITY OF TROUTDALE
what neighbors say
Ale and Ben Kloch and their daughter moved from Southeast’s Foster-Powell neighborhood to Troutdale in 2014 and have been extremely happy since. “We like the duality of Troutdale,” says Ale. “It has the calmness and quiet of a small town, while still having great amenities and nature. It’s a short hop onto the freeway, and you can get to the mountain or to the city in roughly the same time! As a family that craves nature and good restaurants this little town has struck the perfect balance for our lives.”
eat here
$497,100 Median home price
$1,724
Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment
SOURCE: REALTOR.COM AND ZUMPER.COM
Troutdale wasn’t initially at the top of their list for a new home, but the ability to have a large space for gardening at a price they could afford, won them over. “My husband and I joke that we bought the yard, (and) the house was just an added bonus,” says Ale. As for the downsides, Ale wished there had been more families with younger children when they first moved in. She also notes that while there is public transportation, owning a car makes it much easier to get around. She’d like to see more diverse families in the area as well.
The Instagram-famous Sugarpine Drive-In on the Sandy River is more than just a spot for ice cream (pictured right). Sugarpine’s elevated sandwiches and salads are must-tries as well. Neighbor Ale Kloch, is excited about the new Wayfinder Beer tasting room under construction, and the cart pods around downtown. “As a former chef, I’ve been thrilled with the growth in the culinary scene since we’ve moved here! Places like Sugarpine have carved a wonderful foothold in the community against a backdrop of the Sandy River and Gorge,” she says.
— Denise Castañon
’Burbs: WEST LINN
Many families find suburban bliss in Clackamas County’s West Linn. The boot-shaped city with a population of 27,000 is hugged by the Willamette River to the east and south, and the Tualatin River to the west. So natural beauty abounds close to thriving restaurants and retail shops. And a huge plus for families is the top-rated public school system. Niche. com gives West Linn’s public schools an A+ rating and ranks it the second best public school system in the state of Oregon. (Part of that rating is undoubtedly due to the fact that the median household income in West Linn is just over $124,000. For comparison, Portland’s median household income is $78,000.) A high percentage of home ownership, large home lots, and lower crime rates compared to Portland also add to the city’s appeal. Drawbacks include high housing prices, a lack of diversity, and low walk, bike and transit scores.
what neighbors say
Lauren and Andy Labunsky are the parents of 3-year-old Ben and 9-month-old James, and have lived in West Linn for five years. They love the area for its close-knit feel and proximity to parks, fun on the river and delicious dining options. “It’s a beautiful place to live,” says Lauren. “There is so much to do here and it’s incredibly familyfriendly. It feels very safe and welcoming.”
Lauren also notes the City of West Linn does an amazing job at hosting community events. “We love the Old Time Faire (pictured bottom right) that usually takes place in July,” she says. “There’s a parade, a carnival, a car show, a boat show, a pie-eating contest, a beer garden with live music at night, and fireworks! Other favorites throughout the year include the Christmas parade, concerts and movies in the park on summer evenings, and the farmers market that takes place Wednesday evenings in the summer.”
The downside to the area is that all that fun comes with a cost. “Home prices are on the more expensive side, which may deter some young families,” says Lauren. “Most of our neighbors are older than us and are empty-nesters, and it would be nice to have more young kids living close by.”
CITY OF WEST LINN
LAUREN LUBUNSKY
play here
West Linn is home to several beautiful parks and nature areas, some along the Willamette or Tualatin Rivers. The heavily forested Mary S. Young Park (pictured above) might make you forget you are in the city. And its Willamette River access makes it a scenic spot for rockhounding. Rock lovers can find jasper, quartz, agate and petrified wood on the river’s banks. For sports-loving families, Tanner Creek Park offers a host of amenities including play structures, a skate park, a splash pad that operates in the summer (although West Linn calls them “spray pads”), and basketball, tennis and pickleball courts.
live here
$774,000
Median home price
$1,550
Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment
SOURCE: REALTOR.COM AND ZUMPER.COM
eat here
Families in West Linn have an abundance of dining options, especially along Historic Willamette Main Street, aka Willamette Falls Drive, which is dotted with restaurants and shops. “One of our favorite things to do is take a walk up to the main street and go out to dinner!” says neighbor Lauren Labunsky. “Our top spots are Willamette Garage cart pod, Lark Café, Allium Bistro, and J. Willy’s Public House and Eatery. A new favorite is Sushi Kuni.” — Denise Castañon
WILLAMETTE GARAGE
CITY OF WEST LINN
CITY OF WEST LINN
Types of Private Schools in Portland
If your family is looking for choices beyond your neighborhood public school, Portland is home to several excellent private schools. Organized by interest, this list highlights local education options.
BY TIFFANY HILL
STEAM
A Renaissance School for Arts and Science
234 S Bancroft St., renpdx.org
Curiosity leads students in their daily studies at Ren School, whether that’s in the field, lab or studio. Small class sizes at this kindergarten through fifth grade and middle school allow for integrating art, design, science and engineering into daily learning.
Arbor School of Arts & Sciences
4201 SW Borland Rd., Tualatin, arborschool.org
The Arbor School of Arts & Sciences is a K-8 school located on 21 acres of wooded farmland in Tualatin and many of the school’s classrooms are housed in converted residences. Arbor School believes mixedage grouping creates classrooms that focus on individual talents and collaborative learning rather than on grade-level norms.
LANGUAGE IMMERSION
French American International School
8500 NW Johnson St., faispdx.org
French American International School is much more than immersion in the French language. In fact, it’s Portland’s oldest immersion school, and the only International Baccalaureate school for preschool to eighth grade.
German International School
3900 SW Murray Blvd., Beaverton, gspdx.org
In addition to Germanlanguage immersion, students here also have the option of Mandarin immersion. At this International Baccalaureate school, all educators are native or have near-native fluency of
either language. Last school year, GIS debuted a sixth grade program and plans to add junior high programs in the future.
International Leadership Academy
14788 Boones Ferry Rd., Lake Oswego, ilapdx.org
International Leadership Academy, or ILA is a Frenchimmersion institution located in Lake Oswego. The academy believes that students who learn a second language score higher on math, reading and vocabulary tests, and have increased attention spans and focus. ILA educates students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.
International School of Portland
2305 S Water Ave., intlschool.org
There are several international language options for students, including full Chinese, Japanese or Spanish language and cultural immersion from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. In fact, the school is only one of two in the U.S. to offer full immersion in three different languages.
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
Cedarwood Waldorf School
3030 SW 2nd Ave., cedarwoodschool.org
Located just minutes from downtown Portland, Cedarwood Waldorf School enrolls students from prekindergarten through eighth grade. Each subject, from language, arts, civics to dance, is designed to foster the healthy development of each student as their capabilities and curiosity grow.
Childpeace Montessori School
1516 NW Thurman St., childpeace.org
Specializing in Montessori education, this downtown school (there’s also a location in Southeast Portland) is also a certified day care center.
Students from ages 14 months through middle school discover their interests, cultivate their talents and become self-directed learners.
Franciscan Montessori Earth School
14750 SE Clinton St., fmes.org
The Franciscan Montessori Earth School combines the Montessori learning philosophy and the spirituality of St. Francis, helping inspire children to expand their minds, nurture their spirits and steward the earth.
Portland Waldorf School
2300 SE Harrison St., Milwaukie, portlandwaldorf.org
The 7-acre campus not only has robust classrooms, but also two spring-fed creeks, multiple play areas, a blacksmithing shop, athletic fields, abundant gardens and a wood-fired oven. Utilizing the Waldorf philosophy, the school helps students nurture their imagination, cultivate their intellect and recognize the place of each child in the greater community.
RELIGIOUS
Cathedral School
110 NW 17th Ave., cathedral-or.org
An Apple-distinguished school, Cathedral school seamlessly dovetails academic rigor and Catholic tradition (and welcomes all faiths). Located in Northwest Portland, Cathedral School has small class sizes, as well as before and after care.
Oregon Episcopal School
6300 SW Nicol Rd., oes.edu
Nestled within 59 wooded acres that include natural wetlands, nature trails, ropes courses and gardens. Oregon Episcopal School employs college preparatory curriculum for students in pre-kindergarten through grade 12.
Holy Cross Catholic School
5202 N Bowdoin St., holycrosspdx.org
Serving preschool to eighthgrade students, Holy Cross Catholic School seeks to foster every student’s faith and stewardship in the community.
Holy Redeemer Catholic School
127 N Rosa Parks Way, school. holyredeemerpdx.org
Since its founding in 1908, Holy Redeemer Catholic School has been dedicated to the academic excellence of its students in preschool through eighth grade, as well as building the foundation of their faith.
Portland Jewish Academy 6651 SW Capitol Hwy., pjaproud.org
Portland Jewish Academy provides an academically rich environment that supports each student’s personal growth and development, from 6 weeks through eighth grade. PJA also offers afterschool care at its campus, plus has programs at three other schools in the Portland area.
St. Andrew Nativity School
4925 NE 9th Ave., nativityportland.org
This Catholic, Jesuit middle school is tuition-free and serves low-income students of all faiths. St. Andrew Nativity School focuses on preparing students for college and a life of service.
St. Rose School
5309 NE Alameda St., strosepdxschool.org
This small Northeast Portland school centers around building a strong, faith-based foundation for all of its students in a small academic environment (each grade has
only one class). Students in prekindergarten through eighth grade attend St. Rose and an after-school program is also available.
Trinity Lutheran Christian School
5520 NE Killingsworth St., trinityportland.org
At Trinity Lutheran Christian School academic excellence is just one part of the development of the whole child; the school values spiritual, mental, emotional, social and physical well-being as well as Christian service.
ACCESSIBLE/ INCLUSIVE
Bridges Middle School
2510 SW 1st Ave., bridgesms.org
Bridges is the only middle school in Oregon specifically designed for students with learning differences to reach their maximum potential — in a loving, nurturing atmosphere centrally located in downtown Portland.
Tucker Maxon School
2860 SE Holgate Blvd., tuckermaxon.org
The curriculum at Tucker Maxon focuses on communication skills. The school specializes in educating both deaf/hard-of-hearing and typically hearing children, and believes that all students benefit by learning from their peers.
COLLEGE PREP
Catlin Gabel
8825 SW Barnes Rd., catlin. edu
Since 2019, Niche.com has annually ranked Catlin Gabel as the number one K-12 private school in the state (and in the top 50 nationally). This independent, progressive education school fuels curiosity from preschool to high school and has a 10-to-1 student, teacher ratio.
The Marylhurst School
15544 Clackamas River Dr., Oregon City, themarylhurstschool.org
This independent, progressive school in Oregon City is ranked as one of the top private schools in Oregon, according Niche. com. Serving students from preschool through eighth grade, the school strives to guide children into becoming confident lifelong learners and engaged citizens.
Northwest Academy 1130 SW Main St., nwacademy.org
Northwest Academy is a progressive, independent middle and high school college-preparatory program that inspires students to learn and achieve through its unique academic and arts partnership.
Mark Your Calendar!
January
Listen to traditional, Appalachian-style stringband music at the Portland Old-Time Music Gathering. You’ll find a lengthy lineup of talented musicians and kids’ activities at this volunteer-run event. January 16-19, 2025. Bubbaville.org/gathering.
Lend a hand during the MLK Day of Service. Find volunteering opportunities suitable for the whole family at pdxparent. com/family-friendly-volunteering-portland
February
Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Lan Su Chinese Garden, which typically holds special events for Lunar New Year for several weeks. Find out more at lansugarden.org.
When nights are long and dreary the Portland Winter Light Festival brings joy throughout the city with glowing art installations, interactive experiences and lit-up parades. Pdxwlf. com.
March
Join the Mysti Krewe of Nimbus for their annual Portland Mardi Gras Parade that high steps through the Mississippi neighborhood each Fat Tuesday. Find out more at portlandmardigras.com.
Get your green on for annual St. Patrick’s Day Parades! The Portland St. Paddy’s Day Parade leaves from Beverly Cleary School in Northeast. Portlandstpaddysparade.com And the Sellwood-Moreland St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival kicks off from St. Agatha’s Catholic School in Southeast. Stagatha.us/st-patricks-day.
From glowing art installations to a celebration of books, each month of the year the Portland area offers unique events and activities for the whole family.
BY DENISE CASTAÑON AND TIFFANY HILL
April
Through May, your kids can prance through acres of blighty colored flowers at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in Woodburn. There’s a kids’ area, food trucks and even hot air balloon rides on the weekends. Woodenshoe.com.
Find Easter egg hunts at farms, amusement parks and even your own neighborhood with our handy guide: pdxparent. com/easter-fun.
June
May
Can’t get enough of gorgeous blooms? It’s the right time of year to check out Adelman Peony Gardens in Salem. (Even better, book a Mother’s Day portrait session in the garden!) Peonyparadise.com
Throughout the warmer months you’ll find street fairs in the Montavilla, Hawthorne, Multnomah Village and Mississippi neighborhoods among others. The classic North Portland St. Johns Bizarre kicks off summer street fair season! Find more at pdxparent.com/portlandarea-street-fairs.
The Portland Rose Festival shows off the best of the Rose City. From a waterfront carnival midway to a lively parade just for kids, you’ll find plenty of Rose Festival events for families. Rosefestival.org.
Typically held the third weekend in June, the free PDX Parent Family Festival draws families from all over the metro area with kids’ entertainers, rad giveaways, and lots of kids’ activities and fun swag at partner booths. Pdxparent.com/family-festival
DENISE CASTAÑON
August
July
It wouldn’t be July without dazzling fireworks. Watch them at vantage points around Portland, including from Mt. Tabor or Sellwood parks, the International Rose Test Garden or Oaks Amusement Park.
These nighttime aerial shows are also another great reason to attend the Waterfront Blues Festival at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Typically held for four days around the July 4 holiday, the festival is Portland’s oldest, continuously running music festival, spotlighting blues music in an accessible, family-friendly atmosphere. Bonus: Kids 12 and under are free to attend! Waterfrontbluesfest.com
This month is all about unique, quirky events that make Portland, Portland. Head to Mt. Tabor Park for the Portland Adult Soapbox Derby. While only adults participate in the event, watching the homemade creativity zoom by on four wheels is fun for the whole family. Soapboxracer.org.
Explore the city on bike during the annual Bridge Pedal
This daylong community event garners thousands of bikers of all ages and abilities across Portland’s streets and bridges, including the Fremont and Marquam bridges. Providence. org/lp/bridge-pedal.
September
Kick off fall at any one of our great pumpkin patches. There are farms on Sauvie Island, west of Portland in Beaverton and Hillsboro, and in Hood River, Tualatin, Boring, and more. Not only can your family score the perfect jack-o-lantern, but these farms also have corn mazes, tasty treats like apple cider doughnuts and plenty of farm-animal-viewing opportunities. Pdxparent.com/ pdx-pumpkin-patches.
And every September, thousands of swift birds roost for the evening in the towering smokestack of Chapman Elementary School in Northwest Portland. Known as the Chapman Swift Watch, this nightly event attracts hundreds of bird watchers and makes for a free and fun, family bonding outing. Birdallianceoregon.org/ go-outside/swift-watch.
JASON DESOMER
October
Portlanders love Halloween. Cruise around any neighborhood and you’ll find yards and porches festooned with carved pumpkins, ghouls, skeletons and more. One can’t-miss display is Davis Graveyard in Milwaukie. Halloween-enthusiasts Chris and Jeff Davis annually transform their yard with professional-looking homemade headstones and spooky decor. Davisgraveyard.com.
For a whole town that transforms itself in October, visit St. Helens for the Spirit of Halloweentown. (It’s the location of the now iconic Disney original movie, Halloweentown.) Spiritofhalloweentown.com.
For tweens and teens, Portland has several haunted houses, including Oaks Amusement Park’s Scaregrounds; the Fear PDX Haunted House and Underhill Haunted House at the Moda Center.
November
This month, hear local and national authors speak, find a new book or two and more at the annual Portland Book Festival. The annual event, held at the Portland Art Museum and surrounding venues, draws in more than 100 authors each year, including children’s book authors. Pdxbookfest.org
Plus, get your holiday shopping done early at holiday craft fairs and markets. There’s the Portland Holiday Market at the Portland Expo Center, or the weekly Portland Saturday Market, a city tradition for 50 years!
December
This month is all about twinkling light displays! There are city tree lightings, including the towering, lit tree at Pioneer Courthouse Square.
Continue celebrating the most festive time of year with a visit to the Oregon Zoo for its annual Zoo Lights displays (plus, see the animals in the evening hours). Oregonzoo. org/zoolights. Up in North Portland, there’s Winter Wonderland at the Portland Raceway. It’s the largest lightshow in the Pacific Northwest, spanning all of the racetrack! Winterwonderlandportland.com
And don’t miss the neighborhood that goes all out with its decorations: Peacock Lane. Known as Portland’s Christmas Street, each house is decorated with dazzling and often unique displays. Peacocklane.org.
COLUMBIA GORGE MODEL RAILROAD
OREGON
Family-friendly, Portland-area Performing Arts Companies
Here are just some of the many local performing arts companies that offer shows for kids and their grown-ups.
Bag&Baggage Productions
Bagnbaggage.org
This company in Hillsboro seeks to unpack stories and foster empathy and humanity. Not all of Bag&Baggage’s productions are suitable for kids, but their website does an excellent job of detailing each production’s themes and for what ages the show is best suited. Year-round performances.
Echo Theater
Echotheaterpdx.org
Echo Theater, which also holds circus and trapeze classes and camps, gives teen performers a chance to shine in its productions that combine theater, circus arts, dance and song. Year-round performances.
Oregon Ballet Theatre
Obt.org
The Oregon Ballet Theatre presents contemporary and classic shows for a variety of ages. And their popular version of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition for many families. Season runs October to June.
Imago Theatre
Imagotheatre.com
While many of Imago’s shows are for guests 16 and older, the run of ZooZoo in December is a crowd pleaser for ages 4 and older. Season runs from November through May.
Metropolitan Youth Symphony
Playmys.org
Talented youth from across the Portland metro area gather to perform classical and contemporary works. And MYS also fosters the talents of student composers! Season runs November through May.
Oregon Children’s Theatre
Octc.org
Oregon Children’s Theatre offers hilarious comedy improv from its Young Professional Company, storybook adaptations for kids as young as 3, and dramatic performances that tackle heavy subjects and provide a springboard for discussions with your older kids. See website for season details.
The Portland Ballet Theportlandballet.org
From The Enchanted Toyshop to A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the talented dancers of The Portland Ballet bring beauty to local stages. Holiday show during Thanksgiving weekend and spring show in May.
Portland Youth Philharmonic
Portlandyouthphil.org
The talented young musicians of the Portland Youth Philharmonic perform chamber music, Beethoven and more. Don’t miss their special “Cushion Concert” in the spring tailored to ages 2 to 8 and that includes an “instrument petting zoo.” Season runs November through May.
Stages Performing Arts
Youth Academy
Stagesyouth.org
This company based in Hillsboro highlights the talents of child and young adult actors in several performances a year that range from Shakespeare to classic musicals to inspiring productions based on young adult literature. Season runs October through April.
Northwest Children’s Theater
Nwcts.org
Northwest Children’s Theater (pictured left) produces a range of shows for preschoolers to teens. And this September don’t miss their fabulous Spotlight: Family Arts Festival. The Little Prince starts July 20, 2024. And in the fall of 2024 look for the world premiere of Blue Marigold, a high-school thriller with a superhero twist. Year-round performances.
White Bird
Whitebird.org
White Bird is committed to bringing excellent local and international dance companies to Portland audiences of all ages. You’ll find shows that feature hip hop, tap, contemporary dance and much more. Season runs October through April.
If you are on the westside, be sure to check out the events lineup at the new Patricia Reser Center for the Performing Arts: thereser.org.
Oregon Symphony Orsymphony.org
The Oregon Symphony (pictured left) presents a delightful array of family programming in addition to classical performances. The hour-long Music for Families Concerts weave classical music, dance and choir voices through a narrated theme. And the popular Popcorn Series marries live music with the screening of films such as Back to the Future, Frozen, and the Harry Potter series. Season runs September to June. Music for Families Concerts in November, February, April and June. — Denise Castañon
Preschool, Kindergarten & Childcare Center
4845 SW Murray Boulevard, Beaverton, OR 97005
503-644-1466 | sunshine-montessori.com
Ages: 2 years through Kindergarten
Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (Mon - Fri)
• Locally owned and operated
• Serving the community since 1996
• Qualified & consistent staff
525 SW 150th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006
503-626-0457 | www.nwlearning.com
Ages: Infant through Kindergarten
Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (Mon - Fri)
Early Learning School
14950 SW Osprey Drive, Beaverton, OR 97007
503-579-0600 | childs-place.com
Ages: Infant through Kindergarten
Hours 7:00 am - 6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)
• Large outdoor play areas
• Snacks & lunch prepared and served daily
Preschool, Kindergarten & Childcare Center
17650 SW Alexander Street, Aloha, OR 97003
503-591-9660 | www.mayflower-montessori.com
Ages: Infant through Kindergarten
Hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)
THE PDX PARENT
From fine-dining to pub fare, 20 spots to eat with kids in Portland.
BY MEG ASBY, DENISE CASTAÑON AND BETHANY MARCEL
Sure, Portland kids love the typical kids’ menu burgers and nuggets. But this is a foodie city. And at these family-friendly restaurants kids can also dig into perfectly charred pizza, crunchy samosas, tangy ceviche, and indulgent mac ’n’ cheese that definitely does not come from a blue box. And don’t miss our lists of spots where littles eat free and restaurants that cater to those with allergies!
DENISE CASTAÑON
DINING GUIDE
[SOUTHERN COMFORT]
While there’s no kids’ menu at Norma Jean’s Soul Cuisine, if you’ve got a mac ’n’ cheese lover in your house you’ve gotta go. My 11-year-old devotee of all things cheese, patted her stomach and said, “Happy, happy happy” after eating the brisket mac (pictured left). While we waited a particularly long time for our food, the mac was worth it — it had a broiled crunchy top under piles of tender brisket and was the best mac ’n’ cheese I’ve had in Portland. Plus the serving was incredibly generous — my husband, son and I also ate off the plate after my daughter had had her fill. Even though we visited early in the evening, the kitchen was out of cornbread, which I had been counting on to feed my slightly picky 8-year-old. But he loved his fruit bowl, which was packed with tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple. Bonus: We were lucky enough to hear probably the most spectacular rendition of the Happy Birthday song ever sung by restaurant staff. 4636 NE 42nd Ave. — Denise Castañon
[SLICE OF HEAVEN]
Walking into the new St. Johns’ location of Gracie’s Apizza felt like arriving at an old friend’s house. Was it the warmth from the wood-fired oven? The dishware I swore was taken from my grandmother’s kitchen? Or was it the way owner Craig Melillo anticipated our order? When we asked for the mozz pie, which features a chewy, charred crust, he smiled at our 5-year-old and said, “Without the spice?” The pizza, including the mozz pie, is pleasantly tomato-forward, but it may deter young cheese fiends. The pie menu rotates, but when we were there the hazelnut pie was subtly spicy, with slices of onion marinated in sumac and a hint of taleggio tang. When your kid asks for ice cream, say yes! It’s exceptional — complex and subtle. Our 5-year-old even loved the bay leaf flavor. Whether you’re out for a date night or dining with the entire family, you’ll feel welcome here. 7304 N Leavitt Ave. Graciesapizza.com.
— Bethany Marcel
BETHANY MARCEL
FREE IS GOOD
This inflation is no joke. We know that many families are tightening their belts when it comes to dining out. So here’s a helpful list of the best spots to score a free meal for your kiddos — with certain restrictions, of course.
Every Sunday kids eat free at Migration Brewing’s Gresham, Glisan and Williams locations, with the purchase of an adult meal. 18188 NE Wilkes Rd., 2828 NE Glisan St. and, 3947 N Williams Ave. Pro tip: They’ve also got board games and coloring pages. Migrationbrewing.com. On Sundays, children under 10 get a free cheese or pepperoni kids’ pizza with the purchase of any regularly priced pie at 48 North Pizzeria in Tigard. 48northpizzeria.com. If your family was bummed when Rally Pizza shuttered, you’ll be happy to know that you can now find the same amazing thin-crust, perfectly charred pies at their Victor-23 Brewing pop-up in Vancouver, Washington. Even better, on Family Dinner Tuesdays, kids under 12 get a free cheese pizza with the purchase of a regular pizza. Rallypizza.com. On Wednesdays at IKEA Portland members of the free IKEA Family program can get up to two free kids’ entrees with the purchase of an adult entree. The three IHOP restaurants in the Portland area often offer kids’ freebies. Check ihop. com for their latest kids-eat-free deal. Find more deals at pdxparent.com/ kids-eat-free-or-cheap. — Meg Asby and Denise Castañon
[HUMBLY HAUTE CUISINE]
What if I told you that one of the New York Times’ picks for Top 50 Restaurants in the country is an all-day cafe in Northeast Portland, where you can bring your kids? Cafe Olli is an employee-owned, seasonally focused restaurant that offers spectacular food in a casual atmosphere. Everything tastes incredible, from their laminated pastries to the wood-fired pizzas — there are no misses. The Olli Chocolate Cake basically has a following by itself. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and provides high chairs and a lovely, free-standing changing table stocked with supplies and a plush changing pad. They also offer community meals on a sliding scale to those experiencing financial hardship, no questions asked. Bottom line, you’ll feel comfortable with your preschooler, but you’ll eat like it’s date night. 3925 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. CafeOlli.com. — Meg Asby
[GATHER ’ROUND THE TABLE]
No dry chicken nuggets here! If you’re trying to raise foodies, Bethany’s Table is the place to become a regular. Children aren’t just allowed — they’re welcomed. Eat a world-class, farm-to-table meal in a restaurant where your kid is treated like a real human with taste buds. Right off the bat, children are offered a seasonal fruit cup, and the kids’ menu is full of high-quality European dishes an adult would be proud to eat, from grass-fed beef mini-burgers with fingerling potatoes to prawns with seasonal vegetables. Order the Chicken Marsala for yourself — it’s perfectly cooked with a generous serving of sauce, and plentiful crisp-tender
CAFE OLLI
[PLAY, FOOD]
Eat and play at The People’s Courts, Northeast’s newest sports club, featuring pickleball, ping-pong and two restaurants where the approachable food is better quality than your typical sports complex. From smash burgers to rice bowls, the hearty food at The Kitchen will satisfy you after endless rounds of being beaten by your kid at ping-pong. And while there’s currently no kids’ menu, they happily made the adult grilled cheese into a kid’s version. After dinner, we hit the arcade, then finished the meal with chocolate and vanilla swirl soft serve from The Parlor, which also offers a variety of pizza. 2700 NE 82nd Ave. Thepeoplescourts.com/food. — B.M.
vegetables. If you’re lucky, you may even get to say hello to Zoë the restaurant dog while you’re there. 15325 NW Central Dr., Suite J-1. Bethanystable.com. — M.A.
[MARKET FRESH]
Every Friday, all summer long, I took my 10-year-old to Taylor Street Kitchen for a mother-daughter date. Part market, part deli, this charming European-style food shop features spectacular sandwiches and salads, midday pizza, fresh breads and desserts baked in house daily and a variety of meat, fish, and packaged local food items. They also serve great coffee and the best lemon bars in town. They are only open Monday through Friday, so if you work downtown, stop by on a Friday at lunch and stock up for the weekend. On our weekly visits, we always took home fresh challah and frozen soup for dinner, and sandwiches for a weekend hike. It’s a special place, with the coziest vibes. 1125 SW Taylor St. Taylorstreetkitchen. com. — M.A.
[PINK PARADISO]
With its low lighting, preponderance of Chicana chic pink decor and legit Mexican food, La Patroncita is an ambience-packed spot that your tween or teen may actually consider cool. Bond over a huge plate of carne asada nachos or esquites, the off-the-cob and easier-to-eat cousin of grilled Mexican street corn. For something lighter, go with the shrimp ceviche that my citrus-loving 9-year-old (and my husband) approved of. And don’t miss the buñuelo for dessert. I grew up making this cinnamon-sugar-topped, crunchy Mexican treat for New Year’s, but La Patroncita is only the second restaurant where I’ve seen them on the menu. My kiddos and husband agreed mine were better, but that didn’t stop them from clearing the plate. Pro tip: While the service is friendly and the food comes out fast, there’s no kids’ menu and we didn’t spy any high chairs so La Patroncita is definitely better suited to older kids. 2832 SE Belmont St. Lapatroncitapdx.com. — D.C.
[PUB LOVE]
Pizza and beer is a combo that Portlanders just can’t resist. And when it comes to family-friendly taprooms, Double Mountain Brewery has got it down pat. Their new 4,600-square-foot location in the Overlook neighborhood brings the same family-friendly menu as their Hood River and Woodstock pubs — and plenty of space to spread out. Expect New Haven-style pies with grown-up toppings like spicy capicola and Mama Lil’s peppers, or goat cheese and truffle oil alongside plain cheese for finicky kiddos. Or try yummy, classic sandwiches like a BLT or tuna melt with Tillamook cheddar cheese. The mezze platter that includes hummus, pita, cucumbers and feta is another kid-pleaser. Pro tip: You may want a Juicy or Hop Lion IPA — and there’s housebrewed, nonalcoholic ginger ale and root beer for the kids. 1700 Killingsworth St. Doublemountainbrewery.com/ overlook. — D.C.
DENISE CASTAÑON
If you’ve got a kid who could eat breakfast for every meal, Smaaken Waffle Sandwiches should be your go-to food cart. Their light and crisp yeasted waffles are made from locally grown, organic, stone-milled, whole-wheat flour. So they are as healthy as they are tasty. (Smaaken also offers a gluten-free option.) Their kids’ menu features kid-pleasing classic toppings like maple butter and powdered sugar, or peanut butter and jelly. But kids can also branch out to a Monte Cristo waffle sandwich with ham, melted Swiss cheese and cart-made strawberry jam, or a Blue Moon with blueberries, Bavarian cream and whipped cream. Carts at BG Food Cartel, Hawthorne Asylum and The Heist. Smaaken.com. — D.C.
ALLERGY-FRIENDLY DINING
With Portland’s bounty of allergyfriendly restaurants, dining out can be more delicious than complicated. First up, Top Burmese Burma Joy (pictured top right), one of our new favorites on Northwest 23rd Avenue. (They have multiple locations, including Beaverton and Hillsboro.) With vegan options like tofu tots, samosa, sides of coconut rice and even coconut ice cream, everyone in the family will happily dine. All menu items are well-labeled with allergy indicators. Did I mention a robot serves you? The food is great, but don’t be surprised if the robot steals the show. Hungry for breakfast? At Vertical Diner in Southwest (pictured right middle), everything is plantbased and the gluten-free options are plentiful. They’ll happily take extra care for other allergies, like nuts or soy. Kids will especially love the chocolate chip, banana or blueberry pancakes — all with a gluten-free option. Speaking of breakfast, Off the Griddle on Southeast Foster (pictured bottom right) is the place for a delicious brunch (or lunch!) of gluten-free waffles, breakfast burritos and vegan mac ’n’ cheese. The menu clearly labels dishes that are soy-free, gluten-free or contain nuts. And when you’re ready for dinner, Bang Bang on Northeast Fremont opens at 5 pm for Thai food labeled glutenfree, peanut-free and dairy-free. They offer a kid’s bowl with fried chicken, veggies and coconut rice ($11), but you can’t beat the happy hour from 5-6 pm, where you can order french fries ($6), rice puffs ($5) and a chicken or prawn skewer for only $4 each!
Find out more at topburmese. com, verticaldiner. com/portland, offthegriddle.com, bangbangpdx.com. — Bethany Marcel
Whether you are in town for the weekend, or settling in Portland, you’ll need some family-friendly recommendations. We’ve got you covered — from the best place to stop for a sweet snack or a pediatric urgent care clinic! Every year our readers cast thousands of votes for their top choices in our PDX Parent Reader Favorites Picks readers’ poll. You can’t go wrong with these family-approved picks!
ARCADES/ BOWLING/ FAMILY FUN CENTER
Winner Enchanted Forest
8462 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR, enchantedforest.com
A trip to Enchanted Forest, not far from Salem, is a rite of passage for every family in the Portland area. Whimsical rides and attractions based on classic storybooks will delight kids and give grown-ups some major nostalgia.
Top 5
Electric Castle’s Wunderland Cinema and Nickel Games
Grand Central Bowl
KingPin’s Family Entertainment Center
Topgolf
Wilsonville Family Fun Center/ Bullwinkle’s Entertainment
INDOOR PLAYSPACE
Winner Playdate PDX
1434 NW 17th Ave., playdatepdx.com
Portlanders know that in our city it rains. A lot. But good thing for families there are fun and engaging indoor playspaces for littles to get the wiggles out (and coffee or alcohol for the grown-ups). Playdate PDX features all of the above, with fun on three stories, including two interactive dance floors and a ball cannon area for older kids.
Top 5
Kowabunga Indoor Playspace
Playforest
Play Street Museum
Sky Zone Beaverton (formerly DEFY Beaverton)
The Wiggle Room
FAMILY- FRIENDLY HIKE
Winner Tryon Creek
11321 S Terwilliger Blvd., stateparks.oregon.gov
This repeat PDX Parent Readers Favorites winner has 8 miles of hiking trails and is a great place to spot birds and other wildlife. Plus it’s a forest oasis in the city, located only 15 minutes from downtown.
KID - FRIENDLY BIKE TRAIL
Winner Banks-Vernonia State Trail
stateparks.oregon.gov
The family that bikes together, has fun together! And this repeat PDX Parent Reader Favorites winner for best kid-friendly trail is 21 miles of paved paths, making it a great spot to take in the fresh air, get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.
PLAYGROUND
Winner Gabriel Park
SW 45th Avenue and Vermont Street, portland.gov/parks/gabriel-park
This Southwest playground is both fun, and inclusive and accessible, making it a go-to park for many Portland families. And for sports-loving kids, there’s also soccer, softball and baseball fields, and courts for tennis and volleyball.
ADVENTURE ATTRACTION
Winner Mt. Hood Adventure Park at Skibowl
7000 E Highway 26, Government Camp, skibowl.com
Top
5
Forest Park
Hoyt Arboretum
Powell Butte
Trail of Ten Falls
Wahclella Falls
Top 5
Eastbank Esplanade
North Clackamas Trolley Trail
Rock Creek Trail
Springwater Corridor Trail
Tualatin River Greenway Trail
Top 5
Harper’s Playground at Arbor Lodge Park
Hidden Creek Park West in Hillsboro
Pirate Park
Washington Park Westmoreland Park
When most people think of Mt. Hood, snowcovered peaks perfect for shredding come to mind. But Mt. Hood Adventure Park is a coldand warm-weather destination. With activities like zip lining, inner tubing, go-kart racing and much more, there’s an activity for every member of the family.
Top 5
Escape Games PDX
iFLY Indoor Skydiving
Skamania Lodge Zipline Tour & Aerial Park
Sky Zone Beaverton (formerly DEFY Beaverton) Tree to Tree Adventure Park
MUSEUMS/FAMILY MEMBERSHIP
Winner Oregon Zoo
4001 SW Canyon Rd., oregonzoo.org
DENTIST FOR KIDS
What kiddo doesn’t love looking at zoo animals? The Oregon Zoo boasts an impressive number of mammals, birds, reptiles, insects and amphibians (and family memberships start at $98). Don’t miss the seasonal events, like the familyfriendly Zoo Nights concert series or the ZooLights holiday display in December.
Top
5
Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
OMSI - Oregon Museum of Science & Industry
Portland Art Museum
Portland Japanese Garden
Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals
Winner Hollywood Children’s Dentistry
3839 NE Tillamook St., hcdpdx.com
Lights, camera, healthy teeth! The dentists and hygienists at Hollywood Children’s Dentistry offer professional pediatric dental services to kiddos in a colorful, movie-themed setting. They also offer emergency and restorative care.
PEDIATRICIAN
Winner Sellwood Medical Clinic
Multiple locations; sellwoodmd.com
Having a good pediatrician for your child is essential — after all, they’ll be caring for them during all the big developmental milestones. The physicians and staff at Sellwood Medical Clinic set new and seasoned parents at ease, providing quality care in a comforting environment. And there are four locations to choose from!
Top 5
Dentistry for Kids
Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
Portland Children’s Dentistry
Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
World of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
Top 5
Broadway Medical Clinic, LLP
Metropolitan Pediatrics, LLC
OHSU Doernbecher Pediatrics Clinic
Pediatric Associates of the Northwest Randall Children’s Pediatric Care-Emanuel
PEDIATRIC URGENT CARE
Winner Brave Care
Multiple locations; bravecare.com
There are few things worse than your kiddo needing immediate medical care. But when it happens, Portland parents take their children to Brave Care. This pediatric urgent care is open daily and offers walk-ins. Even better, each of the three locations have on-site labs, pharmacies and over-the-counter medicines.
No matter what your dessert flavor profile is, Salt & Straw has the scoop for you. And with limited release flavors — including knockout vegan varieties — you can come back again and again to discover your new favorite, or bring a pint home for later.
Top 5
Blue Star Donuts
Cloud City Ice Cream
Fifty Licks Ice Cream
KID - FRIENDLY DINING
Winner Slappy Cakes
4246 SE Belmont St., slappycakes.com
With “play with your food” as their motto, you know kids, and kids at heart, love Slappy Cakes. This DIY pancake place has all the toppings to make the ultimate griddled breakfast.
Top 5
Hopworks Urban Brewery
Laughing Planet Cafe
La Provence - Petite Provence BistroBoulangerie Pâtisserie
Tin Shed
Waffle Window
Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai
Voodoo Doughnut
SALT & STRAW
PIZZA
Winner Pizzicato
Multiple locations, pizzicatopizza.com
Pizzicato makes meal times easy. The family-friendly pizza joint has more than 20 pizzas on its menu, from classics like pepperoni or margherita to creative pies such as the Thai chicken or the Squisita, topped with lamb sausage, artichoke hearts, and feta with an arugula-walnut pesto sauce.
Top 5
Hot Lips Pizza
Mississippi Pizza Pub
Pietro’s Pizza & Pirate Adventure
Pizza Jerk
Pizza Schmizza
DENISE CASTAÑON
Julie Gursha
Exploration Encouraged
Whether experimenting in hands-on labs, exploring immersive exhibitions, touring the USS Blueback submarine, or gazing at the stars in our planetarium, enjoy fun for all ages at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry!
