Hey there, fellow adventurers! If you’re planning a family trip this year, let me tell you why Portland, Oregon, should be at the top of your list. Known for its quirky charm, lush green spaces, and vibrant culture, Portland is a treasure trove of fun and excitement for kids and parents alike. From interactive museums and scenic parks to delicious food trucks and unique local shops, there’s something for everyone in this Pacific Northwest gem. So pack your bags, grab the kiddos, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Portland with kids!
Table of Contents
Fun Kid Activities in Portland
Iconic Landmarks and Fun Activities
Portland Saturday Market– Open from March to December, this vibrant open-air market is a feast for the senses with its array of music, food, and local crafts.
Powell’s City of Books – Claiming the title of the largest used and new bookstore in the world, Powell’s offers a rainbow of rooms categorized by genre, perfect for a family browsing session. It has 9 color-coded rooms throughout its 68K square feet of space. It takes up a city block. If your kids like books as much as mine, this adventure could take a full day. If it does, run across the street to pick up a Voodoo donut or two. Details below.
Oaks Amusement Park – First and foremost I think of Oaks Park as an amusement park full of all the carnie fun that you and I had as kids. It’s got games/arcades. It’s got rides for thrill seekers and a little kid ride section that was fun for even my timid kiddo when she was 3. She liked the carousel, Chipper’s Choppers (where you ride around in a tiny circle on a pint-sized motorcycle with sidecar), Go Karts, Sky Fighters (you ride around in a tiny circle in a spaceship that lifts off the ground). We have also thoroughly enjoyed the good old-fashioned roller-skating rink with a little section on the side for newbies.
PlayDate PDX– Consider this an opportunity to let your kids loose while you relax with a beverage. Believe me, your kids (and you) will have a stimulating time running around this 3-story indoor playground. The slides are long, the interactive dance floors are enticing and the play structure itself is enticingly enormous.
On the weekdays you’ll cough up $13.50/hr/child
On the weekends, your kid gets to play all day for $16.50 each
Wings and Waves Waterpark – If you are willing to venture about an hour outside of Portland with kids, this indoor waterpark is phenomenal. The water is warm, the slides are high (and low). We took our then timid 3-year-old and newborn with some of our friends and could have stayed for hours (except that momma needed a nap!).
Heated Indoor Pool Wonderland – officially known as the Southwest Community Center. We have loved their legit waterslides, water pipes that intentionally squirt water, hot tub. Just remember that it’s a community pool and not a hotel. Bring your own towels.
Portland Rock Gym– If you have little ones with a tendency to climb the walls, you could always take them to this rock climbing gym. They’ve got the main walls where more of the adults climb, and then a separate, smaller room with auto belays.
Spring Garden Park– Local playground with plenty of entertaining structures (including a walk-in birds nest) and space to ride some bikes.
Museums and Educational Experiences
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)-Engage with interactive exhibits and educational programs that make learning fun for all ages. Really fun to get your geek on with all the interactive exhibits and the planetarium.
Outdoor Adventures
Oregon Zoo– Home to a wide variety of animals, the zoo is an excellent place for children to learn about wildlife and conservation efforts. Check out the lions, tigers, and bears, oh my! Oh, and elephants, giraffes, seals…. insects, snakes, lizards…. chimps, orangutans…need I say more?
Washington Park– This expansive park includes a playground, a rose garden, and the Portland Japanese Garden, offering a serene escape from the city bustle. Located on a hill just outside of downtown, it really does feel like an oasis of calm (before the storm). We often find ourselves at this playground to get our wiggles out before we head back to Seattle.
Culinary Delights in Portland with Kids
Portland is known for its coffee! You can find any number of excellent choices if you search online, but if you need a pick me up and want my personal recommendations…I’ve been to Sisters and Stumptown most recently and can attest to finely roasted beans and yummy brews. I’m a black coffee kind of person, and my husband likes his frothy and sweetened with syrups.
Bamboo Sushi – local chain with seriously craveable rolls. We always get the veggie tempura (light, crispy) and ALWAYS get some variation of the Green Machine (a sweet, tangy, melt in your mouth roll of yumminess).
Voodoo Doughnut – Iconic Portland treat for the family. Quirky and delicious doughnuts. My girls like the donut topped with Cap’n Crunch, or the one topped with M&Ms. They have devil food donut with cayenne pepper. And for those of you who like a basic cake donut, or basic glazed or apple fritters, they have those, too.
Mothers– All-day feel-good breakfast food with some great mimosas. Fun for the whole family.
Le Pigeon –French inspired and great for the foodies in your family. My girls are not fans, but what a treat for my husband and me.
Urban Farmer– Located in the Nines Hotel (urban, upscale) this steakhouse manages to put out a low-key vibe. I’ve eaten there for breakfast and lunch and can attest to their sandwiches and non-steak options as being delicious.
Food Trucks – Portland is known for its diverse food truck scene, so be sure to indulge in some local flavors that will satisfy both kids and adults.
Now let’s talk logistics. Where should you stay? Do you drive? What is the airport like? Should you rent a car? Check out this blog postfor some data points for you as you consider what will make the best vacation for you and your family.
Until next time, keep the spirit of exploration alive, and let the memories of this city inspire your next adventure. Safe travels and warm wishes from the City of Roses!
Let me know what you think of your trip! I’d love to hear what you like (or not!). Sharing is caring, and the more feedback you give the better we can inform the next people who travel to Portland. You have benefited from other’s feedback. Let’s pay it forward.
Engage with Our Blog! One of the most effective ways to support this blog is by leaving comments and liking the postings. Not only does this signal Google to display our travel tips and recipes more frequently, but it also encourages others to try them. Your feedback is invaluable – it helps me include data points that are helpful and relevant. Additionally, sharing how you travel benefits other readers; they often read the comments and take your advice. Thank you in advance for your input.
Planning to travel to Portland? Whether you travel with children or not, the city can be a delightful experience because it offers a variety of activities that cater to the curiosity and energy of any age. Here’s a quick guide to making the most out of your visit in a city that seamlessly blends urban charm with natural beauty.
When Should You Travel to Portland
Summer (June to August) Portland is the place to be when the sun’s out! You can really dive into the city’s love for the great outdoors. Imagine hiking through Forest Park or biking by the Willamette River – summer days are just perfect for it. And you can’t miss the International Rose Test Garden; it’s like walking into a rainbow of roses, a true Portland experience. The city’s vibe is electric with festivals like the Portland Rose Festival and even the World Naked Bike Ride. There’s always something happening, from farmers markets to street fairs, and the music scene? It’s all about those summer night concerts.
Spring (March to May) Spring in Portland is a delightful dance of colors and raindrops. The city blooms with rhododendrons, azaleas, cherry trees, and tulips, painting every park and garden with vibrant hues. Don’t miss the Wooden Shoe Tulip Fest; it’s a real treat for the eyes. And hey, it’s the perfect time to snag some hotel deals before the summer crowd rolls in. Plus, there’s always something thrilling to do, like whale-watching along the coast. Spring here is never dull!
Fall (September to November) As the hustle and bustle of vacation season eases, Portland welcomes you with open arms, offering just-right weather. The heat mellows out, leaving us with those perfect, crisp days. It’s an ideal time to meander through the historic Pittock Mansion or get swept away by the tunes at The Old Church. Additionally, with the summer crowd gone, hotel rates take a nice dip. It’s the smart traveler’s season to bask in Portland’s tranquil beauty, all while pocketing some extra savings. Enjoy the city’s calm without the summer rush, and at prices that’ll make you smile.
No matter when you travel to Portland, it’s unique blend of culture, nature, and creativity awaits!
Great Hotels for Your Trip
Let’s explore the diverse hotel scene in Portland, Oregon, catering to different tastes and budgets. This city has something for everyone.
Luxury and Elegance
For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and service, the high-end hotels in downtown Portland provide historic charm, artful interiors, exquisite amenities, culinary delights and world-class views.
The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Offers contemporary luxury. Suites feature crystal lighting, alabaster drapes, and leather headboards. Enjoy upscale dining at Urban Farmer Steakhouse and Departure Restaurant.
The Heathman Hotel – Boasts luxurious accommodations. The two-story library inspires creativity, and the elegant rooms exude sophistication.
Boutique Charm
This gem offers spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and signature cocktails. Borrow bicycles to explore the city, and soak in the old Hollywood vibes and architecture.
Hotel Lucia – For the art enthusiast in you. Stylish and centrally located, Hotel Lucia features wellness amenities in each room.
Whether you’re splurging on luxury, seeking boutique charm, or sticking to a budget, Portland’s hotels have you covered!
Managing Portland International Airport (PDX)
PDX is just a hop and a skip away from downtown Portland, only 6 miles (10 km) to be exact. It’s the go-to airport for about 19.8 million passengers each year, making it Oregon’s busiest. With one terminal and four concourses (B, C, D, and E), it’s a breeze to hop from one flight to another. But PDX isn’t just about getting you from A to B. It’s a place where creativity takes flight, with local art and even a two-story library. Fancy a taste of Oregon? The restaurants and shops here are a culinary adventure, and the best part? No sales tax. Got some time to kill? Why not catch a short film or shine up those shoes before your flight. It’s all part of the PDX experience.
Let’s explore the convenient ground transportation options from Portland International Airport (PDX) to downtown Portland and beyond.
Portland Airport Shuttle -PDX offers airport shuttle services that connect you to various destinations near Portland. You can book online and find competitive rates.
Car Rentals: If you prefer driving, rental car agencies are available at the airport.
Hertz
Alamo
National
Sixt
Budget
Taxis and Limos: Traditional taxis and limousines are also accessible.
Rideshare Services (Uber, Lyft, Wingz) -After booking a ride, follow the app instructions to meet your driver at PDX. Look for ridesharing signs.
Shared Ride Vans – Companies like Oregon Express Shuttle provide shared rides. Look for the pick-up spot on the Lower Roadway at the ‘Scheduled Services’ slot.
Public Transit (MAX Rail) – The MAX station near baggage claim on the lower level connects you to downtown Portland in just 37 minutes for a minimal fare of $3.
Do You Need a Car on your Trip to Portland
Portland is a city that prides itself on its efficient and extensive public transit system. The TriMet buses and MAX Light Rail can get you almost anywhere you need to go within the city. Whether you’re heading to the trendy Pearl District, exploring the lush Washington Park, or catching a game at Providence Park, public transit has you covered. Plus, the Portland Streetcar and even the Portland Aerial Tram offer unique ways to see the city.
If you’re planning to stay within the city limits on your travel to Portland, a car isn’t necessary. You can easily hop on a bus or train, and the frequent service means you won’t be waiting long. This is especially convenient if you want to avoid the hassle of parking and the extra cost of a rental car.
The Portland Aerial Tram is a unique and scenic way to travel in the city. Connecting the South Waterfront district to the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) campus on Marquam Hill, the tram offers stunning views of the cityscape and the Willamette River. It’s not just a mode of transportation but an experience in itself, providing a bird’s-eye view of Portland’s beautiful landscape. Whether you’re commuting or sightseeing, the tram is a must-try for both locals and visitors.
With Kids
Traveling with kids can change the equation a bit. While Portland’s public transit is still a great option, having a car can offer more flexibility. Kids might appreciate the comfort and convenience of a car, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in one day. However, the city’s transit system is very family-friendly, with easy access to popular spots like the Oregon Zoo and OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry).
Wine Tasting Outside the City
If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to explore the Willamette Valley when you travel to Portland and other nearby wine regions. For this, having a car is almost essential. While there are guided wine tours that can take you to some of the best wineries without the need to drive, having your own car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit more off-the-beaten-path vineyards.
So, if your vacation is focused on exploring downtown Portland and its immediate surroundings, you can comfortably rely on public transit. However, if you’re traveling with kids or planning to venture out for wine tastings, having a car can make your trip more convenient and enjoyable. Either way, Portland offers plenty of options to ensure you have a fantastic time!
What if you get sick during your travel to Portland?
Portland, Oregon, known for its lush greenery, quirky culture, and vibrant food scene, is a fantastic destination for travelers. Whether you’re exploring Powell’s City of Books, biking along the Willamette River, or savoring a Voodoo Doughnut, there’s something for everyone. But what if you need healthcare during your visit?
Address: 2801 N Gantenbein Ave, Portland, OR 97227
Visitor Hours: 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Services: Legacy Emanuel Medical Center offers 24/7 expertise for critical health conditions. It is a designated Level I trauma center, one of only two in the state.
Address: 2800 N Vancouver Ave, Suite 230, Portland, OR 97227
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Services: Expert medical care and specialized treatments.
There are a great number of things to do in Portland depending on what you like to do, where you are staying and whether or not you have a car. This link will take you to 20 memories you can make with your kids on your trip. It’s geared toward a family trip, but easily works for a trip sans kids as well. Countless friends of ours have thoroughly enjoyed their trip with this itinerary. Enjoy!
Let me know what you think of your trip! I’d love to hear what you like (or not!). Sharing is caring, and the more feedback you give the better we can inform the next people who travel to Portland. You have benefited from other’s feedback. Let’s pay it forward.
Engage with Our Blog! One of the most effective ways to support this blog is by leaving comments and liking the postings. Not only does this signal Google to display our travel tips and recipes more frequently, but it also encourages others to try them. Your feedback is invaluable – it helps me include data points that are helpful and relevant. Additionally, sharing how you travel benefits other readers; they often read the comments and take your advice. Thank you in advance for your input.
Seattle is a city brimming with activities that are perfect for families and especially enjoyable for children. Below is a 3 day Seattle itinerary (2 days with additional options for a third day) of some of the most iconic landmarks and fun things to do in Seattle grouped together to logically maximize your time, get your kiddo’s wiggles out and to enjoy the local cuisine.
We live in Seattle, so we actually play tourist often when we have friends and family come to town. Most of our friends and family have kids, so we often look for activities in Seattle with kids.
Before we get to the Itinerary, let’s talk logistics. Where should you stay? Do you drive? What is the airport like? Should you rent a car? Check out this blog postfor the Ultimate Guide to your Travel to Portland as you consider what will make the best vacation for you and your family.
Itinerary of the Best Things to Do in Seattle
Day 1
For breakfast, we often eat at our hotel for the convenience of it, but if you want to venture out there are some delicious options downtown including Lola, Biscuit Bitch (no gluten free options) and Tilikum Place Café come immediately to mind.
Begin your journey at the Space Needle, which is in the Seattle Center area, which is in downtown Seattle. The observation deck, where you can ascend to the observation deck providing 360-degree views of the surrounding cityscape, Puget Sound, and distant mountain ranges. It’s an iconic structure that defines the city’s skyline. As a symbol of innovation and progress, it was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and has since become a beloved landmark. Standing at 605 feet tall, it offers visitors a chance to see Seattle from a unique vantage point.
The Space Needle underwent a significant renovation in 2018, introducing the world’s first and only revolving glass floor, known as “The Loupe.” Visitors can now experience the thrill of walking above the city while enjoying the rotating view. The addition of floor-to-ceiling glass panels on the observation deck also allows for unobstructed views and the perfect opportunity for memorable photos.
The lines can get really long, so I highly recommend buying your tickets ahead of time. With the Seattle City Pass, you get great deals on 3 or 5 local attractions AND have the ability to make time reservations. This is a huge advantage with the Space Needle because you could easily spend over an hour in line.
Children 4 and under are free either way, but with the CityPass, you get 2 visits to the observation deck within a 24-hour period. We have never, ever had visitors want to go twice in one day, so when you do your calculations, you might want to expect that you’ll go once just to be conservative with how you want to approach the things to do in Seattle. You’ll pay more at the prime time (11am-7pm) and a little bit less at non-prime hours (8-11am and 7-11pm).
After soaking in the stunning vistas, head over to the nearby Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. This vibrant museum showcases the mesmerizing glass art of Dale Chihuly. The intricate sculptures and colorful installations create a whimsical atmosphere, making it a delightful experience for art lovers and casual visitors alike. The interplay of light and glass in the garden is particularly enchanting, offering a unique and memorable adventure in the heart of Seattle.
You can also consider using tickets that combine the Space Needle and the Chihuly Glass Museum. These tickets are from $72 per person. The individual cost for visiting the Space Needle ranges from $29.00 to $46.50 depending on the time and day. For the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, general admission is $35 to $39 for adults, $30 to $33.50 for seniors (65+), and $26 to $29.50 for youth (ages 5-12).
While you’re at Seattle Center, you could also check out the Children’s Museum. It’s a couple of minutes’ walk from the Space Needle, and is located inside of the Armory, which also holds the food court. From the food court, you can look down through a large opening to a tree/camping exhibit in the Children’s Museum. Our kids have really enjoyed this Children’s Museum, but bear in mind that it’s a little older and some of the exhibits could definitely use a refresh. BUT kids don’t care because the exhibits, although a little dated, are still really engaging.
Bear in mind that the Children’s Museum is NOT a part of the CityPass (discounted rates for 5 Seattle attractions) or the C3 pass (discounted rates for 3 Seattle attractions).
After the Space Needle and the Children’s Museum, you might have some hungry little travelers. Here are some of the better food kiosks in the food court:
Mod Pizza (individual pizzas)
Blue Water Taco (some standard tacos)
OR you could walk about a 10-minute stroller walk to Agave Cocina & Tequilaat Republican and 1st Ave N. They have a full bar, which is nice for some day drinking. The tequila menu is extensive and includes blancos, repasados, anejos, extra-anejos, mezcal. I happen to like my tequila neat, but their palomas are phenomenal, they have tequila old fashions. Their food is also delicious. To start you might try their guac/chips and their Pineapple Prawn Ceviche. I particularly like their Warm Seafood & Spinach salad or the Chipotle & Orange Caesar salad. They’ve got legit tacos, and the girls love their carnitas e pollo options. My mom likes their Crema Blanca Chicken enchiladas. My husband likes the Grilled Cab Skirt Steak Carne Asada.
After lunch, you might consider looking into the Seattle Children’s Theater back inside of Seattle Center to see if they’ve got a play going that would be interesting for your family. Their 2025 season is published already. Typical show times are 11am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, 5pm depending on the day. You’ll want to make reservations ahead of time because they do sell out.
Alternatively, you could head to the Pacific Science Center. This is on the C3 and City Pass option list. The PSC is quite large, and has IMAX theaters, a Laser Dome, a Planetarium, a large butterfly room, and LOTS of hands-on interactive exhibits that kids love to play around with. There is also a toddler section where we have spent hours. Kiddos love it. You could spend hours here with all the exhibits that are colorful and engaging for kids, and informational for adults.
While you’re in Seattle Center, you should also check out the Seattle Center Playground. As you enter the playground, the first thing that catches your eye is the array of slides, swings, and climbing structures. Each piece of equipment is designed to challenge and delight children of all ages, encouraging them to explore, climb, and slide to their heart’s content. The ground is covered with soft, impact-absorbing material, ensuring that the inevitable tumbles are gentle ones. The equipment is regularly inspected and maintained, providing peace of mind for parents and endless fun for kids.
Now that you’ve spent the whole day at Seattle Center, you and your kiddos are probably hungry. Here are some options that are within walking distance:
Mantra – it’s convenient Thai food and gets good reviews, but we haven’t been very impressed with the food.
The 5 Point Café – a quick walk to American cuisine for those of us who have kiddos with a predilution for chicken fingers and burgers.
Day 2
Next day, head early to Pike Place Market to watch the famous fish toss. Fishmongers fling full-sized fish (usually salmon) through the air, shouting out orders. You must wait for someone to order fish…they don’t just fling fish around for the heck of it. Well worth watching when it happens!
Speaking of fish and being a tourist, one of the standard tourist purchases is smoked or fresh fish. City Fish is one of the oldest fish-selling vendors in the market, and will ship any fish that they have in stock to anywhere in the United States overnight. Purchases over $100 are shipped for free. Jack’s Fish Spot is also an amazing vendor. We’ve been going there for 20 years. They also ship fish overnight, making sure that the goods are wrapped up to stay fresh for 48 hours. While you’re at Jack’s grab a quick snack of their alderwood candy smoked salmon. It’s addictive.
Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Cedar Plank Salmon. The trick to Seattle-based salmon is to keep the recipe simple. Let the freshness of the fish speak for itself and go for recipes that enhance the natural deliciousness of the fish as opposed to masking it.
In Seattle we recognize salmon varieties based on which river or tributary they come from. You can ask the fish mongers about the flavor profiles of each so that you get a varietal that will work with your family’s palate.
Wander through the market’s labyrinth of shops and stalls. Fresh flowers, artisan crafts, and local produce await. The air buzzes with energy as vendors set up their stalls. Grab a coffee—it’s Seattle, after all! Storyville Coffee Company has a stall here. You can also see the first Starbucks. Bear in mind that the line is LONG. We usually take pictures of our visiting friends in front of the Starbucks storefront and then get coffee elsewhere.
For breakfast at the Market, you have a plethora of choices. The Athenian is where Tom Hanks and Rob Reiner talked about dating in the movie “Sleepless in Seattle.” The food is good, and you can get a table upstairs that is quiet(ish) and looks out over the water. The Crumpet shop has some delicious escargot (just kidding. They serve crumpets.) Three Sisters Café has great baked goods (try the salmon and lox). There are a number of stalls with cuisine from all over the world depending on your palate profile.
A visit to Seattle’s Pike Place Market isn’t complete without meeting Rachel the Pig and exploring the quirky Gum Wall. Rachel, a life-sized bronze piggy bank, stands proudly at the entrance of the market, welcoming visitors with her charming presence. She’s not just a photo op; Rachel also helps raise funds for the market’s social services. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the Gum Wall, a colorful and slightly bizarre attraction where thousands of chewed gum pieces create a vibrant mosaic. It’s a testament to the city’s playful spirit and a must-see for anyone looking to experience the unique and whimsical side of Seattle.
A short walk away you can do a Tour of Seattle’s Underground History. Learn what Seattle looked and felt like back in the 1890’s, and why Seattle decided to build over the streets of yesteryear into what Seattle looks like today. Trust me, it looks a LOT different. I’ve found it deliciously spooky.
For a bit of whimsy, head to Pier 57 along the waterfront. There stands the Seattle Great Wheel—a giant Ferris wheel with enclosed gondolas. Take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel on the waterfront for stunning views of the Puget Sound. As you ascend, you’ll see the city unfold below. The Puget Sound stretches out, and the Space Needle peeks through the skyline. Perfect for photos! You can choose whether to ride in a glass-bottom or a normal bottom gondola. There are two separate lines.
Walk 5 minutes South to the Seattle Aquarium for an up-close look at local marine life. Watch sea otters play, marvel at giant Pacific octopuses, and touch starfish in the tide pools. Educational and enchanting! Tickets are available at specific entry times. Get your tickets early (as in not the day of), and make sure that you get there on time.
Then take an Argosys Tour to explore Elliott Bay, to see the surrounding islands and to see Seattle from the water. It’s a majestic site with the salty air whipping through your hair. There are a lot of cruise options in Seattle, and Argosys is one of the best. They have great ships, they don’t tend to overcrowd the seats, and they don’t feel smarmy.
Speaking of the sea and exploring, you can easily head from the Seattle waterfront to explore the tide pools at Alki Beach. You can deither walk another 6 minutes South to the Ferry Terminal or hop in your car for a 20-30 minute drive. When you look at the ferry schedule, look for Seattle to West Seattle route. The schedule shows the bidirectional launch times. Estimate a 30 minute water taxi ride to the King County Water Taxi stand that is on the North end of Seacrest Park. Across the street is a hidden gem of a coffee shop called the Unwind Café. Grab something to hydrate with a mouth-watering smoothie and then walk about 40 minutes to Alki Beach. After all this you will most certainly be hungry. Before you dive into the waves or dig your toes into the sand, check out any of these restaurants. I can absolutely vouch for their yummy food.
Duke’s Seafood West Seattle – Amazing clam chowder. In fact, they recently updated the classic recipe so that their clam chowder is gluten free! You can check out this delicious recipe here.
When you make it to the beach, look for people wearing headphones and dancing. You’ll have stumbled into a silent disco, which is always surprising to me…but fun to watch or join in! You can watch people break out their volleyballs, walk their dogs, play in the sand or just sit back and soak up some sun. After you’ve had your fill of the beach or if it’s too crowded, walk a few minutes into West Seattle to check out the Whale Tail Park, which is great for toddlers through to maybe 7 or 8 year olds.
Walk 4 blocks to the Log House Museum. Built in 1903-1904 as the Carriage House for the Historic Fir Lodge (also known as Alki Homestead), this humble log cabin now houses the Southwest Seattle Historical Society. Revolving historical exhibits feature settlers’ stories to Duwamish and Suquamish tribal heritage in a blend of artifacts, audio, and video.
Next logical stop is theAlki Point Lighthouse. During summer weekends, the lighthouse and its grounds open their doors. Call ahead, pack curiosity, and step into a bygone era. Back in 1887, Hans Martin Hanson and Knud Olson lit a lamp here, guiding ships through the night. Mariners owe them a nod of gratitude. Fast-forward to 1913. The concrete fog signal building with its octagonal tower stood tall. Inside, a fourth-order Fresnel lens spun like a celestial dancer, casting five white flashes followed by a brief eclipse. Alki Point marks the entrance to Seattle’s Elliott Bay. Ships arriving or departing would glimpse its reassuring glow. And today, visitors can explore this historic gem.
Next check out Constellation Park, which has some fun critters like sea anemone at Alki Point. Expect more seaweed as you explore more of the South of the park. We play a game to see who can avoid stepping on the most anemones. The rock wall has a ton of sea life to explore.
If you drove, you can also plan to head to Jack Block Park, which is 15 acres of exploration, a play area and a walkable pier.
By now, you are certainly hungry. Here are some additional dinner spots that are good for kids in West Seattle if you want more options than listed above:
Jak’s Grill – local chain. Some of our favorite dishes include bacon-wrapped scallops, beetroot carpaccio & arugula, spinach salad, prime rib dip, the maple mustard glazed salmon. They also have a lot of steak options. Would require a car or taxi to get to.
Mission Cantina – under new owners, so we’ll see how that shakes out…but it used to be an amazing tequila bar with a scratch Mexican kitchen. We have loved their gluten-free options. Would require a car or taxi to get to.
Day 3 or Ancillary Options that Require a Car
Museum of Flightshowcases the history of aviation with interactive displays and is the largest independent air and space museum globally. Explore over 175 aircraft, spacecraft, and millions of rare photographs. Don’t miss the interactive displays that bring aviation history to life! Approximately 20 minutes South of downtown Seattle on the way to the airport.
Discovery Park Enjoy 534 acres of natural beauty within the city of Seattle in the Magnolia area, which is just Northwest of downtown Seattle. Wander through meadows, forests, and dramatic sea cliffs. Follow trails to protected tidal beaches and the historic West Point Lighthouse or just enjoy a shaded playground with fun climbing structures and a zipline.
Fifteen minutes from Discovery Park is the Woodland Park Zoo, a must-see for animal lovers. Located in the Phinney Ridge area of Seattle, which is north of Magnolia and Queen Anne. Get up close to over 800 animals and 250 species at Woodland Park Zoo. From oaks to maples, explore diverse habitats and learn about wildlife conservation. In the summer there are concerts at the Zoo via Zootunes. Get your tickets EARLY. They sell out very, very fast.
Imagine strolling along the Puget Sound, surrounded by monumental artworks. That’s the Olympic Sculpture Park—a vibrant green space just north of the Seattle Art Museum. Take a smartphone tour (dial 206.866.3222) or explore the trees via the Olympic Sculpture Park Tree Walk. If you are here in the summer, you could also plan to do some yoga in the park. It’s free on Saturday’s! Parking is available on the street or in the Paccar Pavillion Garage located just underneath the main entrance. Street and Garage parking both have fees.
Additional Culinary Delights
Seattle’s food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Treat the family to some of the city’s best ice cream at Molly Moon’s or Salt & Straw. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the food trucks at South Lake Union or enjoy a picnic with fresh produce from the farmers’ market. End your day with a sweet treat from Cupcake Royale, Top Pot Donuts, or a chocolate tour at Theo Chocolate Factory. Trophy Cupcakes are also a yummy option, and they sponsored my daughter’s tee ball team…so they have a special place for me. Hope you find their cupcakes as tasty as the Seattleites do!
Pro tip: if your young’uns have an issue with sugar (like my 5-year-old, Trophy serves up mini cupcakes with fraction of the sugar content compared to the regular size.
Enjoy your time in Seattle with these family-friendly suggestions and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Let me know what you think of your trip! I’d love to hear what you like (or not!). Sharing is caring, and the more feedback you give the better we can inform the next people who travel to Seattle. You have benefited from other’s feedback. Let’s pay it forward
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