The Dinosaurs Are Back in Town!
There was a time that I wanted to be a paleontologist when I grew up. I mean, what kid doesn't, right? All the mysteries and unanswered questions surrounding dinosaurs create the perfect world for a child's imagination to run wild. Unfortunately, I didn't end up trekking around the world digging up ancient bones, but, is it any surprise that Jurassic Park is still one of my favorite movies? (Yep, you saw that one coming!) » Read more
Liz Picks: Fun Family Events in Portland, February 7 - 17
I haven't usually thought of February has the most eventful month, but then I looked at the calendar. These next two weeks (most concentrated during next weekend) are actually jam-packed with events—the Super Bowl, Valentine's Day, Mardi Gras, the Chinese New Year, even Presidents Day—and Portland has found a way to celebrate every one. So get reading and get planning so your family doesn't miss out on any of the fun! » Read more
Liz Picks: Fun Family Events in Portland, January 22 - February 4
Well, hello there! Let me introduce myself…. I’m Liz, and I’ll be your new NW Kids cruise director in these uncharted waters that we call the Internet. I’ve been covering all the family-friendly fun around Portland for the past six years, first at PDX Magazine, then on LivePDX.com, and, most recently, as a contributor to Neighborhood Notes. Let’s just say I know the city gosh darn well!
And I spend all day behind my laptop so you don’t have to — reading blogs, following Twitter, scouring Facebook for insider tips and links that I can share with you on the our NW Kids blog, in our newsletter (sign up so you don’t miss a thing!), and on Facebook (become a fan!) and Twitter (follow us!). » Read more
Day Trip for Families: Take Your Kids to See the Jumping Fish at Bonneville Fish Hatchery
The Bonneville Fish Hatchery, just east of Portland on I-84 on the Gorge, is one of the NW Kids' Top 100 things to do with kids in Portland. The drive out is lovely and not too long. The destination, situated directly on the water, is interesting and fun. The landscaped grounds offer a pleasant place to walk around, picnic, and learn about the Salmon.
The Salmon, Trout and Sturgeon Viewing Make for a Budget-Conscious Outing
What You'll Do At the hatchery » Read more
Vaux's Swifts at Chapman School: A Must-Do Family Activity
The Vaux's Swifts at Chapman School: A Must-Do Family Activity
If you haven't seen the Vaux's Swifts yet, you simply must get out to Chapman School and witness the dazzling choreography on display. Swift Watching has become a popular September activity in Portland and for good reason. According to Audubon Portland, roughly 15,000 birds roost in the Chapman chimney. Past years have seen a high of as many as 35,000 swifts.
What Is Swift Watching? » Read more
Ahh...Summer
Looking for something to do this weekend that bridges the gap between learning and having fun? Portland Art Museum's Sunday for Families, where the museum offers tours and family-oriented activities, has an extra special event slated for this Sunday. In the Museum's own words, "...a pachyderm-sized party in honor of the Museum's newly acquired sculpture of Ganesha-the elephant-headed, candy-loving, dancing Hindu god of yoga, wisdom, and new beginnings. » Read more
Camping Resources
Interested in getting out into the wilderness for some camping?
Here are a few resources and links to help you plan your trip:
Camping 101 - One Family's Experience:
http://www.nwkids.com/Camping-With-Kids
Campgrounds in Oregon that Offer Yurts or Cabins:
http://www.nwkids.com/FamilyCampgrounds
Don't forget the waterproof matches! Download a handy camping checklist: camping_checklist.pdf (90.03 KB) » Read more
Museum Deals & Discounts
Aviation
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Deal: Kids under 12 are always FREE
Regular Admission: Adults: $5
www.visitahc.org
CLASSICAL CHINESE GARDEN
The Deal: Kids under 6 are always FREE
Regular Admission: Adults: $8.50; Kids (6-18): $6.50; Seniors: $7.50
www.portlandchinesegarden.org
CRYSTAL SPRINGS RHODODENDRON GARDEN
The Deal: FREE admission from Labor Day through February; Kids under 12 are always FREE
Regular Admission: Adults (13 and up): $3
www.portlandonline.com/parks » Read more
Great Bikes for Family Riding
Find the Best Set Up for Your Family Bike Rides
By Marion Rice
Many bikes can transport your kids. It’s easy when they’re young, but as your kids grow and want more independence, finding the right family commuting solution gets a bit tricky. A good city bike has the capacity to grow with your child. A city bike, broadly defined, is a bike that provides a rider with an upright stance and is built with a more rigid frame as opposed to a lighter style built for speed. » Read more
Multnomah County Library Tiny Tots (ages 1-2) Storytimes
Tiny Tots
One-year-olds (with a favorite adult) enjoy songs, movement activities, rhymes, books and playtime. This action-packed program engages new walkers in language-based activities.
Please check your local branch for special closures and to confirm schedule.
Mondays
Gresham, 10–10:45 a.m.
Hillsdale, 10:15–11 a.m.
Hollywood, 3:30–4 p.m.
TUESDAY
Fairview-Columbia, noon–12:45 p.m.
WEDNESDAYS
Midland, 10:15–11 a.m.
THURSDAY
Albina, 9:30–10 a.m.
Central, 10:15–10:45 a.m.
Gregory Heights, 10:15–10:45 a.m.
Gresham, 10–10:45 a.m. » Read more
