Portland in 2 Days for Families - Hands-on science at OMSI
A relaxed 2-day summer itinerary in Portland tailored for families with young children. Short transfers, stroller-friendly routes, interactive exhibits, playground time, and kid-friendly meals with allergy-aware options. Built with buffers for naps, snacks, and bathroom breaks.
Highlights
- Hands-on science at OMSI
- Rides and classic fun at Oaks Amusement Park
- Animals at the Oregon Zoo
- Peaceful gardens: International Rose Test Garden & Portland Japanese Garden
- Family-friendly cafes and flexible dining options
Itinerary
Day 1
Interactive indoor morning, relaxed amusement-park afternoon, easy evening meal near SE neighborhoods.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) — hands-on science
Start at OMSI where children can touch, experiment, and explore age-friendly exhibits (recommended ages: 2–12). Plan for about 2.5 hours so toddlers can nap in the stroller or have a quieter corner break. Plenty of interactive exhibits, a play area for younger kids, and family restrooms.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroller note: The main exhibit floors are elevator-accessible; bring a compact stroller for easy navigation and quick naps between exhibits.
- Restrooms & changing: Family restrooms and changing tables are located near the main lobby—bring small towels for quick cleanups after hands-on exhibits.
- Busy exhibits: Head to the Turbine Hall and Science Playground early (first hour) to avoid midday crowds; reserve any planetarium or special-show tickets online in advance.
Lunch: Elephants Delicatessen — family-friendly deli & picnic options
Casual lunch with sandwiches, hot items, and easily customizable plates (high chairs available). Great for picky eaters and allergy-aware families; order ahead for quick pickup or eat in if you need a contained space for a stroller.
Tips from local experts:
- Kids' choices: Ask for half portions or picnic boxes; staff are used to allergies and can point out dairy- or gluten-free options.
- Seating: Request a corner table or patio seating if you need space for a stroller; peak lunch times can be busy—arrive slightly before noon.
- Takeaway hack: If kids get restless, order to-go and walk 5–10 minutes to a nearby shaded spot (South Waterfront esplanade) for an easy picnic.
Short transfer to Oaks Amusement Park (drive or tram + short walk)
Quick 15–20 minute transfer across the river; use this buffer for diaper changes, snack refills, or a short nap in the car/stroller.
Tips from local experts:
- Travel kit: Keep a small bag with snacks, sunscreen, and a wet wipe pack handy for quick changes during the short drive.
- Parking & stroller: Oaks has nearby family parking; foldable strollers are easier for station walkways and ride lines.
- Nap buffer: Use this 15-minute slot as a buffer for short naps or restroom stops before heading into the amusement area.
Oaks Amusement Park — classic rides & family fun
Outdoor amusement park with kid-friendly rides, a playground area, and relaxed midway (recommended ages: 2–12). Many rides are gentle; there are shaded picnic spots and restrooms with changing stations.
Tips from local experts:
- Age & height: Bring a small notebook of ride age/height rules; littler kids will enjoy the carousel and kiddie rides—save the roller coaster for older children.
- Shade & breaks: There are shaded benches and picnic areas—plan frequent 10–15 minute breaks to avoid overheating during summer.
- Cashless & lines: Most vendors are cashless; go early to ride favorites to avoid long lines and save the evening for quieter playground time.
Snack break: Blue Star Donuts (light, portable treat)
A quick, beloved Portland donut stop for a sweet pause; great for a handheld snack while the kids play nearby or ride queues shrink.
Tips from local experts:
- Allergies: Ask staff about ingredients if you have allergy concerns—Blue Star staff can advise on flavor components.
- Family seating: Many locations are compact—get it to-go and sit in the shade near the park or along the river walk for more space.
- Timing: Visit mid-afternoon when families often pause for a treat; most flavors are easy for small hands (avoid very sticky toppings if you need to keep clothes clean).
Dinner: Tin Shed Garden Cafe — casual, kid-friendly dinner
Relaxed dinner with a kids' menu, high chairs, and a laid-back atmosphere (recommended ages: all). Outdoor seating and mellow vibe make it a good family-friendly evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Kid-friendly menu: Tin Shed has a kids' menu and can accommodate simple substitutions—ask for smaller portions or toast for sensitive eaters.
- Play area & patio: The patio is family-friendly and has space for strollers; request a table near the entrance for quick exits if a toddler gets tired.
- Timing: Family dinners here are relaxed—reserve if possible for early dining (5:30–6:00pm) to avoid busier evening crowds.
Day 2
A green, garden-centered day in Washington Park with animals, calm trails, and an early evening meal in NW Portland. Suitable for families who like outdoor exploration and short museum visits.
International Rose Test Garden — stroller-friendly rose stroll
Morning visit to the iconic Rose Test Garden with wide paths and panoramic city views (recommended ages: all). Ideal for a calm start; lots of shade and benches for snack breaks.
Tips from local experts:
- Strollers & paths: Most main paths are stroller-friendly but some slopes can be steep—use lower gear on stroller brakes for safety.
- Best time: Morning is cooler and less crowded in June; take photos early for the best light and fewer people in the beds.
- Restrooms & shade: There are restrooms close by; pack a light picnic blanket for a short snack on the lawn if kids need to run.
Portland Japanese Garden — quiet stroll (note stroller access limits)
A peaceful, sensory garden experience—beautiful for families who can enjoy quieter moments (recommended ages: 4+ if you need children to keep voices low). Stroller access is limited on some paths; a baby carrier can be handy.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroller caution: Some paths have steps or gravel—consider a parent carrier or be prepared to park the stroller at the entrance (staff can advise).
- Quiet time: Mid-morning (10:15–11:00) is usually calmer for toddlers who might enjoy the ponds and koi—remind kids to use inside voices to preserve the calm.
- Facilities: There are family restrooms and a small gift shop with quiet finds; plan 45–60 minutes so little ones don’t get restless.
Short transfer to the Oregon Zoo (bag check / diaper change buffer)
15-minute transfer inside Washington Park—use this time for a bathroom change, sunscreen re-application, or a quick snack before the zoo.
Tips from local experts:
- Parking vs. tram: If driving, use family parking near the zoo; if using the Portland Aerial Tram or transit, allow extra 10 minutes for stroller folds.
- Prep the kids: Give a 2–3 minute heads-up for the next activity (animals) to keep the group moving smoothly.
- Facilities check: This is a good moment to visit a family restroom before entering the animal exhibits where lines can form later.
Oregon Zoo — animals, train ride, and family programming
Explore animal habitats and catch the zoo train for a short ride (recommended ages: 2–12). Many exhibits are stroller-accessible; family restrooms and nursing rooms are located across the zoo.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroller routes: Main pathways are stroller-friendly—bring a compact stroller for long walking segments; elevators are available where needed.
- Kid-friendly shows: Check the daily schedule for keeper talks and feeding times—plan around those to keep kids engaged and minimize waiting.
- Dining & allergies: Zoo cafés offer kid-friendly meals; tell staff about allergies and they’ll point to suitable options (carry a small snack for quick energy).
Lunch at Oregon Zoo Café / family dining
A mid-visit lunch with sandwiches, kid trays, and shaded seating—ideal to refuel before more exploring (high chairs available).
Tips from local experts:
- Seating: Ask for a table near the play area entrances so restless kids can be supervised while eating.
- Quick orders: Choose grab-and-go options if toddlers are impatient—many items are pre-made during busy summer days.
- Allergy-aware: Café staff can mark gluten-free/dairy-free options—ask if you need ingredient lists for substitutions.
More Oregon Zoo time: train or favorite habitats
Finish animal viewing or repeat a favorite exhibit; time buffer for a short nap in the stroller or quiet downtime before the arboretum walk (recommended ages: 1–12).
Tips from local experts:
- Train ride: The zoo train is a great 10–15 minute restful activity—use it as a calm interlude for sleepy toddlers.
- Nap planning: If a child naps, use a stroller-friendly route back toward exits and to the Hoyt Arboretum which has calmer trails.
- Souvenirs: Visit the small gift shop for a compact memento; keep souvenirs lightweight for the rest of the day.
Hoyt Arboretum — stroller-friendly trails and shaded walks
A calmer afternoon option with easy loop trails, labeled trees, and picnic spots (recommended ages: all). Choose the wide paved trails for strollers or the gentler loops for toddlers to explore.
Tips from local experts:
- Trail choice: Use the paved Lower Macleay or Redwood trails for a stroller-friendly 30–60 minute loop; avoid steeper trails with loose gravel.
- Bug & sun prep: Summer evenings can bring bugs—pack child-safe insect repellent and a sun hat; there are shaded sections for cooling off.
- Rest stops: There are benches and clearings for snack and diaper changes—carry a lightweight blanket in case kids want to sit on the grass.
Transfer to NW 23rd for early family dinner (short drive)
30-minute transfer toward the NW neighborhood—use this time as a buffer for a stroller fold, restroom stop, or nap check.
Tips from local experts:
- Timing: Aim for an early dinner to avoid crowds and to match younger kids’ bedtimes (arrive 17:00–17:30).
- Parking: NW 23rd has paid street parking and some garages—look for family parking in small lots near restaurants.
- Stretch break: Use the transfer to let kids walk a bit at a small playground or green strip before dinner.
Dinner: Laughing Planet Cafe — healthy, allergy-aware, and kid-friendly
Casual dinner with bowls, burritos, and a clear kids’ menu. The staff are used to families and can adapt orders for allergies (recommended ages: all).
Tips from local experts:
- Kids' options: Ask for smaller bowls or sides if you want simpler flavors for young children; they often accommodate swaps for dairy-free or gluten-free requests.
- Seating & pace: Request a seat with space for a stroller or high chair; the menu is fast and flexible—good if kids need a quick meal before bedtime routines.
- Nearby: After dinner, NW 23rd has safe sidewalks for a short stroller walk to burn off a little energy before heading home.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 5 |
| Total Activities | 12 |
| Total Places | 12 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Restaurant, Transfer, Experience, Meal, Outdoor, Culture |
