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Kid-Friendly Dining
Gather 'round the table at these kid-approved eateries.
These family-friendly Portland standouts combine awesome children’s menus, play areas and fun in creative ways.
Breakfast and Brunch
Challenge the family to a flapjack throwdown at this kids’ favorite with built-in table griddles. At Slappy Cakes, select your batter and toppings (like fruit, peanut butter, cheese, chocolate chips and marshmallows), and go to town on your silly, outrageous or just plain over-the-top concoctions.
A kids’ play area full of toys and books lets little ones entertain themselves at Mother’s Bistro, whose menu features classic comfort food (think pot roast, mac and cheese, and chicken dumplings), all sourced from recipes created by moms from around the world.
Tin Shed Garden Cafe is a long-running, family- and dog-friendly spot in the Alberta Arts District. They specialize in tasty takes on American breakfast and lunch classics, like scrambles, salads, sandwiches and burgers. Parents will love that they open early and take reservations. Kids will love the dedicated children’s menu and dog-watching on the patio (okay — parents might love the dog-watching too!).
Pizza Party!
Home to some of Portland’s best pies since 1974, Old Town Pizza’s Old Town Chinatown location is rumored to be haunted (will Nina the ghost join you for dinner?), and its expansive eastside Old Town Brewing location has plenty of room for kids. They’re both good bets for parents seeking a family-friendly, easy-to-access pizzeria and brewpub. (Did we mention that they brew award-winning beers?)
Part music venue and part pizzeria, Mississippi Pizza is one of Portland’s most family-friendly eateries, known for its weekly kid-centric entertainment and a bevy of pizza options, from single slices to 18-inch pies, all available with gluten-free and vegan substitutions.
Pizza Jerk — which has locations downtown and on Northeast 42nd Avenue — captures the spirit of the ‘80s and ‘90s with its classic pies, throwback dining rooms and fun desserts (think Rice Krispies Treats and soft-serve ice cream). Kids might not care as much as grown-ups about the nostalgia — but they’ll definitely care about the delicious eats.
Quick and Casual
Local chain Little Big Burger’s quarter-pound burgers are as addictive as they come — and perfect for little hands — with fresh brioche rolls, local cheese, homemade “Camden’s Catsup” and truffle fries on the side. Don’t miss the root beer floats with local Tillamook ice cream.
With locations in Southeast and North Portland, ¿Por Qué No? has you and the fam covered all across town. This popular spot features an expansive menu of Mexican-inspired favorites, including tasty, reasonably priced options for kids. Order at the counter, grab a table on the patio or in the cheery dining room, and chow down.
Healthy Options
The scene is whimsical and always fun at Portland’s many Laughing Planet cafés. Nutritious options like veggie-loaded bean burritos disappear fast as kids peruse vibrant artwork and more. The smoothies are a hit with diners of all ages.
Some children’s menus lean into hearty, meat-and-cheese-forward fare. It’s tasty, and popular for a reason, but sometimes you have to switch things up — do so with a visit to Boke Bowl, where options for kids include a peanut butter and jelly bao bun and the Bambino ramen bowl (with noodles, broth, snow peas and your choice of pork or tofu). The location is an added bonus — after filling up, you’ll find yourself just a block from eclectic, kid-friendly shops Cargo and Lippman Co, and just half a mile from the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI).
Family-Friendly Attractions
Portland is packed with attractions kids (and the rest of the family) will love.
Kid-Friendly Breweries
Portland is known for its stellar breweries, which come in all styles and sizes, and plenty of Portland pubs don’t just tolerate youngsters — they welcome them with open arms. One of Portland’s most popular breweries for all audiences, Hopworks Brewery earns rave reviews from families for its play area (fully equipped with toys and books) and a kids menu that features local, organic ingredients. Mom and Dad can enjoy stellar organic brews and grown-up menu options.
When Northeast Portland‘s McMenamins Kennedy School first opened in 1915, it was literally built for children. That’s because it was originally an elementary school that sat vacant for years before being converted into a family-friendly brewpub and hotel in 1997. The biggest draws for kids are the on-site movie theater and warm, shallow soaking pool; parents will enjoy the six restaurants and bars on the premises.
Over in North Portland, Stormbreaker Brewing is another great option that caters to kids and beer-lovers alike. Enjoy the bold brews, spacious taproom and expansive patio — the dedicated children’s menu features classics like chicken tenders, quesadillas and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Family-Friendly Portland
Once the whole family's full, it's time to have some fun.
Indoor Activities for Kids
Portland offers a broad array of indoor activities for kids and families, including story times, indoor playgrounds, arcades, skating and more.
Indoor Activities in Portland
Don’t let a rainy day (or a hot one!) stop you from having fun in Portland — enjoy museums, movie theaters, arcades, shopping and other indoor activities.
Kid-Friendly Regional Attractions
Trips outside the city promise all-ages entertainment. Here are four must-see attractions within two hours of downtown Portland.
Sweets and Espresso Drinks
Treat yourself to a wide array of delicious baked goods at Posies Bakery & Cafe, including cinnamon rolls, pastries, cookies and slices of decadent cake. While the littles get out some energy in the dedicated kids room, boost your energy with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or an espresso drink. For another kid-friendly coffee shop, try Slow Pour Coffee + Bar in Sellwood-Moreland, a friendly neighborhood spot that also has a children’s area equipped with toys, books and more.
In the heart of the downtown Portland’s West End, Petunia’s Pies & Pastries offers a great selection of gorgeous baked goods, all of which are 100% gluten-free and vegan — making ideal treats for the children that so often miss out on sweet goodies because of dietary restrictions. For more special-diet-friendly desserts, Tiny Moreso offers vegan, gluten-free treats that don’t skimp on flavor.
Any day’s a good day for a cupcake — pay a visit to Saint Cupcake for decadent, made-from-scratch creations. They also have cakes, cookies, pies, pastries and more, all baked daily right here in Portland.
Events for Kids
Take a look at the calendar — there's sure to be a family-friendly event happening soon.
Tree Time Preschool Walks
Come for a story and guided walk on the trails at Hoyt Arboretum. Use your senses to explore the natural surroundings and maybe even get your hands dirty. Staff and trained Arboretum volunteers will introduce you and your family to the plants, trees, insects, mushrooms, and more found at Hoyt Arboretum. Tree Time walks are...
Easter Egg Hunt at Eagle Landing
The Easter Egg Hunt will be held on the golf course rain or shine. Make sure to dress your little ones in weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. Please bring your own basket to collect eggs. Parents need not pay for themselves, just their kids.
Kodomo no Hi, Children's Day
Kodomo no Hi, also called Children’s Day, is commemorated each year in Japan on May 5th to celebrate the growth and good fortune of children. The festival will feature a range of family-friendly activities. Come listen to taiko performances, learn origami, explore the garden using our special Discovery Map designed by Mike Bennett, and enjoy...
Rose Festival Fred Meyer Junior Parade
Fun reigns at the Fred Meyer Junior Parade from the moment the lovable Fred Bear cuts the ribbon to the last float that goes down the street. Children from all parts of Portland participate by dressing in costume, transforming wagons into floats, decorating bikes with colorful flowers, or just by parading with friends and family. Elementary and Middle School marching bands fill...
Downtown Portland Sunday Parkways
Portland Sunday Parkways, Presented by Kaiser Permanente, announces an exciting new route: the Downtown Portland Sunday Parkways. This route will be unique as there are so many gems to feature in the heart of Downtown Portland for Portlanders and visitors. The event will have a block party feel to celebrate the spirit of Portland and...
Photos With the Bunny
The Easter Bunny is back at Washington Square. Families are invited to stop by for a magical moment with the Bunny in a festive springtime setting. Visits with the Easter Bunny are completely free—no reservations or tickets are required. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick hello or making it a family tradition, this is a...
BOLD Children’s Storytime
Join Saturday mornings for children’s storytime. Whether an author is here to read their book or the staff is reading a favorite, the stories featured will spread compassion, awareness, and positivity. Children will get a coloring page or sticker to take home, too. The shop carries juice, snacks, and other items for kids and adults. While...
Spring On The Farm
Join Triskelee Farm for an eggciting day at the farm! Come for egg hunts, pictures with the Easter Bunny, crafts, and bouncing around. The bunny will be making appearances from 10:30-1:30 p.m. The egg hunt is suitable for all kids. The eggs are empty, and there are no set times. Come hunt for eggs and redeem...
Pete the Cat
Pete the Cat and company rock out in this fast-paced, globe-trotting musical adventure based on the smash hit book series! Catch your favorite groovy cat live on stage as he helps Jimmy Biddle find inspiration and unleash his creativity. Most enjoyed by ages four and up
Easter Egg Hunt at Lee Farms
Lee Farms is excited to kick off the year of events with their Kids' Easter Egg Hunts. Offered for multiple dates and times to ensure a safe, limited occupancy events with lots of room to roam and a fun time for your family. Included in Egg Hunt Ticket: Egg Hunt for 12 empty eggs to...
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