Portland transforms into a winter wonderland as frosted flakes paint the city and majestic Mount Hood wears its snowy crown. Beyond the stunning scenery, the abundance of engaging activities will keep your winter blues at bay. In this guide, we’ll explore various wintertime experiences that cater to all interests, ensuring that everyone can make the most of the season.
Glide Across the Ice
The city embraces the winter spirit with several ice skating rinks where you can showcase your skills or learn the art of gliding. Popular spots like the Winterhawks Skating Center in Beaverton offer a delightful skating experience for all skill levels. Moreover, the arena provides skate classes for kids and adults as well as youth hockey and adult leagues.
Lloyd Center Ice Rink is another ice rink that offers public skating, skate lessons, broomball, freestyle sessions, and more. They also have Rock ‘N Skate with a live DJ on Fridays and Saturdays. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, these rinks provide the perfect opportunity for creating winter memories with family and friends.
Embark on a Family Winter Hike
Winter hiking in Portland is a great wintertime experience for families due to the numerous scenic trails in and around the city. The trails take on a different allure during this season, with crisp air and serene surroundings. Some must-try trails include:
- Hoyt Arboretum: Located only two miles from downtown Portland and has over 12 miles of hiking trails, all kid-friendly.
- Portland Japanese Garden: The kid-friendly trails of peaceful walkways lined with twisting streams provide views of Mount Hood and feature abundant plant life.
In addition to hiking, winter fishing in Clackamas River is also an amazing family bonding experience. The river is a tranquil setting for fishing enthusiasts to cast their lines and enjoy the solitude of winter by the water.
Take the Plunge
For brave souls willing to take on a daring winter challenge, the Polar Plunge awaits. The 2024 Special Olympics Polar Plunge will be held on February 24th at Willamette Park, and the plunging will begin at 11 a.m.
This event is not only an adrenaline-pumping adventure but also a noble cause. Participants can join the Polar Plunge, Polar 5k Fun Run, or both. Support Special Olympic athletes in Oregon by joining the event or making a donation.
Enjoy a Feast for the Senses
March unfolds in the city with the 18th Annual Portland Seafood & Wine Festival. Taking place from March 1-3 at the Portland Expo Center, this festival celebrates the peak of Dungeness Crab season. The event presents a feast of fresh Oregon seafood paired with exquisite wine, craft beers, cider, and distilled spirits.
Over 30 of the state’s finest wineries will offer you tastings of their very best. The event caters to all ages, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere with live entertainment, balloon artists, face painters, and more. This festival is not just a gastronomic delight but it also brings people together to savor the best flavors Oregon has to offer.
Indulge in Indoor Fun
Portland offers numerous indoor attractions suitable for kids of all ages. Here are some of the popular spots:
- Sykart Indoor Racing: Offers the best indoor go-karting experience in the Pacific NW.
- Electric Castle’s Wunderland: Cinemas, game rooms, escape rooms, go-karts, laser tag, mini golf, hologate VR, and more.
- Nest Playground: An indoor playground with rock climbing walls, a game room, and a full-service café.
- Oaks Amusement Park: For maximum fun at their roller skating rink, catch “Preschool Skate” on Tuesdays and Wednesdays or “Kids’ Morning” on Saturdays.
These venues serve as havens, providing options for both thrill seekers and those in search of a more laid-back experience. It’s the ideal solution for group gatherings or family outings when the chill in the air makes outdoor activities less appealing.
Enroll Your Kids in School’s Out Camps
For parents navigating the challenge of keeping young minds engaged during the no-school days, school’s out camps in the city present an enticing solution. These camps are designed to strike a harmonious balance between entertainment and education. Renowned winter camps in Portland include:
- BodyVox Creative Movement Class (Ages 4-5): Kids will work on movin’ and groovin’ using their own imagination, exploring the connection between creativity, rhythm, and music.
- Aim High Academy of Martial Arts Dinosaur Camp (Ages 4-12): Two days of fun with dinosaur-themed crafts and activities.
- Portland Waldorf School Waldorf Week Camp (Ages 3-6 & Grades 1-6): Includes a variety of artistic activities, time outdoors, seasonal offerings, games, and more.
Parents can rest easy knowing that their children are not just being entertained but are also embarking on a journey of discovery and skill development during their time away from the classroom.
Join the 2024 Winter Music Festival
The Winter Music Festival, now in its 12th season, defies winter blues by delivering a powerhouse of live performances from both local and national talents. This music festival stands out for its commitment to charitable causes. Over the years, it has generously supported organizations like United by Music, C.H.A.P. (Children’s Healing Arts Project), and the Oregon Food Bank.
The lineup includes renowned artists such as Daniel Castro, NW Women in Rhythm & Blues, RB Stone, and more. The event will be held on March 9th at Milwaukie Elks Lodge & Ballroom. For a ticket price of $40 in advance (kids under 10 are free), the festival provides a fantastic musical experience and an opportunity to support meaningful causes.
Whether it’s the thrill of outdoor adventures, the comfort of indoor entertainment, or the warmth of community events, Portland stands ready to embrace the wintertime. What winter activity are you most excited to try in Portland? Share your thoughts or ask for recommendations in the comments below!
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