Activities for Kids

The Perfect Portland Summer Bucket List

Be sure to plan a trip to the berry patch, take a breathtaking tram ride or hike to the top of the city as part of your Portland summer fun.

By Marianne Walters June 28, 2015

https://www.flickr.com/photos/cscottmills/5147357821/in/photolist-6UBgom-8QRy9D-57KWHZ-cAfGaE-gKbKzF-oZaFQX

Who needs to jet set to a tropical island when Portland has plenty of excitement, like tram rides with a bird’s-eye view, berry patches and sandy beach trips within a stone’s throw of home? Read on to discover eight close-to-home adventures that’ll make your summer unforgettable.

1. Hike to the Top of the City

Feeling ambitious? The 4T trail is the coolest hike you’ll ever take because it involves a trail, tram, trolley and train. Start at the zoo and follow the signs for a hike. Make sure your kids are feeling up to the gentle inclines you’ll encounter because strollers are not allowed. The trail leads to OHSU where you can take the tram down to the South Waterfront. (Bonus: The tram is free on the way down.) Follow the signs to the trolley, which will take you over the bridge to downtown, where you’ll hop on a train and end up back at the zoo. While in the South Waterfront area, grab lunch at Little Big Burger.

A couple other fun hikes that we love are Powell Butte (16160 SE Powell Blvd) and Tryon Creek in Southwest Portland. Both of these areas boast tons of trails, so you can choose your adventure depending on your tykes’ stamina.

photo: brx0 via Creative Commons

What’s on your summer bucket list? Let us know in the Comments below!

— Marianne Walters