Activities for Kids

Great Pit Stops on Your Road Trip to the Coast

Take a road trip to the coast, but don't miss out on crazy slides and chainsaw carvings along the way.

By liz overson August 15, 2014

Sean D. via Yelp http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/out-of-this-world-pizza-and-play-hillsboro#Dxbt190rgHq08P99JuK2Uw

Late summer is the perfect time to enjoy both sun and sand at the majestic Oregon coast. Part of the joy is the journey, not just the destination, so click through our album to find six quick stops along the way, from Portland to the coast. They’ll alleviate your kids’ backseat boredom, fend off rumbling tummies and cure them of the worst case of the wiggles.

Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals

Not only is the staff uber-friendly, but the grounds are lovely and the history of the family and their passion for rocks, minerals and gems is stellar. For the smaller geologists, they offer hands-on fun with a giant rock pile and, to top it off, each kiddo gets to choose a palm-sized rock to take home. For added glee, watch the short film about the discovery of the the giant red gem in the basement before you go see the gem itself.

26385 NW Groveland Dr.
Hillsboro, Or
503-647-2418
Online: ricenorthwestmuseum.org

Photo credit: Liz Overson

Where does your family take a break from the road trip? Tell us in the Comments section below!

– Liz Overson