Winter is around the corner and the cold is here to stay! Don’t let that stop you from having the best winter yet! Zip down a snowy hill, sip delicious hot cocoa, jump around an indoor gym, or snuggle up and play a game at a cozy vintage trailer haven. We’ve come up with 8 experiences to make this a perfect Portland season for you and yours. Read on for details on some of our favorite things to do when the temperature drops.
photo: Ryan Dickey via flickr
IceSkating at Lloyd Center
Feeling down and need a laugh? Head to the Lloyd Center for Public Skate and giggle your way in ice circles. One of the quickest ways to shift your mood is to try something new, exciting, slightly challenging, and fun. Stop, rest, and get inspiration watching the pros in the center of the circle. Go ahead try it!
954 Lloyd Center
503-288-6073
Online: lloydice.com
Children’s Gym
This Northeast Portland gym offers children’s gymnastics and dance classes along with camps, after school care and play time. The space is fun and inviting with lots of seating for parents who want to watch the action. It’s a great spot for kids who need to move and groove! The best part is that they also build lasting friendships and become a part of a new community.
1625 NE Sandy Blvd
503-249-5867
Online: childrensgym.com
Harlem Globetrotters
You don’t want to miss the Harlem Globetrotters! This worldwide icon is here to provide the whole family with a night of FUN! They are coming to the Moda Center Dec 27 so get your tickets now. Stick around after the game and you might get lucky and score some high fives and autographs. Don’t forget to check out their Girl, Boy, and Cub Scout discounts!
Moda Center
1 N Center Ct St.
503-235-8771
Online: harlemglobetrotters.com\
Tubing at Skibowl
Do you have a family of thrill seekers? If so, a visit to Mt. Hood might be exactly what you need! Glide downhill on inner tubes, ride a conveyor lift back up, and repeat. Kids must be at least 36” tall to tube. For an extra adventurous day check out the Kiddie Snowmobiles that are specially designed for younger kids in a safe and controlled environment. When it’s time for a short break from the cold head into the heated “Frosty’s Playhouse” for snacks, warmth, and indoor play.
87000 US 26
Government Camp, Or
503-272-3206
Online: skibowl.com
photo: Mt. Hood Territory via flickr
Northwest Children’s Theater
Up Next at the Northwest Children’s Theater is the classic Cinderella! The Oregonian says it’s hip, full of wit, and impossible not to love. Ticket prices range from $16-25 and are available through Jan 1. If your child is more interested in starring in their own play sign up for winter classes.
Northwest Children’s Theater
1819 NW Everett St.
503-222-4480
Online: nwcts.org
Sou’Wester
Spend a weekend snuggling in vintage trailer heaven. The Sou’Wester is a cozy haven located in Historic Seaview Washington. This hodgepodge of vintage travel trailers, cabins and the coziest lodge you’ve ever seen is the perfect winter escape for the whole family. It’s a great excuse to make fresh bread, watch a 80s movie on VHS, and enjoy hazy morning hikes in this Pacific Northwest Wonderland! You may never want to leave.
3728 J Place
Seaview, Wa 98644
360-642-2542
Online: souwester.com
photo: Eli Duke via flickr
Donuts and Hot Chocolate at Pip’s Original
If you have been craving kid sized donuts and Hot Chocolate, say no more. Pick up the kids from school and head straight to Pip’s Original Donuts for a special family treat. You won’t be disappointed. The staff is adorable, the flowers are fresh, and the chalkboard handwritten. Pip’s donuts are the perfect snack size and range in flavors from raw honey & sea salt, cinnamon sugar, ginger peach, Nutella, the dirty wu, and maple bacon! The kid’s hot cocoa costs $1 and is steamed with your choice of hemp, cow, almond, or soy milk. If it’s a sunny afternoon stop by Grant Park on your way home for a quick game of tag or some sliding board & swing fun! If more hot chocolate sounds like a good idea go ahead and work your way through this list.
4759 NE Fremont St.
503-206-8692
Online: pipsmobile.com
Spectra Gymnastics
Spectra Gymnastics is a specialized studio in Beaverton OR that caters to working with kids with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities. Their team of highly qualified staff create an environment where everyone can experience success in their bodies. Join them every Saturday from 9am-12pm for family friendly fun in the gym! It’s $5 per child and parents play free! It’s first come first served so get there early!
8344 SW Nimbus Ave
Beaverton, Or
503-754-9794
Online: spectrapdx.com
What’s on your winter must-do list? Let us know in the comments!
—Elissa Cirignotta
