OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry)
Explore math, science, and technology here. Permanent exhibits include the Life Science exhibit and various labs where kids can do experiments and learn about chemistry and biology. Attractions include a planetarium, OMNIMAX Theater, and the USS Blueback Submarine. Location: 1945 SE Water Ave.
Oregon Zoo
Come see creatures from around the globe and enjoy the zoo’s nationally recognized educational programs. You will find 64 acres of wildlife. The zoo’s star is Packy, their Asian elephant. The zoo is known internationally for the most successful breeding herd of Asian elephants of any zoo. Location: 4001 SW Canyon Rd.
Portland Children’s Museum
Here kids of all ages can enjoy activities of all kinds. They can put on their own show, dance, dress up, and make music. They can also experiment with water and clay, sculpt, paint, draw, or sew. When they are finished with that, they can also have a puppet show and relax at story time. They won’t be bored while here! Location: Washington Park
Pearl District
This is a great part of the city where you can spend part of a day. Here you will find upscale shopping, great restaurants, wine bars, art galleries, and more. You can also experience First Thursday, a monthly celebration of art and urban culture. Location: North of downtown between Burnside and the Willamette River
Portland Saturday Market
Every weekend (Saturday and Sunday) from March through Christmas Eve, you can shop the Portland Saturday Market for crafts, pottery, jewelry, toys, and much more made by local artisans. There’s also live music, an international food court, and craft-making for kids. Location: Under the west side of the Burnside Bridge
Powell’s Books
This store takes up an entire city block! Be sure you get a map on the main floor so you can find your way around. Powell’s is the largest independent book store in the world. This is a must to experience Portland! Powell’s prides itself in offering an enormous selection of books while keeping it personal. It stands 4 stories high and books are stacked to the ceiling! Contains a coffee shop and don’t mind you eating while you browse. Has an extensive collection of rare and collectible books and features reading and book signings by prominent authors. Location: 1005 Burnside
Lloyd Center
Come shop and play at the largest mall in Oregon. Mall covers over 50 acres and offers tax-free shopping at more than 200 specialty shops and service providers. Inside you will find a food court, indoor ice-skating rink, 18 movie screens, restaurants, and entertainment. Location: Northeast Ninth Ave. at Multnomah St.
For lunch or dinner – Take a Cruise
Portland Spirit
This is an excellent way to see Portland—by water! Enjoy riverboat dining aboard the Portland Spirit. Has room for 350 guests for seated meal cruises. Offers Willamette River cruises and Columbia River cruises aboard the Portland Spirit and her sister ships, the Willamette Star, the Crystal Dolphin, and the Outrageous Jetboat. Your dining experience aboard the Portland Spirit includes fresh Northwest cuisine prepared onboard, excellent service, great views of Portland’s downtown skyline, and live entertainment. You can choose a lunch cruise, dinner cruise, or brunch cruise or you can simply take a sightseeing tour to enjoy the views. For reservations: (503) 224-3900
Sources:
www.japanesegarden.com
www.portlandchinesegarden.org
www.about.com
www.portlandspirit.com
www.bootsnall.com
www.oregon.com
www.pova.com
www.portlandartmuseum.org
www.ohs.org