Updated by Tiffany Hill
I had a baby last summer, and understandably, going out now looks much different for my partner and I as new parents. But the good news is that Portland is teeming with stuff to do with the littlest of little ones.
For the days when you have the time — and energy! — to step outside of the house, or just need a change of scenery, here are 10 ways to explore the city with your babe.
Storytimes. Little ones from birth to 12 months can enjoy a special story time, just for them, at Multnomah County libraries. The one-hour storytimes also include songs, playtime and a time to hangout with other parents. Washington County libraries also have a specific baby storytime, as does Clackamas County and Fort Vancouver County. Looking for even more storytimes? Check out our list of favorites happening at local bookstores.
Music. Your kids are never too young to get exposed to some great music. Luckily, Portland has a “kindie” music scene to beat all kindie music scenes. Many performers have weekly or biweekly shows, so you can catch a regular performance by musicians like Red Yarn, Mo Philips, Kelli Welli, Mr. Ben, Olive & Dingo and many other great performers at kid-friendly locations around town any day of the week. Most of the shows have a suggested donation of around $5. Check our events calendar for the weekly lineup. Another great option is to sign up for a weekly music class with your baby. Music Together and Birdie Beats both have wonderful programs.
Museums. Toting your little to a museum offers fun stimulation for their growing brains (and is the perfect option when you have older kiddoss in need of entertaining). The Science Playground at OMSI is specially designed for kiddos ages 0-6. For little animal lovers, there’s the Oregon Zoo. Want to enjoy the arts with your babe? Visit the Portland Art Museum. The best part about visiting these places with a baby — they get in for free! For families with older kiddos in tow, check out how to utilize your library card for free and discounted admission around town.
Movies. Movie theaters and babies don’t seem like a good match, but thankfully there are special movie times where it’s completely socially acceptable to having a fussy baby in a darkened theater. There’s Baby Blockbusters at McMenamins Kennedy School and My Way Matinee at the Regal Bridgeport Village. Pro tip: For older littles, don’t miss Friday movie nights in the Family Cinema at the Judy!
Playspaces. Frequent rainy days means Portland has no shortage of indoor play spaces in the Portland-area. Interactive spaces just for babies plus friendly communities for adults is a parenting win-win.
Classes. For parents with a particularly active little one, get out the wiggles with a baby-specific class, like a swimming class at the North Clackamas Aquatic Park or gymnastics at The Children’s gym. (Both are 2024 PDX Parent Reader Favorites winners!)
Hiking. Show your baby the great PNW by going on a baby-and-parent-friendly hike. The folks at We Are OutGrown (the organization that started Hike It Baby) has great tips for hitting the trail with your little one. And for meet up hikes with other families, join the Portland Facebook group.
Happy hours. With the early bedtime, 8 pm dinners with a babe just aren’t doable. That’s why we love that so many of Portland’s great drinking establishments offer easy-on-the-wallet happy hour deals — that you can bring you little one to. Pro tip: you don’t need to imbibe to enjoy happy hour; these places also have tasty dishes on special, plus, great non-alcoholic options.
Playgrounds. Sure, the swings and slides at playgrounds are for older kiddos, but that doesn’t mean your baby won’t enjoy visiting one of our great playgrounds. It’s great people watching for them, and some much needed fresh air for you both!
Exercise. Giving yourself a chance to workout can feel so good after months of having all your organs squished into a six-inch radius! FIT4MOM is a great options to get your workout in while still being close to your little one. If you’re looking for something a little mellower, check out a parent-and-baby yoga class.
Support groups. Sometimes you need a little extra help. There are tons of places to get help with newborn-related issues – from breastfeeding to postpartum depression.
Looking for even more baby-friendly adventures? Check out a whole day worth of fun with your little (plus ideas for older kids and tweens and teens)!
Best of luck getting out of the house with your wee one and enjoying some of what Portland has to offer!
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