Beat the Winter Blues With These Kid-Friendly Activities

Updated by Courtney O’Leary

Whether you want to head out for snowy adventures or snuggle down for cozy fun, here are some ideas to get you through the winter.

Snow Fun

Who knows if it will snow here — but if it does, we’ve got some great hills. Try the steep hill just outside of Sellwood Park on the south end, or head to Gabriel Park or Cathedral Park for some awesome hills. No snow? We love White River West Sno-Park.

If you go, plan to go early and be prepared with water, food and tire tractions. Check driving conditions before you go, and know that there is also heavier road traffic than usual. There are fewer people and less traffic if you go on a weekday.)

For an out-of-this-world (and out of the city) adventure, head to Skibowl East, just south of Government Camp and snag a few two-hour cosmic tubing passes. Tickets required. Check road conditions before you head out, be prepared for road traffic and bring tire chains.

Wax your skis and head to Cooper Spur Mountain Resort for a great starter mountain for the family. There’s a gentle bunny slope perfect for beginners.

If You Go

Plan to go early and be prepared with water, food and tire tractions. Check driving conditions before you go, and know that there is also heavier road traffic than usual. Pro tip: There are fewer people and less traffic if you go on a weekday.)

 Don’t forget to pick up a day or winter seasonal parking pass when heading to any sno-park on Mt. Hood.

Watch Roller Derby and Skate

The world champion Rose City Rollers begin the 2025 season in January with bouts taking place at the Oaks Park hangar. RCR is also the leader in junior roller derby, making this sport accessible to all ages. Fast paced and fun, you can get your tickets online.

Wanna do the skating yourself? You can roll along to some fabulous tunes on skates at Oaks Park.

Volunteer

Families often give back together through Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend of service. Teaching empathy through action fosters gratitude and a greater appreciation for our community. Consider one of these ways to volunteer with your family.

Visit a Market

Get your fill of winter veggies at a winter farmers market. Hollywood Farmers Market, People’s Farmers Market, and PSU Farmers Market, among others, are open all year long.

Take a Hike

Have you ever walked on water? Well, winter is your chance to do just that at Trillium Lake. The popular Trillium Lake hike is a 4.4-mile trek featuring a 1.9-loop around a picturesque lake with Mt. Hood views and a gentle out and back from the sno-park. Pro tip: Again, prepare for your visit by checking road conditions and heading out early with food, water and tire tractions and go on a weekday if you can.

Lace up those hiking boots again and head out for a winter nature walk. We love the views from Mt. Tabor at this time of year!

Try one of these Portland-area parks specifically recommended by Portland Parks & Recreation staff as good choices for the winter.

Light It Up

Winter doesn’t have to be a time of darkness. Bundle up and visit the Portland Winter Light Festival on the weekends of February 7-15. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the beloved event!

Celebrate the New Year

Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Lan Su Chinese Garden where the whole family can learn more about this festive and colorful holiday with events that feature lion dances, cultural performances, martial arts, and more.. The Chinese Friendship Association of Portland will also celebrate the Chinese New Year at Keller Auditorium on Saturday Feb 1. Art and craft activities begin at 5 pm with performances at 7:30 pm.

Get Crafty

Make art at The Craft Factory, Mimosa Studios or SCRAP.

The weather may not be quite right for gardening yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create your very own indoor fairy garden. Go to Artemisia, Roosevelt Terrariums or Pistils Nursery to create a magical terrarium, perfect for visiting fairies and elve, or garner inspiration for some green thumb crafts.

For even more art and craft ideas and opportunities, see our more comprehensive list here.

Watch Animals

The Oregon Zoo is open with timed reservations. Drizzly weather and smaller crowds often means you get to see more of the animals. Plus get the chance to meet the newest addition Berry, the two toed sloth, as well as the winter-only exhibit of Pacific Lampreys.

Drive the auto tour of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. In the winter the refuge is only open to car traffic, and it’s a scenic and pretty drive-through experience. Your family might spot deer, ducks and rabbits. Pro tip: If you go, it is a 35-minute drive from Portland, and there are no restrooms available.

Indoor Play

Sometimes, your children just need to get the wiggles out. And what better way to do it than with some trampolines and indoor playspaces. From giant venues with ninja warrior courses for teens to soft and safe spots for littles, see which spot is best for everyone in your family — including you! Many of these sites offer parents an opportunity to rest, relax, and/or work with food, drink, and WiFi.

Story Times

Get cozy with a good book or two. Our city has a wealth of libraries, most of which offer toddler and family reading classes. Check out the beautiful, brand new Holgate Library complete with a teen space. Bookstores are another great option, with our city brimming with 20 indie shops, and others that specifically cater to younger clientele.

Eat Sweets

Treat yourself. Here are our readers’ poll winners for the best places to take the kids for a sweet treat.

Dance Party

Ready to dance the day away? You can find some musical inspiration and lessons at Musical Monsters and Budding Bookworms in Woodstock or you can go all in an a kid-friendly rave — complete with DJs and black lights.

Check the Kids Calendar. You’ll find daily options for kid-approved fun!