Built in 1949, Portland's Children's Museum (portlandcm.org) has attractions and activities for kids from six months to 10 years of age. There is a play area called the Dig Pit where kids can dig rubber pieces that resemble dirt. Water Works encourages education and some play with its fountains, funnels, valves and floats that explain to kids how water moves. The Studios allow children to paint, sculpt and make their own creations. You can keep your kids' creations for an additional fee. The Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays, in the months of March to August. Hours are the same from September to February; however Mondays are closed, as of the time of publication.
Oregon Coast Aquarium (aquarium.org) is one of the state's major attractions. Aquarium highlights include the Passages of the Deep, which introduces visitors to the huge and diverse variety of sea-life in Oregon's coastal waters. Travel through undersea walkways through three different ecosystems, featuring rock formations and fish species that include Rockfish, skates and sturgeon, along with lingcod, halibut and flounder. This exhibit also features five varieties of sharks, giant bat rays, anchovies and mackerel. Another highlight is the Swampland, a replicate of such ecosystems as South America's Pantanal swamp and Gulf Coast of the United States' Mangrove and Cypress swamps; this exhibit features a 16-foot anaconda and the Red Bellied Piranha, and a huge variety of swamp inhabitants. Interact closely with seals and sea lions. You can see giant Pacific octopuses, sea otters and Turkey vultures.
Rooster Rock State Park (oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/index.shtml) is a scenic setting with rocks, water and greenery. Overlooking the Columbia River is a rock structure called the Rooster Rock. Take a walk along the Columbia or go boating, kayaking or canoeing to explore the waters and fish. There is access to three miles of beach from the Park. Get your swimming gear and skills ready as this place is a well-known swimming spot. There are grassy grounds with picnic benches and tables to enjoy as a family. Play structures for both children and adults are available here.
Oregon Zoo (oregonzoo.org) is a place for families to enjoy, explore and learn. Founded in 1887, Oregon Zoo is a 64-acre facility housing animals from all parts of the world. There are Asian elephants, polar bears of the Arctic and Peruvian penguins, among others, and a variety of exotic birds. The Zoo organizes summer as well as winter and fall events to make zoo visits interesting for both children and adults. The Zoo Train is a highlight, taking visitors to a tour of the zoo along a one-mile route around the zoo grounds. The zoo opens to public throughout the year, except December 25.
