Exploring Portland Oregon with a baby

As a newcomer to the Portland area, I’ve been doing plenty of exploring. After relocating from Las Vegas with my husband and two-month-old son, it was a challenge to find fun things for all of us to do. While there are many fantastic activities and local events geared toward children, a baby under six months isn’t quite ready for some of those activities! The following area attractions and excursions will help new or soon-to-be mothers in the area to enjoy the city of Portland with a little one:

The Coast: driving the two hours or so to the Oregon Coast can be a challenge, but it can be done, and it’s worth it. We stopped at Seaside and got the first picture of little feet in the sand and the ocean, a memory we’ll treasure.

Tips: During a trip to the coast, forego the stroller, it’s like a pile of bricks on the sand! Go for a baby carrier instead. Don’t forget a blanket to sit on, unless you never plan to lay baby down. Sand and baby eyes don’t mix. Lastly, try some of the smaller, less populated beaches in the area. It makes feedings and diaper changes much more comfortable. It’s also an easier walk now that you’ve got an extra 20 lbs. wherever you go.

The Oregon Zoo: Your baby may not pay attention to the animals the way bigger kids do, but the zoo (easily accessible by MAX) still holds plenty of interest for them. And there may be rare moments when baby watches a monkey or walrus in a way that will delight any Mom.

Tips: Pack a lunch; a small cooler strapped to the stroller is great to have on hand. Don’t forget inclement weather gear, and remember that the zoo is very stroller-friendly, though bring a carrier as well so baby can see the animals better.

The Portland Zoo is great if you’re venturing out solo with baby. The zoo’s restroom facilities are well set up to make things easier, and places to sit and let baby eat are plentiful.

Columbia River Gorge, Hwy 30: The Gorge is known for its gorgeous scenery, and for the parent who loves the outdoors (but for whom difficult hikes aren’t an option right now), this is the next best thing.

Tips: Stop at the Vista house for a great photo op, but remember that it’s not very accessible for strollers inside (opt for the carrier). The hike up Multnomah Falls might be a bit much right now, but that won’t stop you from the short walks and easy hikes to the base of waterfalls along the way.

The Portland Children’s Museum: The Portland Children’s Museum is great if you want to get out of the house with baby and stimulate that little brain! Most of the museum is geared for slightly older kids, but there is a Baby Garden room, with plenty of toys specifically for infants.

Tips: In the Clay Studio, there is an infant area where baby can get their hands dirty. Keep in mind that on busy days, you may have to park your stroller.

The Portland Saturday Market: while quieter venues like the Japanese or Chinese Garden, public libraries, where a lot of noise is going to turn heads, may be out for a while, the Saturday Market (located at Burnside Bridge) is a vibrant and busy event that’s visually stimulating.

Exploring a city near you this Thanksgiving holiday? Stop by BlogFrog to contribute your favorite roadside pit stops!

Marie Langager is a Portland resident and guest writer for Pit Stops for Kids.

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