Parents of preschoolers know that they are a special bunch, especially when it comes to finding activities that are the right fit. They aren’t quite old enough for school-aged kid adventures, but they’re well beyond the “mommy and me” sing-a-long classes. Here are some activities around Oregon that your preschooler will love and thrive in!
Oregon Coast Beaches
When you’re four-years-old, is there really anything better than running free on an endless beach? We can’t think of anything! No matter where you live in Oregon, a trip to the Oregon Coast beaches is top on the list of things to do with your preschooler. From splashing in the surf to exploring Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach to sliding down the sand dunes, this is far better than any playground you’ll find, and the look of glee on your preschooler’s face will say it all!
Location: Along Highway 101 on the Oregon Coast
Phone: Oregon Coast Visitors Association at 541-574-2679
Online: visittheoregoncoast.com
Portland Children’s Museum
If you’re in Portland, ask almost any parent where to take your preschooler for some fun and you’re sure to hear the same answer over and over again — the Portland Children’s Museum! This museum is perfect for the preschool-aged set, with exhibits that are hands-on, interactive and scaled down for preschool-sized adventure. They have just recently opened their first outdoor exhibit at the Portland Children’s Museum — the Zany Maze. And, psst! There is free admission on the first Friday of every month!
Location: 4015 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
Phone: 503-223-6500
Website: portlandcm.org
Oregon Zoo
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! We love the Oregon Zoo and your preschooler will too. This super walkable, easy-to-navigate zoo, where you can truly get up close and personal with every animal, is sure to keep your preschooler’s attention. Other reasons why the Oregon Zoo tops the list for preschooler activities is that you can easily bring a stroller along for when your kiddo decides that he’d like to take a ride. Don’t forget to check their website before you visit to see what daily events are happening — you won’t want to miss a visiting giraffe or a new baby bear!
Location: 4001 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
Phone: 503-226-1561
Website: oregonzoo.org
Powell’s Books
When it’s a rainy day in Oregon (we hear those happen from time to time!) and you’re feeling trapped at home with a stir-crazy preschooler, head to Powell’s Books! A beloved Oregon chain of independently owned bookstores, Powell’s is more than just kid-friendly — they welcome young book lovers with open arms, preschoolers included! Sit back and listen to story time, do some browsing for books that your child loves when at preschool or go on the hunt for a new favorite to take home.
Location: Multiple locations around Portland including their flagship location at 1005 W. Burnside, Portland, OR 97209
Phone: 503-228-4651
Website: powells.com
World Forestry Center
There’s no doubt that Oregon is one of the greenest states in the country — and we’re not just talking about its love for recycling! The World Forestry Center was designed to educate both children and adults about the importance of trees and forestry in the world and, believe it or not, it’s also one of the most preschooler-friendly activities in Oregon. There are interactive exhibits for children to explore, including the chance to pretend to be a real-life smoke jumper. You can even go on a canopy lift ride that takes you to the top of the center and check out the very tip top of the trees.
Location: 4033 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
Phone: 503-228-1367
Website: worldforestry.org
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