A group of children dressed in festive holiday attire eagerly await their next holiday adventure in Portland, Oregon. Their faces radiate excitement and anticipation as they stand before a backdrop decorated for the season.

Top 10 Holiday Adventures in the Portland Area with Kids 2023! 

Get ready to make some holiday memories with your little ones with our exclusive guide to Top 10 Holiday Adventures in the Portland Area with Kids 2023!, carefully curated by Baby Nest Birth Services. Portland transforms into a winter wonderland, offering families with kids of all ages a plethora of enchanting experiences. From festive markets to captivating performances, let’s unwrap the fun you can enjoy this holiday season with a baby, toddler or school-aged kiddos!

As the festive season draws near, parents and families are on the lookout for fun and engaging activities to keep their little ones entertained. The Portland, Oregon area transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, offering an abundance of magical experiences for kids of all ages.

From twinkling lights to embarking on whimsical train rides, Portland’s holiday season is brimming with unforgettable adventures that will spark joy and create lasting memories for your children. Prepare to be amazed as we unveil the Top 10 Holiday Adventures in the Portland Area with Kids 2023, ensuring that your family’s holiday getaway in this charming city is nothing short of extraordinary.

Portland’s Top 10 Holiday Adventures with Kids 2023!

Take a Ride on the Holiday Express Christmas Train

Train rides just make the whole family happy! That being said, embark on a magical journey aboard the Holiday Express Christmas Train. A train ride really is a cherished tradition in Portland during the festive season. And you don’t even have to go to Hood River for it! Check out this Portland holiday train from November 24 to December 17, 2023. This vintage steam train, adorned with twinkling lights and holiday cheer is a wonderful holiday adventure with kids.

As you settle into the festively decorated train cars, the spirit of the holidays comes alive. Join the fun as Santa Claus and his elves interact with children and spreading holiday cheer. The train travels along a beautiful scenic Oregon route. You’ll take in breathtaking views of the Willamette River and the twinkling cityscape or Portland, Oregon.

The Holiday Express Train operates from November 24 to December 17, 2023. Train rides depart every 90 minutes, with starting times ranging from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Adult tickets are priced at $31, while child tickets are $25. Family passes are also available. The train departs from the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, located at 2250 SE Water Ave. Portland OR 97214.

Join in Mrs. Claus Storytime

Santa gets so much press…but we kinda love Mrs. Claus! Enrich your holiday season with the enchanting Mrs. Claus Storytime, a heartwarming tradition that will captivate children of all ages. Embark on a delightful journey to Bridgeport Village at 7455 SW Bridgeport Rd. Tigard, OR 97224, where Mrs. Claus herself awaits to share her love of storytelling and holiday cheer.

Beyond the captivating storytelling, Mrs. Claus Storytime offers a treasure trove of activities for the whole family. Children can enjoy a Meet and Greet with North Pole friends. The newly unveiled play area provides endless opportunities for fun and exploration. As well there are lots of family-friendly restaurants that offer delectable treats to fuel the holiday spirit. 

So gather your little ones and embark on a magical journey to Mrs. Claus Storytime! It’s held every Wednesday from November 29th to December 13th at 11:00 AM. Admission to Mrs. Claus Storytime is free, making it an ideal opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit with your family.

Visit the Silverton Christmas Market

Step into a winter wonderland of enchantment at the Silverton Christmas Market! This is a new Portland, Oregon special holiday tradition that promises a magical experience for the whole family. All ages will be in awe of the twinkling glow of over one million lights. This holiday adventure is held at the Oregon Garden Resort, transforming the serene landscape into a breathtaking spectacle.

From November 17th to December 31st, the Silverton Christmas Market in the Portland area. Open most days from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. You can also explore the authentic German Christmas Market. You’ll discover an array of handcrafted treasures from local artisans and imported German nutcrackers, smokers, and ornaments.

Embark on a festive journey filled with unforgettable activities and attractions. Delight in the heartwarming melodies of live music in the family-friendly Biergarten. You can gather around crackling bonfires for a cozy respite too. For the more adventurous parents, take a thrilling ride down the snowless tubing hill, presented by Power Kia. They also have a variety of delectable food and festive drinks to enjoy. For those seeking a cherished memory, Santa will be making special appearances to hear your children’s wishes.

Admission to the Silverton Christmas Market ranges from $5- $20 and free for children under 5 years old. Make it a weekend getaway by booking the Silverton Christmas Market package! This includes overnight accommodations, breakfast, and market entry located at The  Oregon Garden 879 W Main St. Silverton, OR 97381.

Take on Portland’s Holiday Hunt, AI Style

Throw that baby of yours in a baby carrier and join in on this one-of-a-kind holidays adventure! Embark on a captivating adventure through the heart of Portland with Portland’s Holiday Hunt! This is a brand-new interactive experience that transforms the city into a magical wonderland. You follow a trail of whimsical clues left by Santa’s playful elves. They will lead you to six hidden Augmented Reality (AR) experiences scattered throughout the vibrant downtown Portland area.

Join in the AI reality hunt From December 1st to January 1st, Portland’s Holiday Hunt. All you need is a smartphone as your trusty companion! Parents and kids can you’ll unravel the clues and unveil these hidden AR experiences together.

As you progress through the hunt, you’ll discover a treasure trove of engaging activities and attractions. Along the way, you’ll encounter a cast of whimsical characters. From mischievous elves to jolly gingerbread men, adding to the merriment and holiday spirit.

Participation in Portland’s Holiday Hunt is completely free! This makes it an ideal family-friendly activity to embrace the magic of the season for ALL. So gather your loved ones, grab your smartphone! Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Portland’s holiday wonderland.

Wander through the Christmas lights on Peacock Lane

Can’t leave this Pdx holiday tradition out! As the holiday season approaches, Southeast Portland’s Peacock Lane transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle of festive illuminations, captivating the hearts of young and old alike. This beloved tradition, spanning back over 90 years, invites families and friends to embark on a delightful stroll through a wonderland of twinkling lights, creating unforgettable holiday memories.

The Christmas lights on Peacock Lane are more than just a visual spectacle; they represent a cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations, bringing families and communities together to celebrate the joy of the season. As you stroll through the illuminated streets, you’ll witness the infectious merriment of children’s eyes sparkling with delight, creating heartwarming moments that will last a lifetime.

Peacock Lane is open every night from December 14th to 31st from 6pm to 11pm. On December 15th, 16th, and 17th, the street will be closed to cars, making it a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the lights. Peacock Lane is located at 706 SE Peacock Ln in Portland, OR 97214. Admission to this beloved tradition is free, making it a wonderful opportunity to create unforgettable holiday memories with loved ones.

Set Sail for Portland Spirit Cinnamon Bear Breakfast

Embrace the spirit of the season and join Cinnamon Bear and his merry friends from Maybeland as they embark on a heartwarming holiday adventure. Settle into reserved seating with your family and indulge in a delectable plated breakfast, all while a captivating cast of whimsical characters enthralls the little ones with storytelling, enchanting music, and captivating sleight of hand. As a cherished memento, your ticket includes a printed souvenir photograph of you and Cinnamon Bear perched upon his magical throne. And don’t miss the mesmerizing magic show performed by a captivating talent who graced the stage of America’s Got Talent!

The 2023 Cinnamon Bear Breakfast cruises will set sail on the following dates: November 25-26, December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 22-24, and 26-27. Cast off from the Salmon Springs Dock at 1010 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204 at 9:00 AM and return at 11:30 AM, embarking on a delightful journey filled with holiday cheer. Reservations are essential to secure your spot on this enchanting adventure and can be made conveniently online. Tickets for this magical journey start at $49 for kids 0 to 12, $66 for adults, and promise unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Journey Alongside Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Join Rudolph, a reindeer ostracized for his glowing red nose, as he navigates the challenges of acceptance and self-discovery. There is nothing more magical than watching children see live theater and see a story come to life!

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Rudolph, where bullying transforms into acceptance, and differences become the very strengths that save the day. This captivating musical is a timeless reminder of the power of kindness, perseverance, and believing in oneself.

Join the Northwest Children’s Theater and School as they present Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, a performance that will touch the hearts of children and adults alike. Recommended for ages 3 and up, the show runs from November 25 to December 31.

The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts, located at 1000 SW Broadway T-100, Portland, OR 97205. Showtimes are at 11am and 2:30pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office. Admission is $35 for adults, $25 for youths, and free for children under 1 year old. Don’t miss this opportunity for live theater in Portland, Oregon. Grab a little one and experience the heartwarming tale of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Capture Pawsome Memories at Santa Paws Rogue Eastside Pub & Pilot Brewery

Ho ho ho! Bring your furry friend to Rogue Eastside Pub & Pilot Brewery for Santa Paws! This is a festive event featuring pet photos with Santa, free hot chocolate, and brothaccinos for the pups. This is surely a merry event you won’t want to miss!

Happening on Saturday, December 2nd from 12 PM to 4 PM. This event is sure to be a tail-wagging good time. Your canine companions will have the opportunity to snap a photo with the big man in red, while you enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and your furry friends can savor some delicious brothaccinos. Plus, the early attendees will receive a limited selection of free squeaky toys to keep their tails wagging.

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online or by calling 503-224-3900. Best of all, all proceeds from the event will benefit Project POOCH. This is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing medical care and training to dogs in need.

So, mark your calendars and make plans to join the Santa Paws festivities. Rogue Eastside Pub & Pilot Brewery 928 Southeast 9th Avenue, Portland, OR, 97214. You’ll have the chance to spread holiday cheer, support a great cause, and create lasting memories with your four-legged friend.

Oregon Buddhist Temple Holiday Craft Fair

As the holiday season fills the air with anticipation and excitement, the Oregon Buddhist Temple transforms into a haven for handcrafted treasures and festive cheer at its annual Holiday Craft Fair. This cherished event invites families and friends to embark on a delightful journey of shopping, crafting, and cultural immersion, creating lasting memories amidst the warmth of the holiday spirit.

Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of colors and textures. As you browse through an array of handcrafted goods from local artisans. Discover unique ornaments, shimmering jewelry, festive décor, and delectable treats, each piece imbued with creativity and passion. The fair’s diverse selection ensures that everyone finds something to cherish. From personalized gifts for loved ones to unique additions to your holiday décor, good for all ages.

This cherished event will take place on December 2 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. At the Oregon Buddhist Temple, located at 3720 SE 34th Ave, Portland, OR 97202. Admission to the fair is free, and a great thing for all families in the Portland, OR area.

Savor the Holidays at Portland Holiday Brew Fest

This one brings the adults and kids together…and everyone wins! Mark your calendars for the delightful Portland Holiday Brew Fest! This takes place at the iconic Pioneer Courthouse Square. Located at 701 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR 97204 from December 2-3. This enchanting event transforms the square into a winter wonderland, brimming with festive cheer, delectable brews, and heartwarming experiences. Savor over 20 local breweries’ finest seasonal and holiday-themed brews, from crisp lagers to rich stouts and everything in between. Delight your taste buds with festive treats and seasonal dishes, with joyous sounds of live music and holiday carolers.

Gather your adult friends for a beer, and kids to enjoy holiday activities. Storytelling sessions will transport children to a realm of holiday magic, while face painting and crafts will unleash their creativity. Live music and holiday carolers will further enhance the festive atmosphere, creating a truly heartwarming experience.

The Portland Holiday Brew Fest is open from 11:00 AM to 9 PM on Saturday and 10:00 AM to 5 PM on Sunday. Admission is $10 for general entry and $30 for a ticket that includes four drink tickets. So, grab your family and friends and come enjoy the festivities!

Additional Tips and Resources

To ensure your holiday adventures are filled with joy, laughter, and lasting memories, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide of helpful tips and resources along with Top 10 Holiday Adventures in the Portland Area with Kids 2023:

Plan Ahead and Prepare for the Weather

  • Check Schedules and Operating Hours: Plan your itinerary carefully to avoid disappointment and make the most of your time in Portland. Check the schedules and operating hours of the various attractions you plan to visit, as some may have limited holiday hours or special events.
  • Consider Public Transportation: Portland’s public transportation system, including TriMet buses and streetcars, is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, especially during the busy holiday season when parking can be scarce.

Additional Tips for a Smooth and Enjoyable Experience with KIDS!

  • Don’t be a scrooge to your neighbor. Be prepared for larger crowds at popular attractions during the holiday season. Lots of people are heading out to have fun, so bring your goodwill. Plan your visits during less crowded times or consider visiting off-peak days if crowds are a challenge.
  • Pack Essential Items: Don’t forget to pack essential items snacks, and hats, and gloves. Toe Warmers are MUST TRY to reduce cold fingers and toes!
  • Embrace the Holiday Spirit of Imperfection: Let the joy and excitement of the holiday season fill your hearts. But be patient, and understanding of our humanness. Babies still cry and toddler’s tantrum…even in this magical season.

As we wrap up this magical journey through Portland’s Top 10 Holiday Adventures for Kids, we want to say Happy Holidays from us at Baby Nest Birth Services . We know parenting is full of hard stuff. But we hope you find an activity that both parents and kids will enjoy together! Whether it’s the dazzling lights, festive markets, or heartwarming activities. These create lasting memories that will warm your hearts for years to come.

Happy holidays from Baby Nest Birth Services – where joy, support, and family come together!