Oregon is a great state to raise a family; we're pretty much surrounded by incredible outdoor recreation spaces. This fun venue is right in the city, but even here, you'll have the chance to get your hands dirty and explore nature.
Portland Children's Museum has been entertaining and educating Oregon's kids since 1946. It's 50,000 square feet of pure fun, and you'll find it at 4015 Southwest Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221.
Every square inch of this place is dedicated to kids' physical and mental growth, and the Outdoor Adventure exhibit is no exception. It invites you and your family to explore a natural space that's been created by child development experts, but closely mimics the outdoor world.
This exhibit gives kids the chance to get dirty, explore nature, and have a great time doing it. Dress your kids in clothing they can get dirty, and come ready for fun!
Outdoor Adventure covers 1.3 acres and has different venues for you to explore. The campsite lets you build your own fort and set up camp as if you were in the wilderness.
The creek is one of the most popular areas. Kids love to play in the water, and this place encourages stomping in puddles, building dams, and creating boats.
You might remember the Dig Pit from previous years when it was indoors. Now it's outside, and there's even more space to dig in the dirt. Use the earthmover, or dig with shovels and other tools.
Every kid loves to climb trees and every mom worries about kids falling out of trees. Zoom Tree is a special tree that has plenty of branches to explore close to the ground. It's the perfect compromise - kids get to take some risks, and moms can relax knowing that their kids won't ever be too far off the ground.
Your Ultimate Guide to Fall Attractions and Activities in Oregon
Get ready for the ultimate autumn adventure with these 15 things to do in fall in Oregon. From cozy hayrides to exciting fall foliage, we've got you covered all season long.
Visiting Oregon in the fall is like stepping into a real-life seasonal watercolor painting. Picture this: crisp, cool air, cozy flannel jackets, and landscapes overflowing with color as the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. There are so many exciting things to do in Oregon in the fall, whether it's strolling through the pine-needle forests of the Columbia River Gorge, sipping cider in a charming small town, or soaking up the misty magic of the coast, Oregon in autumn is a treat for the senses. Plus, pumpkin patches, fall festivals, and scenic drives are the ultimate Oregon fall activities! So grab your camera and a cup of something warm—Oregon’s fall beauty is calling.
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Oregon Fall Foliage: Where To Go In Oregon For Fall Foliage
The South Falls, located in Silver Falls State Park, stands in the midst of yellow leaves with a sunburst (Lens Flare) through the trees.
Oregon is one of the most beautiful places in the entire country to get a front-row seat to the beauty of fall foliage. But before diving headfirst into Mother Nature's seasonal show, you need to know exactly when the peak Oregon fall foliage will be. This year the peak fall foliage time in Oregon will be from early October to mid-November, so make sure to mark your calendars. And in case you need a bit more information, check out this handy-dandy guide for the best time and places for fall foliage in Oregon in 2024. Out of the best places to visit in Oregon in the fall, these few places below really level up the season.
1. Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
Location: Astoria, Oregon
Need To Know: All visitors must have an entrance pass. This park does not accept cash.
Wow Factor: Commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition
One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Oregon's fall season is by hiking through the fall foliage. At Lewis and Clark Historical Park, visitors can choose from various trails, enjoying the stunning array of seasonal colors and the crisp fall air. What a way to start your seasonal exploration!
2. Portland's Mt. Tabor Park
Location: Portland, Oregon
Need To Know: Some areas are very steep. Paved pathways are throughout.
Wow Factor: Sweeping views of the city of Portland.
Mt. Tabor Park in Portland is a stunning day-trip adventure in the fall, with its trails and open spaces showcasing autumn colors up close. The extinct volcano offers sweeping views of the city framed by golden trees, making it perfect for hiking, picnics, or simply enjoying the crisp autumn air. With walking trails, dog-friendly access, and locals enjoying the view, this is a must for anyone visiting Portland for the first time.
3. Alfred A. Loeb State Park
Location: Brookings, Oregon
Need To Know: Open for day use year-round. Open for camping year-round.
Wow Factor: Perfectly pairs fall foliage and clear river views.
Alfred A. Loeb State Park, located along the Chetco River near Brookings, Oregon, is an underrated fall gem with so much natural beauty. Known for its towering myrtlewood trees, the park transforms with golden foliage and crisp river views. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and even spend an entire weekend camping right on the river!
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Best Pumpkin Patches In Oregon
Wide angle image of pumpkins in a pumpkin patch at sundown
Get ready to carve out some fun because pumpkin season in Oregon is a celebrated tradition! Oregon’s pumpkin patches are packed with family-friendly activities, from corn mazes and hayrides to picking the perfect pumpkin for your porch. If you're looking for spooky thrills or more cozy farm vibes, we have some of the best pumpkin patches in Oregon for your enjoyment.
4. The Pumpkin Patch
Location: Portland, Oregon
Need To Know: Certain fees apply for varying autumn activities.
Wow Factor: One of the largest pumpkin patches in the state.
The Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island in Portland, Oregon, is a must-visit for fall fun. Who wouldn't want to experience the largest and most beautiful pumpkin patch Oregon has to offer? This family-friendly farm offers a huge pumpkin patch, a challenging corn maze, hayrides, and a petting zoo. With stunning views of the island’s natural beauty, it’s the perfect spot for a classic autumn adventure! Try the cider donuts - you won't regret it.
5. Bauman’s Farm and Garden
Location: Gervais, Oregon
Need To Know: Prices vary depending on when you visit and what fall activities you partake in.
Wow Factor: Over 30 fall activities for kids of all ages.
Bauman's Farm and Garden has been voted one of the best pumpkin patches in Oregon year after year. Around since 1895, this farm has thrown an annual harvest festival that brings families from all over the state. From a giant pumpkin patch and corn maze to apple cannons and an epic obstacle course, the farm is packed with autumn activities. Don’t miss the delicious cider, fresh-baked treats, and photographic seasonal displays!
6. E.Z. Orchards Farm Market
Location: Salem, Oregon
Need To Know: Admission varies depending on the day of the week you visit.
Wow Factor: The orchards themselves have been around since 1929.
E.Z. Orchards Farm Market in Salem, Oregon, is the perfect fall destination with its entertaining pumpkin patch, corn maze, and hayrides. The annual Harvestfest offers fun for the whole family, including farm animals, games, and delicious seasonal treats like apple cider and fresh donuts. It's a cozy, must-visit spot for autumn festivities AND local produce!
Looking to round up some of the best fall festivals in Oregon? You've come to the right place. Oregon truly does come alive during the fall season, whether it's residents looking to get out a last hurrah before the snow creeps in, or people taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and exciting fall things to do. We have a few incredible Oregon fall festivals to consider this year, from a small-town gem to a celebration of Swiss-Bavarian culture.
7. Alpenfest
Location: Joseph, Oregon
Need To Know: Takes place at the end of September or in early October each year
Wow Factor: The only Swiss-Bavarian cultural festival in the western United States.
Tired of the same old fall activities? How about immersing yourself in a new culture entirely? Alpenfest in Joseph, Oregon, is a lively celebration of Bavarian culture hidden away in the Wallowa Mountains. This annual fall festival features traditional alpine music, yodeling, polka dancing, and authentic German food and beer. Gather with locals and enjoy the mountain views at this one-of-a-kind fall festival in Oregon.
8. Art Along the Rogue
Location: Grants Pass, Oregon
Need To Know: A free, three-day festival.
Wow Factor: The beauty of this small town comes to life.
Head on over to Grants Pass, Oregon for the annual Art Along the Rogue festival. What began back in 2003 has been drawing crowds from all over each year for some fall fun and endless creativity. This event showcases local artists with diverse artworks, from paintings and sculptures to crafts and jewelry. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and picturesque river views, making it a vibrant and artistic highlight of the season.
9. Fall Kite Festival
Location: Lincoln City, Oregon
Need To Know: A two-day celebration held in the Kite Capital of the World.
Wow Factor: Right on the Oregon coast!
I bet you didn't expect us to add a kite festival in the mix, but welcome to your new favorite fall event! The Fall Kite Festival in Lincoln City, Oregon is a colorful and magical event held annually right on the beach. This festival, featuring impressive kites of all shapes and sizes, transforms the shoreline into a mesmerizing tapestry of flying artistry. Attendees can watch kite performances, participate in kite-making workshops, and enjoy festive food and family-friendly activities.
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10. Fort Vannoy Farms
Location: Grants Pass, Oregon
Need To Know: Runs through the month of October.
Wow Factor: Features the unique Pumpkin Chunker attraction.
Circling back over to Grants Pass, Fort Vannoy Farms holds an incredible fall experience every October. This family-friendly festival features a sprawling pumpkin patch, exciting corn mazes, hayrides, and various farm activities. Plus, you can't forget about the Pumpkin Chunker! Get ready to blast pumpkins across a field and see if you can hit the target. If you're looking for that quintessential fall farm experience, this is it.
11. Apple Butter Festival
Location: Hillsboro, Oregon
Need To Know: Pick apples, eat cider donuts, take home apple pies!
Wow Factor: Celebrating all things apples every season.
Are you a fan of all things apples?! Especially around fall, it doesn't get more seasonally appropriate than apple picking, apple pies, and apple cider donuts. And guess what - Oregon Heritage Farms in Hillsboro has all that AND more. The Apple Butter Festival is an event not to be missed. Featuring apple butter-making demonstrations, live music, and local artisan booths, visitors can sample delicious apple-based treats, enjoy crafts and games, and immerse themselves in the season.
Free & Cheap Oregon Fall Activities
Golden fall foliage in the beautiful Laurelhurst Park during autumn in Portland, Oregon
Every year it seems like I'm searching for "fall activities near me" because something new pops up. Oftentimes, I'm looking for something free or inexpensive, especially with the soaring cost of pumpkins! If you're looking for a few fall activities that won't break the bank, we have you covered. From a haunted Halloween train to a fall road trip, take a look at a few of these inexpensive fall activities in Oregon.
12. Scenic Fall Foliage Drive
Location: Tualatin Valley, Oregon
Need To Know: A 57-mile route through Oregon's wine country.
Wow Factor: Majestic views captured in just one afternoon.
Is it really fall if you haven't hopped in the car for a scenic drive?! We have the perfect fall drive you can take that won't cost a thing but a few bucks in gas. The Vineyard and Valley Tour Route during fall is truly magical, with over 57 miles of rolling hills and lush vineyards. It's not just the beauty of the autumn hues here, it's also the crisp air, and the option to stop by charming farm stands and various wine tastings.
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13. Boo Train Ride
Location: Canby, Oregon
Need To Know: October 18th & 19th and 25th - 30th. No scare trains running on Sundays.
Wow Factor: A miniature railroad that transforms every year.
All aboard! Get ready for an all-ages experience at The Flower Farmer on the annual Boo Train in Canby, Oregon. This spooktacular fall attraction delights families with its festive Halloween-themed train journey through the farm. Passengers can climb aboard the Phoenix & Holly, a miniature railroad, for a scenic mile-long ride through the grounds.
14. Visit Sandy, Oregon
Location: Sandy, Oregon
Need To Know: A beautiful mountain town with sensational views!
Wow Factor: Fall shows the town in a completely different light.
Visiting Sandy, Oregon in the fall is like stepping into the pages of a beautiful autumn storybook. The trees burst into loud reds and oranges, and the crisp air is intoxicating. Stroll along the charming Sandy River, hike through the gorgeous foliage, and take in the stunning views of Mount Hood. It’s a delightful autumn adventure that is light on the wallet!
15. Dreamy Autumn Road Trip
Location: Starts in Ashland, Oregon
Need To Know: The route is six hours long, but should have added time for stopping.
Wow Factor: Waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenery galore!
Take some time out of your busy fall season for a dreamy autumn road trip filled with all the right seasonal offerings. You'll start off in Ashland, Oregon, and trek nearly six hours along the prepared route. A few of the stops along this road trip route include the Natural Bridge, Crater Lake National Park, and Toketee Falls, to name a few. Turn this road trip into a weekend getaway the whole family will remember.
Do you have any other exciting things to do in Oregon in the fall? Sound off in the comments section! Make sure before you hit some of the cooler weather activities you keep warm with these ultimate packing essentials.
The Oaks Park Roller Rink is a dynamic relic from another era — with an appeal that's as strong as ever. Whether you are a lifelong roller skater or want to try this delightful pastime for the first time, Oaks Park's gorgeous wood rink is a fabulous place to spend an afternoon. If you're a newbie, there are free lessons and a beginner area where you can work on your moves. Really, it's just like walking — as long as you don't lean backward. If you give it a whirl, it really won't take long until you are comfortable on your feet. If you haven't skated in years, your skills will quickly come back!
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Roller skating is great exercise and a wonderful medium for connection as you make loop after loop. I used to go weekly as a kid, then again when my daughter was young, and we've recently discovered it again with her brothers. It's a great activity that just about anyone can do (once you get the hang of it) that facilitates conversation and joy.
For more information about this hidden gem in Oregon, visit the Oaks Park Roller Rink website. If your visit to the park includes a drive, you may want to stock up on car-friendly snacks and/or bring a lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic areas. There is also food available for purchase on-site.
If you roller skate, please leave a comment to let us know about your experience. Also, feel free to share your favorite roller rinks in Oregon that we should try out next.
